Forty years ago the original XT600 Ténéré made real adventure a possibility for everyone. Developed from Yamaha’s Dakar race bikes, the first Ténéré literally opened up a new world for any rider with the desire to get away from the ordinary, escape from their comfort zone and see new faraway places.

Since the 1980s many thousands of riders have chosen the Ténéré as their long distance travel companion. During this time Yamaha’s original adventure bike has continuously evolved, and more recently the introduction of the Ténéré 700 has inspired a new generation of riders to chase the Next Horizon.In a very short period of time the Ténéré 700 has earned the respect of riders all over the globe who appreciate its high torque CP2 engine, versatile chassis and unrivalled durability and reliability. It is a worthy successor to the original bike that changed motorcycling forever, and in just a few years it has become the model of choice for a diverse group of riders who value the accessibility and freedom that it offers. It’s also shown its incredible versatility in the hands of legendary names such as multiple round the world rider Nick Sanders through to extreme enduro legend Pol Tarrés.

Following the huge success of the Ténéré 700 and the Ténéré 700 Rally Edition, Yamaha are now ready to launch the ultimate long distance Yamaha adventure bike that is designed to offer a whole new world of possibilities to everyone who has the spirit of adventure within their soul.

New Ténéré 700 World Raid: Fuel your life with a New Horizon

The Ténéré 700 was just the beginning. Now Yamaha is about to open up a new dimension in adventure riding with the latest Ténéré 700 World Raid – a premium long distance motorcycle that offers excellent on/off road ability combined with outstanding versatility and an enjoyable riding character.This third member of the Ténéré 700 family brings so much to the world of motorcycling by giving all kinds of riders the chance to live out their dreams. The world has changed dramatically in the last few years, and this motorcycle gives everyone the chance to rediscover the freedoms that were taken for granted.

Equipped to go further than any previous Ténéré, and featuring the most advanced specification that includes state-of-the-art suspension for added confidence and comfort, improved ergonomics, rally-inspired styling and multi-mode instruments with incoming call and text message notifications, the Ténéré 700 World Raid is a motorcycle that can make the world seem a much smaller place.  Twenty-three-litre capacity dual side-mounted fuel tanks

The Ténéré 700 World Raid is Yamaha’s most extreme long distance adventure bike with the ability to go further than ever before. Adventure riders are fearless characters who are always looking for the next challenge, but the one thing that’s always at the back of every long distance rider’s mind is the availability of fuel in a remote environment.

The new 23-litre dual side-mounted fuel tanks are designed to bring peace of mind on the longest trip and eliminate the range anxiety that every rider has experienced when the reserve light starts to flash. In typical usage conditions these new tanks are estimated to be able to give a range of up to 500 km, giving a higher level of autonomy that makes the Ténéré 700 World Raid a master of the wilderness.The unique twin side-mounted design offers a number of significant advantages compared to simply making the tank higher and wider in order to increase its capacity. By having two separate tanks that are positioned lower,and locating the fuel pump in a lower position in one of the tanks, the bike’s centre of gravity can be kept almost the same as with the existing Ténéré 700 that has a 16-litre tank – helping to maintain agile handling despite the increased weight of a larger fuel load.

The vehicle mass is further centralised, with an ideal weight distribution between front and rear.An important feature of this new layout is that the highest point on the new twin side-mounted tanks is lower than the top of the tank on the Ténéré 700, reducing the height difference between the tank and seat to give a much flatter profile for increased rider mobility and easier front/rear weight shifting when riding off road.

Another benefit of this dual tank design is that the movement of the fuel is limited, compared to a one big tank layout and this gives benefit especially while cornering. And finally, the Ténéré 700 World Raid’s dual side-mounted fuel tanks are not only a reminder of the bike’s desert rally heritage, but are also clear evidence of the DNA this new adventure model shares with some of Yamaha’s most successful factory race bikes.

Flat seat for improved rider agility

As well as the reduced height of the new dual tank design, the Ténéré 700 World Raid also benefits from a new 890 mm high seat that gives a much flatter profile for a smoother transition between the seat and tank. This design enables the rider to move backwards and forwards with minimal effort when shifting their body weight to maintain control on rough terrain, and the new ergonomics are suited to both sit down and stand up riding positions.

The seat’s two-piece design allows for the easy removal of the rear section to enable the fitment of accessories such as a rack or luggage. The seat is made from two different kinds of leather, with a high grip zone in the centre and a smoother zone that enables freedom of movement while riding.

Five-inch colour TFT meter with mobile connectivity

The new 5” colour TFT meter is linked with the bike’s Communication Control unit (CCU) which talks to the MyRide app, giving connectivity in the form of text message and incoming call notifications that are displayed on the instrument panel – and mobile battery status is displayed as soon as a connection is established.

