Santander KTM RC390 Cup British Junior motorcycle race launched

The brand-new Santander Consumer Finance KTM British Junior Cup was officially launched yesterday –23 February – at Shenington kart track in Oxfordshire.

The series is open to 13-18-years old riders who will each will line up on an identical ‘Cup’ variation of the recently-launched KTM RC390. Promoted by MSVR across eight events, incorporating 20 points-scoring races, it offers riders the ultimate prize of one of two places in the MotoGP Red Bull Rookies Cup selection process.

In standard production form, the RC 390 carries a 44hp, 375cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine housed in a steel trellis chassis.

The ‘Cup’ version focuses the machine solely for track use – removing all the unnecessary road-required parts (saving 9kg) and adding a whole host of official KTM PowerParts that will also be publically available – including a fully adjustable suspension package. This package not only allows for individual settings for each race, it’s also a valuable learning tool for suspension set-ups. The bike has adjustable foot pegs and  levers for personalised ergonomics, also making it ideal for young racers who are still growing.

James Nagy, 18, from Luton said: “This year will be my seventh year in racing – I started when I was 11 as I’d always wanted to do it. I raced in the MRO mini twins last year and my aim is to ride in the 600s – I’m right at the top of the age limit for this Cup so I only have a year in it. It’s my first time on a KTM so I’m excited.

“I’m looking forward to racing at Donington Park as that’s my favourite track – plus I’m fast around there! I really like that it’s all down to the rider – we’ve all got the same machinery so it’s rider talent.”

Ewan Potter, 14, Worchester said: “We were planning to race in Moto3 this year, but this opportunity came up and it was easier and cheaper – so we went with this. It’s something different and it’s going to be very competitive so will be great for spectators and racers. I’ll have a lot of extra homework to do because of the time off I am taking – so when I’m not on track I will be studying!”

There are still some places left, so if you’re interested and would like more information on how to get involved email [email protected] with your name, address, post code, age, riding experience and preferred KTM dealer.