Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle has been crowned 2020 FIM MX2 Motocross World Champion after winning the first moto aboard his KTM 250 SX-F at the MXGP of Pietramurata in Arco di Trento, Italy today, Wednesday November 4.

Vialle continues a rich MX2 history for KTM as the ninth rider to win a championship title in the lower capacity class aboard a KTM 250 SX-F. The Frenchman, who came into the penultimate round of 2020 with a sizeable points lead, took a dominant win in the opening moto at the picturesque Italian track to secure an emotional first world title.

In only his second term racing at Grand Prix level, 20-year-old Vialle has demonstrated incredible talent and maturity in his approach throughout the 18-round championship. In a year of difficulties due to the global pandemic, Vialle’s strong start to 2020 was halted when MXGP racing was abruptly paused after just two rounds back in early March.The Frenchman returned for round three in Kegums, Latvia in August to win his second Grand Prix of the season, ahead of an intense schedule of races in the weeks following. The KTM star battled hard with the MX2 competition, scoring consistently strong results to earn a comfortable lead thanks to his seven Grand Prix overall victories heading into the final triple-header of the year.

With 13 moto wins and 13 podiums so far this season, Vialle sensationally put his name in the history books by clinching the 2020 MX2 World Championship title to add to KTM’s outstanding success tally. The Frenchman’s victory confirms KTM’s fifth consecutive title in the category, with 13 championship victories in 17 years of MX2 competition for the Austrian manufacturer.

The final race of the season will take place this Sunday, November 8 at the Pietramurata circuit in Arco di Trento for the MXGP of Garda Trentino.Tom Vialle – FIM MX2 Motocross World Champion
“I’m so happy but there have been a lot of emotions today. I was a bit angry with the verdict (in qualifying) this morning but to make the holeshot and lead the first moto was fantastic. I was almost crying on the last lap. There was so much emotion. It was really special. Crazy. In the second moto we had some bad luck, but the important thing is that we achieved our goal. I want to say a big thanks to the whole team and everybody who worked together to make this happen. It was tiring to have a lot of races so close together and also keep the concentration through the training. I think we did it pretty good.”

Dirk Gruebel - Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager
“Tom showed his potential in his first year with us in 2019. There was real progression, but then over the winter he made another big step to be a title contender and world champion. He didn’t look back. He doesn’t get nervous. He had real competition, but Tom finished every race in a good spot, mainly in the top five, mostly in the top three. That’s the key to being world champion and now we are here celebrating. Hats-off to him and his family, it’s unbelievable. We are known for having a fast 250 – also a 450! – but I still think we have the benchmark in MX2 for everybody and Tom is another rider who knows how to make starts with it. It’s a really good motorcycle and we’ve been winning since 2004 with that concept. Tom being the ninth world champion shows its quality.”

Robert Jonas - KTM Vice President Motorsports Offroad
“It’s been fantastic to see Tom grow with the team over the past two years and ultimately win the FIM MX2 Motocross World Championship; his maturity and approach to what has been a season of challenges with a lot of uncertainty has really paid off. Despite the natural pressure he had personally to step up again after his results last year, Tom has kept calm to make it happen week by week and our KTM 250 SX-F is proven once again. I wish Tom and his family huge congratulations for this incredible achievement, as we share this special moment together. I would like to congratulate Joel, Dirk and the entire Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team for their fantastic work with Tom to help nurture his talent and unlock his potential. To take a victory is never easy at this level, and we know 2020 has been a big challenge for everyone with a different type of intensity – but we are proud to have come through and to be celebrating this championship win.”

Do singles have all the fun? We believe so. The KTM LC4 engine is still the reference for performance and light weight in the midsize motorcycle market and now, fully prepped for Euro5 emission standards, forms the heart of new and refocused 2021 KTM 690 ENDURO R and KTM 690 SMC R. Offroad, onroad and supermoto sensations have never felt so acute.