This connectivity and the ability to identify any technical issues that need rectifying provide added peace of mind and reassurance to adventure riders, especially when they are taking part in long distance trips in unfamiliar territory.

Access to the relevant information is crucial on every long distance expedition, and Ténéré 700 World Raid riders can choose from three different themes on the new 5” colour TFT meter.

The ‘Explorer’ screen layout features a modern digital design that provides all of the machine’s key running data in a contemporary and easy to read style. The ‘Street’ screen features a tachometer with a circular dial and needle that give a more conventional look from the analogue era, and the ‘Raid’ screen is inspired by a typical rally racing roadbook and features two independent countdown tripmeters that enable the rider to see the distance to the next waypoint.

Located to the right of the dashboard area there is a USB type A socket that can power navigation systems or charge mobile devices.Three-mode on/off road ABS

For optimal controllability in varying riding conditions the new Ténéré 700 World Raid is equipped with three-mode ABS that can be selected when the bike is stationary, via a specific menu available in the meter, operated by the right handle switch. Mode 1 is fully on, with both wheels benefitting from ABS as required legally while riding on public roads. Mode 2 and 3 have been introduced for non-public roads riding. In detail, Mode 2 (new function developed for Ténéré 700 World Raid) is front wheel on, rear wheel off, and this is the recommended mode for terrain such as gravel tracks, where low levels of grip are likely to be experienced. Mode 3 is fully off, suitable for experienced riders who want to enjoy pure off road riding.

The instrument panel shows when Mode 2 and Mode 3 are active, and the rider can return immediately to Mode 1 at any time when moving or standing still by pressing a button on the left side of the instrument panel.

High specification 43 mm KYB front forks, 230 mm travel

For refined off road handling performance the suspension system on the Ténéré 700 World Raid features a number of significant upgrades. Newly designed 43 mm KYB front forks give 230 mm of wheel travel – 20 mm more than the Ténéré 700 – offering increased shock absorption potential on rough terrain. The new forks are equipped with a spring preload adjuster, in addition to the rebound and compression damping adjusters and air bleeding screw already featured on the Ténéré 700, enabling the rider to set the suspension to suit different terrain and loads.

For increased durability with reduced internal friction, the longer travel 43 mm front forks feature a resilient Kashima coating applied on outer tube, with a distinctive dark bronze colour, while lightweight fork internal components are used in order to minimise weight, despite the longer stroke.   Öhlins steering damper

For better controllability – particularly in off road riding situations – an Öhlins steering damper is fitted as standard equipment. Mounting position is close to the top triple clamp, allowing the rider to quickly adjust the unit to his preferred levels of feel and feedback on a variety of terrain, thanks to 18 different damping settings.

Full spec aluminium piggyback rear shock, 220 mm wheel travel

The rear suspension has also been upgraded to match the new front forks, and features a revised linkage design with a piggyback type shock absorber with longer stroke. The rear suspension’s damping characteristics, spring rate and linkage ratios have all been optimised in order to give a comfortable ride on the road together with the ability to take some hard hits during off road exploration.

For consistent damping performance the new shock features an aluminium body for good heat dissipation, while the separate piggyback type oil reservoir prevents cavitation – and like the forks, the new shock gives 20 mm more wheel travel, and is fully adjustable for spring preload, as well as compression and rebound damping.

A new rubber bumper has been introduced as well to increase performance on energy absorption in case of bottoming.

High-torque EU5 CP2 engine

Yamaha’s iconic 689 cc liquid-cooled in-line two-cylinder engine is the driving force behind the new Ténéré 700 World Raid. Featuring a 270° crankshaft that gives it a characteristic uneven firing sequence, this ‘crossplane concept’ CP2 engine is renowned for its strong linear torque output as well as its ultra-responsive and easily-controllable performance that makes it so enjoyable and rewarding to ride at all speeds.

Compact dimensions and low weight make the CP2 unit ideal for the demands and requirements of adventure riding – and with a linear torque delivery providing plenty of low to mid-range pulling power, this rugged, reliable and economical engine is particularly suited to the varied on and off road terrain typically encountered by adventure riders. Already proven with the best-selling Ténéré 700, this engine is one of Yamaha’s most legendary powerplants, with more than 221,000 CP2-engined units sold since introduction.

Ténéré 700 air cleaner box

The Ténéré 700 family has a new air cleaner box, specifically designed to handle the extreme off road terrain that this long distance adventure bike is built for. The Ténéré airbox has been equipped with a forward-facing intake duct that is designed to prevent ingress of dust and debris thrown up by the rear wheel.

