Estoril MotoGP: Engine blow for Nicky Hayden and Dani Pedrosa

Factory Honda duo Nicky Hayden and Dani Pedrosa have been left reeling after finding out that a test on a new pneumatic valve engine in Estoril on Monday has been cancelled.

World championship leader Pedrosa and 2006 champ Hayden had anticipated putting in crucial development miles on the new V4 motor next week, with Honda returning with the engine after intensive work following its withdrawal during winter testing in February.

The pneumatic valve engine suffered several problems during the winter, including a lack of horsepower and ferocious power delivery that made it hard to control.

Hayden last rode the bike at Phillip Island in February and since has been forced back on a 2007 spec conventional spring valve motor.

News of the engine’s return being postponed is a big blow to Hayden, who was desperate for more power with circuits featuring long straights like Shanghai, Mugello and Catalunya fast approaching on the calendar.

Spanish GP winner Pedrosa confirmed yesterday he wouldn’t have the engine to test. The next time the motor could return for a test is after next month’s French GP in Le Mans.

Hayden will still test on Monday, running through a batch of Michelin tyres.