Source: Supplied.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s MotoGP project is drawing closer to their wildcard entry at the Valencia grand prix in Spain this November following further scheduled testing last week at the Automotodrom Brno circuit.

The test marked the third time that KTM has visited the Czech circuit this year as they endeavour to further develop the RC16, with regular KTM test pilot Mika Kallio and local rider Karel Abraham conducting last week’s session.

Kallio explained that’s it difficult measure where they are at compared to the regular MotoGP field without any other riders on track during their test, and maintained that the focus is to find a solid setting for their next test in Valencia.

“At the moment it’s quite difficult to gauge our level,” said Kallio. “Now we need some other riders around us to be able to compare where we stand. We tried a lot of things here, and we’ve decided to mainly concentrate on the bike set-up for the next test in Valencia.”

“That will be interesting because it will show us how we can improve on that way. Recently we haven’t had any significant technical problems, which is very positive for three race simulations.”

Abraham, who has contributed to the development of the RC16 on two prior occasions, stated the less than ideal conditions were difficult to anticipate aboard the MotoGP spec machine.

“The conditions were difficult to predict because I’m not regularly on a MotoGP bike here, but for sure they definitely weren’t ideal,” he commented. “We were able to work on a lot of things on the first day, although we lost some time this morning after a harmless crash when the conditions would have been at their best.”

KTM are scheduled to take part in a three-day test next month at the Valencia circuit in Spain, which will see them participate with the regular MotoGP teams and allow them to track their progress.