KTM Teams Gear Up for 2025 MotoGP After Intensive Sepang Testing

The Red Bull KTM teams concluded a significant three-day test in Sepang, assessing their machinery for the upcoming MotoGP season. Findings indicate areas for improvement, particularly for Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder, and their new Tech3 teammates. Feedback gathered will critically inform preparations for the next test in Buriram, where final setups will be established ahead of the opening race.

As preparations for the 2025 MotoGP intensify, the Red Bull KTM teams recently wrapped up three rigorous days of testing at the Sepang International Circuit. The KTM RC16 machinery was extensively evaluated, resulting in Pedro Acosta achieving the fastest lap time in sixth position. The teams are now focusing on refining their setups for the upcoming Buriram test.

Pedro Acosta expressed satisfaction with their efforts, stating, “Quite happy with everything that we tried and we have many conclusions. We also have quite a few questions for the Buriram test.” He acknowledged that while they still have speed to unleash, further adjustments are necessary for readiness in Thailand.

Brad Binder noted the productive nature of the tests but pointed out the lack of a perfect setup. He remarked, “We got through a ton of stuff these days… We have definitely found something for this year.” His focus is on compiling findings to optimize performance for the next test.

Maverick Viñales reflected positively on his experience, noting he required more time to adjust to the new bike. He stated, “I started to be well set-up towards the end of the final day.” He emphasized the importance of adapting to the bike while preparing for the unique challenges of the Thailand track.

Enea Bastianini acknowledged incremental progress but noted he still seeks to discover the strong points of the new machinery. “We tried different things… We’ll use Thailand to be focused for the first race,” he commented, indicating a need for further testing to enhance performance in specific track sectors.

KTM Factory Racing Team Manager Aki Ajo highlighted the busy but beneficial nature of the tests, stating that the feedback from new riders like Maverick and Enea was invaluable. He mentioned that the focus is now on finalizing configurations to ensure competitive setups for the season.

Sebastian Risse, KTM’s Technical Director for MotoGP, reinforced that the testing was crucial. He outlined their goal to understand the fundamental specifications for the season and refine performance. Risse shared, “We had one big test program… We have a lot to analyze as we head into the first race.” He expressed a positive outlook on the collaboration among the riders and staff to establish a competitive strategy moving forward.

The final timesheet from the Sepang test displayed the following results: 6th Pedro Acosta (+0.682), 13th Brad Binder (+1.121), 16th Maverick Viñales (+1.372), and 18th Enea Bastianini (+1.518). This data will assist teams in fine-tuning their machines ahead of the upcoming Buriram race.

The article discusses the recent testing phase for the 2025 MotoGP season, focusing particularly on the Red Bull KTM teams at the Sepang International Circuit. As the sport prepares for its upcoming races, teams are working on gathering data and improving their motorcycle setups. The feedback from different riders plays a crucial role in this developmental process, underscoring the challenges and progress made in motorcycle racing technology. This testing phase serves not only for performance evaluation but also as an essential component of race preparation.

The initial tests for the 2025 MotoGP season at the Sepang circuit revealed valuable insights for the Red Bull KTM teams. Riders expressed optimism about their progress while acknowledging the need for further adjustments before the Buriram race. The collaboration among team members and the detailed exploration of bike configurations promise a focused approach towards improvements vital for competitive performance in the season ahead.

Original Source: www.totalmotorcycle.com