KTM RC16 MotoGP bike revealed

Ahead of KTM’s entry in the 2017 MotoGP, the Austrian company’s RC16 MotoGP machine has made its track debut at the Red Bull Ring, venue for next year’s return of the Austrian Grand Prix.

The KTM RC16 has been completely developed in-house by KTM. Retired MotoGP racer Alex Hoffman carried out three days of testing at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria.

The RC16 is powered by a 1000cc V4 engine believed to make in excess of 200PS, mounted on a street trellis frame, and suspension from KTM-owned WP Suspension.

“The feedback and the fact that we were already able to put in very many laps without any problems gives us a lot of motivation for the next steps in this long journey towards our entry into MotoGP in 2017,” said Motorsport Director Pit Beirer.

“There was of course a great deal of tension and pressure on the team and the roll-out took place earlier and on a larger scale than originally planned,” revealed technical director Sebastian Risse.

“The fact that it all went as smoothly as it did, and the data that we have been able to gather makes us very optimistic about the further development of the KTM RC16. Although we are still far removed from the detailed work, these three days were a very positive and instructive test for us.”  

Former MotoGP racer Hofmann added: “A big respect for what KTM has already achieved in this extremely short time. I think you can not only see it in my face, but also among all those who have worked here with such enthusiasm and professionalism.”

KTM is planning another test with Alex Hofmann and second test rider Mika Kallio later this year. There will be intensive further development on the KTM RC16 at KTM factory in Austria’s Mattighofen and Munderfing.