The 2022 KTM Super Duke R gets some new colours for 2022 but the big news is the debut of a new Super Duke R EVO complete with the latest generation of WP’s semi-active suspension.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo gets leccy supenders
KTM’s flagship street motorcycle underwent its most radical re-invention in 2020, boasting a number of tweaks and engineering improvements that included some weight savings and a reworked LC8 engine. The electronics package was also updated.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
With new Semi-Active Technology (SAT), the KTM 1290 Super Duke R gains an even wider range of usability that can instantly transform from a comfortable rocket on poor road surfaces, to an apex-splitting weapon at the press of a button.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
Three different damping modes – COMFORT, STREET, SPORT – are available as standard.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
In addition, the spring preload of the rear suspension can be set via the TFT menu to up to 20 mm in 10 steps, depending on the requirements of the rider. In this case, the adjustability setting ranges from 0% to 100%, in 10% or 2 mm increments.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
In addition to the standard suspension settings, the optional SUSPENSION PRO package offers three more damping modes, namely TRACK, ADVANCED, and AUTO.
– TRACK provides the stiffest available setting developed internally by KTM test riders to provide the ideal setting for track days and specifically for faster race tracks where you need additional support under hard braking
– ADVANCED allows the rider to select the level of damping for the fork and shock on a scale from 1 to 8. This suits more technical riders who are looking for the smallest marginal gains and want to fine-tune and tailor their suspension settings for their riding styles.
– AUTO is the most intelligent of the trio and is capable of detecting different riding styles and automatically adapting the suspension damping, being softer and more comfortable when cruising through the city, and harder and more focused when riding aggressively on a fast mountain pass. This auto adjustment between modes happens almost instantly without any interference in the ride.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
SUSPENSION PRO also offers three automatic preload auto-leveling settings – LOW, STANDARD, and HIGH. In this instance, the suspension is able to adjust the preload automatically in accordance with the weight of the rider and recreate 3 defined geometries:
– AUTO-STANDARD: neutral and balanced geometry. – AUTO-LOW: relaxed, less aggressive, more comfortable geometry, with a lower seat height. – AUTO-HIGH: aggressive, agile track attack geometry, with a more loaded front end.
Another optional feature on SUSPENSION PRO is an anti-diving setting that keeps the front-end high under hard braking. As with most electronic functions, it can of course be switched off if desired.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R and KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO continue to feature the RAIN, STREET, SPORT, and optional TRACK and PERFORMANCE ride modes, affording riders improved feedback about what the engine is doing, with less intrusive traction control and anti-wheelie mitigation. Selecting any of the above settings can be performed on the fly.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
Throttle response is given a further boost with the addition of a new quick-turn throttle twist grip, reduced by 7 degrees to 65 degrees. KTM R&D developed this solution not only to offer a faster and more responsive throttle, but also to reduce the rider wrist angle as well as the elbow drop at full throttle.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
A familiar blue and orange livery is flanked by an all-new silver and orange and of course both models feature the signature KTM orange frame – reserved only for KTM ‘R’ models.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
Stocks of the new Super Duke R and EVO models are expected to arrive in Australia from February, 2022, but pricing is yet to be announced.
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo
2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo Specifications
Engine – 1301 cc , 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75°, liquid-cooled
Bore x Stroke – 108 x 71 mm
Maximum Power – 132 kW (180 hp) at 9500 rpm
Maximum Torque – 140 Nm at 8000 rpm
Compression Ratio – 13.5:1
Transmission – Six-speed
Clutch – PASC slipper hydraulic clutch
Fuel System – Keihin EFI (throttle body 56 mm)
Engine Management – Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, double ignition
Lubrication – Pressure lubrication with 3 Eaton pumps
Oil – Motorex, SAE 10W-50
Primary Drive – 40:76
Final Drive – 17:38
Traction Control – Cornering MTC (lean-angle sensitive, 4 Modes, disengageable)
Heading in to the Valencia finale with a 23-point advantage, the Australian needed to take a handful of points in the Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana to wrap up the crown, and that he did with a tenth place finish. After an incredible season of consistency with 12 podiums, of which five have been victories, Gardner kept his nerve to the last to become a World Champion.
Remy Gardner 2021 FIM Moto2 World Champion
Son of 1987 500cc Champion Wayne Gardner, Remy Gardner started riding bikes early as he got his first motorcycle at the age of four. He began his career racing dirt track and long track, as a good few greats from Down Under have done before him, competing at state and national level in his native Australia.
Remy Gardner racing here with Matt Barton and Zac Zanesco – Image Keith Muir
He then switched to tarmac not long after, and his first international race came in late 2010 thanks to an invite from Honda Australia to compete at the NSF100 Trophy Worldwide Mini Bike race in Albacete, Spain. Later that same year, Gardner made his Australian road race debut at the iconic Phillip Island, winning the MRRDA Australian Nippers Championship.
Remy Gardner started his road racing in the MRRDA with brother Luca – Image Keith Muir
The next step in his career would prove crucial as Gardner travelled to Spain to compete in the pre-Moto3 class in the Mediterranean Championship in 2011. He came second overall, and that prefaced a full-time move to Spain for 2012. The Aussie has called the country home ever since.
