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Only a few more hours to go, and Maverick Viñales it will be at the beginning of yet another adventure in the MotoGP but with a different brand. In spite of the difficult financial situation in which the Mattighofen-based manufacturer is in, the Spanish rider seems to already have very clear ambitions in the ranks of the KTM Tech3 team.
Last year, Maverick finished 7th overall in the World Championship, with the satisfaction of not only being the best of the Aprilia riders but also of being the only rider to prevent Ducati from completely dominating the championship, winning the Grand Prix in Austin. That's wh he has high expectations for the Sepang tests.
"There''s a lot of work to do. It's always interesting to approach a new bike, so I want to enjoy the adaptation process. I'm very curious to see what the sensations will be. Winter preparation? A lot of motocross and not much asphalt. I've only been riding minimotos a bit. I usually train like this before tests, so I can get into a rhythm right away. Clearly, things change during the season because, with ten degrees, riding a big bike isn't the best thing, better to wait for summer."
What will the program be?
"Personally, I hope to understand the limit from the bike and its reactions during the time attack, in race mode, or when I'm in the slipstream. At the moment, obviously, I can't pass judgment."
Your sensastions in the garage instead?
"There's a good atmosphere. We're all working for one mission, and that's crucial. In the end, we shouldn't forget that, in 2024, a satellite team won the title. In my opinion, I think we'll work well together and, from what I see, the support from the parent company is also very good."
Have you requested any particular changes?
"No, it's too early. First, I have to figure out the limit of the RC16, then we'll see."
You attended the test riders test on the Jerez track last December, how come?
"In Barcelona, I had some sensations, and I wanted to confront the testers to better understand. The good thing is that their comments turned out to be similar to mine."
You've raced for four different brands. What are your expectations?
"In the meantime, I hope to be faster in learning than I was with Aprilia. The bike seems in line with my style and, from the first lap, I got the idea that it has potential. These days, we'll try to get the most out of it."
How do you arrive at a balance between the needs of the engineers and the time it takes to get to know the bike?
"It's not easy. I'll try the most important parts here, Instead, I'll think about the rest in Thailand."
Is what Acosta claims true? That you have to necessary to act hard on the brakes?
"I don't think so. In fact, I think the delayed braking a point in favor of the KTM. I haven't tried the bike muc, and I don't have a clear opinion at the moment. Personally, I'll try to make the most of my riding qualities, such as acceleration and pace in corners. If I'm then able to brake later, that would be perfect."