Higher windscreen, easy-to-remove side deflectors, LED flashers and front cowling

For additional wind protection on long distance adventures the bike is fitted with a 15 mm taller screen with easy-to-remove side deflectors, and LED flashers are original equipment.

The front panels surrounding the radiator and the interior panel around cockpit area are manufactured from tough fibre glass composite material. These are designed to be able to handle rugged off road riding.

Larger footrests

Yamaha’s designers have developed the Ténéré 700 World Raid to the highest specification without compromise.

New larger footrests underline this close attention to detail. The larger surface area gives greater grip for the rider’s boots, and also reduces pressure on the soles when riding on extreme terrain. A larger surface area also prevents mud and sand build up, and the removable rubber inserts improve the boot/peg stability in wet conditions.

By removing the rubbers inserts, the footpegs become rally-race oriented components, in terms of look and performance.

New three-piece aluminium engine guard

For increased protection when riding off road, the bike is fitted with a new three-piece aluminium engine guard that helps to prevent accidental damage caused by rocks, stones and any other debris. Thanks to new suspensions with longer stroke, ground clearance is 250 mm.

New radiator grille

To ensure that the radiator maintains its high levels of cooling efficiency during off road riding, a new radiator grille is fitted. Featuring vertical louvres like Yamaha’s off road competition models, this new grille is designed to protect the radiator from debris thrown up by the front wheel.

Ténéré 700 World Raid Key Features

23 litre capacity dual side-mounted fuel tanks

Flat Rally inspired two-piece seat

5” colour TFT meter with mobile notification connectivity

USB type A

3-mode switchable ABS

High specification 43 mm KYB front forks, 230 mm travel

Öhlins adjustable steering damper

Aluminium piggyback rear shock, 220 mm wheel travel

High windscreen, easy to remove side deflectors and LED flashers

Fully new cockpit area and new front cowling

New larger rider footrests with easy-to-remove rubber inserts

3-piece aluminium engine guard

New aluminium die-cast engine support

New radiator grille

Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. is pleased to announce the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing team, which will head its efforts in the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship aboard the Attack Performance Yamaha R1s for the next two seasons. The team will field a two-rider effort led by the reigning MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne and new addition Cameron Petersen.

Fresh N Lean, America’s #1 Ready-to-Eat (RTE) meal delivery company, returns as the title sponsor and will continue to fuel the team for championship-proven performance on the track with quality nutrition that is easily prepared, organically sourced, and available in a variety of diets; all focused on optimizing human potential. Coming on board this season is another industry leading sponsor – Progressive Insurance, a leader in the commercial auto insurance industry and the #1 motorcycle insurer in the United States. Returning to the team’s powerhouse line-up of partners is Yamalube and Yamaha Financial Services.

Yamaha also extends its partnership with Attack Performance, one of the sport’s leading manufacturers of high-performance components and services for modern sportbikes. Since 2020, Attack has carried on the winning tradition of the Yamaha R1, enjoying two dominant seasons with 33 victories and two titles in the premier class. Attack Performance principal Richard Stanboli will also return as the team manager.

Gagne enters his third season with the team and aims to keep the #1 on the front of his Attack Performance Yamaha R1. Last year was a standout season for the Colorado rider who added several record-breaking accolades en route to claiming his first title in the premier class a weekend early. He notched an impressive 16-consecutive race wins, and then added one more victory to score the most wins in a season, putting him tied on the all-time win list with Nicky Hayden and making him the active leader in Superbike wins heading into the 2022 season. Gagne also has a pair of support class championships to his credit - the 2014 Daytona Sportbike Championship and the 2015 MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 Championship.

Petersen joins the team in 2022 and also has a championship-proven history in the support class category, taking the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 crown in 2020. The South African had a solid return to the premier class in 2021, scoring his debut Superbike victory at the season finale in Barber and ended the year third in the points standings with a total of five podium appearances. He looks to build on his progress in the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship as he returns to the Yamaha brand.

In addition to the 10-round MotoAmerica Superbike season, the team will race the Daytona 200 aboard the Attack Performance Yamaha R6 as the series makes its debut at the legendary Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, on March 10-12.

The team would like to also thank its technical partners for their continued support of the championship-winning program: Akrapovic, Braking, TrackDaz, Capit, HHR-Carbonin, Suter, OZ, DID, NGK-NTK, and Zero Gravity.

KTM is pleased to announce an exciting new collaboration with world-renowned luxury mobility brand, BRABUS. As a first step into this exceptional venture, the launch of the all-new BRABUS 1300 R represents performance and refinement of the highest level, as well as BRABUS’ expansion into the world of premium motorcycling.