Wayne and Remy Gardner on the grid at Jerez CEV Repsol in 2014
Gardner entered the Moto3 class in the CEV for the first time in 2012, finishing most races and scoring points in his debut season. In 2013 he made more progress, including taking his first top five finish at the Albacete round, and he remained in the Championship for 2014 and took another step forward, scoring points in every race he started bar one and taking his first podium.
Jorge Navarro in first, and Fabio Quartararo 2nd, Remy Gardner 3rd back when the young trio were in the CEV ranks in 2014
Gardner also made his Grand Prix debut that season, racing at Misano, Phillip Island and Sepang. His final appearance at the Malaysian Grand Prix provided a milestone as the Aussie scored his first World Championship point, finishing fifteenth. The move to the World Championship came full-time for 2015, and the NSW native finished the season 30th overall aboard a Mahindra – with his home Grand Prix at Phillip Island proving a highlight as Gardner took his first top ten finish Down Under.
Remy Gardner’s opening day of a troubled 2015 season was full of technical gremlins, and it never got all that much better
For 2016, Gardner then moved to bigger machinery, taking on the Moto2 European Championship with Race Experience and, from the Catalan GP on, the Moto2 World Championship with Tasca Racing. In the former he impressed with a top five in Race 2 at MotorLand, before signing off his participation with his first win in Race 2 in Barcelona – and by a sizeable margin.
Remy Gardner (2016) – Image by Tasca Racing
The same Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya also staged his Moto2 World Championship debut, which saw Gardner come home in P15 and score a point first time out, just week before his first European Moto2 win. Impressing with his adaptation, Gardner then remained in the Moto2 World Championship for the remainder of 2016, taking more points at the Sachsenring with a 12th-place finish before another points-paying P13 at Sepang.
Remy Gardner victorious in FIM CEV Moto2 race at Catalunya (2016)
His performances earned him a seat at Tech3 Racing for 2017, and he was a regular points scorer, taking his first top ten in the Moto2 World Championship with a ninth place at Brno.
Remy Gardner – Sepang 2017
2018 saw the Aussie take more points and move further forward once again, the progress clear despite a motocross accident ahead of the Spanish GP in which he broke both his legs. Once he was back from injury though, Gardner picked up where he left off, took his first front row at Silverstone and then ended both the season and his tenure with Tech3 in style at Valencia with his first Moto2 top five.
Remy Gardner – 2018
2019 and 2020 added more milestones as Gardner moved to the SAG Team. In 2019 the number 87 took his first Grand Prix podium with second place at Termas de Rio Hondo, as well as setting the fastest lap, and the TT Circuit Assen saw the Australian take his first pole position.
2020 began with a top five in Qatar, Gardner took pole in Austria and by the Styrian GP he was back on the podium. However, a crash in Warm Up at Misano – where he was set to start from pole – saw the Aussie facing more injury struggles with a fracture to his left hand. He missed that race and the Emilia-Romagna GP, returning at Catalunya but only taking P16 after riding through the pain barrier.
Remy Gardner won the Moto2 race at Portimao in 2020
From there though, the momentum began its crescendo that would culminate in the 2021 Moto2 crown: second at Le Mans, two top fives at MotorLand, and third and seventh at Valencia. That prefaced the season finale where, after mastering the rollercoaster as the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve joined the calendar, Gardner took his first Grand Prix win in some style: from pole and with the fastest lap.
Remy Gardner winning at Portimao in 2021
For 2021, the rider on a roll joined Red Bull KTM Ajo and the rest is history, or likely become so. Gardner started the season with three podiums in a row in Qatar, Doha and Portimão, before a fourth place from pole in Jerez. Le Mans was another podium, this time in second place, before Gardner won three in a row on an incredible run of form: Mugello, Catalunya and Germany, the latter of which was the 200th Moto2 race. Another podium at Assen saw him head into the summer break with an advantage in the title fight of 31 points.
Remy Gardner won the 200th Moto2 race at Sachsenring 2021
His closest rival, however, was team-mate Raul Fernandez and the rookie sensation would continue to prove the key challenger as the season rolled on.
Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez battled all season
Gardner came back from the summer break off the podium in both races at the Red Bull Ring as Raul Fernandez took another win in the second, not going down without a fight.
Remy Gardner took the win at Sachsenring
The Australian hit back with victory at Silverstone as his team-mate crashed out, but both Aragon and San Marino saw the number 87 forced to settle for second as Raul Fernandez began a serious comeback and strung together his own run of three wins in a row – including at the Circuit of the Americas, where Gardner made his first big mistake of the season and crashed out.
KTM 1-2 at Mugello
And so, as the paddock returned to Misano for the Emilia-Romagna GP, the gap between the two was just nine points… but there was another twist in the tale just around the corner. Despite the race proving a tougher once for Gardner, Raul Fernandez crashed out the lead – doubling Gardner’s advantage in one fell swoop as the gap shot back out to 18 points in favour the Australian.
Remy Gardner
That set up the first match point in the Moto2 World Championship for the Algarve GP, and despite a dramatic crash on Friday that left Gardner riding a little bruised on Sunday, the Australian dug deep and took an incredible win under intense pressure from his teammate. That added another five points of advantage, making it 23 on the way in to the season finale.
