Tag Archives: KTM

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2020 KTM 390 Adventure | 158 kg | 44 hp

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KTM are set to introduce a 390 Adventure model to the Australian market early in 2020 to widen their adventure-touring portfolio with a new light-weight learner legal machine.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

Tipping the scales at 158kg (172 kg complete with a full 14.5-litre fuel tank), and boasting 44 horsepower it will be an attractive option for a new rider.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

The KTM 390 Adventure should prove extremely comfortable and practical in a commuting role during the week, then be ready for adventure come the weekend.

KTM Adventure Action
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

The 373.2cc engine is borrowed from the highly successful KTM 390 Duke and RC390 models to pull all-roads touring duty in the new 390 Adventure.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

It is a high-tech EU4 spec’ high-compression engine that spins hard and is fuelled by a Bosch EFI system via a 38 mm throttle body that is controlled via a ride-by-wire system.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

A single 320mm disc with radial caliper and 230mm rear disc are connected to a Bosch 9.1MP ABS system that can be turned off when negotiating more extreme off-road tracks.  Traction/stability control systems are also standard.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

KTM state that the chassis and ergonomics are derived from the 790 Adventure in conjunction with feedback from the KTM 450 Rally program.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

The trellis frame has been tuned for controlled flex to provide feel to the rider and the 390 Adventure rolls on a 1430 mm wheelbase.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

WP provide their Apex spec’ suspension with inverted 43mm forks that are adjustable for both compression and rebound damping via easy knobs on top of the fork tubes, compression in one leg and rebound in the other. The WP Apex shock is adjustable for preload and rebound.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

Suspension travel is a generous 170 mm at the front and 177 mm at the rear.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

The 390 Adventure has a handy 200 mm of ground clearance while keeping the seat height to a reasonable 855 mm. KTM state that due to the slim proportions of the machine and a sculpted seat getting on and off the bike is easier than the seat height might suggest.

KTM Adventure
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

A full-colour TFT dash can connect to your phone via Bluetooth and the KTM My Ride navigation app to facilitate on-dash navigation prompts while you ride.   An up-down quick-shifter will be an optional extra.

KTM Adventure Action
2020 KTM 390 Adventure

2020 KTM 390 Adventure Specifications

Specficiations
Engine
Engine Type Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement 373.2 cc
Bore / Stroke 89 / 60 mm
Power 32 kW (44 hp) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque 37 Nm @ 7,000 rpm
Compression Ratio 12.6:1
Starter / Battery Electric starter / 12V, 8 Ah
Transmission 6 gears
Fuel System Bosch EFI (throttle body 38 mm)
Control 4 V / DOHC
Lubrication Wet sump
Engine Oil Motorex Formula 4T 15W/50
Primary Drive 30:80
Final Drive 15:45
Cooling Liquid cooling
Clutch PASC™ slipper clutch, mechanically operated
Ignition / Engine Management Bosch EMS with RBW
Traction Control MTC
Chassis
Frame Steel trellis frame, powder coated
Subframe Steel trellis frame, powder coated
Handlebar Aluminum, tapered, Ø 26 / 22 mm
Front Suspension WP APEX, Ø 43 mm, adjustable compression / rebound
Rear Suspension WP APEX shock absorber, adjustable rebound and spring preload
Suspension Travel Front / Rear 170 / 177 mm
Front Brake Single piston, radially mounted caliper, brake disc Ø 320 mm
Rear Brake Double piston, floating caliper, brake disc Ø 230 mm
Abs Bosch 9.1MP Two Channel (disengageable)
Wheels Front / Rear Cast aluminium wheels 2.50 × 19″; 3.50 × 17″
Tires Front / Rear 100/90 × 19; 130/80 × 17
Chain X-Ring 520
Silencer Stainless steel primary and aluminium secondary silencer
Steering Head Angle 63,5°
Trail 98 mm
Wheel Base 1,430 ± 15.5 mm
Ground Clearance 200 mm
Seat Height 855 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity Approx. 14.5 litres / 3.5 litres reserve
Dry Weight Approx. 158 kg (without fuel)

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

KTM 1290 Super Duke R revs up

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KTM has released a video of the 1290 Super Duke R it will reveal tomorrow night (5 November 2019) at the EICMA  motorcycle show in Milan, possibly with blind spot alert and adaptive cruise control.

