KTM and Honda Tested 850cc MotoGP Prototypes
Manufacturers evaluated new engine prototypes and tire compounds at the Red Bull Ring following Sunday's grand prix.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Motocycles
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KTM and Honda conducted a group test for 850cc prototype motorcycles at the Red Bull Ring in Austria. The session featured current MotoGP riders evaluating new 2027-specification machines and three distinct Pirelli tire compounds.
Why it matters
Teams are analyzing performance metrics of the smaller engine prototypes to establish a competitive baseline ahead of future regulation changes. This testing allows manufacturers to compare lap times against rivals on a new circuit under varied track conditions.
The test platform utilizes an 850cc engine displacement, down from the current 1000cc standard. Riders evaluated three different tire compounds to gather data on bike performance across changing track temperatures.
The players
KTM
This Austrian motorcycle manufacturer is a major competitor in the MotoGP world championship circuit.
Honda
This multinational Japanese conglomerate is a leading producer of motorcycles and a historical powerhouse in MotoGP racing.
Johann Zarco
A professional motorcycle racer who finished 10th in the September 20, 2026, grand prix.
Pedro Acosta
An emerging professional motorcycle racer expected to trial the new KTM 850cc prototype machine.
The details
Following Sunday's grand prix, where Johann Zarco finished 10th, Takaaki Nakagami finished 13th, and Pol Espargaro finished 16th, manufacturers utilized the track time for intensive R&D. Riders including Diogo Moreira and Johann Zarco participated in their debut sessions for the new hardware, while Pedro Acosta was also slated to ride the KTM prototype.
Timeline
The grand prix occurred on September 20, 2026.
The group test at the Red Bull Ring took place on September 21, 2026.
Roadmap
This move toward 850cc prototypes marks a significant industry transition as teams pivot away from the current 1000cc era to meet upcoming regulatory standards. By testing these machines now, manufacturers are positioning their development programs to gain a technological advantage over rival brands.
These prototype tests help shape the future of motorcycle racing technology that eventually trickles down to consumer models. Riders and enthusiasts can anticipate changes in vehicle specs and performance capabilities as these new engine standards become fully integrated into the sport.
The takeaway
Manufacturers are aggressively pursuing development milestones to ensure their 850cc platforms are race-ready before the new regulations take full effect. Fans should keep an eye on how these testing performance metrics influence future factory team rider line-ups.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in the Motocycles sector.
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