MotoGP: Honda roll out 2017 engine in Misano test

Honda has rolled out the much-anticipated 2017-specification engine at a private test at Italy’s Misano circuit following last weekend’s San Marino Grand Prix.

Coming after constant complaints from their riders about the current engine, which struggles to match their rivals on corner exit and acceleration, the new engine, tested by Marc Marquez and race winner Dani Pedrosa, will come as a welcome relief.

The pair were originally scheduled to take to the track on Monday, but rescheduled to Tuesday after heavy overnight rain following the race left the surface unusable until lunchtime on what was supposed to be the opening day.

However, with MotoGP’s rules forbidding in-season engine development, it will be the start of next season in Qatar before the pair has the chance to test the new engine in a race against their competitors.