by Pedro Acosta first day as a factory MotoGP The rider saw the 2024 rookie concentrate on ‘calming’ his KTM.
The most visible developments were aerodynamic, with the five-time podium finisher fitting a range of different fairings to his RC16, including one extreme version with a very small screen (below).
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Pedro Acosta, Barcelona MotoGP test
“I tried four to five different fairings,” Acosta confirmed. “Brad (Binder) was more focused on the electronic side. I am happy because we have come to some conclusions that are not always easy in the field of aerodynamics.
“We tried a lot of things, and when I had the rear checked with my (stock) fairings, it was positive.
“(The bike is) a little quieter, which is important. In the end our bike shakes a lot, as you see on TV, and this is not easy for traction or anything.
Pedro Acosta, Barcelona MotoGP test
Acosta was fastest in the early stages of the day, before being pushed back to ninth (+0.768s). New teammate Brad Binder was the fastest KTM in sixth place (+0.705 seconds).
“We didn’t try anything regarding rear grip,” Acosta continued.
“It was more the front, because we are wheeling a lot and the bike vibrates a lot, the handlebars. And sometimes the bike goes a little crazy.
“Also about the electronic side. We were more focused on that.”
Acosta’s next performance will be in Sepang in February. What does he hope to find in Malaysia?
“More power, more turns, I want a bike that is quieter, I want more grip, I want it all!” he replied.
“But if we improve the traction and make it a bit quieter, I’ll be happy.”
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