It was a pensive final race of the season for Gardner at Valencia
After a Red Flag and restart, Gardner kept his nerve from P8 on the grid, dropping a couple of places and duelling it out in the latter half of the top ten. Raul Fernandez had to win to keep his chances alive and that the number 25 did, but Gardner stayed calm and avoided any risks near the front to come out on top in the fight for tenth – three places higher than he needed – and take a history-making World Championship crown. Wayne and Remy join Kenny Roberts and Kenny Roberts Jr as father and son World Champions.
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion
Remy Garnder by numbers
Remy Gardner is the first Australian rider to clinch the Moto2 title and the second to do so in the intermediate category of GP racing along with Kel Carruthers in 1969.
Remy Gardner is the seventh different Australian rider to clinch a GP world title along with Casey Stoner (2), Mick Doohan (5), Kel Carruthers (1), Tom Phillis (1), Keith Campbell (1) and Remy’s father Wayne Gardner (1).
In addition, with his father Wayne crowned World Champion in the 500cc class in 1987, they become the second father and son to both be World Champions, along with MotoGP Legends Kenny Roberts and Kenny Roberts Jr.
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion – With Team Manager Aki Ajo
Aged 23 years and 263 days old, Gardner is the eighth youngest rider to clinch the title in Moto2, behind Alex Marquez (23 years 194 days old).
With six wins in the intermediate category, Remy Gardner is the second most successful Australian rider in the intermediate class behind Kel Carruthers (7 wins).
Remy Gardner has won five races in 2021, three less than his teammate Raul Fernandez. However, he is tied with Fernandez as the riders most podiums in Moto2 this season, with 12.
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion
Remy Gardner on winning the World Championship
“It’s definitely been an intense season. Raul did an amazing job this year, as a rookie he really made me work for it for sure. It’s such an amazing season, so many podiums, great races, four wins. [Speaker: five wins]. Five wins? Five. Well that shows how much I’m keeping track. It’s been an incredible season. So many parc fermes and podiums, incredible moments with the team. There were times I’d finish second and think that was a bad day but you have to enjoy every moment. It’s been such an amazing season but intense for sure, especially the last quarter has been really intense, Raul has been so fast, I’ve made a few mistakes and he has too, but consistency was key in the end and the days when I just couldn’t win or he won, it was just about finishing and getting the points I could. Ultimately that’s what got us over the line.
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion
“With the first race I had a pretty good first lap, after that incident at Turn 2 I got though on the inside and ended up with the front guys and I thought that would be a good opportunity to go with those guys and break up the group and have a good consistent race, then with the Red Flag everything stopped.
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion and KTM Constructor Champion
“I made a good start in both, the second wasn’t as good on the first lap and for the first few laps I was just hanging in there and going with the guys but it was a bit scary cause I saw there was a bit of commotion, guys were passing, Raul was going for it and I thought ‘I’m not going to put myself in the middle there, I’m going to hang back.’ Then I came under fire from the guys behind and had to pull my finger out a little bit and break up the group a bit.
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion
“I had to push a bit harder to get away from Tetsu, he was going crazy and as my team-mate in the past, I know how he rides! Just tried to break up the group a bit and finish the race in a respectable position and safely. Managed to do that, keep my nerves and for sure it was a lot of pressure but I managed to bring it home.
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion
“It hasn’t really sunk in yet to be honest. There have been so many hard years, decent success this year and even last year, I really kind of changed my chip last year and everything started to go a bit better. I didn’t have the most podiums in the world but managed to get my mind under control, everything was falling into place and I was trying to keep positive about everything. From 2015 to even 2019 they were really, really tough years for me and like I said, there were points in my career I honestly believed that was it, there was no more and that was the end of the road. Especially after injury for sure, fighting through that was incredibly difficult.”
Remy Gardner – 2021 Moto2 World Champion
Remy Gardner Profile
First Grand Prix: Misano 2014, Moto3
First pole position: Assen 2019, Moto2
First podium: Argentina 2019, Moto2
First victory: Portugal 2020, Moto2
Grands Prix: 113 (92 in Moto2)
Victories: 5 (5 in Moto2)
Podiums: 16 (16 in Moto2)
Pole positions: 6 (6 in Moto2)
Fastest laps: 5 (5 in Moto2)
World Championships: Moto2 (2021)
2014: Moto3 World Championship – 32nd, Kalex/Kalex KTM, 3 races, 1 point
“In both categories this season has been incredible. On the other hand, I have to remind myself that this is part of the work: the result of that is the improvements we can see, and we can still make. It is always a pleasure to go through that process. It’s an emotional moment. Remy did it today and Raul had a great race; like for every rider, we just tried to help them take out the maximum of their potential. It’s important to draw out the best of everything around you in racing while also keeping it simple.”
Aki Ajo embraces Remy Gardner in Parc Ferme at Valencia
Pit Beirer – KTM Motorsports Director
“It’s a great moment. Winning the title in Moto3 and then watching these boys in Moto2 – and knowing they are moving up to MotoGP – I feel like our foundation for the future is set. This year has been another milestone. It’s crazy what Red Bull KTM Ajo did this season and we’re looking forward to 2022 already.”
Both Gardner and his team-mate Raul Fernandez will move up to MotoGP in 2022 with Tech3 KTM
Jeffrey Herlings produced an MXGP masterclass at the MXGP of Città di Mantova on Wednesday to seal his second MXGP FIM Motocross World Championship after a thrilling battle with Frenchman Romain Febvre at the last stop of an entertaining season.
