What is the KTM Adventure Rally Extreme?
KTM India is set to host the KTM Adventure Rally Extreme; it’s a specialised off-road and rally training programme led by Matthias Walkner, designed to help Indian riders understand and learn the techniques required to survive challenging terrain and long-distance competition.
The Adventure Rally Extreme is divided into two formats: Meet & Greet and Ride & Train.
Who is Matthias Walkner?
Austrian rider Matthias Walkner is one of KTM’s most successful rally-raid riders. He won the 2018 Dakar Rally motorcycle category, becoming the first Austrian rider to win the event on a motorcycle.
Walkner’s experience includes motocross, rally-raid competition and endurance riding. That experience makes him particularly suited to coaching adventure riders.
What does the Meet & Greet include?
The Meet & Greet is open to all motorcycle enthusiasts who want to interact with Matthias Walkner and learn about his career. The session is expected to include a full discussion about Walkner’s Dakar-winning experience, racing challenges and the techniques required to compete in difficult environments.
What is the Ride & Train programme?
The Ride & Train programme is the practical aspect of the KTM Adventure Rally Extreme, involving on-bike experience for the participants. It is designed for KTM owners and allows selected riders to train with 2018 Dakar champion Matthias Walkner through rally-inspired riding activities.
What will riders learn?
The programme is expected to cover core aspects of rally and adventure riding. which include:
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Roadbook reading and navigation.
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Rally riding techniques.
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Motorcycle positioning on loose surfaces.
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Riding over uneven and technical terrain.
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Physical and mental preparation.
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Self-recovery techniques.
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Basic trail-side mechanical repairs.
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Managing fatigue during extended rides.
Which motorcycles will be used?
The KTM Adventure Rally Extreme is set to feature KTM’s Adventure line-up, which includes models such as: 390 Adventure, 390 Adventure X, 390 Adventure S, 390 Adventure R, 250 Adventure, 890 Adventure R and 1290 Super Adventure S, depending on availability.
Where and when will the event take place?
The Event is scheduled in two different cities: Mumbai and Bengaluru. The programme’s two-city format allows KTM to reach adventure riders in two of India’s most active premium motorcycle markets.
The KTM Adventure Rally Extreme is scheduled for September 2026. Dates are as follows:
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Mumbai: Meet & Greet on 11 September followed by Ride & Train session on 12–13 September.
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Bengaluru: Meet & Greet on 15 September followed by Ride & Train session on 16–17 September.
How can riders apply?
Interested participants can apply through the official KTM India Pro-XP Rally Extreme page. The application asks for riders’ personal details, such as their motorcycle information and riding experience. It also asks for a written statement explaining their interest in the programme and why they’d like to meet Dakar champion Matthias Walkner.
The Event’s Ride and Train program offers limited seats; KTM shall select 50 participants from each city, which amounts to a total of 100 seats for the event, and is priced at Rs. 5,000, reserved for KTM ADV motorcycle owners. While the Meet and Greet session is open to all and costs about Rs. 500.
