270hp KTM RC16 finishes its first MotoGP test

It was a proud day in Valencia when the first test of the KTM RC16 proved just how worthy the motorcycle is. Barely about four weeks after the official rollout, KTM test riders Alex Hofmann (GER) and Mika Kallio (FIN) have now completed the first tests with the new KTM MotoGP motorcycle at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain. Good weather conditions on the four-kilometer circuit aided the two riders in setting a good time in numerous laps with Hofmann riding the new RC16 on Saturday and Kallio at the helm on Sunday.



It was already well-known that KTM would be using a 90° V4 engine housed in a steel trellis frame with a using a seamless gearbox, developed in conjunction with X-Trac. Mika Kallio (MotoGP Test Rider) said “Clearly there was still a lot of question marks before the test, but I’m now very happy and I can go into the winter break with a good feeling. Alex and the team have already done impressive work, we had absolutely no problems and we’re already on a really high level. Nevertheless we still have a long way to go and I’m looking forward to the next test. Until then I’m going home to do some racing on ice to keep myself fit.” Alex Hofmann (MotoGP Test Rider): “It’s good to hear that what we have to say about the bike is going in the same direction. Mika was racing here a few weeks ago and he’s still in full racing mode. He was able to put in very respectful lap times at the end of his first day on the bike. This makes it clear that the entire package is working, which is another important step for the team before the winter.”



The key to success for KTM’s project will be the ability to hire a competitive rider for 2017. But in the coming weeks there will be further development of the KTM RC16 using the data collected and the inputs from both test riders ahead of the next test at the beginning of February.