Since 1977, the BRABUS name has been synonymous with luxury, handcrafted exclusivity, and performance. Known globally among enthusiasts for the creation of high-performance supercars and as automotive individualization experts for over four decades, BRABUS has since also established itself in the marine sector through its series of exclusive day boats. Now, the company is expanding once again - broadening its focus towards high-end motorcycling in collaboration with KTM. The BRABUS 1300 R 

The all-new BRABUS 1300 R boasts, exclusive, high-end elegance design, combined with brutal performance. It is the first ever BRABUS motorbike – an unmistakable Naked bike designed for enthusiasts with an eye for details. Developed to merge both BRABUS’ and KTM’s deeply rooted identities and design styles, the BRABUS 1300 R represents the best of both brands. Key ingredients of the BRABUS ‘Black and Bold’ design language including two signature paint schemes, forged BRABUS Monoblock Z wheels, high-end carbon body elements and a stylish custom-made seat, treated with expert attention to detail by the BRABUS interior specialists. This all defining the bike’s exceedingly unique and sporty character and ensuring an instant 1-second wow factor. Making use of the astonishing V-twin engine, which pumps out 180 hp at 9500 rpm and 140 Nm at 8000 rpm: performance that you’d expect from the BRABUS brand. Designed to challenge the limits of forward thrust, it sets a new standard for exclusive high-performance desirability. 

To add an extra touch of exclusivity, the BRABUS 1300 R is offered in just two distinct colors – MAGMA RED and SIGNATURE BLACK. Only 77 of each color will go into production, with 77 signifying the year in which the BRABUS company was formed. From a technical standpoint, the BRABUS 1300 R makes use of the latest WP APEX semi-active suspension. This allows riders to select between 6 dedicated damping modes - COMFORT, STREET, SPORT, TRACK, ADVANCED - or an AUTO mode that automatically adapts to road and riding conditions. Notable features and bespoke parts include: 

● Sign of excellence with limited edition numbering 
● WP APEX semi-active suspension 
● WP PRO COMPONENTS (WP APEX PRO 7117) steering damper 
● 5 Ride modes (STREET - SPORT - RAIN - PERFORMANCE - TRACK) 
● Quick turn throttle twist grip 
● Various carbon fiber parts 
● BRABUS Lightweight Monoblock Z 9 spoke forged wheels 
● BRABUS Slip-on double-pipe exhaust 
● BRABUS custom made heated seat 
● BRABUS air ducts 
● BRABUS headlight mask 
● BRABUS CNC-machined triple clamps 
● BRABUS CNC-machined adjustable front brake and clutch lever 
● BRABUS CNC-machined adjustable footpegs 
● BRABUS CNC-machined reservoirs and oil tank caps 
● BRABUS carbon skid plate 
● BRABUS carbon pillion seat cover The BRABUS 1300 R is about so much more than just an extraordinary riding experience, it also makes an unapologetic statement about luxury, exclusivity, and sovereignty. 

The BRABUS 1300 R will be available exclusively through the ktm.com pre-order web page.

Winning a very impressive and highly commendable 26 National titles.

Due to their unrelenting commitment to these classes they most certainly deserve everything they've achieved, so well done to all concerned.

Surely other 'certain' importers need to take a stern look at these results and do something about it instead of 'hoping' that things will get better - just a thought?

The KTM 890 DUKE R slices into the new model year with the all-new Atlantic Blue base color lifted directly from its big brother, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R.

Having been around since 2020, the KTM 890 DUKE R has proven itself to be the undisputed champion in the middleweight segment. Boasting an impressive 121 HP and 99 Nm of torque, it represents as a serious option for race-centric riders looking for agility, punch, and poise. The KTM 890 DUKE R is dubbed THE SUPER SCALPEL on account of its lightning-fast steering geometry. Thanks to the load-bearing design of its tubular steel chassis and adjustable WP APEX suspension, it remains a no-compromise middleweight naked bike, equally at home on twisty mountain passes as it is on the racetrack, delivering more power, more torque, and more intense asphalt-carving agility than any other parallel twin in the segment. 

