The Sepang test was rich in lessons for KTM and its new field boss AkI Ajo. While the results are not yet quite up to the ambitions of the Austrian team, the progress is encouraging and the foundations are solid for the coming season.
After the first MotoGP test of 2025 in Sepang, KTM occupies third place in the ranking, behind the formidable Ducati and the ghost Yamaha . However, the Austrian manufacturer does not intend to stop there. As the second test session approaches quickly at Buriram, in Thailand, KTM has already established a list of clear objectives to refine its RC16 and get closer to the leaders.
The Sepang trials revealed contrasting dynamics within the two teams KTM. On the side of Tech3, the newcomers Maverick Vinales et Enea Bastianini had to adapt to their new mount and their new environment. Maverick and Enea are new and need to get used to our bikes. We wanted clear opinions on our package, because This is very important for drivers coming from other manufacturers. ", has explained Aki Ajo, the team's new Team Manager Red Bull KTM. As a result, their performances on the track do not yet reflect their full potential, with 16th and 18th places respectively.
On the other hand, the team Red Bull KTM was able to count on the experience of its two pilots, Peter Acosta et Brad BinderThe latter, already familiar with the RC16, immediately contributed to the development work. Acosta finished testing in an encouraging 6th place, just 0,682 seconds behindAlex Marquez (Ducati), while Binder took 13th place, 1,1 seconds behind the leader. Brad and Pedro did a good job and gave feedback ", highlighted Garlic, satisfied with their contribution.
Aki Ajo: “ The Sepang test was very productive and eventful »
Aki Ajo called this test " very productive and eventful ", stressing that these three days were a continuation of the efforts deployed since the Shakedown with Dani Pedrosa et Pol Espargaro. " It was not a test where we could see our level., but we were able to take a look at the many pieces that we have tried " he said. Engineers at KTM have indeed tested a multitude of components, with the aim of refining the bike before the start of the season.
The next test at Buriram, in Thailand, represents a crucial opportunity for KTM. " We have tested a lot and are not ready yet. We will put everything in place next week in Buriram, where we will also have our first race. We must concentrate very hard to get the right final settings for the season " announced on speedweek Aki GarlicThe team plans to use driver feedback to optimize the RC16, particularly in terms of electronic management, aerodynamics and road holding.
KTM can also count on the hard work of its development team in Austria. We must be very grateful to the development team in Austria, they did an exceptionally good job during the winter ", he added. This close collaboration between engineers and drivers will be crucial in closing the gap with Ducati et Yamaha .
While KTM continues to test and refine its bike, the team must also make strategic decisions for the 2025 season. The performance ofAcosta et Binder during the upcoming tests could influence technical choices, particularly regarding engine and aerodynamic updates.
KTM addresses the tests of Buriram with ambition and determination. If the beginnings of Casa Particular in Viñales et bastianini still require some time to adapt, the promising performances ofAcosta et Binder suggest a bright future for the Austrian manufacturer. It remains to be seen whether KTM will manage to convert the try and compete with the other four crests from the start of the season. One thing is certain: the battle promises to be intense!
MotoGP, Sepang J3 Test, Final: times
