Brad Binder Eyes Future KTM Innovations as Pol Espargaro’s Prototype Shows Promise at Austrian MotoGP

Brad Binder: Pol's KTM designed with future in mind rather than immediate use

Brad Binder: "Pol's configuration is geared more towards future prospects"

Brad Binder expressed optimism after observing the improved corner exits of Pol Espargaro's KTM prototype at the Austrian MotoGP, but he noted that Espargaro's motorcycle is geared more towards future development rather than immediate performance.

Indeed, this applies to Espargaro's updated engine, as MotoGP's homologation regulations prohibit any alterations to the engine design for racing competitors throughout the season, except for manufacturers that fall into the least favored D concession category.

Nonetheless, components related to the engine like exhaust systems, along with electronics, parts of the chassis, and aerodynamic elements that are not part of the 'Aero Body' regions, are allowed to be upgraded.

"Binder mentioned at the Red Bull Ring that Pol has a distinct package compared to ours."

"He appears to have an advantage coming out of the turns, which is precisely where we're falling behind, so that's definitely a good sign."

KTM notably accelerated the deployment of the previous year’s carbon fiber frame to the racing squad following Dani Pedrosa’s impressive showing at Misano and a successful follow-up test involving Binder and Jack Miller.

However, Binder, who secured a fifth-place finish and was the highest-ranked KTM rider in Sunday's competition, downplayed the likelihood of receiving the Austrian GP components for his motorcycle in the near future.

"The South African believes that Pol's specifications are more suited for future developments rather than the present."

"My understanding is that our current resources are all that's available to us at the moment. It seems they're focusing efforts on preparations for next year rather than on anything we'll be utilizing this year, to the best of my knowledge."

Binder crossed the finish line as the leading competitor not riding a Ducati, trailing 18 seconds after the race victor, Francesco Bagnaia.

The #33 was in fourth position until Marc Marquez, who was making a comeback, overtook it with ten laps remaining.

"Binder mentioned, 'I was aware that his chance to overtake me would be at Turn 6 or 7, given the significant spinning happening at 5. I was moving through it as slow as a snail!'"

"As he overtook me, on the following circuit, I noticed he gained a bit of distance, specifically a few tenths of a second, in just that single turn. So, I believe I might have caught him off guard with my unexpectedly slow pace around that bend, to be frank."

Espargaro, riding a bike notable for its distinctive swingarm-mounted wings, secured the position as the top-performing KTM, placing 11th, following an incident where Miller crashed.

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