The F5 Bivouac (rallye raid news) and W2RC - World cross country rally championship

BAHAHAHA! I like that! And yes, it is also a very true statement! I was fortunate enough to work at an ISO:9002 company who did actually manufacture awesome products, but I'm sure there are many out there who don't! At least it is documented! LOL!

From Redbull website. Mention Honda.


After twelve years and five Dakar Rally triumphs, Cyril Despres and KTM part ways.
One of the most successful partnerships in the history of the Dakar Rally has come to an end with Cyril Despres announcing his departure from KTM. After enjoying so much success with the Austrian manufacturer it was tough choice to make.

“I have spent a large part of my career to date with KTM, so as you can imagine it wasn’t a decision that was taken lightly. They were great years, very fruitful, both professionally and personally, and I owe much to everyone at KTM.

Cyril’s latest success with KTM came just two months ago when he arrived in Santiago de Chile as the winner of the 2013 Dakar Rally. During an eventful race Cyril was always quick to acknowledge the great support he received from his team.

“Now I’m saying a very fond farewell to my factory mechanic throughout all that time, Roland Bruckner, and my support rider during the last four Dakars, Ruben Faria, who I wish all the best for the future.”

It’s widely expected that Cyril will be back at the 2014 Dakar Rally riding with Honda’s Factory Racing Team. Meanwhile, KTM have confirmed that Kurt Caselli and Chaleco Lopez will join three-time Dakar winner Marc Coma and Ruben Faria to become part of their Red Bull Factory Racing Team.

http://www.redbull.com/en/motorspor...2/cyril-despres-leaves-ktm-after-5-dakar-wins

Now that last little bit wasn't on the KTM statement - can't be long before an announcement one way or another

I would expect it may take some time to conclude, we know that Honda are not keen on other high profile sponsors siting alongside their brand - so how would the Red Bull bandana look - with a rising sun on it?

Don't really have anything to add at this point... Just wanted to say that the reporting, analysis and general discussion here has been great the last few days. With all of these big shakeups happening early in the "off season", I'm curious to see what develops over the next eight months.

Agreed, its like a race all by itself.

A few people have that he couldn't take Red Bull sponsorship over to Honda, but I really don't understand why.

You guys did see Rodrigues at Dakar didn't you?



I'll try and find a bigger pic so you can read his helmet.

Yep, I believe Helder may have had a personal agreement with them when he signed for Honda, but that may not mean it had the HRC blessing?

So he should be more like JC?

^^^^^

fixed:

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So Honda, KTM, ect., all want to sell bikes to all of us. What is SpeedBrain's driver. Where does their money come from?

do tell..