Aprilia’s Jorge Martin reports that the 2026 RS-GP model feels quite natural to his riding style following recent pre-season testing, although he acknowledges he remains two to three tenths of a second slower than the front runners. Martin returned to track action last weekend at the Buriram test after missing the Sepang session due to recovering from several off-season surgeries.
Despite limited track time, Martin showed encouraging pace at Buriram, securing eighth place on the combined timesheets over the two days of testing. He arrived at the opening round of the season having established a solid baseline setup for the circuit, but admits that he is still short of the speed required to compete at the very front.
Progress Made on Setup and Race Weekend Preparations
Martin explained that his team and he have made headway in fine-tuning the bike’s aerodynamics, allowing them to select different components based on the track’s characteristics. Throughout the testing, his focus remained on refining electronics and race weekend preparations, helping him maintain consistent lap times.
I think we found a bit the base for this track,
Martin said.
I think we are in a good position in terms of aerodynamics. We have different choices depending on the track, so this is very good. Depending on what we need, we will choose one or another.
He also noted visible improvement compared to last season, especially in his time attack performance, where he carried some margin and demonstrated faster pace.
Also my time attack I was with a bit of margin and I was fast. I’ve done a really big improvement from last season.
Confidence Growing in Bike Compatibility Yet Cautious Outlook Ahead
Martin’s understanding of the Aprilia motorcycle has advanced significantly compared to this time last year. He feels more in sync with the RS-GP, able to push it in a natural way without needing to alter his riding style dramatically. However, he remains cautious about predicting future results due to the varying nature of circuits on the calendar.
I think with this bike I can take out my potential,
Martin stated.
I still miss laps and races, but it’s a bike where I feel my riding style is very natural. I don’t need to do different things from the past, and the speed comes.
He pointed out how different tracks like Austin or Jerez could bring significant changes to the performance picture despite positive early feelings at Buriram.
I don’t want to rate it too optimistically, because this is a really strange track. And then when you go to Austin or Jerez, everything changes. But the first feelings are very good.
Looking Ahead to the Season’s Challenges
Jorge Martin’s experience during this fragmented pre-season has laid a foundation for improved performance with the Aprilia RS-GP. Though he remains a few tenths behind the fastest riders, his steady progress and natural connection with the bike suggest potential for growth as the season unfolds. The coming rounds, including challenging venues like Austin and Jerez, will test his ability to convert these promising developments into race results.
