Honda Unveils 2027 MotoGP Prototype at Sepang Test

The Japanese manufacturer becomes only the second brand to test an 850cc, Pirelli-shod MotoGP machine ahead of the 2027 regulation overhaul.

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Honda will take a major step toward its MotoGP future this week, as it prepares to test its 2027 MotoGP prototype for the first time at the Sepang International Circuit on Wednesday and Thursday. The test marks the debut of Honda’s new 850cc engine and forms part of the manufacturer’s bid to return to the front of the championship.

Following KTM’s first outing with its 2027-spec 850cc engine at Jerez earlier this month, Honda will become only the second MotoGP manufacturer to unveil a prototype built around the upcoming regulations. Crucially, the bike will also be the first Honda MotoGP machine to run on Pirelli tyres, ahead of the Italian brand replacing Michelin as MotoGP’s exclusive tyre supplier in 2027.

Honda’s test and development team will travel to Malaysia for the two-day session, with former LCR Honda rider Takaaki Nakagami tasked with riding duties. The Sepang test will serve as the first real-world evaluation of Honda’s 2027 power unit.

MotoGP is set for a sweeping technical reset in 2027, with regulations mandating smaller 850cc engines, reduced aerodynamics, and the removal of ride-height devices. These changes are designed to improve racing while coinciding with the switch to Pirelli rubber across the premier class.

Despite the early focus on 2027, Honda remains fully committed to its 2026 MotoGP bike, with development led by Aleix Espargaro. However, the manufacturer has launched a parallel programme that integrates the new 850cc engine into a modified version of the 2026 bike. According to Autosport, the test machine features simplified aerodynamics, no ride-height devices, and is fitted with Pirelli’s prototype MotoGP tyres.

Nakagami will initially lead development of the 2027 project, while Espargaro continues work on the 2026 machine. The Spaniard is expected to take over leadership of the 2027 programme midway through the 2026 season once the prototype reaches a more advanced stage.

Pirelli has offered tyres and on-site technical support to manufacturers interested in early testing. So far, only KTM and Honda have taken up the offer, with other MotoGP manufacturers expected to join from February. Pirelli plans to run two dedicated 2027 MotoGP tests in 2026, scheduled for June and September, involving full-time riders.

Alongside Honda’s MotoGP test operation, the brand’s World Superbike team will also be present at Sepang. However, no race bikes or official riders will be used. With six-time WSBK champion Jonathan Rea sidelined through injury, British rider Ryan Vickers is expected to take part in testing duties.

The Sepang outing represents Honda’s first tangible step toward MotoGP’s next era and an early indication of how seriously the marque is approaching its long-term return to dominance.