KTM’s Bold Overhaul: Dani Pedrosa Reveals the “Radical Changes” Fuelling MotoGP Success and Pedro Acosta’s Rise as Team Leader

Dani Pedrosa Credits Major Overhaul for KTM's Improved Performance in MotoGP

KTM's test pilot shares insights into the 2024 MotoGP season on Jorge Lorenzo's podcast

KTM's test pilot, Dani Pedrosa, has stated that the Austrian team had to implement "dramatic modifications" to its MotoGP motorcycle to re-establish itself as a contender for podium placements in the second half of 2024.

The RC16 kicked off the season as a highly competitive motorcycle, with Brad Binder securing a second-place finish in the championship's opening round in Qatar.

Rookie Pedro Acosta from Tech3 achieved consecutive podium finishes in the grand prix races in Portugal and America.

However, apart from a few sprint podium finishes, KTM didn't achieve another Grand Prix podium until Acosta secured third place at Aragon. Since that moment, the Spanish rider has shown significantly improved performance.

Over the past few weeks, KTM has rolled out several updates for its motorcycle, including a fresh aerodynamic package and a new frame, both of which have caught the favor of Acosta.

During an episode of the Duralavita podcast featuring Jorge Lorenzo, test pilot Pedrosa remarked, "Considering the advancements made by competitors, we found ourselves compelled to implement significant modifications from the midpoint of the season to guarantee a comeback in our performance."

"We chose the components that had room for improvement, and Acosta, with his unique riding style, managed to capitalize on them."

Acosta emerged as a frontrunner for KTM

Last weekend at the Japanese Grand Prix, Acosta clinched his initial pole position in MotoGP and was on the verge of securing his first sprint victory when he suffered a fall from the lead towards the end of the race.

He maintained his strength in the initial phases of the grand prix, holding onto second place before experiencing another fall.

Despite experiencing crashes in three out of the last four Grand Prix races, Acosta’s performance remains highly regarded by both his peers in the paddock and the team at KTM for his remarkable speed.

Pedrosa states that the young 20-year-old newcomer is increasingly taking on a leadership role at KTM as the season progresses.

"Where does he fall short? It's evident that we have to give him some assistance with the motorcycle," Pedrosa stated.

"The modifications implemented during the summer are benefiting him, and his recent races are proof of that. It’s important to acknowledge that the Ducati riders are exceptionally skilled, so all he needs is a little more experience."

He pleasantly caught me off guard. Although I wasn't very familiar with him, I genuinely appreciate his evolving leadership role within our group.

"In the upcoming year, he will join the official team, which will assist him in making progress."

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