When headlines roar and social media howls, who do you trust—keyboard warriors or those living the reality? The recent uproar surrounding KTM and its dealers has sparked a flood of rumors, panic, and confusion. But what’s genuinely going on behind the orange curtain? Hervé Ricord, owner of CTM83, has something to say—and if you’re expecting doom and gloom, hold on to your helmets.
A Storm of Misinformation
The current state of KTM has brought misunderstandings and misinformation into the spotlight, with dealers taking a direct hit. In a candid interview, Hervé Ricord decided to tackle the waves of confusion, bringing clarity to the crisis impacting the Pierer Mobility group and revealing how it’s shaping his daily operations. Contrary to some rumors circulating within industry circles, Ricord maintains a positive outlook for the future—even if things currently look rocky from the outside.
According to Ricord, the heart of the problem is the whirlwind of falsehoods spinning through media and social networks. He reports that many of the stories circulating about KTM’s financial status are mistaken, overblown, or misinterpreted, creating unnecessary panic among clients. « KTM is neither being liquidated nor facing a financial crisis, » Ricord insists. Instead, the company is grappling with temporary challenges that have been widely misunderstood. He further explains that the so-called “self-administration” measure was introduced by the court—not as some exotic maneuver, but as a common tool in French law that enables a business to keep running without jeopardizing its stability. Not quite the financial apocalypse some are imagining, then.
Dealers in the Trenches: Realities and Reactions
Despite these hurdles, Ricord describes his relationship with KTM’s French branch as constructive and consistent. The company, he assures, has demonstrated a strong commitment to its dealer network, reflected in both attention and solidarity.
- Active support for dealers
- Regular and constructive contacts
- Initiatives such as a promotion with free VAT on select motorcycles
These efforts haven’t just been about business; they’ve played a critical role in boosting dealer morale (and sales) during challenging times. Dealers aren’t left to brave the storm alone. Ricord reveals that KTM remains attentive to their needs, confirming that solidarity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business strategy.
An especially poignant point: small dealers. Ricord acknowledges that the difficulties KTM is facing could put some smaller, Pierer-dependent dealerships at risk. Nevertheless, he doesn’t share their sense of anxiety. Ricord places his faith firmly in KTM’s strength and resilient spirit. « I am not worried about KTM’s future, » he states, recalling how the brand has weathered much fiercer storms in the past, thanks largely to its unique identity forged in competition and victory. Sometimes, being battle-tested is the best insurance policy.
Cautious Optimism: Looking Ahead
Ricord is equally upbeat about the prospects of KTM’s recapitalization. The recovery plan has already piqued the interest of several robust financial groups, all prepared to fuel the firm’s growth and stability. « I have no particular preference about who acquires the KTM share, but I am confident in the brand’s future, » he says, underscoring that KTM’s very DNA is tied to competition and innovation. These, he argues, are the values that will not just pull the company through today’s troubles, but propel it forward into tomorrow.
Even with economic pressures, Ricord’s passion for all things two-wheeled and his confidence in KTM’s ability to ride out the turbulence keep his commitment strong. Recent accomplishments, such as the 990 Duke claiming victory in the Bol d’Argent and the brand’s zesty participation in races with the 1290 Super Adventure, serve as fresh reminders that there’s still plenty of life—and energy—pulsing at KTM’s core. For Ricord, KTM has always taken the business of making “serious bikes for fun” seriously, and that, he says, is the essence of the brand.
Conclusion: Appreciating the Heartbeat Behind the Headlines
Despite the challenges and waves of misinformation, KTM keeps its status as a benchmark in the motorcycle world. The list of obstacles may be long, but according to Ricord, it’s the resilience of KTM and the dedication of its dealers that remain the recipe for overcoming tough times. With a fierce identity and an unbreakable bond to competition, KTM holds all the cards needed to continue its story of success.
So, before another headline makes you panic-swipe, remember the words of someone who’s seen it all from the inside. Stories are fun, but facts—and a little bit of racing spirit—go a long way.
Iveta is an aspiring journalist with a passion for storytelling and a deep love for coffee. Always curious and creative, she dreams of sharing stories that inspire, inform, and connect people around the world