Jeffrey Herlings
“I think I deserve to win this championship. I want to thank Romain for a great season – those guys were super fast – and it is just a pity only one guy can win. Next year will be tough again. I am going to celebrate tonight. I want to thank Red Bull KTM Racing for a great job.”
Jeffrey Herlings
Herlings burst onto the motocross scene with three MX2 Motocross World Championships in 2012, 2013 and 2016 before stepping up to the MXGP level in 2017 where he claimed six GP wins to finish second overall.
Jeffrey Herlings
The 2018 season then saw the Geldrop native reel off an astonishing 17 GP wins to capture his first MXGP FIM Motocross World Championship title with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammate Toni Cairoli second.
Jeffrey Herlings
Sadly for Herlings, he was sidelined for most of 2019 due to injury and – despite a strong start to the 2020 season – he then picked up another bad injury that sidelined him for the second half of the year.
Jeffrey Herlings
This season, though, the 27-year-old overcame a mixed start and missed chance for points at the Czech GP due to a shoulder niggle to roar back into contention up against Febvre and three-time champion Tim Gajser.
Jeffrey Herlings
With Slovenian Gajser all but out of the title race after a disappointing previous Lombardia GP round on the same Mantova track, it was left down to Herlings and Febvre to duel it out for the title trophy spoils.
Jeffrey Herlings
Race one over 18 laps saw Herlings get the better of Febvre’s Kawasaki in second and Gajser’s Honda in third down the stretch to win by 2.465s with Spaniard Jorge Prado sixth and Italian veteran Cairoli down in 28th.
Jeffrey Herlings
The second race of the GP meet was a thrilling affair between old rivals Herlings and Gajser with Febvre too far back in third to boost his title chances as Herlings held off Gajser by just 1.497s for his second win.
The back-to-back victories meant that Herlings sneaked past Febvre in the 2021 overall rider standings to secure the title by 708 points to 703 with Gajser third, Prado fifth, Cairoli sixth and Latvian Pauls Jonass eighth.
Jeffrey Herlings
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing were a class above in the 2021 MXGP manufacturer standings as they powered to the title thanks to 842 points with Kawasaki second on 708 and Honda third on 702.
A clutch slave cylinder manufactured with a bellow style gasket may be damaged during assembly. Damage could result in the clutch failing to disengage preventing the rider from being able to change gears.
What are the hazards?
If the clutch fails to disengage it could result in a loss of motorcycle control increasing the risk of an accident causing serious injury or death to the rider and/or passenger or bystanders.
What should consumers do?
Owners can contact an authorised dealer and make an appointment to have the rectification performed free of charge.
Looking for some trail inspiration? Check out the Why We Ride video by Trail Bound Moto on two wheels aboard the latest KTM EXC machinery in the company – and under the guidance – of moto legend Jeff Leisk.
KTM Why We Ride
Complete with tree-lined single-trail, technical creek crossings, a share of hillclimbs including the ever-challenging Diggers Hill and a mixture of scenic sections with views to remember throughout the 32-acre property, the day wound up by fireside with a well-earned barbecue and story-telling to recap the action.
A BBQ To Remember is Swiss 8’s annual mental health connection campaign, currently taking place between 11 October-11 November 2021. You can support the cause by entering the raffle at bbqtoremember.com/raffle for your chance to win a remarkable prize at the value of $180,000, inclusive of a KTM 350 EXC-F!
KTM Why We Ride
Swiss 8 is a proactive mental health charity, founded by Australian combat Veterans, and A BBQ To Remember connects millions of Australians in the aim to reduce anxiety, depression and suicide. Ignite change – stand alongside our Veterans and sporting legends Wendell Sailor, Drew Mitchell, Isaac Heeney and Harries Carroll by registering to host A BBQ To Remember.
Adrian Sutter – Swiss 8 Founder & CEO
“With the country just coming out of lockdown, we wanted to offer the ultimate adventure prize that would inspire Aussies to get out and explore this amazing country. And, of course, every good adventure ends with mates telling stories around a barbie. My main objective with this campaign is to connect Australians – isolation and social disconnection is the leading cause of anxiety and depression. Covid has forced this on all of us. It’s times like this we need to look to our defence and Veteran community who have lived through this before and learned valuable lessons. We want to share these lessons with all Aussies and the biggest lesson here is the need to stay connected to our people in order to maintain positive mental health. If we can motivate Australians to connect in a way that is iconic to Australian culture, while finding a strong sense of purpose through helping our Veterans drive this grassroots mental health movement, we are all winning.
2022 KTM Why We Ride
“When I returned from Afghanistan then left the military, I had my own mental health rollercoaster ride. I had no education or information on what I was experiencing or how to deal with it. Learning these lessons the hard way, I wanted to make sure future generations had all the resources they needed to maintain a positive headspace and overcome anxiety and depression. This started as a hobby. The catalyst to create a charity and make this my full time purpose in life came when I lost one of my best mates to suicide, Afghan Veteran Jesse Bird. In the two years following Jesse’s death, I lost another three mates to suicide. While the world wanted to focus on PTSD and a reactive approach to solving the suicide problem, it was my belief that we had to take a proactive approach. Mental ill-health is a human problem, not a Veteran problem. Finding purpose in life, having a healthy routine, and of course staying connected to our tribe is the best way to proactively improve our mental health. This is what Swiss 8 is all about.”