It will be one of a host of other new models form the Austrian manufacturer.

KTM is also tipped to unveil 250ADV and 390ADV baby adventure single-cylinder bikes, a range of entry-level 490cc twin-cylinder motorcycles, several 890cc models and a 790 Supermoto.

1290 Super Duke R

But the undoubted highlight from the Austrian manufacturer will be the 1290 Super Duke R.

KTM has been working on rider-aid technology such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot alert which could be debuted on this model.

KTM tests Adaptive cruise control and blind spot alert 1290 super duke r
KTM tests Adaptive cruise control and blind spot alert

However, Ducati also promised this technology on its 2020 models, but failed to deliver in the recent unveiling.

What we do now is the KTM 1290 Super Duke R will feature a new chassis using the engine as a stressed member of the frame with a bolted-on rear sub-frame.

There is also a new smoked screen, restyled fuel tank, upgraded seat and re-routed exhaust for a larger radiator.

That is presumably to increase water cooling and reduce emissions without losing horsepower.

In fact, some expect horsepower will be boosted from the 1301cc V-twin, liquid-cooled engine’s current 130kW output.

It will, of course, come with high-spec components such as KTM-owned WP suspension and Brembo brakes.

We will have all the news from ECMA tomorrow night, so stay tuned to your phone, computer or tablet!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Jeff Leisk to retire from KTM Australia early next year

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Jeff Leisk to retire from KTM Group

Jeff Leisk will leave his role as general manager of KTM Group handing the reins to Brad Hagi who is currently President KTM Southeast Asia.

After more than 25 years of association with the KTM and Husqvarna Motorcycles brands, current KTM Group General Manager Jeff Leisk has announced that he will be retiring from an active role with the KTM Group at the end of the first quarter next year.

Jeff Leisk at the 2015 Australian Classic Motocross Championship
Jeff Leisk at the 2015 Australian Classic Motocross Championship

Jeff will leave his role as general manager of KTM Group handing the reins to Brad Hagi who is currently President KTM Southeast Asia. Jeff will remain with the company until the 1st April 2020 to ensure a smooth transition.

Jeff Leisk at the 2015 Australian Classic Motocross Championship
Jeff Leisk at the 2015 Australian Classic Motocross Championship

A former multiple Australian motocross champion and world ranked number 2 by the FIM in 1988, Jeff moved into the corporate world in the early 1990s and worked with KTM as an ambassador before taking a full-time role within the business in July 2000.

Neil Crompton and a young Jeff Leisk
Neil Crompton interviewing a young Jeff Leisk

Jeff Leisk

“It has been an incredibly enjoyable and rewarding experience for me and I am grateful for the support that I have received and the friendships that have been built with our customers, dealers and of course the media. Together with the team in Australia and New Zealand, we have established a strong network and an enviable reputation across all segments to become leading brands in the market. I am confident that the KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles and WP Suspension brands will continue to grow in this Oceania market under Brad’s leadership. With the recent sale of the business to the KTM Group, it is an appropriate time for me to take a break from the sport and the industry that I have loved and been a part of for the last 45 years. I am very much looking forward to continuing with my passion for motorcycling on a personal level.”

“I hated you all”, Leisky stated, Dack thinks "yeah that’s right."
Mr Motocross Celebration night hosted by Rosco Holden “I hated you all”, Leisky stated, Dack thinks “yeah that’s right.”

Brad Hagi comes to the Oceania market with a wealth of global experience. He started his tenure with the company in the role of Vice President of Sales at KTM North America whilst his most recent roles include President KTM Japan and President KTM Southeast Asia. Brad is currently based in Singapore and will relocate to Sydney early next year.

