KTM Talks About Pulling Out of Dakar

Jon Lague — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 21:16:10 +0000

A recent announcement from Amaury Sports Organisation (ASO), promoters of the Dakar Rally, stated that they will enforce a limit of 450cc for single-cylinder motorcycles effective in 2010. Following the announcement, KTM declared complete withdrawal from the race, slated to take place in South America in January of 2010. KTM Austria’s race team manager and rally coordinator Alex Doringer talked more about KTM’s decision to withdrawal from the Dakar Rally – a decision they felt was the only realistic option given the circumstances by Dakar Rally promoters – and what the manufacturer with such a heavy investment in rally racing plans to do next.

“I think it’s easy to explain after the decision [ASO] made to reduce the capacity on the engines down to 450,” Doringer said. “We don’t agree with the decision. The points they gave us as to why they made the decision; we don’t confirm them. They’re talking about safety, they’re talking about money for private riders and this isn’t true that it’s safe or cheaper.”

For the full story check out Cycle News.com

Coma Wins Dakar

Jon Lague — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 19:53:56 +0000

With his second Dakar win in his sights, KTM factory rider Marc Coma coasted through the final stage of the first ever Dakar in South America to finish sixth and take victory in the race that has taken competitors through a major part of South America. Coma, from Spain, dominated the race that started on January 3 and finished with an impressive winning margin of one hour 25:38. Fellow KTM factory riders Cyril Despres finished second overall.

For the full story check our Cycle News Online.

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KTM Talks About Pulling Out of Dakar

Coma Wins Dakar