KTM and Swiss 8 first came together at this year’s Finke Desert Race, in which Swiss 8 founder and CEO Adrian Sutter and his crew were on location for the high-profile event and met the KTM Racing Team in Alice Springs. From there, the 2022 KTM Enduro Why We Ride project was born.
KTM Why We Ride
Rosie Lalonde – KTM Group Marketing Manager
“Mental health is a topic that is just not discussed enough, especially with the challenges we have all faced in the past few years. So when the opportunity came up to support Swiss 8, we jumped at the chance to take action and help spread awareness for their hard work and positive mental health messages. And how best to help them by doing what we do at KTM – getting a group of riders out to experience why we ride, as motorcycling is not only good for the body and the soul, but also a great way to reconnect with your mates. It truly creates a vibe that needs to be felt to be understood and can help combat the stresses of life and the mental health issues that are so hard to discuss. We hope the Why We Ride project inspires others to reach out and reconnect with friends, and support positive mental health activities, like Swiss 8 with their BBQ To Remember.”
KTM Why We Ride
You can support the cause by entering the raffle at bbqtoremember.com/raffle for your chance to win a remarkable prize.
Coming into the Rallye du Maroc with a 20-point advantage at the top of the championship standings, Matthias Walkner knew he still had to put in a strong performance at the penultimate round in order to clinch his second Cross-Country Rallies world title.
Using day one to get back up to speed on his KTM 450 RALLY after the three-month break since the previous round, Walkner used his skill and judgement to build his speed throughout the timed special to ultimately place fourth fastest. With the event heading into the vast expanse of the Merzouga dunes on day two, Matthias took the opportunity to push right from the outset and was able to successfully chase down his rivals ahead to win the stage by just over one minute. The result also elevated him into the overall rally lead.
Falling foul of one particularly tricky note in the road book on Monday’s stage three, Walkner dropped down the order to fourth as the event reached the halfway point. Coming back fighting, and with the goal of making up as much time as possible, the 2018 Dakar winner put in a superb performance that saw him narrowly miss his second stage win of the event by just 36 seconds.
Matthias Walkner
On the fifth and final day, Walkner knew exactly what was needed of him to score enough points to claim the world title. With the timed special shortened by the organizers to just 166 kilometers, times were very close across the whole field. Placing eighth on the final stage, Walkner finished second overall for the event and earned himself 20 points, securing the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship for himself and KTM.
Of the three championship rounds raced so far, Walkner has shown incredible consistency, finishing as runner-up at the high-speed Rally Kazakhstan, before taking the win in the contrasting conditions of the epic Silk Way Rally, held in Russia less than one month later. Now, with another podium result in Morocco, the experienced 35-year-old has shown he is clearly on form and will now be aiming to carry his winning momentum into the final round of the series in Abu Dhabi before focusing on the 2022 Dakar next January.
Matthias Walkner
“It’s been a super cool rally for me. I set out this morning hoping to take the win, but I made a small mistake about halfway through that only maybe cost me a minute, but it was enough on the shortened stage to lose out. Second place overall is great though and to win the world championship title early is amazing. The team have been great all year, so a big thank you to them. It’s time to relax now and really enjoy the moment.”
Matthias Walkner
While it was Walkner and KTM winning the war that was the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, the battle victory went to the Monster Energy Honda Team’s new recruit Pablo Quintanilla. On the final day of the rally the Chilean saw off his rivals to claim both stage and race victories.
The 166-kilometre final special stage went quickly for most of the riders still in contention for victory at this Rallye du Maroc. David Castera, race director, had designed a stage with very little navigation. With little movement of wind, the dust hanging in the air accompanied the riders throughout the journey, making it impossible for riders starting from the rear to make up time.
Pablo Quintanilla
Pablo Quintanilla started in a fine position from which to attack Mathias Walkner’s lead. The Monster Energy Honda Team rider held a sufficiently strong pace to allow him to fulfil this main mission and capture the final stage of the Rallye du Maroc and overall rally victory.
Pablo Quintanilla
“I am very happy with the victory. It was a very difficult week and I want to thank the whole team for the great job they did. It was fantastic for us. Personally, I felt very comfortable, I was riding with great pace, with good navigation and that’s very good for my confidence. I am also very motivated for the next objective, which is the Dakar. We are going to take a short break, rest, recharge our batteries and then we will concentrate on the Dakar.”
Pablo Quintanilla
Aussie youngster Daniel Sanders secured third overall for his, and GASGAS’, first ever podium result in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship. Even with a minor setback on day three, the Aussie turned things around on the final two stages, upping his pace and rapidly closing in on the leader to complete the rally just over five minutes short of the win.
Daniel Sanders
Daniel Sanders
“The last day is done and what a week it’s been! Opening the final stage was pretty cool. After around 80 kilometers the navigation became a bit more tricky so I had to slow my pace to make sure I was on the right path. I actually had a small crash in the dunes but I was up quick and straight back on a decent rhythm. I’m really happy to have finished third on this stage after opening and overall it’s been a great week. To end it with a podium and secure the first podium result for GASGAS in the world championship is really cool. Now I’m looking forward to the next race in Abu Dhabi.”