Brad Hagi

“I am looking forward to moving to Australia and further developing the KTM Group brands in both the Australian and New Zealand market. An important factor of the success that has been achieved in these markets with the KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles and WP Suspension brands is due to the strong relationships that have been built with our dealers and of course our customers, I look forward to continuing this.”

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

Is this cheap CFMoto 300NK a good deal?

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The CFMoto 300NK is the cheapest 300cc learner bike in Australia at just $4990 ride away, but how does it indeed “ride away”?

We tested the bike and found it a willing partner around town and even out on the highway.

The CFMoto 300NK is powered by a new 300cc water-cooled, single-single engine with 25kW of power in its lithe 151kg frame.CFMoto 300NK

It’s an extremely flexible little engine with capable power delivery around town and passable passing abilities on the highway where it revs at 5700rpm in sixth.

The only time it starts to run out of puff is up steep hills.

With a 12.5L tank and excellent fuel economy, you could ride this bike much more than 300km on one fill.

Smooth operatorCFMoto 300NK

The EFI engine has a balance shaft and a sixth gear to reduce vibration at highway speed.

We found that after a long ride, there was only a slight tingle in the fingers and none in the toes thanks to the rubber-topped footpegs.

There was also little vibration through the mirrors which are big and wide for plenty of good rear vision. They are no wider than the reasonably wide bars, so lane filtering is fine on this narrow bike.

The whole bike feels very narrow including the 795mm seat which makes it easy for most riders to get a foot on the ground.

The 300NK pillion seat is removable with a key and there is little space underneath. The rider seat is removable with a spanner.

This is a highly manoeuvrable motorcycle in traffic and tight spaces thanks to its smooth fuelling, light weight and narrow frame.CFMoto 300NK

The six-speed transmission is slick and faultless with no false neutrals and neutral easy to select when stopped.

Braking is handled by Spanish J Juan brake callipers and a Continental Dual Channel ABS controller.

They are strong and willing with reasonable feel in both the lever and pedal, but the front fades off under heavy braking.

Suspension may be rudimentary, but it is quite capable as the bike is so light.CFMoto 300NK

Heavier riders may have trouble and the forks gets jittery over high-frequency bumps.

I’m 183mm tall and found the riding position quite neutral, except the pegs are fairly high which cramped my legs. They could easily drop them down a bit as it has plenty of cornering clearance.

Modern featuresCFMoto 300NK

Modern features on the 300NK include a full-colour TFT instrumentation panel with convenient gearshift indicator, LED headlight, lockable fuel cap and daytime running lights.

The 300NK instruments are easy to read in most lighting conditions although they can reflect the sun’s glare at certain angles.

They are also light sensitive and change colour in a tunnel or at night.

You can also choose between a traditional analogue-style display or digital representation.

Interestingly, they include “Sport” and “Rain” engine modes, but they are not active … yet! We are told that may come in future models.

The backlit controls are basic and a bit cheap, but tactile and function fine.

We like the modern, angular styling of CFMoto’s range which has been outsourced to Kiska, the Austrian design house which is also responsible for many KTM models.

The company has close ties with KTM, making their bikes in China for the domestic market.

An interesting touch is the rear the tail which has winglets and reminds us of the Ducati Panigale!CFMoto 300NK

It only comes in solid black and we reckon it would look a whole lot better with some graphics or at least a flash of an alternate colour to alleviate the all-black paintwork.

Fit and finish is close to Japanese standard.

Conclusion

Despite our test bike developing an occasional coolant leak from an ill-fitting cap that was replaced as a precaution, we found the bike very strong and reliable.

CFMoto 300NK
Coolant leak

Novices will find it easy and enjoyable to ride and useful in most road situations.

At this bargain price, it would also make a great second bike for commuting to keep the kilometres down on your prized bike.

