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Does KTM really need 'super engine' for MotoGP title challenge?

Fears from rival MotoGP manufacturers that KTM would build a 'super engine' for 2021 have ultimately come to nothing with the revealation that the RC16 hasn't been radically changed over the winter. But does it really need that to win the title?

Lewis Duncan Feb 13, 2021, 11:41 AM

If there's one thing that's certain about MotoGP in 2021, it's that you'll not have too hard a time spotting the Tech3 bikes this year. With Red Bull backing out of its title partnership with Herve Poncharal's stalwart squad, KTM has seized the opportunity to deck out its satellite RC16s in the marque's iconic orange colours.

It's a striking difference in look when you contrast it to that of the Toro Rosso-esque livery Tech3 ran in last year. And on the face of it, the fact Tech3 doesn't have a title partner from Austria's biggest company on its Austrian motorcycles seems odd.

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Author Lewis Duncan

Lewis Duncan is Autosport's International Editor and primary motorcycle racing reporter. A motorsport fan from a young age, Lewis became interested in journalism when he won the star letter competition in the February 2012 issue of F1 Racing Magazine. A member of the Autosport Academy from 2017, Lewis became a freelance motorcycle racing correspondent for Autosport in 2019 before becoming a full-time staffer in 2020 as International Editor.

While MotoGP coverage is his priority, Lewis also covers World Superbikes and road racing across the Motorsport Network, and hosts the Tank Slappers Podcast. He has also occasionally commentated on 750 Motor Club meetings. Away from motorsport, Lewis is a keen record collector with a collection unashamedly largely featuring Iron Maiden and Rush and an avid guitar player.