P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Honda has publicly shown what may be the first glimpse of Pirelli’s new 2027 MotoGP tyres during a private test at the Sepang circuit
Honda publicly showcased a possible first look at Pirelli’s new 2027 MotoGP tires during a private test at the Sepang circuit, with test rider Taka Nakagami trying out a development tire from Pirelli in a video shared on social media by the team. The team ran a front tire on their new 850cc bike, likely called the RC214V, with grooves cut into one side to aid the tire in reaching operating temperature faster. This test indicates the beginning of more extensive testing with Pirelli as they prepare to replace Michelin as the exclusive premier class tire supplier next season, as confirmed by sources in the paddock. Nakagami reportedly focused on testing the Pirelli tires during the session at the Malaysian Grand Prix circuit, as Pirelli accelerates its development ahead of the full MotoGP grid’s first experience with the tires at the post-race test in mid-June at Brno. Honda previously conducted the initial test of the new 850cc machine at Sepang with Nakagami handling most of the development, while Aleix Espargaro focused on the current 1000cc bike’s progress. However, Espargaro’s testing role may change due to a serious crash at the test, which resulted in four broken vertebrae and his medical repatriation to Spain for further evaluation regarding potential surgery for the fractures.
