KTM Shifts Focus Beyond Acosta as Binder and Vinales Close the Performance Gap

Brad Binder and Maverick Vinales show resurgent pace in Buriram testing, suggesting KTM’s 2026 MotoGP campaign will be a multi-rider challenge.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 26, 2026, 8:47 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Motorsport.com

1. HEADLINE

KTM Shifts Focus Beyond Acosta as Binder and Vinales Close the Performance Gap

2. SUMMARY

KTM enters the 2026 MotoGP season with a more balanced roster after over-relying on Pedro Acosta last year. Pre-season testing in Buriram revealed significant gains for Brad Binder, who credited a late set-up breakthrough for his fastest pace in years, and Maverick Vinales, who has fully recovered from his 2025 Sachsenring injury. While Acosta remains the benchmark, the narrowing gap between the factory stars suggests KTM’s RC16 is becoming more versatile, though Enea Bastianini continues to search for a setup that suits his unique riding style.

3. CONTENT

The End of the One-Man Show