What impact will the potential Duke 490 have on KTM’s racing programs?
KTM is involved in many of the world's motorcycle racing categories, from Moto GP to off-road competitions. A 490cc twin-cylinder engine could allow KTM to race in new markets. Perhaps it lets them race in other classes or is a stepping stone between their smaller and larger race bikes. In turn, this could affect their rider development programs and—in a larger sense—their racing strategy. Moreover, new technologies are often tested out in racing before finding their way onto production bikes. A 490 platform for racing could bring innovations to KTM's entire range. But it may also be that concentrating on a new engine size would draw resources away from their current racing work.
Supersport racing could be great indeed! That class needs a competitive bike from KTM.
I don't think it would make much difference to their racing. The 490 is a street bike concept.
In some rally races, a twin could give them an edge over the 450 single.
It could be used by KTM to bring a new generation of riders into the mix, filling the gap between Moto3 and Moto2.
Running a 490 might help KTM get some reliability across their lineup. Right? Win on Sunday, sell on Monday.
It's a distraction from their efforts in MotoGP. Instead, they should be competitive at the top level.
National-level championships may not be a problem with a 490 race bike, as costs become a big concern.
I could see it used in flat track racing. That’s a scene that KTM hasn’t really tapped into yet, and it’s a growing scene.
A spec series built around the 490 would be cool to see. Like a KTM Cup or something.
But they should stay with the known. KTM's strong suit is off-road racing, not middleweight street bikes.
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Discussions and Questions What Impact Will The Potential Duke 490 Have On Ktms Racing Programs
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