Source: Supplied.

KTM Factory Racing Team’s Pol Espargaro and Bradley Smith made a positive debut aboard the RC16 this week in Valencia following the weekend’s grand prix finale at the Spanish circuit.

The pair were able record a total of 238 laps between each other, which allowed the team to gather valuable data and experience as they endeavour to further develop the Austrian manufacturers first MotoGP machine.

Espargaro posted the fastest laps between them over the two days, finishing 1.638s behind session leader Maverick Vinales (Movistar Yamaha) on the first day. Smith was a fraction off the pace of his teammate, however he revealed the focus of the two-day test has been on gathering important information.

“I can’t ask for more,” Smith explained. “It’s been two very hard days and my head wants to explode. The biggest thing is I really enjoy working with people that understand and can implement what I am trying to achieve, and I think that’s the most exciting thing. They understand and they can change things and improve things.

“These last two days have just been information gathering from an electronics point of view or gearbox and gearing. To be aware which gear gets the maximum power from the engine at the right moment. That’s been the main focus. It’s not basic stuff but its far away from working on chassis settings and suspension. We’re really at the beginning of our working process. I believe what we have achieved in these two days is very good. It gives direction for where we want to go.”

The team will head to Jerez next week for their final private test of year, where regular KTM test rider Mika Kallio will join Smith while standing in for Espargaro, who is still under contractual obligations.