Raceline Pirelli KTM press release:

Raceline Pirelli KTM riders Jayden Rykers, and Morgan Fogarty are preparing for the team’s second hit out for the season, when the MX Nationals makes its way to Appin in New South Wales this weekend.

With Appin only a short drive from the team’s base in Newcastle, round two will also mark somewhat of a home round for KTM Australia’s official MX2 effort – family and friends providing additional support for when riders take to the track.

After claiming fifth overall on debut for the team in Victoria nearly three weeks ago, MX2 pilot Rykers is optimistic that he can deliver Raceline Pirelli KTM with an improved result aboard his KTM 250 SX-F when he hits the track this Sunday.

“I’m feeling settled coming into this weekend with the first round out of the way. With Appin being the closest round for me to home, it’s also something to look forward to, as it means I’ll be sleeping in my own bed,” Rykers shared.

“I have been pretty busy over the last few weeks, I’ve been doing a lot of riding and I’ve been down in Melbourne getting some more training in on the bike in so hopefully that pays off.

“Myself and Appin go together. It’s a tight, technical track with ruts that can form up very different to most, so I’m looking to putting two top motos together this Sunday and improving on my result from last round.”

MXD rookie Fogarty shared that round one was a big learning curve, and that he’s looking forward to heading out this weekend more experienced and more prepared than at round one.

“Coming in to Appin I’m feeling a lot more comfortable and feel I have the speed to run with the top guys,” he said.

“The last few weeks I’ve been putting in the hard work and riding with some top class riders such as Wilson Todd and Kade Mosig which has made me push even harder.

“I learnt a lot from round one, and we’ve made a few changes to the bike which I’m feeling really good about. My expectations this weekend is to be on the podium and battling for that top step.”

MX2 teammate Kirkland, who unfortunately missed the final moto at round one after re-aggravating a foot injury, will sit out of round two this weekend to assist in his recovery. He will hope to line up once again at round three of the championship at Conondale on May 7.

The second round of the 2017 MX Nationals will be held at Appin in New South Wales on Sunday, 23 April. Visit the official series website at www.mxnationals.com.au for further information.

To follow Raceline Pirelli KTM’s progress this year, like ‘Raceline’ on Facebook or follow @raceline_motosport on Instagram.