KTM’s Quest for MotoGP Advancement: Jack Miller Highlights Need for Chassis and Tech Development Amidst Racing Struggles

Jack Miller emphasizes that KTM must progress, remaining on the initial version of the carbon fibre chassis.

"We're still using the original carbon fibre chassis design, without any modifications."

KTM is aware that the RC16 requires a technical upgrade during the MotoGP summer break, given that they have not secured a top-three finish in the last six races and have fallen to third place in the constructors' standings, trailing behind Ducati and Aprilia.

"Ensuring the safety of our riders is our priority, but we've encountered some obstacles recently. It's crucial for us to advance during the summer hiatus and equip our riders with improved resources," stated Pit Beirer, the motorsport director, during an event at the Sachsenring.

Jack Miller's performance in the 2024 German MotoGP, where he placed 13th with a time that was a second slower than his fifth-place finish over the same 30 laps in 2023, underscored the challenges faced by the factory team.

In a comparative analysis, Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati secured victory, outpacing his previous year's performance against Jorge Martin by a remarkable 12 seconds as they raced to the finish line.

Pedro Acosta emerged as the leading KTM rider in Germany, outpacing Miller's 2023 record by 9.5 seconds to secure a seventh-place finish, yet he crossed the finish line 14.746 seconds after Bagnaia.

"Improvement is essential, that's all there is to it," Miller remarked, referring to the fact that Acosta will replace him next to Brad Binder in the factory seat for the 2025 season.

"Regarding the foundational elements, we're aligned with what we had in Misano the previous year."

This encompasses the advanced carbon fiber frame, which was accelerated into use at the conclusion of the previous season following Dani Pedrosa's impressive wild-card showing at Misano and encouraging test results with the team's official racers post-race.

"Miller mentioned that the current version of the carbon fibre chassis remains unchanged; it's still the original model."

"Therefore, it appears that action is necessary, whether it's in that area or possibly extending the swingarm. We've reached our limit with the bike's rear setup. Continuing to innovate and develop this aspect is imperative, in my view."

Similar to many who ride KTM, Millers considers the RC16's powertrain and aerodynamics to be 'robust'.

"Miller stated the need for enhanced grip and improved maneuverability. He remarked that the speed was satisfactory and expressed confidence in both the engine's performance and the aerodynamic design."

"Thankfully, we've regained stability at the front and now have a clear grasp of our position on the bike's front end."

"We simply need to figure out the necessary adjustments to enhance our turning and grip, for both the front and rear. This will allow us to accelerate quicker, delay our braking, apply the throttle sooner, and ideally, maintain a higher speed through the corners!"

During the German MotoGP event, it was announced by KTM that Fabio Sterlacchini will not be continuing his role as the chief of technical operations for the company's on-road racing division, as his contract will not be renewed.

"Fabiano is an exceptional engineer, and undoubtedly, their departure is a significant loss," Miller, who previously collaborated with Sterlacchini at Ducati and has not yet announced his next move, stated.

"In my opinion, his contribution was essential for the project, and it's unfortunate that they weren't able to maintain progress…"

"It's in my best interest to relocate, so I won't have to face his opposition!"

As the 2023 summer hiatus commenced, KTM's top competitor, Binder, found himself in fourth place in the championship rankings, having amassed 114 points across eight events.

This summer vacation kicks off with Acosta leading the KTM pack in sixth position, amassing 110 points across nine races. Right on his heels, Binder occupies the seventh spot with a total of 108 points.

Bagnaia has improved by 28 points compared to the same period last season. Ducati leads by 30 points in the constructors' rankings, with Aprilia gaining 22 points and KTM increasing by 12 points.

Despite making compromises, Japanese producers have secured fewer points than they did last year. Yamaha stands at a deficit of 34 points, while Honda, currently without Marc Marquez, lags behind with a 64-point shortfall.

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