In the lead-up to MotoGP’s return to Sepang this weekend, KTM’s Jack Miller has revealed a top-speed drop following the team’s recent aerodynamic upgrades. The Australian rider, fresh off a solid fifth-place finish in Thailand, confirmed that the team’s aggressive aero modifications, first raced at Misano, have impacted KTM’s ability to hit maximum speeds.
“When we started out this year, we had the new tire and setup adjustments, but recent tweaks cost us some top-end speed,” Miller explained. “Last weekend, we took big steps in Thailand to bring some of that speed back, adjusting the bike’s pivot, length, and even the exhaust.”
Despite the new aerodynamic package enhancing the bike’s handling, Miller admits the trade-off for reduced speed has been challenging. KTM has experimented with exhaust and aero adjustments, hoping to strike a balance for this weekend’s race in Malaysia. “We seem to have clawed back some speed in Thailand,” Miller said, “and we’ll be testing that progress here at Sepang.”
Miller’s optimism isn’t limited to top-end speed—he sees potential in recent adjustments to their qualifying performance, a notable Achilles’ heel this season. “Qualifying has been tricky, but we’re zeroing in on improvements in lap time and front-end feel. We’re making headway, but there’s still work to be done.”
Valencia Flooding :
The season-ending Valencia GP has been thrown into uncertainty due to severe flooding, potentially opening the door for a final showdown at another venue if Valencia remains unfeasible. Miller, reflecting on his own experiences with flooding in North Queensland, underscored the importance of prioritizing public resources for residents over race-day preparations.
“If Valencia isn’t ready, we owe it to the title contenders to race elsewhere,” Miller suggested. “But let’s focus resources on helping people affected by the floods; racing can wait if needed.”
With Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin locked in a fierce title fight, Miller feels a season-ender is essential. “For the integrity of the championship, we need another race. If it means staying in Malaysia for two weeks, I’m all in.”
All eyes are now on Sepang as Miller and KTM aim to recapture their speed and maintain momentum heading into what could be an unpredictable MotoGP finale.