Ever since Kenny Roberts began designing and building his own race bikes and engines (starting with a three-cylinder two-stroke), the bikes have handled well, but have lacked the motor to be competitive. In the 2005 MotoGP series, that could change. With Shane Byrne in the saddle (a former British Superbike champ who rode for Aprilia in MotoGP last year), Roberts will roll out a new chassis for 2005 with a KTM V-4 engine fitted.
Early tests have shown that the KTM is a giant step forward from the Roberts-designed V-5 used the prior two seasons. Offering more power and, just as important, better power delivery and throttle control, the KTM threatens to catapult the Roberts’ machine into competitiveness in 2005. If only Byrne is up to the task.
We wouldn’t hold our breath for a podium finish by Team Roberts, but we hope to see the Roberts’ bike catch a whiff of the front runners, at least, which would be a massive improvement over prior efforts.