Daniel Sanders
Ricky Brabec was unable to whittle down the gap separating him from his rivals in the general standings and, in spite of finishing runner-up on the final day, narrowly missed out on a podium place to Daniel Sanders.
Ricky Brabec
“I’m happy to finish another rally, it’s been good training for the Dakar. I’m also very excited for the Honda team to be on top of the podium. Unfortunately, we couldn’t have two Honda riders on the final podium. It takes a lot of guts to win a stage and it takes a lot of courage to open a stage: only three riders have opened this rally, and I think we opened the most difficult stages. I’m really looking forward to the Dakar and this was just training. I made a couple of mistakes and missed out on the podium on the last day, but at least we’ll get home safe and sound and get back to training to be ready for the Dakar.”
Ricky Brabec
Rounding out a highly positive week in Morocco, Yamaha’s Adrien Van Beveren finished ninth overall on the final stage to secure his well-deserved fifth-place finish in the final classification. Confident with his navigation, his ability to open stages, and feeling at one with his Yamaha WR450F Rally, the Frenchman is excited for the future, especially with the 2022 Dakar Rally now very much on the horizon.
Adrien Van Beveren
“I’m really happy with my performance at the Rally Du Maroc. It ended today with another great day on the bike and I’m really confident for the future as my navigation and speed is right where it needs to be. The ultimate goal is to be ready for the Dakar and if I can take the feeling that I had this week to that race then I will be really happy. It’s been a great event here in Morocco. I opened much of stage four, showed good speed all week, and the hard work that the team and myself have done in the lead up to the race is something that we are proud of, and it really paid off.”
Adrien Van Beveren
Both returning to competition following injury, KTM’s Toby Price and new signing Kevin Benavides used the Rallye du Maroc to rebuild their speed and confidence while also putting the all-new 2022 model KTM 450 RALLY through its paces in its competitive debut. Making changes and developing the bike as the event progressed, the two experienced Dakar champions were pleased with the performance of the machine and look forward to continuing their work at the next round in Abu Dhabi. Ultimately finishing seventh and 13th respectively, Benavides and Price were also joined in Morocco by teammate Sam Sunderland. Unfortunately, the British rider was forced to withdraw from the event on day four, due to illness.
Toby Price
“It’s good to get the last day done, and out of Morocco in one piece. I picked up a small penalty for speeding in today’s stage but all-in-all I can’t complain. It’s good to get the first one under the belt after being off the bike for so long and I’m looking forward to Abu Dhabi now to see what we can do there.”
Kevin Benavides
“The last day went well for me, I kept to a solid pace and made sure I didn’t have any crashes. I was pleased with my riding and navigation, and it’s good to get the first race done with the team. I’ve been a little careful all through the rally because my shoulder has given me some pain, but on the whole it’s gone well. And now I’m looking forward to more time on the bike at Abu Dhabi.”
Most Rally competitiros will next be in action at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, held from November 6 to 12.
Provisional Results Stage 5 Rally du Maroc 2021
QUINTANILLA Pablo CHI Monster Energy Honda Team 1:39’12
BRABEC Ricky USA Monster Energy Honda Team +0’17
SANDERS Daniel AUS Gas Gas Factory Team +0’18
PRICE Toby AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team 0’37+
BRANCH Ross BWA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +0’37
BARREDA Joan SPA Monster Energy Honda Team +1’05
HOWES Skyler USA Husqvarna Factory Rally Team +1’58
WALKNER Matthias AUT Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +2’36
VAN BEVEREN Adrien FRA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +3’45
BÜHLER Sebastian POR Hero Motorsports Team Rally +4’51
Provisional Final Outright Overall Standings Rally du Maroc 2021 after 5 of 5 stages
QUINTANILLA Pablo CHI Monster Energy Honda Team 16:26’51
WALKNER Matthias AUT Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +1’59
SANDERS Daniel AUS Gas Gas Factory Team +5’27
BRABEC Ricky USA Monster Energy Honda Team +7’14
VAN BEVEREN Adrien FRA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +18’01
BENAVIDES Luciano ARG Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing +34’03
BENAVIDES Kevin ARG Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +39’38
RODRIGUES Joaquim POR Hero Motorsports Team Rally +41’03
SHORT Andrew USA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +41’53
CORNEJO José Ignacio CHI Monster Energy Honda Team +45’19
BARREDA Joan SPA Monster Energy Honda Team +48’12 13. PRICE Toby AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +55’44
KTM’s 450 SMR gets a new set of clothes for 2022 with an orange frame, blue seat and new graphics.
2022 KTM 450 SMR
The championship-winning engine from KTM’s motocross and supercross machines has been adjusted and modified for optimum Supermoto use. The motor weighs just 27 kg but growls with torque and bites hard with 63 hp.
The power curve is both explored and exploited by the Pankl Racing Systems five-speed gearbox that benefits from a sensor which permits specific engine maps for each gear. A 44 mm Keihin throttle is key to the sensitive and confidence-inspiring way to summon the most of the KTM 450 SMR powerplant.
2022 KTM 450 SMR
Handling comes through a special chromium molybdenum steel frame, fabricated by robotic laser-wielding for utmost precision and quality and the meld of perfect torsion and flex characteristics. The 16 mm offset geometry brings a natural and attackable sensation through the CNC-machined triple clamps with three-way amendable handlebar.