KTM scratched away the idea of boundaries and limits with the KTM 690 ENDURO R. A machine with superlative offroad pedigree to blast the toughest and longest trails was given the advanced tech and engineering to make it a viable option for any terrain or any trip. The last incarnation of the bike two years ago hit new peaks of ergonomics, electronics (with adjustable ABS options) and handling to become a reference in the Travel segment. The 2021 KTM 690 ENDURO R is a deception: a bike that seems powerful and daunting for offroad is actually a slim and maneuverable machine. The cornering ABS (which means it is lean angle sensitive), offroad ABS, motorcycle traction control and sensitive motor slip regulation ensures a customizable setting for any condition or landscape. WP XPLOR Suspension (adapted from the Enduro range especially for the KTM 690 ENDURO R) dispenses grip, supplies confidence and expertly channels the motor’s output to the surface. The 74hp and 73.5Nm of torque and output means it is appropriate for long treks on smooth tarmac.For 2021 KTM have retained many of the refined strengths of the motorcycle but have applied key updates that make the KTM 690 ENDURO R even more of an essential choice for riders that crave impressive versatility. Towards this aim of enhanced practicality KTM have added improved ride mode functionality through the handlebar switch: STREET mode enables two channels of ABS both on the front and rear of the bike. The OFFROAD setting disengages rear wheel ABS for that important rear braking feel for low-traction terrain. The ABS itself benefits from a new modulator unit to better regulate the force and application of the braking power required, which also means it can be activated ‘on the fly’ and there is no longer a need for a ‘dongle’.

The new dashboard has an ABS ‘button’ to provide a rapid way to switch off the rider aid for the full flow offroad setting. The same display now shows indicators for RPM and gear selection. When it comes to the aesthetic of the motorcycle then a fetching 2021 graphics and color revision is an eye-catching addition.The KTM 690 SMC R MY 2021 takes the torque and pace of the LC4 into a pulse quickening supermoto form. Riders that seek the buzz of swooping along twisty roads, beating traffic or breaking loose with rear end traction around a track will find all the technical resources they need both to generate speed and scrub it away.

The bike is very single-minded and has always been a wholesome expression of KTM motorcycling: sporty, aggressive, extreme but eminently usable. This has been cultured through the years thanks to evolution of the top-quality chrome-molybdenum steel tubing chassis, WP APEX suspension, purposeful supermoto ergonomics, and wide-ranging electronic ABS modes such as Cornering and Supermoto mode (rear wheel deactivation of lean angle input).The 2021 KTM 690 SMC R has the same new ABS modulator as the KTM 690 ENDURO R, permitting adjustment ‘on the go’ as well as the handy new dash.

The KTM 690 SMC R boasts large and high quality Brembo brakes and for the 2021 model the braking system has been augmented. A latest generation Brembo M 4.32 monoblock caliper lifts the grade of stopping performance even further on the 320mm front disc (240mm rear) thanks to optimized stiffness. The result gives even more control and feel at the rider’s fingertips.

As with its LC4 cousin, the KTM 690 SMC R gets a cosmetic makeover that lift its styling and appeal to further heights. The bike has a sharp and modern look to fulfill its status as KTM’s latest symbol of supermoto excellence for the road as well as any circuit setting.

Additionally, a new specification of the catalytic converter has been fitted to the muffler, which sees Euro5 status of emissions for both LC4-equipped machines. Both models can be clicked into a 35kW power setting to meet A2 license status.

The KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY is as capable as it is exclusive - only available to order online on KTM.com and limited to 700 units worldwide.

Drawing inspiration from the KTM 450 RALLY, the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY hits the ground racing, featuring WP PRO COMPONENTS on par with that found on full-factory RALLY machine.

The 2021 KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY also boasts a unique and instantly recognizable color scheme and a host of premium parts from the top shelf of the KTM PowerParts catalog.

While some were disappointed in missing out on a chance to own one of these ultra-exclusive machines, those still interested needn’t give up hope just yet. A waiting list has been created online, which will allow interested buyers the chance to scoop a KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY should any previous reservation be cancelled.

The KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLYs ordered are expected to ship ready for adventure in November, while the USA and Canada will have the chance to race for one of 200 models from November 2nd, 10:30am PDT.

2020 National Motocross Champions Crowned in Bloemfontein

The country’s 2020 National Motocross champions were crowned in Bloemfontein this weekend. The series came to a close with an exciting double-header round where Red Bull KTM’s Tristan Purdon took top honours in the premier MX1 Class. Effectively dubbing Purdon as the best Motocross rider in the country.

