The History of KTM Dirt Bikes

The Austria-based KTM Sportmotorcycle GmbH, its formal name Kronreif & Trunkenpolz Mattighofen, produces off-road and street motorcycles but has built its reputation manufacturing dirt bikes. The company was founded in 1934, but didn't start mass-producing motorcycles until nearly 20 years later. KTM pioneered the liquid-cooled 4-stroke engine and front and rear disc brakes for dirt bikes.

First Bike

KTM developed its first motorcycle, the R100, in 1951 and produced 100 motor bikes by 1953.

The Trophy

In 1957, the company introduced the Trophy 125cc, powered by a Sachs engine, as its first sports bike.

Transition

In 1970, KTM stopped using Sachs engines, began building its own, and 3 years later introduced the 250 Cross and Enduro dirt bikes.

New Plant

In 1978, the company opened its assembly plant in Lorain, Ohio, and developed a 50cc model. In 1981, the company introduced its first liquid-cooled 125cc dirt bike.

Bankruptcy

By 1991, the company filed for bankruptcy, split into 4 independent divisions, and reorganized a year later as KTM Sportmotorcycle GmbH.

Winner

Rider Fabrizio Meoni raced a LC4 660R bike to victory in the 2001 Dakar rally, with KTM winning every Dakar race through 2007.

Resources

• KTM History