Its the end of the line for the Tech 3 / Yamaha partnership, presumably as they don't think the M1 is going in the right direction (2017 race results, off season testing results, Zarco sticking with the 2016 chassis etc) and paddock gossip has them moving to KTM for 2019. Personally I'd be surprised if that happens as they are used to having competitive machinery so who do you think they will partner with next year ?
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I'd venture a guess that the M1 is quite spendy for a season and the KTM RC16 has already been reported to be a much much cheaper option. Now that it is getting better results and with an additional year of testing, I'm sure they would like to redirect some of that extra budget elsewhere. Perhaps be able to focus a bit more testing/development or rider salary??
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I would bet money Red Bull/KTM made Herve an offer he couldn't refuse, especially if Zarco is part of the package.Tech 3 ability to develop the bikes, and pick riders is worth a fortune to a new factory effort , with un limited funding.
I can't see Zarco wanting to go from the front of the pack to mid pack, he should be in line for an offer for a factory ride.
queue - Mark and Rossi taking up space...
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KTM is a factory and will not remain at the back for long,they are going after the japs where they live. Market share, Brand recognition, as well as creating their future market/customer base. KTM 65cc race at the Super Cross events, Red Bull Rookies Cup, ect.
KTM did not go to the big boy class to roll around at the back and look stupid.Herve knows this and he is also going to get the latest greatest factory equipment and updates, instead of last years bikes. It will be interesting to see what Zarco does, and how this whole deal progresses.
KTM did not go to the big boy class to roll around at the back and look stupid.Herve knows this and he is also going to get the latest greatest factory equipment and updates, instead of last years bikes. It will be interesting to see what Zarco does, and how this whole deal progresses.
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