The victory came especially sweet for Purdon after last year’s season finale where he finished as runner-up. In a bid to set the record straight this time around, Purdon lined-up in Bloemfontein leading the MX1 Class by a single point. In excruciatingly hot conditions with temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius, the rider launched his attack. With consecutive victories in the first three heats and a third place in the final moto, Purdon took the victory overall in both rounds to secure the 2020 title.“I can finally say it – I'm the 2020 MX1 Champion! That is a wrap for the season – thank you is not enough to everyone in my corner,” said an elated Purdon.

Adding to the celebrations in the orange camp was yet another championship title courtesy of young gun Jonathan Mlimi, who stormed to victory in the High School Class. Having fought his way back from an injury that ruled him out of the 2019 season, Mlimi was determined to reinstate himself as the frontrunner in his class.“We did it! This time I managed to take three hole shots and another four wins – which makes it 8/8 victories since the season restarted. The hard work and training really payed off – thank you to everyone who supported me,” said Mlimi.

Rounding out the orange squad this weekend was Kerim Fitz-Gerald. While the rider was unable to make up the 20-point deficit keeping him from the top of the MX2 leaderboard, he finished off the season with an outstanding performance.

KTM South Africa’s Marketing Manager Louwrens Mahoney gave a parting shot as the season came to a close: “What a tough and demanding weekend it was with the track getting so rough, the unbearable heat and two solid days of racing! I am so proud of the team and their achievements, not just at this event but over the entire year. We’re going into 2021 with the MX1 and High School Championship, which is a massive confidence boost for the riders and the team. We will work hard in the off season to maintain this form and to come back even stronger!”

Hutten Metaal Yamaha Official EMX250’s Thibault Benistant locked up the 2020 EMX250 Championship title following a dramatic showdown at the 10th and final round of the championship in Lommel, Belgium.

Guarding a lead of 24-points going into the EMX250 round of Limburg, Benistant only had to beat his closest rival, Mattia Guadagnini, at the final round to be crowned champion.

After setting the pace in qualifying for the second time this season, the ‘198’ took full advantage of Pole Position and rocketed to an impressive holeshot. Drama soon unfolded with Guadagnini determined to take the championship fight to the last race. Benistant opted out of playing a risky game with his main competitor and settled for second position in Race 1.

Going down to the wire, Benistant had to finish within 21-points of Guadagnini in the final race. With race intelligence beyond his years, the 18-year-old Frenchman rode a smooth and steady race for his eighth race win and sixth overall victory to be crowned European Champion for the second time in his career – his first was back in 2018 when he won the EMX125 Championship onboard a GYTR kitted YZ125.

This season was Hutten Metaal Yamaha Official EMX250’s first term as Yamaha Motor Europe’s Official EMX250 team. Although Benistant has been a long-time Yamaha rider, it was his first year on the Dutch-based team. A solid combination of team and rider effort saw Benistant take his GYTR kitted YZ250F to eight race wins, six round wins and seven podium finishes in 2020.

In celebration of his 2020 European Championship success, Benistant will make his MX2 debut at the MXGP of Lommel on Sunday 25th October.

The ride doesn’t need to end when the road does… Rolling into view as the perfect choice for finding new boundaries off the beaten tracks, the 2021 KTM 890 ADVENTURE comes with more engine grunt, improved handling, added suspension adjustability and rider focused technology to form the right tool for endless road or gravel exploration.

It has never been a better time to reach out to the world on a bike. Getting from A to B safely, quickly and efficiently has always been important but to do it aboard a machine carrying KTM’s READY TO RACE DNA takes the experience to new levels. A new model for 2021, the KTM 890 ADVENTURE takes the lightweight and sporty characteristics you’d expect from a KTM ADVENTURE motorcycle to deliver a supremely capable adventure tourer - both on and off the tarmac.The KTM 790 ADVENTURE formed a robust basis for KTM engineers to begin their search to offer more - much more – while still maintaining that resourcefulness, light touch and confidence-inspiring handling. The new 889cc compact engine raises performance figures to 105 hp and 100 Nm of torque and the 20% extra rotating mass of the crankshaft brings an improved feeling at low revs while augmenting the centralized sensation and traction through corners. The KTM 890 ADVENTURE comes with a refined and stronger clutch to cope with the boosted performance and the powerplant is Euro5 compliant.

