KTM hails "clear step forward" after Valencia test

The duo spent three days at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia, where the team said it took "positive steps" in the development of the RC16 prototype bike.

The test, however, was hampered by the weather, with rain hitting the track on the opening day and a strong wind affecting the running in the final session.

Nonetheless, KTM's Mike Leitner said the performance of the bike had taken a "clear step forward".

"A big compliment to both riders and all credit to the team who all managed extremely good work over these three very different and difficult days," he said.

"Despite all this we were able to carry out a lot of tests and work in various directions. Similar feedback from both Mika and Randy put us on the right track for how we need to keep working ahead of the next round of tests.

"The team again made progress in the area of the electronics and we are able to get a better understanding of the tires and to set the bike up accordingly. As regards to the performance, we were able to take a clear step forward compared to the test here in November of last year."

KTM will be back on track in April for another testing session.