Here's What Jack Miller Likes Most About His KTM RC16
Categories: MotoGP
Jack Miller’s first MotoGP podium for KTM confirms the Austrians’ terrific form. The 28-year-old reveals what he likes most about his RC16.
At the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez, the KTM riders impressed with their Austrian package. With two double podiums and a victory in the sprint, the team from Mattighofen completed the best race weekend of 2023.
Besides test rider Dani Pedrosa, it was above all factory riders Brad Binder and Jack Miller who entertained the fans on the track.
With some breathtaking drifts during braking, the KTM riders showed their extraordinary riding styles.
Jack Miller in particular felt extremely comfortable with the driftability of the RC16.
“I feel very comfortable drifting sideways on the bike,” affirms the Aussie.
“With the Ducati, I couldn’t really do that when I wanted to. It was a very stable bike and you couldn’t get it to drift. But if it’s possible to do that when you want to, then it’s another tool.
Instability Is Key For Binder And Miller
Regarding the current front tyre temperature issue, the Australian thinks the KTM has an advantage thanks to the ability to use the rear wheel under braking.
“Especially now, when the high temperatures in the front tyre are such a tricky thing and at the same time you have to try to overtake people, it’s an important factor if you can also use the rear tyre to slow the bike down.”
“It’s a massive tool to have in your pocket. But you don’t have to do it, Dani doesn’t do it either. Only Brad and I ride like that, we’ve always done it and it works.”
During his time with the Ducati factory team, Miller has had to adapt his riding style time and again to the extremely stable Ducati. On the KTM he now has the freedom to play with the instability of his bike and use it.
“It’s just nice to have that freedom again. That was always my general style. The Ducati didn’t really like that, that slippage at the rear – it wasn’t really designed for the negative slip at the rear.”
“There are so many differences in every bike in terms of chassis and damping. Each bike has its own good things. We try to use the plus points of the KTM for us and work on the disadvantages.”
