KTM

KTM Sportmotorcycle AG is an Austrian motorcycle manufacturer known primarily for its off-road bikes and dirtbikes, leading the pack in this subset of the international bike industry. Begun in 1934 under the name Kraftfahrzeuge Trunkenpolz Mattighofen, the company began initially as a metalworking business, and wouldn’t enter into bike design for almost twenty years.

Starting with the R100 in 1953, KTM entered the motorcycle market and began winning races with the model the following year. Although a scooter model was introduced shortly thereafter, it was on the racetrack where KTM would ultimately dominate. The company saw racing as a way to test advancements in its overall production and technology, and by the 1970’s KTM offered over 40 different bike models.

After a steady rise through the 80’s, the company suffered a blow with the sudden death of one of its founders, Eric Trunkenpolz, in 1989. KTM’s future fell into jeopardy when the company changed hands and became insolvent by 1992, but it was quickly divided into three companies to handle its most successful product lines: motorcycles, bicycles and radiators. The tactic proved successful, and KTM Sportmotorcycles’ focus on racing performance led to their quick takeover of a new sports arena: the road rally competition. This off-road sport has since become an integral part of the KTM brand’s popularity.

Increased sales led to a wider range of models released during the 90’s. Along with a basic understanding of great craftsmanship, KTM also became leading innovators in the field with the introduction of the electric start LC4 engine and PDS linkless suspension during the same decade.

With a secure hold on the European dirtbike market, KTM has used the new millennium to expand its reach. 2005 saw KTM partner with Minnesota’s Polaris Industries with the intention that each company would help extend the other’s brand in their respective home continents. A similar agreement was struck two years later when India’s Bajaj Auto Ltd. signed a cooperation deal with the company.

KTM’s ambition has not been felt solely in its geographic expansion. In 2007, KTM released the dual-sport EXC line, the first series of dirtbikes that are also street-legal. The same year saw the debut of the first KTM sportscar, the X-Bow. The car proved such a hit that it was selected for the Race of Champions in 2008.

KTM continues to win a massive amount of races each year, with 173 world champion titles under its belt as of 2009.

Related Information:

PGO Scooters

Geely Holding Group

Products
KTM 125SX Motorcycle 2 stroke single cylinder engine Liquid cooling system 35 mm front suspension		KTM 150SX Motorcycle 125cc displacement Single cylinder 2-stroke engine 6 gear transmission system
KTM 250 EXC Motorcycle Displacement of 143.6cc 28/22 mm Aluminum handlebar Aluminum subframe		KTM 250SX Motorcycle Displacements of 249cc 2 stroke single cylinder engine 6 gear transmission systems
KTM 450EXC Motorcycle Single cylinder		KTM 50X 2011 Motorcycle Displacement of 449.3cc 4 stroke single cylinder engine Compression ratio of 11.9:1
KTM 65X Motorcycle Single cylinder, four-stroke engine 48kW @ 7500 revolutions per minute 140 / 140 mm (5.51 / 5.51") front and rear suspension		KTM 690 Duke Motorcycle Displacement of 654cc Single cylinder 4 stroke engine Maximum power of 46.3 kW @ 7500rpm
KTM 690 Enduro Twin cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° engine 999 cc displacement Performance of 78 kW @ 8250 rpm		KTM 990 Adventure Fuel tank capacity of 3.5 liters Electric and kick start starting system 4 stroke, single cylinder engine