Masks at Misano as MotoGP test begins

The first multi-team MotoGP test since the end of lockdown began at Misano this (Tuesday) morning.

All six race riders from Concession manufacturers Aprilia and KTM are present for this week's private outing, plus the Ducati (Michele Pirro) and Suzuki (Sylvain Guintoli) test teams.

While Aprilia's Bradley Smith and KTM's Pol Espargaro have taken part in a prior shakedown at the Red Bull Ring and Misano respectively, Tuesday marks the first MotoGP laps since February for Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia), Brad Binder (KTM), Miguel Oliveira (KTM) and Iker Lecuona (KTM).

Both Aleix Espargaro - who recently re-signed with Aprilia until the end of 2022 - and team-mate Smith were straight out on track this morning, putting more laps on the RS-GP:

The Concession teams have until June 29 to finalise their engine specification for this season.

Aprilia was known to be eager to work further on its 2020 RS-GP powerplant, now featuring a 90-degree V angle, while KTM has told Crash.net they are currently testing with their bikes still in 'Qatar spec'.

As these pictures show, Italian authorities currently require all team members to wear a mask when inside the garage, except for the riders, who need to breathe freely after getting off the bike.

Similar restrictions are expected to be in place for MotoGP's new season-opener at Jerez next month.

MotoGP race riders from non-Concession manufacturers (Honda, Ducati, Yamaha and Suzuki) are not expected to be back on their MotoGP machines until the Official test at Jerez on July 15, on the eve of the season-opening race weekend, but are able to train using production bikes.

Misano meanwhile will now host two back-to-back rounds, on September 13 and 20.

The Kawasaki and Ducati World Superbike teams are also due to test at Misano this week.