Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Red Bull KTM Tech3 have completed their final pre-season testing at the Buriram International Circuit in Thailand. With the 2025 MotoGP season just around the corner, the Austrian manufacturer put in two intense days of testing in hot conditions, refining their KTM RC16 machines ahead of the season opener.
Acosta Leads the KTM Charge
Rookie sensation Pedro Acosta continued to impress, clocking the 4th fastest time overall and finishing less than 0.3 seconds off P1. His rapid adaptation to the premier class is proving to be a major highlight of KTM’s pre-season preparations.
“We need to be happy. Again, we tried many things, and we are getting the pace quite fast. It’s been a good pre-season for me and also for KTM,” said Acosta.
Maverick Viñales, in his new Red Bull KTM Tech3 colors, placed 9th, just 0.7 seconds behind the top time. Factory rider Brad Binder finished 12th, while Enea Bastianini, still adjusting to the KTM machine, closed in 15th.
Strong Progress Ahead of 2025 Season
KTM’s testing in both Sepang and Buriram focused on finalizing their 2025 package, including engine and aerodynamic updates. Technical Director Sebastian Risse confirmed that the team is ready for the first race, stating, “We were fast, and the bike feels good for the guys who have experience with it, while we went through a learning curve with the others, but they showed some good highlights.”
Looking Forward to the Thai GP
With the final test complete, the KTM squads now have a short break before returning to Buriram for the first race of the season in early March. The tight timesheets suggest a highly competitive grid, with just one second separating the top 15 riders. Red Bull KTM is looking to build on their pre-season momentum and challenge for podiums from the very first round.
Stay tuned to S8Bikes for more MotoGP updates as the 2025 season gets underway!