A new WP APEX rear shock offers greater customization potential through a new rebound damping adjuster and an additional hand adjuster for spring preload. The suspension matches the rest of the chassis configuration in placing the bike firmly between use for the tarmac and the trail.Want the thrill of the gravel and breaking traction? Then count on 200mm of suspension travel, Dakar Rally-inspired ergonomics that mean the bike is comparably slim, light and manageable, an accessible seat height, a low fender, a 20-liter tank and KTM MY RIDE navigation.

Prefer the flat expanses of the road? The KTM 890 ADVENTURE has Adventure-spec tires, a full-size TFT dashboard, Cornering ABS, Motorcycle Traction Control and Motor Slip Regulation, a seat that is adjustable in two heights and a strong yet lightweight subframe for pillion or baggage.A range of KTM PowerPart upgrades means that Cruise Control (with the handlebar switch now provided as standard), a Quickshifter+ (with optimized settings), heated seat and grips together with a wide compliment of luggage widens the travel potential of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE even more.

KTM 890 ADVENTURE – MODEL HIGHLIGHTS
// New engine with 90 cc added displacement
// Improved performance with 105 hp & 100 Nm (Euro5)
// Better rideability thanks to 20% increased rotating mass
// Stronger clutch adapted to increased performance
// Engine knock control system (use of low Octane fuel)
// High-quality WP suspension components & new rear shock
// Reworked front & rear brakes for added control
// Improved ABS & MTC settings
// Anodized wheel hubs instead of powder coated
// Handlebar switch with Cruise Control button (software additional)
// Weight optimization thanks to compact motor & fuel tank
// Slim profile, refined ergonomics & new graphics
// Travel-ready with two-part, adjustable seat & low fender
// Smartphone connectivity giving access to music, calls
// Optional KTM MY RIDE app for turn-by-turn navigation

Placing added control in the hands of KTM SX-F riders, the myKTM app allows for quick and easy bike set-up with key tuning tools and helpful advice from the comfort of your smartphone device. With the software now downloadable for both iOS and Android, the KTM PowerParts Connectivity Unit kit is now available to purchase.

Thousands of hours and testing have gone into the creation of KTM’s advanced myKTM app that for 2021 graces the complete line-up of KTM SX-F 4-stroke bikes. This innovative tool places simple and concise adjustability of engine mapping and performance, along with precise recommendations for suspension settings using well-presented and intuitive menu screens.

The myKTM app functions through a straightforward Bluetooth connection with a Connectivity Unit that is located on the handlebars. Once synced, the bike will be added onto your virtual GARAGE and will immediately become available for a range of tuning options and recommendations described in the respective ENGINE and SUSPENSION sections.

Entering ENGINE allows riders to customize parameters of the engine to their taste or to suit the terrain and conditions they are about to face. It involves a basic ‘sliding scale’ approach, with several pre-sets allowing modifications of vital parameters such as ENGINE BRAKING, THROTTLE RESPONSE, TRACTION CONTROL and LAUNCH CONTROL. The changes made through the app are tangible, effective and very noticeable from the first metres of a new lap.

Selecting SUSPENSION means that riders can make their KTM SX-Fs even more specialized in terms of handling. It removes some of the guesswork to deal with hard-pack, muddy or sandy tracks thanks to the SAG ASSISTANT and the SUSPENSION SETTING recommendation. Again, the choices can be clear-cut for the first-term user but still a valuable guide for the experienced rider and racer.

Joachim Sauer, KTM Senior Product Manager Offroad: “It’s exciting to bring the myKTM app to the market. Allowing for a whole new spectrum of adjustment possibilities, this is a tool designed to enhance the riding experience and make every KTM SX-F rider get the best out of their bike. We’re happy with the versatility of the app and how alterations made with a smartphone can have such an interesting and immediate effect once out on the track. The work continues for us and for the foreseeable future we look at expanding the use and scope of myKTM to many more models from the KTM Offroad range.”