While its forward momentum and agility are exemplary, the KTM 890 DUKE R also excels when slowing down. Front monoblock Brembo Stylema calipers grabbing meaty 320 mm discs on the front, along with an adjustable Brembo MCS master cylinder, mean that THE SUPER SCALPEL stops as quickly and precisely as it attacks apexes. A set of sticky Michelin Power Cup 2 tires provides reliable grip on all asphalt surfaces in all weather conditions. In terms of electronic wizardry, the KTM 890 DUKE R makes use of Cornering ABS and Cornering MTC (motorcycle traction control) with a 6D lean angle sensor that not only detects the side-to-side (roll) and forwards and backward (pitch) movements of the bike, but also the rotation of the bike on its vertical axis (yaw). This translates into comprehensive traction control management, accomplished by the use of a wheel slip control sensor and a pitch angle control sensor. A selection of ride modes—namely RAIN, STREET, SPORT, and optional TRACK mode—ensure full rider customization, nine levels of adjustable traction control slip, anti-wheelie on/off, and the additional throttle control setting. The biggest difference is obvious: the KTM 890 DUKE R now features a premium hue of matt paint. Called ‘Atlantic Blue’, the color is reminiscent of the palate used on the KTM RC16 GP racer and recently the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, adding to THE SUPER SCALPEL’s READY TO RACE demeanor. Typical of all KTM ‘R’ models, the signature orange frame continues to provide the perfect contrast of colors while strengthening the READY TO RACE presence. 

With its new look to match its performance and character, the KTM 890 DUKE R once again promises to be a track-ready machine you’ll want to ride every day. As always, a full range of specially created KTM PowerParts has been developed to personalize and further intensify your ride. A range of KTM PowerWear ensures the rider gets the most out of themself and boosts their READY TO RACE performance. 

The 2022 KTM 890 DUKE R will arrive on authorized KTM dealer floors from Febuary 2022 onwards. For more information, visit ktm.com. 

KTM’s 12eDRIVE and 16eDRIVE balance bikes provide the best and easiest way for kids to discover the first shoots of two-wheeled adrenaline and the 2022 models have been styled to carry that special ‘READY TO RACE’ vibe. Speed and excitement whizzes from a durable e-mobility product that has ripped thousands of miles of terrain around the world and now comes in the latest KTM aesthetic to match the look of the factory race bikes!

Kids spend their days hunting fun. Some of them also want to look cool and copy their early sporting heroes. This is where the buzz and the new 2022 style of KTM’s balance bikes hit the mark. The practicality and the versatility of electric power provides the perfect entry-level platform for the smallest of potential bikers. Juniors can revel in the simplicity of power-assisted pace and the raw instincts of motorcycling thanks to the KTM 12eDRIVE and 16eDRIVE electric balance bikes. Any future rider can grasp the basic feeling of bars, wheels, torque and balance. They can emulate their Red Bull KTM Factory Racing heroes before developing to shred a track with a bike like the KTM SX-E 5 – an innovative electric motocrosser that can ‘grow’ with a child. 

The KTM 12eDRIVE is the ideal starter for rapidly changing children. Featuring 12” wheels with pneumatic tires and a low 33 cm seat height, it allows riders to learn to push or coast with confidence before graduating to the 3-level powered mode. It weighs less than 8kg, boasts an aluminum frame and BMX style forks. The KTM 16eDRIVE is the clear choice for slightly taller riders or those with more ‘miles’ or a slightly larger 45-61 inseam measurement. The bike has a high-output motor that is slightly more powerful than its smaller brother. It is fitted with larger 16” wheels and provides an increased 43cm seat height. 

Both models offer quick charging and roughly 30 - 60 minutes of run-time for an exceptional amount of fun, along with hours of hand-eye coordination and outdoor exercise. Kids can also appreciate the freedom and empowerment of a throttle. Light, portable, robust, intuitive and ‘race-styled’, both the KTM 12eDRIVE and the KTM 16eDRIVE are essential appetizers ahead of the wide possibilities and competitiveness offered by the KTM SX-E 5. 
To complete the package, KTM’s 2022 PowerWear catalog has a mix of eye-catching apparel, from protective to stylistically appropriate! The STATUS helmet has been made especially for KTM and electric balance bike riders by eyewear and bicycle helmet specialists 100%. The STATUS is light with washable, moisture-wicking liners, cheek pads and an adjustable peak. The American company’s STRATA goggles allow great vision through an anti-fog and anti-scratch lens, two-layer fleece-foam and a band with a silicone strap for better helmet grip. The ‘rigors’ of offroad can be tackled with the GRAVITY-FX EDRIVE shirt that gives mini-racers the same type of material and fabric performance as their motocross idols.

The 2022 Dakar Rally has reached its conclusion with Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team’s Adrien Van Beveren and Andrew Short successfully completing the world’s toughest rally raid well inside the overall top 10. For Adrien Van Beveren, his encouraging form throughout the race saw him impressively lead the event on two separate occasions. Taking the race for overall victory down to the very last stage, the Frenchman eventually missed out on a top-three finish by the narrowest of margins. Andrew Short also enjoyed a largely positive time at the Dakar with the American claiming eight top-10 stage results on his way to finishing a highly commendable eighth overall.

