- New in-house design centre setup in Salzburg
- Move part of company restructure post Bajaj takeover
The future look of KTM motorcycles may soon take a new direction, with the Austrian brand confirming plans to establish its own in-house design centre in Salzburg. While that might sound like a simple operational shift, it marks a significant change in how KTM has traditionally developed its visual identity.
For more than 30 years, KTM worked closely with long-time design partner KISKA. The collaboration helped define the sharp, aggressive styling that became synonymous with KTM models produced in Mattighofen. KISKA was also responsible for projects beyond motorcycles, including the striking KTM X-Bow, a venture that was ultimately shelved amid KTM’s recent financial strain.
Now, however, that relationship is evolving. Although KTM will continue to work with KISKA as a client, the ownership ties between the two companies have been severed. Previously, Pierer Mobility AG held a 50 per cent stake in the design firm. Following KTM’s restructuring and takeover, the group has since been renamed Bajaj Mobility AG under new ownership by Bajaj Auto.
KISKA’s Managing Director, Julian Herget, confirmed that after reacquiring the remaining shares from KTM Group shareholders, the Anif-based agency is once again operating independently. He acknowledged that KISKA’s heavy reliance on KTM in recent years had proven problematic, particularly during the manufacturer’s financial downturn.
That downturn was severe. KTM was forced to halt production on two separate occasions and entered a period of self-administration. Creditors intervened to stabilise the ‘Ready to Race’ brand, but not without consequence; hundreds of jobs were cut as the company worked to contain the damage.
Despite the separation, collaboration between KTM and KISKA is not over. According to the full statement, KTM will remain a customer, while the shares it previously held have been acquired by technology company Loxone GmbH.
Taken together, the shift towards an internal design operation suggests KTM wants tighter control over its future direction. Whether that results in a noticeable change in styling philosophy remains to be seen, but structurally, it signals a new chapter for a brand rebuilding after one of the most turbulent periods in its history.
