Moto2: Triumph’s Moto2 engine breaks cover

Triumph’s new Moto2 engine has broken cover for the first time fitted to race bike chassis, with Kalex, KTM and NTS taking to the track at Motorland Aragon for a three-day outing last week with the new 765cc engines. They joined a private test at the Spanish circuit with a number of the regular Moto2 and Moto3 grid in attendance.

Running in incredibly hot temperatures (with air temperature nearing 40ºC and track temperatures over 60ºC at times), a selection of riders managed track time on the three manufacturers’ new machines during the outing.

Marking not only the first integration of the new engines but also the first time that Moto2 bikes have taken to track using electronic rider aids, initial feedback was positive. Reportedly already lapping within a second of the Moto2 front-runners sharing track time with them, the additional 175cc over the current Honda CBR600 engines has more than compensated for the loss of a cylinder.

Lowes was one of a number of regular riders on track at the test, with the Swiss Innovative Investors KTM rider telling MCN that new front forks from WP helped deliver the increased front confidence he’s been seeking even with the hot and slippery track. John McPhee was also on track in his CIP Moto KTM Moto3 machine building on a strong result last time out in Barcelona with his first real test since the season started.