Brad Binder’s Candid Take on KTM’s MotoGP Struggles: A Path to Redemption Amid Unexpected Challenges

Brad Binder's frank evaluation of KTM: "Encountered more problems than anticipated; prone to accidents"

"Maintaining your position on the bike allows for high speeds. However, it's quite prone to accidents"

Brad Binder acknowledged that KTM faced unexpected challenges this season but remains confident that these difficulties will soon be resolved.

The producer entered the 2024 MotoGP aiming to position themselves as the main competitor to the leading Ducatis, yet they have been surpassed by Aprilia instead.

Tech3's Pedro Acosta has outshone the team's leading rider, Binder, yet the young sensation's performance has seen a decline in the latest races.

"Binder mentioned that beginning the year on a high note with a podium finish at the Qatar MotoGP season opener was fantastic."

"However, following that, we encountered a greater number of problems than anticipated."

"Our season has been quite unpredictable thus far. There have been moments when it seemed promising, but we've encountered unexpected challenges along the way."

"Reflecting on the previous year, it was significantly smoother for our team. Regardless of the challenges faced during a weekend, we consistently found ourselves in contention for a podium finish, be it during a sprint race or the primary race."

"Currently, it appears that despite our challenges, breaking into the top five remains a tough feat."

"We've been navigating a delicate balance regarding the front part of our motorcycle. It appears that maintaining your position on the bike allows for high speeds. However, there's a significant risk of crashing due to the front. This represents our most substantial hurdle."

"We've identified a bit of leeway in certain aspects, while concurrently experiencing setbacks in different areas."

Currently, our optimal configuration for maximum speed compromises our frontal alertness significantly, making it quite straightforward to end up in an accident.

"Though the current situation doesn't appear promising, it's not as dire as it might seem. Minor adjustments could significantly improve our outcomes."

"Our goal is to excel. We aim to lead the pack. At present, no one desires to be in our current position."

The current situation has left me, my team, and the management feeling disappointed and dissatisfied.

The sole upside is that our stay will be brief, given that it's a place no one desires to be in.

"I'm looking forward to the future. There's a passionate energy driving us."

Binder identifies Acosta's primary talent

Both Le Mans and Catalunya witnessed surprising accidents involving Binder.

Binder secured the fourth position in the previous MotoGP season, achieving the best result among riders not on Ducati bikes, with a total of five podium appearances.

This season, following nine events, he finds himself in seventh position, just one spot below Acosta.

Acosta has sufficiently impressed KTM, securing his position as Binder's team partner for the upcoming season, taking over from Jack Miller.

Binder remarked on the exceptional talent of Acosta, stating, "From the initial trial in Valencia, it was evident that his riding is outstanding."

"He possesses exceptional skills. His presence has been a valuable asset for us, as he joins the team with a fresh perspective, free from any preconceived notions or knowledge of past events."

"Despite current obstacles, he consistently goes above and beyond, achieving remarkable results."

He excels in maintaining control of the bike without heavily relying on the front brake to bring it to a stop.

"This is an area where both I and my team must enhance our skills! I'm constantly the person teetering on a single wheel as we navigate the turns!"

Next season, under the KTM banner, a revamped pair consisting of Maverick Vinales from Ducati and Enea Bastianini from Aprilia will team up with Binder and Acosta.

Tech3's riders, Vinales and Bastianini, are set to be equipped with factory-spec motorcycles and will receive identical support to that of Binder and Acosta, forming an impressive team on paper.

"What I find particularly fascinating is that they've selected a rider each from Ducati and Aprilia," Binder noted.

"This provides us with a more precise understanding of our bicycle's strengths and the areas where it requires enhancement."

"Pedro and I are the only ones who have experienced riding a KTM. Those who have ridden motorcycles from different brands tend to have a broader perspective on what to anticipate upon arrival and understand their benchmarks better."

Binder has an agreement with KTM through to the conclusion of 2026, marking one of the most extended contracts for a rider in MotoGP.

Despite a season that has so far failed to meet 2023 expectations, his dedication remains unwavering.

"He emphasized his commitment to KTM, aiming to contend for a championship title," he stated.

"I'm currently in my 10th year of collaboration with the factory squad. Throughout this period, we've accomplished a great deal together."

"We have to aim higher. Striving for a championship in MotoGP is my objective, and it aligns with KTM's ambitions."

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