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From Misano to Aragon, for 3 more days of tests and 470 laps completed. It cannot be said that KTM is taking the MotoGP project lightly, and Mika Kallio and Randy De Puniet put the RC16 to the test on the Spanish track.
The two testers had sunshine for the tests, but they also had a dirty track with not much grip. Now the KTM designers will get to work in Cologne in the wind tunnel and then, in three weeks, the test team will be at Brno. In mid-October, the last outing will be at Valencia, on the circuit where the RC16 will make its début in the last race of the season.
“Another very positive test - says vice president Mike Leitner - and both riders were able to give us similar feedback. We were able to make noticeable improvements to the setup. These six days allowed us to test many things in a little amount of time and to clarify our ideas. We were able to test in hot conditions, simulate race conditions and collect important data, especially concerning the load on the motor and it’s relevant components.”
Technical director Sebastian Risse added: “I believe the six days have brought everytbody to the limit, and because of this, it was good to see the results we got back at the end. The two first days were all about building up the grip and completing numerous comparative tests. Then on the final day we were able to get to the point. Now we have a much better idea what the bike will be like for Valencia.”
Mika Kallio is quite satisfied: “Even if I repeat myself, I think the test last week in Misano and now here in Aragon were the best so far. We were able to really achieve great progress, and thanks to the hard work, everyone can be really satisfied with what we have achieved. This brings us to a good level for the wild card race in Valencia, although we also have to really set ourselves realistic goals because we mustn’t forget that the bike is still fairly new. At Aragon we found a new setup for more traction in the back wheel, which again gave me more confidence. When we go to Brno for the next test it will be very interesting to see how things work out on a circuit where we already have many references.”
It had been some times since Randy De Puniet had been on the KTM, “Three months - he reminded - The first day was not so easy for me as I had to mentally adjust back to the MotoGP bike. The team has again done super work and I hope I was able to confirm some things from Mika’s side, and also indicate new directions. I will also be at the final test in Valencia where I will help the team and Mika prepare to be on the start for the wild card race in the best way possible.”
