Pedro Acosta says the 2026 KTM MotoGP bike is “not doing something loopy” for the time being and believes it’s a step ahead, however famous the tempo of his model’s rivals is “horrible”.
The Austrian producer has not received a Grand Prix for the reason that 2022 season, and final yr had a disappointing first two seasons.
Additional ramping up of recent merchandise launches over the winter has made KTM’s general outlook constructive for the 2026 season, however KTM nonetheless seems to be the third-best producer.
Pedro Acosta was the highest KTM in sixth place general on the finish of Sunday’s Buriram check, whereas mentioning that the RC16’s tires appeared higher preserved than earlier than.
Nevertheless, he remained cautious of Aprilia and Ducati’s tempo forward of the brand new season, calling it “horrible”.
“I am fairly pleased with the time assault that I did this morning and I am fairly pleased with the place. We have been inside the highest 5, which is generally our aim,” he mentioned on Sunday.
“And I am not removed from first place.
“I spent the afternoon engaged on race simulations, which was no downside in any respect, however it’s true that the Aprilia and Ducati machines have been fairly scary.
“However I used to be glad to be sincere. I arrived on lap 24, 25 with reside tires, which could be very totally different from final yr.”
2026 KTM has a “pure” impression
Acosta made it by the whole preseason with out crashing, suggesting the brand new RC16 might be simpler to push.
The Spaniard admitted this, however believes he left time on Sunday’s time assault as a result of he wished to keep away from a crash delaying the race simulation.
“I am very pleased with all of the help the model is giving me,” he added.
“We’re working very quick and have made a step ahead in comparison with final yr, which is necessary.”
“I would fear if I do not develop personally, however I can not assist it if different individuals develop.
“The bike is healthier than final yr, it seems simple and the whole lot is less complicated.
“This (not desirous to crash) was in all probability my restrict within the time assault. I knew I had a race simulation within the afternoon, so I did not need to push myself any additional and spend time getting ready for the simulation.”
“I am very glad. The bike feels extra pure, nothing instantaneous or unusual.”
