MotoGP | Pedrosa: “I prefer the old bikes without aerodynamics, they were more fun”

MotoGP 2024 – Dani Pedrosa on “Paddock Pass Podcast” talked about his current role as a KTM tester and also about the aerodynamic exasperation of modern MotoGP bikes.

The three-time world champion (125cc 2003 and 250cc 2004 and 2005) underlined how the current prototypes are much more difficult to ride, especially when changing direction or when following someone.

Let's remember that the #26 of the Austrian manufacturer is still a very fast rider, so much so that at Misano 2023 (he was present as a wildcard, ed.) he came close to the podium, missing out by a few tenths. Here's what the "little Samurai" said as reported by Motosan.es.

Statements Dani Pedrosa Role KTM MotoGP Tester

“I have a contract in which they more or less specify the days you have to go driving. Obviously there's a plan with the team where we know how many days we can do, but obviously if there's a situation where at any given time there's a change of plans or we need to try something new, then we do that, we're flexible in this. Every tester has a different approach. I think this is due to two factors: one is availability, because it is not always possible to get a certain driver for every role. And the other thing is that each manufacturer is in a different position, like for example, when I came to KTM they had very little experience in MotoGP, so the procedure is totally different than when you are at Honda or Yamaha, which have a long history in the championship.”

Dani Pedrosa Statements Old MotoGP Vs Modern MotoGP

“The physical demands of these bikes are becoming increasingly demanding. You have much more difficulty managing the bike from left to right or when you are following someone. Speeds are higher when cornering, so this makes them less agile, more stability equals less agility. Basically, we have to find a balance between the aerodynamics and handling of the bike. I prefer the older bikes, the ones without aerodynamics. They were more fun. "