KTM says Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro will both test 2026 and 2027 bikes this year
KTM motorsport boss Pit Beirer shared that test riders Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro will divide their time evenly between the 2026 and 2027 MotoGP projects this year, as the sport transitions to an 850cc formula.
During the 2026 season, manufacturers will conduct dual testing programs to advance both existing bikes and 2027 prototypes.
KTM led the way in track testing an 850cc engine prototype last year, emphasizing the importance of input from both Pedrosa and Espargaro for development.
Beirer highlighted the significance of catering to Pedrosa’s quest for smoothness and Espargaro’s more aggressive riding style in refining the bikes.
While KTM has utilized wildcards in the past, there are currently no plans for 2026, with decisions based on maximizing value between racing and testing.
