KTM re-enters competition MotoGP in Moto3 250cc class

KTM the market leader in sports motorcycles and the company that embraces its pure racing DNA with its “Ready to Race” philosophy will return to the MotoGP competition in 2012 to compete in the new Moto3 250cc category.

Extensive and intensive preparations are underway at KTM, where a 100% pure, in-house Moto3 racing machine is being developed by KTM engineer Wolfgang Felber and his team. KTM has also secured an exclusive partnership with Kalex Engineering and together the two companies will combine both skills and passion to develop two different, but parallel concepts, both focusing on a successful entry into the new race category.

While the development of the 100% “Made by KTM” racing motorcycle is right on schedule at KTM’s Motorsports Department in Mattighofen (Austria), at the same time KTM and Kalex Engineering have secured an exclusive partnership for the supply of engines to the southern German company. Kalex, which for years has been synonymous with high-quality vehicle development and special parts for motorsports, has played an active role in the Moto2 class since 2010. Kalex rider Stefan Bradl is currently the clear leader in the world championship and the Kalex headquarters is just two hours away from KTM in Upper Austria.

The aspect yet to be finalized regarding KTM’s return to full scale international road racing is what teams and which riders will be at the handlebars of the 250 cc single cylinder four-stroke KTM and Kalex-KTM racing machines.

Pit Beirer, Head of KTM Motorsports:

We approach our entry into the Moto3 class with confidence. Our own plans are right on schedule for a 250cc racing bike completely developed in Mattighofen, while at the same time we have also found the best possible partner, who will present our engine at a very high and professional level. Kalex Engineering is well positioned for this in every way and just like KTM is highly motivated to develop a bike capable of winning in the new Moto3 category.”