In 1996, almost ten years after the launch of the LC4 engine, KTM presented an electric-start version of the water-cooled unit. However, the new engine was in no way intended to signal a renunciation of the hard enduro philosophy; instead the aim was to attract new consumer groups.
The Dakar Rally has exerted a special fascination for motorcycle fans for more than three-and-a-half decades. The heroes of the early years have never been forgotten. Marc Coma also deserves his place among the greats, having dominated the Dakar for more than a decade with his fellow KTM factory rider Cyril Despres.
The golden era of road racing – 1970s – was known of the heroes like 15 times World Champion Giacomo Agostini, 13 times World Champion Ángel Nieto, 7 times World Champion Phil Read and many others. This was the decade of Continental Circus, era of heroes and tough battles, legendary paddock life and true friendship when all the riders were like one big family.
In the 1950s, scooters were just as common a sight on urban streets as they are today – even if the design was more than a little different. Scooters have long been a part of KTM’s proud history too. Sixty years ago the young motorcycle manufacturer introduced its first scooter: the Mirabell, named after Mirabell Palace, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Salzburg.
The inhabitants of central Mattighofen are likely to get used to the sound of construction work over the next year as plans for the KTM Museum are accelerating quicker than a KTM 450 SX-F out of a start gate.
In 2005 – ten years ago – Finnish KTM factory rider Mika Kallio became Vice World Champion in the smallest Grand Prix class; on top of this, KTM dominated the constructors’ championship.
MXGP’s leading star and multi champion Tony Cairoli turns 30 this Wednesday. He here talks about reaching a landmark while still at the very top.
In 1985 Heinz Kinigadner started the 250cc MX season as the reigning world champion with the #1 on what was still a green start number plate and defended his title a second year in succession.
Anniversary on the Isle of Man – the 50th International Six Days Trial was held on the island in the Irish Sea forty years ago. After six really tough days, out of the 300 riders taking part, the one doing best in the points was sat astride a KTM. Heino Büse, whose riding style led him to being better known to his sporting comrades as “Düsen-Büse” [jet-powered Büse], rode in the half-liter class for the team of German importer Toni Stöcklmeier.
It was 20 years ago that the starting flag first dropped on the Erzberg Rodeo – the 21st race will be hosted from 4th to 7th June 2015. This dirt track race in the ore mine has enjoyed cult status for many years. In 2005 Britain´s David Knight won the notorious Red Bull Hare Scramble for the first time on KTM.