For more information on pricing and availability of the KTM PowerParts Connectivity Unit kit, please contact your local authorized KTM dealer.

Monster Energy Attack Performance Yamaha rider Cameron Beaubier claimed his fifth MotoAmerica Superbike title with third and second-place finishes at Sunday’s doubleheader at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Teammate and title rival Jake Gagne took solid points finishes in both races, crossing the line fourth in race two and recovering from a crash in race three to finish seventh.

Mixed fortunes in race one at The Brickyard on Saturday saw Gagne take second and Beaubier crash out, but Sunday was a new day. They lined up for race two in their qualifying positions of sixth and fourth, respectively. At lights out, Gagne got the better launch and advanced to fifth on the first lap. Beaubier on the other hand struggled in the opening stages of the race and lost a position, but quickly settled into a rhythm and held steady in sixth.Gagne kept moving forward and worked his way up to fourth. He began to break away with the leaders, dicing with the rider behind before finding more pace and fighting up to third by the seventh lap. After finding a groove with his R1, Beaubier began his charge on lap 11, easing past fifth place and within reach of the podium. Ahead of him, Gagne had been setting a series of quick times as both Yamaha riders closed the leaders down. It became a four-rider battle in the closing stages making for a thrilling final lap. Champion-elect Beaubier made his move on the final lap into the first turn and managed to hold him off to secure his first podium of the weekend, scoring vital points over his teammate in fourth.

Anticipation rose heading into race three with Beaubier in reach to clinch the 2020 championship, only needing to leave The Brickyard 75 points clear of his teammate whilst sitting at 86. After the start he lost a place to the rapid-starting Gagne, the duo holding fourth and fifth, respectively, as they finished the opening lap. Before they could progress, the action was stopped for the third time this weekend with a red flag after the race leader crashed on lap two.With the track conditions good to go, the race resumed. Beaubier dropped to sixth at the restart with Gagne moving up into third on the first lap and quickly muscling his way into second. Behind him, the defending champ was making his way forward. On lap six, he made his move into a podium position and a title-winning shot, chasing down Gagne ahead. With only four laps to go, a small mistake by Gagne caused him to go down, but he quickly re-joined the action to finish seventh.

Beaubier controlled his pace and saw off a late challenge from third place to cross the line second and score his fifth MotoAmerica Superbike Championship. In a dominant season which saw him take 13 wins, two podiums, and 361 points, Beaubier has set the standard all year with a sublime season. With 75 points still available from the final round at Laguna Seca, the 2020 Superbike champ also has a chance to surpass the record of the most points scored in a MotoAmerica season, currently held by Josh Hayes with 410.The MotoAmerica series concludes at the iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California on October 23-25, with another triple-header and a final chance for podium glory for the Monster Energy Attack Performance Yamaha squad.

Richard Stanboli – Monster Energy Attack Performance Yamaha Racing Team Manager

“It wasn’t the weekend we expected, but the mission was accomplished. This was Cameron’s fifth championship and our first Superbike championship with Yamaha. It was mostly a seamless season; everything just fell into place perfectly. We now have to work hard to make sure that Jake solidifies the second place in the championship at Laguna Seca. I can say for sure that Cameron, Jake, and the entire team are looking forward to the season finale at Laguna. It has always been a great track for them and Yamaha.”

Cameron Beaubier – Monster Energy Attack Performance Yamaha Racing

“It doesn’t seem real that we have racked up five superbike championships. It was such a tough weekend crashing three times and having a couple of issues, but with how great of a year we were having, we were due for a challenging one! I’m so happy going forward to Laguna and to be able to just enjoy the weekend with my team. It’s definitely my favorite year I’ve had racing a motorcycle.”

Jake Gagne – Monster Energy Attack Performance Yamaha Racing

“I didn’t get off the line too great in the first race, but I started getting into a rhythm after a few laps. There were some parts of the track I was struggling with quite a bit with the front end, so I made a few mistakes and ended up fourth. In the second race, the crew made some great changes to the bike and I was feeling much better. Once I got into second I put my head down to try and inch my way forward to the leader. I really wanted to fight for that win. Unfortunately, I asked a little much of the front tire and low sided in Turn 10. I’m glad the bike was okay and we could remount to get some points for the Monster Energy Attack Yamaha team. Hats off to Cam for an incredible year and another Superbike championship for Yamaha!”

