KTM is taking a measured approach to the remainder of the MotoGP season, limiting major updates to the RC16. However, one thing is certain: the Austrian bike will receive a new aerodynamic package in 2024, paving the way for significant improvements..
Francis Guidottiteam director
KTMrevealed to Speedweek that while the exact date for the introduction of these updates has not yet been decided, plans are already underway. Regular drivers will only bring
some new elements This year “But he also adds: ” What is certain is that we will soon be using a new aerodynamic package in the factory team. We will decide exactly when: after Aragon, or at the latest after Misano. The big step will then be for 2025 “, explained Guidotti. This indicates that KTM focuses on preparing a more competitive bike for the future, with a view to tackling the current dominance of Ducati a MotoGP.
Pol Espargarowho made his second wild-card appearance of the season at the
Austrian Grand Prixplays a crucial role in the development of the motorcycle. According to Guidottithe participation ofEspargaro in Spielberg was a source of motivation for the team. In Spielberg, we have all seen the level at which we are testing. It’s not just about functional testing; we were also able to improve performance with Pol and Dani Pedrosa. It also brings a lot of motivation and confirms to the drivers that they are moving forward. ” he added.
Pol Espargaro: « We don’t know yet what the KTM prototype of next year will be »
At the Austrian Grand Prix, Espargaro raced with a modified version of the RC16, allowing
KTM to collect valuable data outside the usual testing framework. The Spanish rider expressed his uncertainties about whether this version will be the basis of the 2025 bike, explaining: ” we don’t know if this will be next year’s prototype, This is one of the options we have. We used some one in Mugello and another in Austria ; it could be a mixture of both. »
Espargaro described the development process as a complex puzzle, where each race and test brings an additional piece. We try to collect as much information as possible; It’s like a puzzle that slowly comes together ” he said.
KTMwhich has enjoyed notable success in other disciplines such as rallying and motocross, has ambitions of winning titles in MotoGP. However, to achieve this, the team must compete with Ducatiwhich currently dominates the premier class. The introduction of the new aerodynamic package in 2024 and the preparations for 2025 show that
KTM is ready to invest in innovation to reduce the gap with its competitors.
With a progressive but targeted development strategy,
KTM hopes not only to strengthen its position in the championship, but also, in time, to challenge the supremacy of
Ducati in MotoGP. The work of Pol Espargaro and other development drivers, combined with the methodical approach of KTMcould prove decisive in this quest for world titles.