The KTM is equipped with a long list of premium quality parts, that includes WP Suspension XACT technology helps the 2022 KTM 450 SMR both stick and slide as the forces of physics drive through the Supermoto 16.5″/17″ ALPINA spoked tubeless wheels and Bridgestone slick tyres.
2022 KTM 450 SMR
Ultimate braking performance is achieved with premium Brembo four-piston radial caliper and master cylinder set-up with 310 mm and 220 mm front and rear discs.
For 2022, the KTM 450 SMR introduces a frame finishing coated in racing orange to further reinforce the proximity to the race winning machines of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing stars.
2022 KTM 450 SMR
The updated frame aligns perfectly with the new blue seat cover and the fresh colors in the graphics to emphasise the link to KTM’s Factory machinery.
2022 KTM 450 SMR features:
Ultra-light chromoly steel frame with new finishing coated in racing orange
Upgraded aesthetics with racing graphics and factory blue seat
Advanced four-stroke 450cc powerplant with 63 hp at 27 kg
The 2022 KTM 450 SMR will be available in very limited numbers at authorised KTM dealers in Australia and New Zealand from January 2022 onwards. For more information, visit ktm.com.
Signing a two-year contract extension earlier in the year, Toby Price returns to rally competition this weekend in Morocco after being forced to withdraw from this year’s Dakar due to injury. The Australian will be looking to get back up to speed with his pace and navigation on the bike in Morocco and continue to test and develop the latest version of the rally machine.
A new engine, frame and many other changes
The result of over two years’ development, the all-new 2022 KTM 450 Rally will make its first competitive outing in Morocco. With new bodywork, a new engine, a new frame, and many other upgrades and improvements over the current model, the state-of-the-art rally machine will continue to undergo testing and evaluation at the Rallye du Maroc.
I think I need a box of tissues and some alone time…
Toby Price
“For sure I’m excited for the event here in Morocco – it’s been a long time since I’ve raced a rally since I was forced to miss the first two rounds of the season. The plan for the Rallye du Maroc is take things step-by-step and continue to build my speed while giving the new bike a proper shakedown. The main focus for me is to be back on form for the big one in January, but for now I’m just happy to be racing again and can’t wait to get back in the swing of things.”
Toby Price – Red Bull KTM Factory Racing
Covering more than 2,600 kilometres and challenging riders with over 1,600 kilometres of timed special stages, the 2021 edition of the Rallye du Maroc will be based around the Moroccan town of Zagora.
Opening with a short 10-kilometre Prologue, the race will then deliver five long, full stages held on fast tracks and open desert. As well as outright speed, accurate navigation through the sand dunes and rocky pistes will be key to a strong final result.
Coming into the event with a healthy 20-point lead in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies standings, Matthias Walkner is in good shape to fight for his second world title. The Austrian topped the Silk Way Rally earlier in the year with a commanding performance that saw him take the lead by the midway point of the race before never looking back. That, combined with his runner-up result at Rally Kazakhstan, shows Walkner is on form and ready for the challenges that lie ahead in Morocco.
Matthias Walkner
“Finally, after a three-month break, we’re ready to go racing again. It’s been a busy time in between the events as we spent around five weeks in America testing and training. That was really intense, but also very productive. I was really pleased with how I rode at the last round we raced in Russia and I’m hoping I can carry that form through to Morocco. My goal is to do my best as always, but hopefully enjoy a safe race. If all goes well, we should be close to the front at the end of the five days.”
2022 KTM 450 Rally
Showing impressive pace at the 2021 Dakar Rally and earning himself a third-place podium finish, Sam Sunderland came into the first round of this year’s world championship keen to maintain his momentum. Unfortunately, a crash on the final day in Kazakhstan resulted in the Brit being unable to continue. Now back on the bike and close to 100 percent, Sunderland hopes to use the Rallye du Maroc to build his speed while testing the new 2022 KTM 450 RALLY.
Sam Sunderland
“It’s been a little while since my last race, so I’m looking forward to Morocco. It’s always been an important race due to the type of terrain, and it also being quite close to Dakar on the calendar. I’m going to be riding the new bike, so I’m really keen to see how that performs under race conditions. Obviously, there are still some changes and adjustments to be made, and the boys have been doing a lot of hard work to get it ready. But there’s no test quite as good as the stresses of competition. Personally, I’m feeling good and pretty much back to full fitness after my little upside-downer in Kazakhstan, so I’m really excited to get back to it.”
2022 KTM 450 Rally
Making his competitive debut for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, Kevin Benavides will be using the Rallye du Maroc to not only continue adapting to the KTM 450 RALLY, but also settle into the team in race conditions. The 2021 Dakar winner signed to KTM in April but was unable to attend the opening two rounds of the world championship due to injury. Now back to his best and keen to build his speed during the final two rounds of the championship, Benavides is fully focused on defending his Dakar title come January 2022.
Kevin Benavides
“For me, this is going to the first race with the KTM team, so of course I’m really excited, but also extra motivated to do well – I feel like a new rider and I’m really looking forward to getting started. At the beginning of the year, after signing with the team, the world championship was my main goal, but unfortunately after injury that was impossible. Now, looking ahead to this race and Abu Dhabi in November, these last two races of the year will be more about training and getting to grips with the new KTM. On the positive side, I don’t feel any pressure now, of course I want to do well and plan to focus on my navigation and rhythm, but it means I have time to properly settle into the team, get to know everyone, and enjoy these two events ahead of Dakar in January.”
