The 2027 MotoGP season is set to introduce significant changes, including a reduction in engine capacity from 1,000cc to 850cc, a switch from Michelin to Pirelli tyres, and stricter aero regulations. These changes have sparked intense speculation about which manufacturers will adapt most effectively. Among the frontrunners, Ducati stands out, with insiders suggesting they may enjoy a substantial early advantage.
Pol Espargaro, a KTM tester and analyst for Spanish broadcaster DAZN, has been instrumental in developing the next-generation bikes. His insights, gained from extensive testing, hint at Ducati’s potential dominance. Espargaro noted that Ducati’s success in the World Superbike championship, where they use Pirelli rubber, could translate into a significant edge in MotoGP.
Ducati’s World Superbike success as a catalyst
Ducati’s dominance in the World Superbike championship, where they have won all 24 races so far this season, provides a wealth of data that could be crucial in the upcoming MotoGP season. Espargaro emphasized that Ducati’s experience with Pirelli tyres and their understanding of how to optimize performance could give them an early lead.
“It’s easy to think that Ducati is gonna be insane,” Espargaro remarked. “They have all the information from Superbike. At the end, it [the 850cc bike] is a kind of superbike – it’s not changing much from Superbike.”
This expertise could be particularly valuable in managing tyre performance over races and single laps, areas where Ducati’s rivals may initially struggle. While Honda and Yamaha also have a presence in WorldSBK, their performance has been less impressive compared to Ducati’s dominance.
Adaptation challenges for current riders
Espargaro’s experience highlights the significant adaptation challenges that current MotoGP riders may face. After testing the 850cc KTM, he found it difficult to revert to the current 1,000cc machine, describing himself as “feeling like a rookie” during the Silverstone weekend.
This transition could level the playing field for newcomers, particularly those coming from Moto2, which uses less powerful bikes and Pirelli rubber. The 2027 rookie crop, including Nicolo Bulega and Moto2 graduates Izan Guevara, Senna Agius, David Alonso, and Dani Holgado, could have a “big advantage” at the outset.
“You cannot believe how much the category will change next year and how many riders are going to struggle in this new category,” Espargaro mused. “It’s gonna be a big challenge for them.”
Iker Lecuona’s positive experience with Michelin
Amid the focus on the Upcoming changes, Iker Lecuona’s recent experience with Michelin tyres during his MotoGP stand-in appearance at Silverstone has drawn attention. Lecuona, a Ducati WorldSBK star, impressed aboard the Ducati GP25, finishing seventh at Balaton Park and qualifying tenth at Silverstone.
“Honestly, I don’t know, but I feel really good with the front,” Lecuona said. “Even if sometimes I lose or I lock the front a little bit, I can save it, so I know the limit well.”
His confidence on Michelin rubber could be a significant signal ahead of 2027, when the French manufacturer replaces Pirelli as WorldSBK’s sole tyre supplier. “I still cannot talk [about that], but I like the Michelin a lot!” Lecuona smiled.
As the 2027 MotoGP season approaches, the spotlight remains on Ducati’s potential early advantage. With their extensive experience in World Superbike and a deep understanding of Pirelli tyres, Ducati is well-positioned to make a strong start in the new era.
