KTM has become the first MotoGP manufacturer to test a new 850cc engine on a race track. The test happened during a private session at the Jerez circuit in Spain. Pol Espargaró rode a prototype bike fitted with the new engine. He posted a video of the run and said, “The future just fired up. Our 850cc is alive and ready to race in 2027.”

MotoGP will introduce a major rule change in 2027. Engines will be reduced from the current 1000cc size to 850cc. Ride-height devices will be banned, and aerodynamics will be made much simpler. New Pirelli tyres will also be used from that season. These changes are designed to make racing safer and allow more overtaking.

Earlier this year, KTM’s future in MotoGP looked uncertain because the company faced financial problems. Despite this, the racing department said it wanted to continue in MotoGP. A few weeks ago, KTM showed its 850cc engine running on a dyno for the first time. Now the Jerez track test shows that development is moving forward.

It is not known how many laps KTM completed or what chassis the prototype used. Most teams do not yet have a full 2027-spec bike because they are still adapting to the new Pirelli tyres. During these early tests, ride-height devices were switched off to match the upcoming rules.

Until recently, manufacturers were not allowed to test 850cc engines because of a cost-control rule. This ban ended on 17 November. Now that KTM has tested first, other manufacturers are expected to begin their own private tests soon.