KTM to race in 2009 German Superbike Championship
Only one step away from world Superbike?December 22, 2008
KTM is preparing to go Superbike racing for the first time, choosing the ultra competitive German national title to debut its updated RC8 machine in "R" guise (here).
In collaboration with KTM Germany, Stefan Nebel and Didier Van Keymeulen will campaign the 1195cc twins, in a team managed by experienced technician Konrad Hefele.
Nebele, 27, is a three-time German Superbike champion, while Van Keymeulen won the FIM 1000cc Superstock title in 2005, and competed in this year's Supersport World Championship.
"I am convinced that with the RC8 R and our small but highly motivated team we can give a good account of ourselves in the high-class IDM series," said Hefele. "Even though a great deal of work still lies ahead of us in the coming five months, we are already looking forward with enthusiasm and excitement to the first race of the season."
To accelerate development, a test team will also be set up to operate in tandem with the race equip. The opening round of the German championship will be held at Lausitz EuroSpeedway on April 24.
If 2009 proves to be a success for KTM, the Superbike World Championship would most likely be the next port of call for the Austrian giant.
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