2022 KTM 450 Rally
Covering six days of racing, round four of the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship – the Rallye du Maroc – kicks off in Morocco from October 8-13.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Josep Garcia on the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition
A special model in the 2022 KTM EXC line-up, the new 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition features a long list of race-inspired parts combined with WP XACT air fork technology. The air fork introduces key weight savings together with quick and dependable adjustment possibilities thanks to the easy-to-access clickers and air pump. All in all, two key factors for the demanding and changing conditions found in Enduro competition.
2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition
The combination of the compact state-of-the-art chromoly steel frame and the lively 28 kg 350cc fuel-injected DOHC engine bring the best compromise for a myriad of offroad conditions. From the slow, technical precision of wooded and rocky paths to miles of throttle-heavy trails, the 350 EXC-F Factory Edition is here to ace all challenges and challengers.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Josep Garcia on the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition
Some of the hard hits of racing and riding can be deflected by the 350 EXC-F Factory Edition’s factory wheels and anodized hubs, the engine skid plate as well as the front brake disc guard. Other race-derived upgrades include the radiator fan and radiator protection, the map selector switch and the Supersprox Stealth rear sprocket, which all help enhance the premium experience of the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition.
Lastly – for a bike that will keep riders noticeable in first place – is the aesthetic for 2022. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing graphics is the clearest and easiest sign that the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F is firmly Factory Edition but there are other details too. Cast an eye over the factory blue seat, orange oil plug, CNC-machined orange triple clamps and, of course, that sumptuous orange frame.
2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition
The 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition will be available in extremely limited numbers at authorised KTM dealers in Australia and New Zealand from December 2021.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Josep Garcia on the 2022 KTM 350 EXC-F Factory Edition
Red Bull KTM Ajo’s fantastic work with the development of Remy Gardner (four Grand Prix wins in 2021 in his first season with the crew and currently leading the championship) and Raul Fernandez (the rookie has four victories and seven podium finishes) has been a crucial part of the KTM GP Academy process and made their seats coveted berths for season 2022. Both current riders will step up to MotoGP in 2022 with the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing team.
Aki Ajo, Team Principal
“We’ve had a very strong season in Moto2 with Remy and Raul and there are still a few races to go but looking to 2022 we are very happy to have another couple of great riders with Pedro and Augusto and a promising combination of experience and youth. We have known Augusto for some time and have seen his career and results. He has shown big potential and I think we can achieve great things together. Pedro’s rookie year in Moto3 has been something special and even more is coming. The step to Moto2 after just one season in Moto3 is a big one but if there is one racer that can make this step then it’s Pedro. We have a lot of trust in him and will, of course, fully support him. Together with Red Bull and KTM I am confident we have selected the right riders for our KTM GP Academy for the future.”
Ajo’s Moto2 set-up now looks towards their next project and have two equally promising racers in the forms of Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez. Acosta, 17-years-old and the 2020 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, has been the revelation of the Moto3 division in his maiden term. The teenager has shaken the contest with five wins and six trophies in total as the series prepares to visit MotorLand Aragon this weekend.
Pedro Acosta
“Jumping to Moto2 was my goal because I believe it’s the step I need to make. Of course, there is always more to learn – and I could do that in Moto3 – but when it comes to details and my development as a rider then it feels like the right move. It’s a big advantage to stay in the Red Bull KTM Ajo team as we now have a year of working together and it’s always important to keep a good and positive feeling with the people around you. The team have really helped me in my first world championship year. It’s been a big step into the world championship but I worked for it and I’m happy with how things have been going.”
Pedroa Acosta has been scintillating in Moto3 this season
Fernandez, soon-to-be 24 years old, brings Moto2 experience and podium pedigree (eight trophies, including three wins) to the race team. The Spaniard is hoping to make the last step to full championship candidate with the Ajo structure and seize the opportunity to further stamp his name in Moto2 results, much in the same way Gardner has done in 2021.
Augusto Fernandez
“I’m really happy and satisfied to be joining Red Bull KTM Ajo. The team has been a reference in the category now for many years by winning races and fighting for championships. I think that experience of going for titles will really help me next year and I’m already looking forward to working with them.”
Augusto Fernandez on the podium at Red Bull Ring this year
Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director
“We are very pleased to announce the Moto2 rider line-up with Pedro Acosta and Augusto Fernandez for our KTM GP Academy. Together with Red Bull KTM Ajo we have the best possible structure to support both riders in their next challenge. Aki Ajo and his team have played a fundamental role in the careers of many riders and we can be proud to have him by our side for the next project in rider development. It is a great pleasure to support Pedro’s desire to move up from Moto3 to the next category. What he has shown in his first World Championship season is outstanding and we believe he can keep the momentum going. He will continue to focus on his goal for 2021, but we will then tackle the next challenge together. With Augusto we welcome another promising talent to our Red Bull KTM family. He has shown great signs and we are happy to have an experienced Moto2 rider in our line-up. I am sure that under Aki’s guidance he can make the next level in performance and we will celebrate some exciting results in the near future.”