Besides Ross Branch being ruled out of the event due to injury following a fall on stage seven, the 2022 Dakar Rally has been an incredibly successful one for the entire Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team. In addition to the riders’ Yamaha WR450F Rally machines running flawlessly throughout the entire event, Adrien Van Beveren narrowly missed out on the overall podium with Andrew Short demonstrating just what he’s capable of during the race.

Equalling his best overall finish at the Dakar, Adrien Van Beveren has placed an impressive fourth overall at the 2022 edition of the iconic event. Leading the race on two separate occasions this year and placing no lower than fourth overall throughout the entire rally, the Frenchman was undoubtedly in fine form throughout the competition. Delivering pin-point accuracy with his navigation day-after-day, Adrien delivered one of the stand-out performances in the motorcycle category. If not for a frustrating navigational error on stage one, which affected him as well as many of his rivals, Andrew Short may well have joined Adrien in the top five overall. After losing considerable time early on, the 39-year-old was faultless through the remaining stages at the Dakar as he worked his way up the leaderboard. At the end of 12 stages and almost 40 hours of racing, Andrew secured eighth overall, narrowly missing out on placing seventh by just five seconds.

Securing further positive results at the Dakar Rally for Yamaha, Camelia Liparoti, driving her YXZ1000R Prototype, posted strong stage results throughout the event to claim sixth overall in the Light Prototype class. Adrien Van Beveren – Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team

"The race is over and I have mixed feelings about it, but on the whole it has been a really positive race for myself and the team. I’m really happy to have finished the race, the first time since 2017, so I’m really pleased about that. But on the other hand, it looked certain that I would podium or maybe even take the win. But with the issue yesterday, that’s just part of rally racing and it wasn’t meant to be. I’m really happy for the team. Everyone has worked super hard and my bike was amazing. I have no regrets about anything and I gave it everything that I had. To be fighting for the win at the Dakar, it was an amazing experience and now I’m looking forward to the future."

Andrew Short – Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team

"I’m so happy to have reached the finish line. The Dakar is such a crazy race that finishing is a great achievement in itself. The final stage was pretty cool, a bit tight a twisty with some nice terrain. Before the rally I hoped to finish higher and it wasn’t through lack of effort or anything – it was solely down to the issue I had on stage one. I did the best I could after that but that’s just how rally is sometimes. The team have been amazing. They built a great bike for me, which didn’t miss a beat all race and I’m happy that we had two guys in the top 10."

KTM’s 12eDRIVE and 16eDRIVE balance bikes provide the best and easiest way for kids to discover the first shoots of two-wheeled adrenaline and the 2022 models have been styled to carry that special ‘READY TO RACE’ vibe. Speed and excitement whizzes from a durable e-mobility product that has ripped thousands of miles of terrain around the world and now comes in the latest KTM aesthetic to match the look of the factory race bikes!

Kids spend their days hunting fun. Some of them also want to look cool and copy their early sporting heroes. This is where the buzz and the new 2022 style of KTM’s balance bikes hit the mark. The practicality and the versatility of electric power provides the perfect entry-level platform for the smallest of potential bikers. Juniors can revel in the simplicity of power-assisted pace and the raw instincts of motorcycling thanks to the KTM 12eDRIVE and 16eDRIVE electric balance bikes. Any future rider can grasp the basic feeling of bars, wheels, torque and balance. They can emulate their Red Bull KTM Factory Racing heroes before developing to shred a track with a bike like the KTM SX-E 5 – an innovative electric motocrosser that can ‘grow’ with a child. 

The KTM 12eDRIVE is the ideal starter for rapidly changing children. Featuring 12” wheels with pneumatic tires and a low 33 cm seat height, it allows riders to learn to push or coast with confidence before graduating to the 3-level powered mode. It weighs less than 8kg, boasts an aluminum frame and BMX style forks. 

The KTM 16eDRIVE is the clear choice for slightly taller riders or those with more ‘miles’ or a slightly larger 45-61 inseam measurement. The bike has a high-output motor that is slightly more powerful than its smaller brother. It is fitted with larger 16” wheels and provides an increased 43cm seat height. Both models offer quick charging and roughly 30 - 60 minutes of run-time for an exceptional amount of fun, along with hours of hand-eye coordination and outdoor exercise. Kids can also appreciate the freedom and empowerment of a throttle. Light, portable, robust, intuitive and ‘race-styled’, both the KTM 12eDRIVE and the KTM 16eDRIVE are essential appetizers ahead of the wide possibilities and competitiveness offered by the KTM SX-E 5. 

