KTM have this morning unveiled the factory and Tech3 colours they will race in the MotoGOP class for 2021.
The works team of Brad Binder and Miguel Oliveira will remain in Red Bull livery while the satellite team with Danilo Petrucci and Iker Lecuona carries no title sponsor at all.
“Increased pressure for sure brings more motivation to the race team because all the KTM people working in this racing business are ‘built’ for pressure,” said factory team boss Mike Leitner.
“This is the DNA of our sport – or for sport in general – and we’ll take this as a positive thing. For 2021 we are on the timescale.
“We had ideas and we had to find a good balance between what we can achieve now and between five days of testing in Doha before the season starts because we have to homologate the engine spec and the aerodynamic package there.
“We have the things we want for ’21 but of course people in the company are already working on stuff for the ’22 season. The plan we had for the winter tests; these parts or units are ready but what we can finally bring into the 2021 season will be decided after the five days at the Doha test. Both of our riders will get all they need to do their best in 2021.”
Click here for a massive image gallery of the 2021 factory bikes
Hervé Poncharal, Team Manager Tech3 KTM said: “After an incredible 2020 season which saw Tech3 KTM winning two races, we can’t wait to start 2021.
“It’s going to be a very special season for all of us at Tech3 KTM Factory Racing because we now know that with the KTM RC16 we have the weapon to fight for pole positions and to fight for podiums and victories. We will welcome a new rider with a lot of experience: Danilo is a super charming guy, he is so impatient, so focused and motivated to start the season with testing in Qatar.
“Iker remains with us. We have a lot of trust and expectations in him. He is not a rookie anymore and this is the time for him to deliver. For me as a team owner, I have to say that the first two years with KTM were like a dream. The improvements from 2019 to 2020 were unbelievable and honestly, even though I was trusting KTM to make a big step, the step they made was something I was not expecting.
“As I said before, to win two races already in year two is an incredible achievement. We are a happy team, everybody is very impatient to start the 2021 season but before we go to Qatar, there is a great moment for KTM and Tech3 to happen, which is this presentation.
“We will be wearing the full KTM factory colors, which is a great recognition for our partnership but also a lot of weight on our shoulders to keep pushing even more. We know we represent the brand and we know how important a MotoGP bike with the full factory colors is for everyone. Thanks to all those who follow and supports us.”