CFMoto 300NK tech specsCFMoto 300NK

Price $4990 ride away
Warranty 2yrs/unlimited km
Engine 292.4cc single cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid cooled, 4-valve, DOHC with balance shaft
Bore & Stroke 78mm x 61.2mm
Compression 11.3:1
Power 25kW @ 7200rpm
Torque 20.5Nm @ 8800rpm
Gearbox 6-speed
Front Suspension Upside down telescopic fork
Rear Suspension Mid positioned monoshock
Front brake 300mm disc, twin-piston caliper, ABS
Rear brake 245mm  disc, single-piston caliper, ABS
Seat 795mm
Weight 151kg
Tank 12.5 litres
Clearance 150mm

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

2020 KTM Ultimate Race Australian entrants announced

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2020 KTM Ultimate Race Australian entries announced

Following a spectacular two days of action at the 2020 KTM Ultimate Race qualifiers Australia will be represented by Simon ‘Simmo’ Arthur and Graham Cheney during next year’s KTM Ultimate Race at the Merzouga Rally.

KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers
2020 KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers Australia
Simon ‘Simmo’ Arthur

“KTM always puts on a good event and the prize for this is quite remarkable, to be able to go and compete in the KTM Ultimate Race and represent Australia. I’ve only had the KTM 790 Adventure R for a few weeks, but it handled the conditions so well and did the job perfectly – it’s a very versatile bike. What a chance this is to see a different part of the world in Morocco! I’m on a program to try and get to Dakar in 2021, so this is perfect for me and I’m really grateful. This has been made possible for me by three organisations in particular, which are Choice Suspension, Canberra Motorcycle Centre and APlus Towing – we put this together as a team and got the outcome that we were chasing, so it’s really exciting for all of us.”

Each country that hosts a KTM Adventure Rallye receives two positions in the KTM Ultimate Race, with Arthur and Cheney set to each receive a fully-supported ride, which includes flights, accommodation, entry fees and a KTM 790 Adventure R to compete aboard, with a full race service under the guidance of pro-level and factory-backed off-road racers.

KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers
2020 KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers – Stockton Beach
Graham Cheney

“I’m stoked to be able to qualify for the KTM Ultimate Race, especially considering I only picked the KTM 790 Adventure R up right before the event and it was basically stock-standard. I was really impressed with it though, the bike was definitely competitive throughout the qualifiers and now I’m looking forward to this money-can’t-buy experience in Morocco next year. The goal for me was to remain consistent, flow as well as I could and minimise mistakes during the special tests, which all worked out and I can’t wait to get over there now.”

This year’s KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers was packed with capable riders on an assortment of KTM adventure machinery, however, both Arthur and Cheney were fittingly equipped with the recently-released KTM 790 Adventure R model. One of the inaugural winners of the KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers, Steve ‘Robbo’ Robertson was also on-hand to share his experience from earlier this year in Morocco.

KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers
2020 KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers

Commencing the qualifying event on Friday was a 250-kilometre navigation challenge, which took riders through a mixture of terrain including a 40-kilometre section on Stockton Beach that will prove incredibly valuable once Arthur and Cheney arrive in Morocco for the sand-filled Merzouga Rally.

The navigation test also included a series of waypoints where riders had to upload a photo of their bike to Instagram in particular places using correct hashtags as supplied by event organisers.

Saturday provided entertainment for the spectators on location at the Transmoto event, as riders in the KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers had to complete a pass/fail bike-lift, wheel-change challenge and two timed special tests. The top five riders were then announced, based on accumulative scores, and they put on a final show with a ‘hot lap’ special test of the entire 26-minute Transmoto track.

KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers
2020 KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers

It was another successful KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers operated by the Transmoto Events team in Stroud, with Arthur and Cheney the final duo selected to represent KTM and Australia during the 2020 KTM Ultimate Race in Morocco.

Additional information on the KTM Ultimate Race can be viewed at www.ktm-adventure-rally.com/en/ktm-ultimate-race (link).

Rosie Lalonde – Events Manager, KTM Australia

“The KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers is a very cool initiative from KTM to bring together the global KTM adventure communities. It is also a great way to showcase the versatility of the KTM adventure range, as these bikes can go long distances over a variety of terrain and also cut some serious times in the special tests! I could not be happier for Simmo and Graham to be representing KTM and Australia – they showed not only what fantastic all-round adventure riders they were, but that they are great sportsmen and are going to be true ambassadors at the KTM Ultimate Race.”

KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers
2020 KTM Ultimate Race Qualifiers

Source: MCNews.com.au

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

Binder promoted to Factory KTM MotoGP Team alongside Espargaro

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Red Bull KTM MotoGP line-up confirmed for 2020

KTM announced earlier in the year that they were taking Brad Binder to MotoGP in 2020 but that agreement had been for the 24-year-old to join the satellite Tech3 squad.

Now, however, KTM have decided to promote Binder into the KTM Factory Team alongside Pol Espargaro for MotoGP season 2020. 

MotoGP KTM Mechanics
KTM RC16 MotoGP

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director

“It was clear that our plans for 2020 needed to change following our mid-season announcement. After some thought and talks we decided to move in this direction and let the young, hungry guys with good experience in the other categories of MotoGP show us what they can do. Brad is a rider that has made his way through the KTM structure and we have no doubt whatsoever that he can walk into the Red Bull KTM team and keep showing that same style and never-give-up attitude we have seen for a long time. Iker comes into the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team and we’re super-confident that Hervé and his guys will be able to help and develop another rookie like they have done so well with Miguel this year. We know we are making good and exciting steps with our MotoGP project and with next season now fixed we can really start building up to this new chapter.”

The South African’s planned seat at Red Bull KTM Tech3, will be taken by Spaniard Iker Lecuona.

Brad Binder KTM Tech
Brad Binder had originally signed for Tech3 KTM but has now been promoted to the Factory KTM Team

KTM have decided to invest and trust in the racing instincts of two MotoGP debutants for 2020 and for the next development phase of the factory RC16.

Mike Leitner, Red Bull KTM Team Manager

“I’m super-happy with the duo we have for 2020. We had a long discussion about it but finally I think it is a good decision that KTM made. In Pol we have a very strong rider who has made good results for us and we’ve seen in the other categories what Brad is capable of with our bikes. He is one of the young kids that has come through the rank. It will be a big challenge for him but I think he will have a great future in MotoGP.”

MotoGP KTM Pol Espargaro
KTM RC16 MotoGP – Pol Espargaro

Brad Binder’s impressive progress through Moto3 and Moto2 divisions meant the 24-year old was well on the road to a premier class saddle for 2020 but with a slot opening in the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team Binder has been placed next to Pol Espargaro for his first term.

Iker Lecuona, who has taken Moto2 podium honours in both 2018 and 2019, had been signed for a Moto2 ride in 2020. The 19-year old has now been promoted to the Red Bull KTM Tech3 MotoGP effort alongside Miguel Oliveira.

MotoGP Valencia Moto Podium Oliveira
Iker Lecuona is seen here in left of shot on the Moto2 podium at Valencia in 2018 alongside race winner Migul Oliveira and third place getter Alex Marquez

Hervé Poncharal, Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Principal

“My feeling is that this is the strongest 2020 KTM line-up we could have hoped for. We want to have four riders with talent, passion, will and that they will stick to the project. Personally I am happy to work with a young and talented rookie like Iker. This is the way to go for the future and we have seen that the same approach has brought some success to other teams. Let’s start working on 2020: we have the technical support and we have the right people onboard. I believe we will take a big step next year with both Miguel in his second year and Iker keen to show us what he can do.”

MotoGP Rnd Jerez KTM RC Oliveira GP AN
Miguel Oliveira and Hafizh Syahrin were the Tech3 riders in 2019. Miguel will stay, Hafizh will step down to Moto2

Four riders, three nationalities and three athletes below the age of 25 means KTM are now set for their fourth year of MotoGP participation.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

KTM 2020 EXC Range Demo Tours Australia

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Ride Orange: 2020 KTM EXC Demo Tour

Positions limited – Bookings essential

KTM have announced the Ride Orange: MY20 KTM Demo Tour, which will provide riders around Australia the opportunity to test ride the all-new EXC range that has just  arrived in dealerships nationwide.

