Top team lineup for KTM's inaugural year in IDM.
KTM on Friday introduced the KTM Superbike Team Germany that will contest the IDM (International German Championship) Superbike series in 2009 onboard the brand new KTM 1190 RC8 R, a move that underscores that KTM is always "Ready to Race".
The team presentation took place in Dortmund, at "Motorräder 2009" the biggest regional motorcycle fair in the German-speaking region, not only throwing the spotlight on the team's brand new, sports-oriented, four-stroke series machine but also on riders Stefan Nebel (Germany) and Didier Van Keymeulen (Belgium) and KTM team boss Konrad Hefele. KTM also took part in the IDM with the KTM Junior Team in 2004, 2005 and 2006 snatching three 125cc titles in succession and opening the way for Michael Ranseder, Stefan Bradl and Robin Lässer to enter the world of GP racing.
IDM participation a unique opportunity
The IDM is a series that is very good for Superbike racing and our participation in these races gives us the opportunity to further develop the RC8 R and to expand our team work together with KTM Germany. For these reasons we are pleased to present the RC8 R and our IDM Superbike team at this important fair. With this action we want to make an important statement to Germany and send a strong signal to all our KTM markets about our commitment to the development of technical excellence in sports-oriented road bikes," said KTM spokesperson Thomas Kuttruf.
Rich lineup of talent and experience
The KTM Superbike Team Germany team, an official factory-supported team, can draw on the past experience and success of its two riders Nebel and Van Keymeulen but also on the wealth of personal experience in both racing and team management of team boss Konrad Hefele, responsible for organization and technical development. Both Nebel and Van Keymeulen came to the German fair straight from concentrated training in Spain. With just six weeks to go to the start of the eight race season, the new KTM team has pulled out all the stops to ensure an optimal pre-season preparation.
About the KTM Superbike riders
Stefan Nebel, 28, Germany. Professional racer: active in Supersport and Superbike racing since 1998 including three German titles; KTM test and development rider for the 1190 RC8 in 2008.
Didier Van Keymeulen, 26, Belgium. Professional racer: active in Superstock and Supersport since 2000.
2009 IDM Calendar:
25-26 April Eurospeedway Lausitz
16-17 May Oschersleben
30-31 May Nürburgring
20-21 June Sachsenring
4-5 July Salzburgring (Austria)
1-2 August Schleizer Dreieck
22-23 August Assen (Netherlands)
12-13 September Hockenheimring
