Maverick Viñales finished fifth overall at the conclusion of the second day of testing in Malaysia, showing clear enthusiasm about improvements made to the KTM Tech3 team’s 2026 test bike. Despite acknowledging that fine-tuning remains necessary, the Spanish rider noted a significant step forward compared to the previous model. His experience highlights positive changes that could impact the upcoming racing season.
Exploring Chassis Options Ahead of 2026 Season
During the testing, Viñales evaluated two chassis variations to help determine the optimal direction for the 2026 bike. He indicated confidence about which setup is likely to be chosen for the first race. The upcoming longer run session is expected to provide important insights into tire behavior, though initial impressions are encouraging.
I tested two types of chassis to try to identify the direction to take for 2026, and I think it’s pretty clear which bike we’ll be using for the first race. Tomorrow, however, the long run will be very important to understand the behavior of the tires, but everything seems pretty good.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Confronting Rainy Conditions on Track
Viñales credited Jorge Lorenzo with encouraging him to ride in wet conditions, despite Lorenzo’s usual preference to remain in the pits during rain. The experience proved valuable for understanding the bike’s grip and handling, revealing that the KTM 2026 prototype responded well and maintained speed under challenging weather.
Absolutely. I wouldn’t have done it. And to think that he always stayed in the pits in these cases. I remember once, at Silverstone, he was the first to ask not to race, and now he’s pushing me to go out with the hardest tires in the rain. Anyway, it was nice to try to understand the bike’s behavior in the rain, and I have to say that it responded well, and it’s fast.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Testing Aerodynamic Changes and Impact on Handling
The rider experimented with a new front aerodynamic detail, while other KTM riders focused on rear changes. Viñales reported mixed results, feeling the bike was lighter but noting a decrease in braking performance. He emphasized the importance of brake reliability when racing closely behind competitors, underscoring the need for further evaluation before confirming the setup.
A detail of the front aerodynamics. The other KTM riders focused on the rear, so tomorrow it’s going to be my turn. The feelings were partly positive and partly negative, as always. On the one hand, the bike seemed lighter, but on the other, it lost braking performance. We’ll have to see how it works when you’re behind someone because, if you don’t have enough support when braking, you can’t stop.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Multiple Riders Putting New Chassis to the Test
While some KTM riders like Acosta have tested the new chassis, Viñales was assigned his turn during the current testing phase. He mentioned that Pedro is expected to continue testing soon but was unaware of other riders’ detailed programs. This rotation approach allows the team to gather diverse feedback on development progress.
Acosta tried it yesterday, and it was my turn today. Other than that, I can only talk about my program. I don’t know what the others are doing. Anyway, I think it’s going to be Pedro’s turn again tomorrow.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Comparison with Previous Year’s Bike Unveils Big Advances
Viñales described the new motorcycle as a “completely different” machine compared to last year’s model, praising the work done during the summer and winter months. He noted that the bike’s riding style has shifted from a sideways approach toward one of greater precision, making it faster and potentially competitive across various circuits beyond the demanding Malaysian layout.
It’s a different world. They did a great job both last summer and during the winter, because it’s a completely different bike, and you ride it differently. You’re no longer forced to ride it sideways, and it’s more precise. At the moment, I consider it a fast bike. We’ll have to see on other tracks but, given the complexity of this circuit, if you can be fast here, you can be fast anywhere.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Evaluating Starts and Clutch Improvements
Despite the advances, Viñales reported no significant changes to his starting technique relative to the previous season. Enhancements in clutch performance improved the acceleration phase during the latter half of last year, and he remains confident that focusing on his approach to the first corner will be key to better race starts this season.
No, I haven’t changed anything. In the second half of last season, we improved the clutch, so we were able to be faster. In my opinion, it’s more a question of approaching the first corner, because the start is good. Anyway, I’m not worried. We’ll work on it and find a solution.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Confidence Building in Handling and Ride Stability
Viñales highlighted the improved stability of the 2026 bike, which boosts his confidence during high-speed laps. As he becomes more familiar with the machine, he expects to push even harder, capitalizing on the engine’s capabilities and setting faster times. Compared to the 2025 model, this prototype feels easier to manage and ride swiftly.
Yes, we’re almost there. One of the things I like is that I can be more confident in the time attack when I reach the limit. As I get to know the bike better, I’ll be able to go faster. For now, I can go a little further out and come back in. When you experience these sensations, it becomes possible to take advantage of the engine and set excellent times. Compared to 2025, I find this bike easier to ride.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Maintaining Team Morale Despite Past Challenges
Reflecting on the difficulties experienced last season, Viñales stated that neither his confidence nor morale has wavered. He emphasized a shared belief in the project within the garage, crediting the team’s work to find a better balance between front and rear grip, which enabled notable progress, especially evident in Qatar. The rider remains focused on achieving the best possible results this season.
My confidence and morale are the same, because I’ve always believed in the project, and I never had the feeling that anyone was worried or unmotivated. The bike simply wasn’t working at its best until we found a good balance and compromise between front and rear grip, which allowed me to take a big step forward in Qatar. Like I said, though, everyone was motivated. Personally, my goal was and remains that of aiming for the maximum. This project is very important, we’re improving, and I’m happy that the guys worked well during the winter. We definitely made progress, even if we’re not the only ones.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Physical Condition and Readiness for Extended Runs
Viñales confirmed that his physical condition has improved and reported no pain, allowing him to ride at full throttle for up to twenty laps, a sign of growing strength and stamina. This endurance is crucial for handling the demands of the season ahead as the rider commits to further building his fitness.
I can confirm that again today. No pain. I think I’ll gradually get stronger, but I’m already feeling good. I think I could already ride twenty laps at full throttle, which is positive.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Plans for Race Simulation Under Favorable Conditions
Viñales outlined plans to conduct a race simulation in the following testing day, conditions permitting. This exercise aims to gauge tire wear and how the bike performs over the final ten laps, which will be essential for adjusting strategy and improving race day tactics.
Yes. If it doesn’t rain, that’s the plan. I’ll try to do a race simulation to see how the last ten laps go. It’ll be important to understand how to adapt.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
Continuing Development While Keeping Competition in Mind
The rider expressed eagerness to start racing but emphasized the importance of thoroughly understanding the new machine first. Recognizing that rivals are developing simultaneously, Viñales stressed the need for achieving balance and refining details to remain competitive. The KTM Tech3 team’s ongoing progress signals readiness for the challenges ahead.
Actually, I would’ve started yesterday, to compete today, but it’s important to understand the bike better. The problem is that my rivals are doing the same. It’s always a question of balance. There’s still work to be done, but it’s more about details than big things.
— Maverick Viñales, Rider
