Rode on the technical Kari track in stock RC390s with KTM-branded racing leathers.
BHPian shyamg28 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.
Courtesy of my wife’s work, I got a chance to visit the Kari Motor Speedway Racetrack for Season 2 of the KTM Cup.
There was a fair amount of excitement among the participants, who were all briefed about the format of the KTM Cup. I found it to be amazing that KTM first takes all the participants through a few classroom sessions and then some on-track training as well with a coach. The participants are also divided into 3 batches – experienced, novice and women (for the first time).
Last year’s runner-up Amarnath Menon was also present and provided us with some insights into what happened last year. The top 3 are taken to Austria for training by MotoGP racer Jack Miller (I think, might be wrong).
Stock RC 390s. All of them were shod with W-rated CEAT Sportrad tyres. Certainly worth checking out for folks looking for their motorcycles.
They all had a device attached which captures lap time. The final session each day, until the finale that is, consists of the shortlisted riders attempting a Superpole to determine who gets pushed to the next round.
I was lucky enough to get a chance at the RC on the track. KTM had a stall filled with KTM-branded racing leathers along with boots (Dianese I believe). Not in great condition overall, but it was my first experience wearing full leather, and boy was it an effort! But once I sat with it for a good hour, it wasn’t as bad as that initial overwhelming feeling that it gave me. The boots were in good condition and fit right off. That helmet was borrowed since my own was not allowed (Double-D ring mandatory, yeah judge me )
Due to time constraints, I was only able to do 3 laps at Kari. Having ridden at MMRT this January, this was yet another eye-opening experience for me.
Kari looked to be a tighter and more technical track, much narrower in most places. Right at the end of the straight, there is a tight left and right-hander. I believe the final corner before the straight was also upward-sloped.
I made a promise to myself to get back here sometime this year.
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