Five minutes with Dirk Vansummeren
We don't want to make it sound like a bolt from the blue, but after being associated with KTM for so many years, the switch to another brand came as a surprise. The DVS Junior Racing Team will therefore switch to TM and will be present in the EMX2024/65 and EMX85 in 125.
Team manager Dirk Vansummeren went to Montevarchi in Italy to test the TM machines and returned with a signed contract with the Italian manufacturer. He had only just gotten home when we asked him a few questions.
MXMag: DVS Junior Racing was associated with the KTM group motorcycles for many years. What prompted the switch to TM?
Dirk Vansummeren: It was time for a new challenge! I have been loyal to KTM for 40 years and have helped solve things that went wrong during that time. The respect and support I received in return was poor. There are a lot of new people working in the factory and they are mainly office people with little field experience.
MXMag: How did the testing with the TM machines go?
Dirk Vansummeren: They were very positive or even super positive. An appointment had been made with TM's field manager to test with a factory engine. Now something went wrong with the communication, which meant we were testing with a standard machine. That machine ran a lot better than the competition bikes we rode this year. This was not only about the power, but also about the steering characteristics and the suspension. The boys came off the track enthusiastically after the session and said “waaaw, what is this?”
MXMag: What sporting goals do you have in mind?
Dirk Vansummeren: Look, we are going to work in the EMX65/85 with a young guy from Indonesia and a talent from Belgium (editor's note: Thibo Vleugels from Vorselaar). He doesn't have the experience yet, but I hope from the bottom of my heart, because he really has talent, that he learns quickly in the European Championship. There will probably be someone else on the 85cc, those discussions are ongoing. Then we can shift our objectives. I also hope to be able to add someone else in the 125cc.
MXMag: Is there also long-term planning in the collaboration with TM?
Dirk Vansummeren: In any case, we now have an annual contract with an option for an extra year. I think it will be a longer collaboration because TM can benefit from the technical expertise at DVS. I am quite technically skilled and I can also help them test things in the sand and send those results to Italy.
MXMag: How many riders do you want to bring to the European Championship?
Dirk Vansummeren: The intention is to have three riders in the EMX65/85 and three riders in the EMX125. That is the ultimate goal because we saw last season that the injured can be out for a long time. In between there were also visa problems. The intention is that we can remain active for a whole year.
Tekst: Danny Hermans
Photos: TM racing
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