KTM test in Brno

It's a really particular bike with different characteristics from the other GP bikes. First of all the frame is tubular. Neither Ducati, which always prefers this kind on his road bikes, chose it. It's a very flexible solution for race purpose.

The aluminium die casting type is commonly used and the best compromise if we look at the other teams, but might not.

The suspensions are by White Power (faithful KTM partner) instead Ohlins, much tested and known. The engine is a 90° V4 with 270hp, not credible by the way.

The V4 is also adopted by Ducati, Suzuki and Honda. There are different ideas on this matter, but the essences are the dimensions and the power delivery. Compare the classic 4 cylinders in line, the V4 permits to use a tighter frame and a shorter swingarm.

The power delivery is more similar to a twin-cylinders engine giving more torque, but saving the max power, just to give you an idea about it.

The two test riders Mika Kallio and Karel Abraham improved the handling of the bike working on the frame and the swing-arm, but there is still a lot of job to do on electronics. Very good conditions of weather and asphalt are required for this and proper tires either.

Randy De Puniet will be the new tester with Kallio in Spain. The riders for season 2017 will be Pol Espargaro and Bradley Smith, currently in Tech-3.