Pre-season testing in Buriram offered a mixed picture of KTM’s performance. While Pedro Acosta shone with his consistency and speed, Brad Binder struggled a bit.
The 2025 MotoGP preseason of KTM was, as is often the case for the Austrian brand, a mixture of promising moments and reasons for concern. The RC16 drivers alternated between different aerodynamic specifications and various technical configurations during the tests of Buriram, looking to optimize their machine for the upcoming season.
Peter Acosta was the most prominent driver at KTM during tests of BuriramThe young Spaniard finished the first day in fifth position and concluded the second day in fourth place overall, confirming his rapid adaptation to his machine. We must be happy ", said Acosta. " Again, we've tried a lot of things and we're getting into a pretty fast rhythm.. It was a good pre-season for me and also for KTM. because all four riders think the same way and the bike has already improved compared to last year. We are faster and It's easier for me to go fasterWe have to stay calm and see how we can start the season here. »
Pedro Acosta: “ All four pilots think the same way »
Acosta has shown top-notch consistency and speed, suggesting high potential. His quick adaptation and ability to get the best out of the RC16 make him one of the most exciting prospects on the grid.
Brad Binder, for his part, had more mixed tests. After a promising start in the top 10 on the first day, the South African suffered a fall and finished the second day in 12th position, behind Ai Ogura, the TrackHouse Racing recruit. These two days here have gone by quickly. ", said Binder.
« We did a few timed laps in the morning today, then a longer run in the afternoon, and it wasn't too bad. Small steps forward, for sure., and better than the last time we were here. I think we're doing pretty well and we still need to put a few little pieces together for when we come back here in two weeks. It'll be good to have a full race weekend: I feel like we've done a lot of testing already! »
Binder remains optimistic despite the difficulties encountered, highlighting the progress made by KTM and the need to fine-tune certain details before the start of the season.
One of the strengths of KTM during this preseason was the cohesion between the drivers and the technical team. Acosta stressed that the four pilots KTM share the same feedback and work in the same direction to improve the RC16. This synergy could prove crucial for the Austrian brand, which seeks to confirm its progress and compete with the best manufacturers.
KTM approaches the 2025 season with a mixture of promise and challenges. Peter Acosta has shown he has the potential to shine in his first full season, while Brad Binder and the other drivers in the team are working hard to optimize the RC16. If the Austrian brand manages to resolve the technical problems and maintain cohesion within the team, it could well play the spoilsport in an increasingly competitive championship. The first race at Buriram will be a crucial test to assess the real progress of KTM.
MotoGP, Buriram Test J2 Final: times
