Triumph is embarking on one of its biggest challenges since John Bloor rescued the company from receivership in 1983. The launch of its first motocross racer is its first step in creating a family of all-new motocross and enduro models. Triumph’s TF250X has arrived at the same time Ducati has released its first motocross racer, the Desmo450 MX.
Both companies are strangers to motocross but in a period of sales growth. Triumph is set to sell more than 100,000 units globally this calendar year while Ducati is experiencing record sales.
Can they shake up motocross like they have roadracing? Recently both brands have assumed important roles in motorcycle racing. In 2019 Triumph went all-in on the racing world, winning the contract to be the sole engine supplier for the Moto2 world championship using its 765cc triple. In 2022 Ducati took the unprecedented step of becoming the sole supplier of bikes competing in the 2023 MotoE World Cup, the electric class of MotoGP. Then in 2021 Triumph shocked