KTM continues MotoGP testing

Mika Kallio, Alex Hofmann, and Randy de Puniet have just completed a three-day test session with KTM's fledging MotoGP machine in difficult conditions at Jerez in Spain.

Days one and two saw the two main test riders, Kallio and Hofmann test the KTM RC16 on a very wet track, and on the third test day de Puniet rode Hofmann’s bike as the circuit finally dried out.

“Unfortunately this time we had less luck with the weather, but we still made good use of the changing conditions to work at the circuit for the first time with both of our crews and partly also under time pressure," said Mike Leitner, KTM's MotoGP consultant.

"We gathered our first experience in the wet and were therefore able to take important steps in matters of the electronics and ride-ability. Randy de Puniet gave us very important input for the further development of the KTM RC16 on the third and last day, which was in the dry.”

Kallio said: “After we worked on the ergonomics and the setup in extremely difficult conditions in the first two days, we could confirm many changes in the improved conditions in the third day.

"We tested some things with the traction and wheelie control, also the suspension elements from WP and the various options for the triple clamp. I am very happy with the performance and I think we were again able to give the technicians important feedback.”

De Puniet said: “As I haven’t sat on MotoGP machine for more than a year, I immediately felt very good on the bike. As usual we first adjusted it to suit my personal needs. Then in the short time left we tried a few things with the electronics. We are now well prepared for the next test in a few weeks.”

Away from the public glare, the KTM MotoGP Factory Racing Team will return to the track in early March on the RC16, as the build-up to its entry into the 2017 MotoGP season intensifies.