Aprilia has become the fifth, and last, MotoGP manufacturer to test its 850cc prototype bike on track. The new machine will compete from 2027 onwards, when new technical regulations will roll out in the premier class.
Initially, the test was scheduled for this Thursday, but rain brought an early end to the Moto3 and Moto2 sessions, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, which gave Aprilia a window of opportunity. The Italian team, which has been in Jerez since Wednesday last week, jumped at the chance to move forward and start gathering information for the development of the bike, even if in wet conditions.
The Andalusian track hosted last weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix, which was won by Alex Marquez ahead of the Aprilia of Marco Bezzecchi – who maintains the lead of the championship.
On Monday, an official in-season test was held, in which another Aprilia, that of Ai Ogura from Trackhouse, led the times in a clear sign that the Noale factory is at its best – both sportingly and in development of its aerodynamics, all of it under the direction of Fabio Sterlacchini.
Ahead of the test of its 2027 prototype, the Italian said his team had prioritised “closed-door tests” so that it could arrive on track prepared to run “regularly without problems".
While Aprilia continues working on the 2026 bike, which it hopes will fight for the manufacturer’s first MotoGP title, engineers in Italy are taking steps on the team’s future race bike. In video shared by the team following its track debut, it looks as though the new bike worked well and appeared advanced.
In 2027, MotoGP introduces new technical regulations, with engines that go from 1000 to 850cc; a reduction of aerodynamics and the ride-height devices will be completely removed. Electronic aids will also be reduced, fuel will be changed to be more sustainable and Italian tyre manufacturer Pirelli will replace Michelin as the series’ sole supplier.
This Thursday and Friday, two days of private testing are scheduled in Jerez with Aprilia, which will work on the 2026 bike and, if there is time, will continue running its 2027 challenger. Yamaha and Ducati will also take part in the test.
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