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KTM Tests Two-Wheel Drive DesignKTM's Race Team Manager Kurt Nicoll recently tested a two-wheel drive system during the world famous Erzberg Rally in Austria and came away from the experience very impressed.
According to project leader and KTM Chief Technical Designer, Wolfgang Felber, "We're testing a mechanical hydraulic system with a pre-set torque distribution between the front and rear wheel. The system is fairly well developed, but it can be improved upon. Overall, KTM wants to be at the forefront of testing the suitability of two-wheel drive systems under all conditions."
When asked whether he feels that an all wheel drive system would benefit an amateur or a competition rider more, Kurt Nicoll said, "I think that the two-wheel drive design has many advantages, particularly for the amateur rider, simply because the competition riders already have a very good feel for traction and they are used to a slipping rear wheel. However, I believe that the two-wheel drive will yield great rewards for everyone."
In commenting on the possibility of future serial production, Felber said, "At the moment, the advantages versus disadvantage of two wheel drive compared to conventional drive pretty much balance each other out. Only after further testing will a decision be made to produce a limited series."
more: www.dirtrider.com/news/141_0406_2... (180)
June 17, 2004 | Viewed 20,942 time(s)
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