To complete the package, KTM’s 2022 PowerWear catalog has a mix of eye-catching apparel, from protective to stylistically appropriate! The STATUS helmet has been made especially for KTM and electric balance bike riders by eyewear and bicycle helmet specialists 100%. The STATUS is light with washable, moisture-wicking liners, cheek pads and an adjustable peak. The American company’s STRATA goggles allow great vision through an anti-fog and anti-scratch lens, two-layer fleece-foam and a band with a silicone strap for better helmet grip. The ‘rigors’ of offroad can be tackled with the GRAVITY-FX EDRIVE shirt that gives mini-racers the same type of material and fabric performance as their motocross idols.

Have you ever been in a situation where you can see an accident unfolding – to someone else – yet there’s nothing you can do to warn them or prevent the inevitable outcome? 

Working for a big bike magazine in the UK where we were under constant deadline pressure to get some pretty radical images means I have watched colleagues have accidents or miraculously escape what seemed like nailed down dead cert catastrophes on far too many occasions.

Sometimes there would only be a bit of dented pride, on other occasions bones were broken, but thankfully nothing worse.One instance when myself and Bill were out on a photoshoot during the winter would lead directly to me coming up with a plan to force my tight-fisted bosses to fund the leasing of a long-wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter van, so we would be able to pack and tow a load of bikes and head off to sunnier climes to get competition-beating images for the magazine.

That move in itself led to some stories that still make me shudder and giggle at the sheer lunacy of the antics that ensued in foreign lands, but for the moment let’s concentrate on something that is seared into my brain as one of the most unexplainable tales of survival from my days at Superbike in the UK in the late 1990’s.

It was the dead of winter, which isn’t usually that horrendous in southern England, but we were in the middle of a wicked cold snap and there’d even been a decent dump of snow. Deadline waits for no man though, and we needed pictures of two rare and exceedingly expensive ‘specials’ that had been built by V&M.As usual the editor had given us conflicting instructions that warned us about causing any damage to bikes that we were going to be the first to test, yet also exhorted us to make sure we got some proper action-packed images – decent wheelies and some proper lean angle.

Yeah, right, in between the snow drifts on public roads and with just a one-day shoot to get everything we needed for what might also end up being a front cover image. No problem.

As the mag’s road test editor it was my job to feign confidence and say “No worries, boss” before I returned to my desk, phoned Bill and proceeded to mix copious amounts of worrying with a generous helping of moaning.It was thus that I found myself parked one morning at a minor service station on a main road just outside London, shivering uncontrollably in not much more than a T-shirt and a bit of dead cow – because fancy logo’d racing leathers is what the photoshoot necessitated.

I had at my disposal two of the most desirable bikes in the UK at the time, but I couldn’t have cared less. I was genuinely worried that my fingers and toes would never regain any feeling and we hadn’t even taken the first picture of the day.

V&M Racing was a leading ‘tuning’ shop, running successful race teams in the British championships and notably at the Isle of Man TT races where with David Jeffries they had won the senior TT with a Yamaha R1 in 1999 – in the process bringing an end to 17 consecutive years of Honda victories.The ‘V’ in the company’s name was Jack Valentine who was an ex-drag racer while the ‘M’ denoted Steve Mellor, a man regarded as something of a guru when it came to getting reliable performance from an engine. So good were they at what they did that the likes of Carl Fogarty, Rob McElnea and James Whitham – the big guns of the British scene at the time – were all using their motors.

V&M Racing had made a replica of the TT-winning bike for the road and I was riding it. Normally I would have been ecstatic to be riding something so intoxicatingly powerful – up around 170hp if memory serves – but all I clearly remember is the loud yellow and red paintwork, the uncompromising racing position and suspension that would have been fine at 250km/h on the Isle of Man but felt as compliant as a brick at tippy-toe speeds in the freezing conditions with which I was confronted.

Bill was on another special creation, made a little earlier in 1999 before V&M had switched their close allegiance from Honda to Yamaha. It was a 50th anniversary Honda celebration of the CBR1200XX Super Blackbird. You’ve no doubt encountered the stock bike on many occasions over the years, it was Honda’s entry into the top speed pissing contest that Kawasaki and Suzuki were at that time engaged in, with the ZZR1200 and Hayabusa.In usual Honda style the Blackbird was very good, but also a bit boring, and not quite powerful enough although I do remember it just about matching up in terms of top speed. Anyway, to celebrate 50 years of Honda being, erm, Honda, V&M were commissioned to produce 50 special versions that had more power, uprated suspension and some other goodies. 

The bike cost about 50% more than the standard model, and although it was bright red, more powerful and in theory capable of breaking the 200mph (320km/h) barrier only 25 of the intended 50 were ever produced. I don’t remember too much about the test, other than the cold and the abject fear – more on that in a moment – so I suppose that despite the addition of some V&M chilli into the mix the bike still remained essentially a Honda Blackbird, but red. And expensive. 

In other words, it was largely forgettable.

