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As someone who rode KTM Enduro bikes on the 80s, 90s and them moved onto TM. I have to admit I am not unhappy about their demise. They basically closed Husaberg, Husqvarna, Gas Gas three brands with some great heritage. Then MV Augusta.
They took advantage of businesses that were struggling using lots of borrowed money thinking they they could own the off road motorcycle market. They built sub standard 4 strokes (cheese cams) and charged premium money for them.
Smaller manufacturers (Sherco, Beta, TM) build better products.
Greed financed by other peoples money has led to KTMs woes.
their demise
Do you know something that everybody else doesn't?
Still going AFAIK... Filed for self administration on 26th November (a month ago today)... They are very much still selling and shipping bikes!
Greed financed by other peoples money has led to KTMs woes.
Same could be said for pretty much any manufacturer or retailer out there right now struggling financially... Or indeed in the past... This has happened to Ducati twice before, and yet look where they are now!
Can't say that I agree with much of that (OP). It will be a great loss to the road and off-road market if they go. Not to mention the loss to MotoGP, hard enduro, etc.
However, over recent years the quality of their bikes has plummeted whilst the cost has risen. Heavy discounting and too frequent updates have meant that nobody buys them at anything like rrp. That's really cheapened the brand.