Pedro Acosta shared positive impressions after testing KTM’s new MotoGP chassis on Tuesday at the Sepang pre-seasontest, describing the initial feedback as encouraging. The test comes amid KTM’s efforts to rebound from a challenging start to 2025, compounded by financial difficulties faced by its parent company.
Acosta’s Impressions of the Latest KTM Frame
At the start of the Sepang MotoGP test, KTM took a more aggressive testing approach, determined to improve performance. While the Tech3 team’s Maverick Vinales secured third place overall on the first day, Acosta finished 15th, opting not to participate in time attack runs. Instead, the main focus for KTM riders was working with several new developments, most notably a new chassis design that Acosta found promising.
Acosta commented on his initial experience with the 2026 RC16’s updated chassis design:
“Well, it was quite ok, quite promising to be honest,”
describing how the team dedicated the morning session to testing different chassis setups.
Despite challenges in managing the limited tyre allocation over three days, Acosta felt the day was productive.
“The tyre [allocation] situation is quite tough to manage for the three days,”
he explained, adding,
“But, anyway, I think even with a tough afternoon for the tyres, we made a good day one after all. Far from the top in terms of lap time, but quite happy with the work.”
He also noted the innovative nature of the new chassis, stating,
“I mean, the new chassis configuration looks promising and it’s a new concept, let’s say. It’s working. Then I spent the whole afternoon to try a different aero package, which took a bit of time. But I’m quite happy with day one.”
Acosta’s extensive chassis testing used more than his planned tyre allocation, which he anticipates will adjust his goals for the second day of testing.
Image of: Pedro Acosta
“Well, maybe day two will be more a working day, because today we burned a bit the tyres with this chassis testing.”
Maverick Vinales Reports Improved Condition and Positive Start
Meanwhile, Tech3 racer Maverick Vinales expressed satisfaction with his bike’s setup and his physical recovery at Sepang. Following a shoulder injury sustained last year, Vinales emphasized a significant improvement in his condition, stating he is now pain-free while riding.
He shared,
“For me, it was a lot to test, especially with the condition of my shoulder. So, that’s why I feel very positive, because the shoulder is working well. I have no more pain riding the bike, and that’s fantastic.”
Vinales credited winter training for his enhanced strength and readiness, noting the difference from the latter part of the previous season.
“So, we built up good strength during the winter. So, that’s why I’m positive today, because that was one of the things I was lacking in the second part of last season when I could not really push.”
He also highlighted his immediate rapport with the KTM bike and the ongoing work needed:
“Straight away, I got a good feeling. We worked properly. Step by step, there is a lot of work to do, especially on the item side. It’s a different way of starting, different compared to last year. So, I’m quite optimistic we can build up a good base for the first races.”
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
KTM’s testing at Sepang, including Pedro Acosta’s promising feedback on the new chassis and Maverick Vinales’ improved condition, suggests the team is laying important groundwork for the 2026 MotoGP season. Acosta’s willingness to experiment with the innovative new bike setup signals KTM’s commitment to development amid organizational challenges. Meanwhile, Vinales’ recovery and positive start reflect team optimism as they prepare for the upcoming races. The evolution of KTM’s RC16 chassis and rider form will be key factors to watch as the season approaches.