The same couldn’t be said for the riding conditions. It had been the usual early start with the mercury a few degrees below zero so riding to meet Bill at the start point for the day was absolute torture. The air was so cold that I felt like I was being garrotted by the wind it was so viciously freezing as it whistled around my neck.Of course as soon as you shut the visor on the helmet it would immediately mist up and so I had to ride with it half-cracked which made my eyes water like I was at my own funeral. No two ways about it, this was one of the most miserable fucking experiences I’d ever endured on a bike.

Normally you can lift your mood with a bit of hooning; pulling the occasional wheelie, a brief dash to the redline in a couple of gears, maybe lob it into a corner more quickly than is reasonably safe and get your heart pumping and the adrenaline coursing through your system.

I tried a wheelie but with the fancy race rubber that was fitted the rear would just spin up at even the merest hint of a sudden dose of throttle and as for pitching into a corner with any enthusiasm, you could forget that as well. A few twitches and mini-slides from the front end at what felt like walking speed and I was ready to phone my editor and hand in my resignation. Bollocks to the front cover, I was more interested in going home and slipping back under my warm bed covers.

When Bill eventually pitched up – he could be relied upon to always arrive late – he couldn’t get a word in edgeways faced with my non-stop 100mph whining and whingeing (I couldn’t find a neck-warmer earlier in the morning, hence the painful neck experience) and before I knew it he’d disappeared into the petrol station.He emerged with a pack of cloths, the dish-washing kind, and proceeded to tie them together into a multi-coloured improvised scarf for me. It made no bloody difference, but it was the thought that counted, I suppose.

We then headed off to meet the photographer at a legendary local roundabout where we’d be able to get some knee-down shots. It was a banker location, a decently wide radius for the roundabout meant a fairly quick second gear turn and it had some proper grip. Or at least it did when there wasn’t snow piled at the edges of the road.

Bill was leading and as we arrived we checked the photographer already set up to take some shots so into the roundabout we went and started circulating. I liked to let Bill lead whenever we did anything involving corners because then I could show off and ride around the outside of him at some point.

My racing experience involved corners and he was a drag racing feller so it wasn’t really that much of a victory, but kids will be kids, you know? Except this time, even though he was riding that big bloater of a Honda, he started to leave me.

I felt like I was crashing as soon as I started to lean even a little bit and I just couldn’t close the gap. Bill meanwhile appeared to be suffering from brain freeze or something and just kept leaning more and getting steadily faster.

I got properly worried at this point, I didn’t care what part of Bill got broken but I didn’t fancy telling V&M their special 50th anniversary Honda was now considerably less special and wedged under the armco at the edge of the road so I made a dive for one of the exits in something approaching a full panic.

The stupid git was surely on the point of binning it and yet he seemed completely oblivious. I slid to a halt, jumped off the R1 and ran back to the roundabout waving my arms like an escaped lunatic who thought he could fly, dish-cloths flapping around my helmet, half-expecting to find Bill spitting out bits of gravel only to see him come around once again with his knee buried in the road like he was trying to plough the Tarmac .

What a twat, but fair play, what a great shot. I blocked his path the next time around and forced him off the roundabout whereupon he gave me a quizzical “Wassup?”

He had absolutely no idea how close he was to lobbing a bike that was worth more than a year of my pre-tax salary. He was quite capable of getting serious lean on a bike, but he generally performed such feats through a fortunate mix of bravado and luck, complemented by a generous helping of blind faith. Feel and finesse really weren’t his thing when it came to corners, he reserved those finer elements of mastering bike control to launching a bike from standstill to a point a quarter of a mile away in as brief a time as possible.

When we eventually got the images back from the developer’s (yes, this was still in the days of actual film) and engaged in our ritual nodding frenzy over a lightbox as we took an eye-glass to each individual frame I couldn’t believe we’d managed to survive the day intact. 

Beautiful images of Bill knee-down (my shots would have required a knee-slider as thick as one of Bill’s girlfriends to be on the deck), snow in the edges of the frame, tyres covered in that fine, dusty grime you get at that time of year and where the edges of the tyre are so shiny they look like they, too, have turned to ice.

I definitely stopped him just in time, but for once I was glad he was quicker than me because his pics rescued an otherwise bland set of images for what was supposed to be one of the most bad-ass sport bike magazines on the planet.

A fine day’s work that deserved a front cover, but the editor ended up using a blonde babe in a bikini draped over some new bike (we were the one mag that still had a tits-out centrespread every month) so all that bravery (stoned stupidity) proved to be for nothing.

Story of our lives really.

DISCLAIMER:

All the details in this story are obviously the fictional fever dreams of a failed bike journalist and are subject to an artistic super-license. Amen.