Experience KTM’s new all-conquering enduro models in off-road demonstration days, where you have the chance to climb aboard the 2020 model KTM 250 EXC TPI and KTM 300 EXC TPI two-strokes, in addition to the KTM 250 EXC-F, KTM 350 EXC-F, KTM 450 EXC-F and KTM 500 EXC-F four-strokes.

Ride Orange MY KTM Demo Tour
MY20 KTM EXC Demo Tour

With 650 parts, or 60 per cent of the new generation models being either refined or completely redesigned, the 2020 EXC range is the most extreme enduro line-up ever produced by KTM. The Ride Orange: MY20 KTM Demo Tour will enable riders to sample these revisions first-hand with the support and guidance of experienced KTM dealership staff members.

The 2020 KTM enduro models feature new and more efficient engines packed with performance, a redeveloped chassis, improved WP XPLOR suspension, sharp new bodywork, a redesigned air-filter box, cooling system and exhaust systems. The new models also come standard with class-leading componentry, which includes Neken handlebars, Brembo brakes, no-dirt footpegs and CNC milled hubs with Giant rims.

Positions are limited and bookings are essential in order to secure your place in the Ride Orange: MY20 KTM Demo Tour. Contact your authorised KTM dealer to book now and visit https://www.ridektm.com.au/ride-orange-my20-ktm-demo-days/ for additional information including upcoming dates and locations.

Ride Orange MY KTM Demo Tour
Ride Orange: MY20 KTM Demo Tour

Ride Orange: MY20 KTM Demo Tour Dates & Locations

NEW SOUTH WALES

  • 29th September, Beard Brothers Motorcycles,
    Learn To Fly MX Park, NSW, (02) 6331 6421
  • 29th September, Canberra Motorcycle Centre,
    Cotter, ACT, (02) 6175 4442
  • 13th October, South Coast KTM,
    Mt. Kembla Motocross Complex, NSW, (02) 4274 3086
  • 26th October, Dubbo City Motorcycles,
    Louee Motorcycle Complex, NSW, (02) 6882 8884

QUEENSLAND

  • 28th September The Bike & Brew
    Glen Echo Ride Park, QLD, (07) 4121 6630
  • 5th October, Northern Performance Motorcycles
    Mossman, QLD, (07) 4057 5696
  • 6th October Wide Bay Motorcycles
    TBC, QLD, (07) 5483 8063

VICTORIA

  • 9th November, Moto Tech Geelong
    Ride Park, VIC, (03) 5229 9990
  • 23rd November Moto Tech Mildura
    Dirt Worx, VIC, (03) 5000 1826

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

  • 5th October, Bunbury KTM
    WA Ride Park, WA, (08) 9721 1600
Ride Orange MY KTM Demo Tour
Check out the MY20 KTM EXC range with the Demo Tour

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

KTM / Pierer acquire controlling interest in Gas Gas Motorcycles

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KTM Industries take control of Gas Gas

As part of the deal with Gas Gas, KTM also secures a controlling stake in the Torrot electric motorcycles and bicycles business as part of the deal struck ith Black Toro Capital, the owners of both Gas Gas and Torrot. 

This move further expands the KTM portfolio (Husqvarna, WP etc), which will in future, presumably due to its now much broader stake in even more brands, will be renamed to Pierer Mobility AG. 

The hate for KTM amongst the populace of Varese was visceral after the Austrian brand closed down the Husqvarna factory in Italy when they took control of the brand from BMW and moved production back to the Mattighofen grounds of KTM HQ. 

In this instance though it seems as though KTM have agreed to keep the Spanish Gas Gas plant in Girona for at least the next three years. Gas Gas was originally formed from the ashes of Bultaco when that brand went tits-up in the mid 1980s. Gas Gas merged with Ossa in 2014.

How this new Spnish-Austrian cross-pollenation will also benefit KTM’s partners at Bajaj Auto is as yet unclear. The Indian company currently holds a 47.99 per cent stake in KTM AG.

Add to this the tie-ups KTM already has in place with CF Moto where the Chinese company produces some parts for KTM, and will produce their own CF Moto machines utilising KTM engines, and you start to get an inkling into just how much the whole KTM AG / Pierer picture has going on.

