**Pol Espargaro and Dani Pedrosa’s Innovative Approach to KTM’s MotoGP Future: A Focus on Stopping Power and Prototype Development**

Pol Espargaro: “You have to find an alternative method to stop the bike”

“One issue that all manufacturers are encountering is braking. You have to find an alternative method to, let’s say, bring the bike to a stop.”

Pol Espargaro, who serves as a test and wild-card rider for KTM, has shared details about the prototype RC16 that he and Dani Pedrosa have been working on throughout 2024.

Espargaro recently took part in the San Marino MotoGP as a wild-card entry, after which he passed the prototype bike to KTM racers Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta for testing on Monday.

In a statement prior to the event, Espargaro mentioned that it had been "a long time" since he last rode the latest 2024 models, adding that both he and Pedrosa are focusing on long-term plans.

"We approach things differently with Dani compared to the race team," Espargaro stated.

"It doesn't make much sense to use wild cards with the current bike. We need to identify other issues and find solutions to improve."

Espargaro mentioned: "The motorcycle I'm competing with isn't guaranteed to be the final version. It has various configurations, aerodynamics, and engine settings."

"Ultimately, they have to make a decision. It's crucial that they test it on Monday to ensure that our test team's efforts are satisfactory and meet their approval."

Following his experience with the prototype during Monday's test, Binder remarked:

"The bike's demeanor has changed significantly. Everything feels much more relaxed, almost extremely laid-back. It gives a strange sensation, as if it's not moving fast, but when you check the lap times, it actually is!"

The Espargaro/Pedrosa prototype stands out not just in looks—featuring some innovative swingarm aerodynamics—but also in sound, likely because of an updated cylinder firing sequence.

“You mentioned the engine specifications. I never did!” Espargaro evaded. “It’s an entire set of updates.”

Throughout his full-time racing career, Espargaro achieved podium finishes with Yamaha, Honda, and KTM. He emphasized that 'stopping' was a particular aspect he focused on.

He mentioned that all manufacturers encounter an issue with braking during the races.

"When you're riding behind other bikes, the front tire heats up and its pressure increases significantly, so you need to find an alternative method to slow down the bike."

"We're currently focusing on various electronics and aerodynamics, which are quite noticeable. Additionally, we're making significant progress with the engine."

Speeding up is another important aspect, and Espargaro mentioned that instead of having a single 2025 prototype, there are several combinations of new components. Some of these could be added to the 2024 race bikes for the last races.

He mentioned that Monday holds significance as it's a day for the team to experiment with various aspects of their existing bikes.

Acosta, slated to team up with Binder in the KTM factory squad next year, demonstrated impressive speed during Monday's test session, ultimately securing fourth position behind a trio of Ducati bikes.

The Tech3 racer, who tested three separate motorcycles, stated that he is continuing to seek enhancements for the 2024 model.

"We experimented with various aerodynamic configurations and electronic setups. However, it’s irrelevant how fast I can go on the new 2025 bike if I have to finish the season with my current one," he stated.

"We experimented with various strategies for the upcoming season, but also discovered several tactics that could benefit us this season."

Following two top-three finishes in the first three races, Acosta had to wait until the 12th round in Aragon to return to the podium on a Sunday.

Espargaro believes it's impractical to expect a newcomer to compete for a win in each race in today's MotoGP scene.

“Pedro did really well in Aragon,” Espargaro commented. “He faced some tough times, but that's to be expected for a newcomer. It's part of the learning process. You can't anticipate a rookie to immediately dominate in this competitive age.”

"Previously, it was common to see only four motorcycles contending for the win. Nowadays, you might find yourself competing against one of eight Ducatis, and many of our bikes are also very competitive."

"In my opinion, it's more challenging now than it was before. What he's currently doing seems tougher to me compared to the past."

"We can't anticipate him securing wins and contending for first place in every race. Additionally, I must admit that, unfortunately, our bike isn't currently on par with Ducati's. We hope this will change in the future."

"What he's achieving with our bike is remarkable."

Acosta and Binder enter the second Misano race this weekend with only a nine-point difference, competing for fifth place and the highest-ranking non-Ducati rider in the world championship standings.

Stay Informed

Sign Up for Our MotoGP Newsletter

Receive the newest updates, exclusive content, interviews, and special offers from the MotoGP paddock straight to your email.

For additional details, please refer to our Privacy Policy.

Breaking News

Additional Updates

Site Map

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

It is prohibited to fully or partially reproduce text, images, or graphics in any manner.