There was clear emotion in KTM CEO Stefan Pierer’s voice last week with the presentation of the company’s MotoGP ‘weaponry’ at Spielberg for the Austrian stop on the Grand Prix trail. But with Mr Pierer, Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta and KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer all talking about an important chapter in KTM’s story it was a decent opportunity to grab five minutes with the Austrian to ask about his own biking background …
They’d been waiting for this Austrian Grand Prix, their home race, so very eagerly. Fritz Dorn and his 130-man troop are a special kind of MotoGP fans. Hard-drinking? You bet. But creative too. A visit to the campground at the Red Bull Ring.
There are few more emphatic success stories in the wide breadth of motorcycle racing than Pit Beirer’s stewardship of KTM Racing. We asked the insanely busy but chatty German for his time to explain how some of that achievement was possible, what he had to go through and learned and a few teasers on racing matters for the future …
Sweden – approximately nine million inhabitants, huge distances, and only a few paved roads. Forests as far as the eye can see. A country made for enduro riding. No wonder that a brand like Husaberg managed to establish itself here. Husaberg has belonged to KTM for 20 years now.
An exclusive interview with the man who helped shape the look and image of KTM today.
On 11th November 1994, the KTM motorcycle business was rebranded KTM Sportmotorcycle AG. It was the beginning of a success story that lasts until the present day and made KTM the number one among the European manufacturers.
In 1984, KTM had already established itself as a successful offroad manufacturer. At the beginnig of the 1980s, KTM started its production of radiators. First intended to cover own requirements, the Austrian brand quickly began to supply other European motorcycle and automotive manufacturers.
“I have a professional understanding and a professional training that allows me to do my job but I think my biggest strength is that I understand motorcycles and absolutely love them. I grew up around dealers, racing and the industry so I have a feel for it.”
In celebration of 80 years of company history, we take a closer look on the well-known letters of “KTM”.