Gas Gas GG EC act
2019 Gas Gas EC 300

Source: MCNews.com.au

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

Johann Zarco and KTM split as of now | Kallio steps in

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Johann Zarco and KTM are over
Kallio replaces him now!

Red Bull KTM will field current test rider Mika Kallio alongside Pol Espargaro for the remainder of the 2019 MotoGP campaign and starting from this weekend’s Gran Premio Michelin de Aragon and post-race test.

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director

“We have to make decisions to ensure that we use our resources in the best possible way and we are currently in a positive direction with our MotoGP structure.

“We firmly believe that Mika can help us in this stage thanks to his knowledge and background. It is paramount that we verify our testing results in real race conditions to start our 2020 season in the best position. Mika has proved his ability on the RC16 and we are happy that he joins the line-up as a racer again.

“There is no doubt that we will focus on a new configuration with the #82 bike while fighting for points in the last races of the championship.

“At the same time we want to express gratitude to Johann for his effort since he joined our ambitious project in November last year.

“We now have to think of the future and are making this step accordingly. KTM will continue supporting him until the expiry of our contract at the end of the 2019 and we truly wish him all the best for his future.”

Mika Kallio – Valencia MotoGP 2016

Zarco Out – Kallio In

Johann and KTM decided to mutually end their association at the end of 2019 but developments and on-going work mean that priorities have been realigned. The Frenchman will be exempt from his MotoGP duties but stays contracted to KTM until the end of the season.

KTM are in a crucial phase of the MotoGP project with an intense focus on the next generation of the RC16. Thanks to Kallio’s long-term testing role and experience the Finn will play a major part in gaining valuable data in racing conditions alongside Espargaro, who has posted seven top ten results in 2019 and qualified second on the grid at the last Grand Prix in San Marino.

Kallio – who rode the KTM on its debut in the MotoGP division in Valencia 2016 and has contributed strongly since the early testing phases of the RC16 – has already participated in seven wild card races from 2016 until 2018.

With two top ten classifications on the MotoGP bikes and a career total of 16 GP victories and 49 podiums in the lower championship divisions, Kallio is eager to deliver new drive and momentum to KTM’s efforts in the premier class both for the rest of 2019 and with a view to the 2020 RC16.

Mika Kallio
Mika Kallio

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

KTM defies downward sales spiral

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Whatever KTM is doing, it seems to be working because the company, together with its acquisition Husqvarna, is defying the worldwide downward motorcycle sales spiral.

The Austrian manufacturing group has just posted record revenue, sales and earnings results for the ninth time in a row. 

KTM group sold 135,711 motorcycles in the first half of 2019 consisting of 115,318 KTM motorcycles and 20,393 Husqvarnas. That’s up 7% on last year.

Sales spiralsales spiral

In Australia, KTM sales are slightly down 4.9% in the first half of the year compared with the 11.4% marketwide downward spiral.

However, KTM is the only company in Australia with increased road bike sales, up 9.1%.

Meanwhile, Husqvarna is down 13.6% and 23.8% in road bikes.

Australian market third-quarter results are expected to be announced in the first week of October.

It will be interesting to see how KTM performs after the factory bought the distribution rights to KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles in Australia and New Zealand in June

Australia is the third largest market in the world for KTM.

Right mixspiral

So what is KTM doing right?

For a long time KTM has been successful on the track and showroom floor with dirt bikes.

Several years ago they realised they could not realistically grow their market share anymore in this sector, so they started to concentrate on road bikes.

KTM has always been successful in converting Sunday track wins to sales, so maybe it has something to do with its MotoGP involvement, although they will pull out of supplying the Moto2 chassis from next year.

Perhaps it is the right mix of motorcycles that is KTM’s strength.

Despite its MotoGP involvement, the company has spurned the sagging super bike market.

Instead, their line-up is comprised of high-performing, modern-styled supermotos, naked, sports tourers and adventure bikes.

Whatever they are doing, it might be time for other manufacturers to look at the KTM sales model.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com