Bastianini Takes Responsibility for Difficult KTM Debut in Sepang

Enea Bastianini takes responsibility for his slow pace at the Sepang test, citing difficulties adapting his riding style to the KTM RC16.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 27, 2026, 8:05 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from GPOne

Personal Errors and Technical Adaptation

Following a dominant multi-year stint on Ducati machinery, Bastianini faced a steep learning curve during the three-day test in Malaysia. The "Bestia" noted that his main issue resided in the braking phase, a traditional strength of the KTM that he has yet to master. He took full blame for the lack of performance, stating that he was trying to ride the KTM like a Ducati rather than trusting the front-end characteristics of the RC16.

Throughout the final day, Bastianini experimented with various electronic setups to find a better feeling with the engine braking. Despite a few flashes of speed, he remained inconsistent, finishing the test 1.2 seconds off the record pace set by Pecco Bagnaia. He remarked that he was "not yet natural" on the bike, which prevented him from attempting a truly competitive time attack during the cooler morning conditions.

Optimism Despite a Slow Start

Despite the disappointing timesheet results, the Italian remains optimistic about the project's long-term prospects. He pointed out that teammate Maverick Viñales and factory rider Pedro Acosta showed impressive pace, proving that the 2026 iteration of the KTM is a step forward in terms of aerodynamics and mid-corner stability. Bastianini plans to spend the gap before the Qatar tests analyzing telemetry to reset his muscle memory.

Team manager Nicolas Goyon supported his rider, noting that a transition of this magnitude rarely happens overnight. The team is focusing on adjusting the ergonomic setup of the bike to better suit Bastianini’s smaller frame, which should help him gain more leverage under heavy deceleration. The focus now shifts to Lusail, where the smoother track surface may offer a more forgiving environment for Enea to find his rhythm.