This preliminary work focuses on the application of HTS tapes on the rotor of induction machines (HTS-ISM). To evaluate the electromagnetic and mechanical performance of HTS tapes in this type of machines, a magnetic circuit prototype to mimic the operating conditions of the HTS-ISM is in development. AC loss measurements in 1G BSCCO and 2G YBCO have been done. For tapes characterization, a cost-effective setup was implemented to test each tape performance under self-field and applied magnetic field conditions. Special focus is given to the start-up and synchronous to slip mode transients (respectively, high frequency induced currents and losses behaviour). This methodology will allow evaluating the performance of HTS-ISM cage rotor compared to the LN2 cooled aluminium rotor cage analysed by our group.