THE 2021 KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY & KTM 890 ADVENTURE R OPEN NEW HORIZONS

Two years ago, KTM funneled track experience, premium technology and race-inspired design into some of the most versatile and exciting Adventure motorcycles to roll off the brand’s production lines. As a result, the KTM 790 ADVENTURE line-up quickened the pulse in the midweight segment. For 2021 and beyond, KTM is raising heartrates further with the launch of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY and KTM 890 ADVENTURE R machines; a pair of new bikes based on new engine platforms with more power and torque, which are ready for extreme escapes off the beaten track.In the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY, KTM is crafting one of the most desirable Adventure offerings in any catalog thanks to a series of components and settings derived from the efforts of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally team. The data recorded across landscapes around the world has been analyzed and applied directly to the form of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY.Top of the range WP Pro Components ensure all-action, fully adjustable suspension while the power output of the new 4-stroke, twin, DOHC, Euro5-ready engine is boosted by an ultra-light Akrapovic silencer. The KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY is a top of the range, specialized motorcycle for the hardcore Adventurer with a raft of niche details like specific chassis race settings, rally footpegs (wider, lighter and mud-free), straight seat, clear screen and winglets, racing graphics along with Quickshifter+ and RALLY ride mode as standard.KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY – MODEL HIGHLIGHTS
// Limited edition, 700 units [500 INT & 200 US]
// Updated engine & electronics
// WP XPLOR Pro Components Suspension
// Akrapovic exhaust (35% lighter than standard)
// Straight racing seat (with 910 mm height)
// RALLY mode and Quickshifter+ included
// Narrow anodized wheel rims with tubes
// Clear screen winglets and racing graphics and colors
// Carbon fiber tank protectors and Rally footrests

The KTM 890 ADVENTURE R improves and accelerates the riding sensation that many came to love with the KTM 790 ADVENTURE model family. The new engine generates 105 hp and 100 Nm of torque, that is 10 hp and 12 Nm more than the bike’s smaller brother. The crankshaft features 20% more rotating mass and the overall effect of the engineering around the powerplant means a more stable and consistent output, noticeable with low RPM torque. The added mass also means added cornering stability for long distance riding on the throttle. Fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension, overhauled ABS software and new traction control algorithms are just three aspects that mold the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R as the company’s refined definition of an exhilarating ‘allrounder’.KTM 890 ADVENTURE R – MODEL HIGHLIGHTS
// New 889cc engine with an added 90cc of displacement
// Engine featuring 20% more rotating masses (Euro5)
// More power with 105 hp @ 8,000rpm
// Added torque with 100 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
// Reinforced clutch
// Improved ABS and Traction Control
// Reworked shifting for faster gear changes
// Updated Quickshifter+ (optional)
// New handlebar switch for Cruise Control function
// Chassis upgrades with aluminum steering head tube & lighter subframe
// Reworked front & rear brakes
// New suspension settings

In a post Covid world, what’s better than getting back out into nature?

The experience of riding a brand new 2020 Honda Africa Twin of course, with the possibility of winning this ultimate adventure bike.

The finalists for the 2020 Honda Africa Quest battled through Quest Bootcamp in March; only to have the event postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.With intense anticipation the 14 finalists will be stepping aboard their 2020 Honda Africa Twins in Springbok this November to compete for the grand prize as winners of Honda Quest True Adventure 2020.

Iconic, beautiful and often challenging terrain of the Western and Northern Cape; namely Namaqua, Bushmanland, Kamieskroon, Cederberg and Richtersveld will host the finalists on this ultimate adventure ride.

Quest will kick off on November 6, 2020, with the winners ceremony taking place on  November 13, 2020.

Honda Motor Southern Africa would like to wish the finalists a safe journey as they embark on a life changing adventure challenge with the all new Honda Africa Twin CRF1100L.