Team Kickoff 2006
Interview with Mitch Hansen
The 2006 season is just around the corner and Mitch Hansen, Team Owner, is optimistic about the teams chances. We spent a few minutes with him to get his take on the team. How do you feel about the 2006 season? I’m extremely optimistic. We are running the KTM factory team and have the support and backing we need. It’s an honor and privilege to be working with these racers and mechanics.
Who are the pilots for 2006? We have the studs of Supermoto. Jurgen Kunzel won the Championship last year and Kurt Nicoll won Supermoto Unlimited two years ago. Benny Carlson is running in Supermoto Unlimited and has placed second and third in the Championship. Johnny Lewis is in his second year in the Lights division and is coming on fast.
How does the iron look for the start of the season? KTM has upgraded the frame and swing arm. Of course we are always pushing the envelope for horsepower.
How does the competition look this year? Many of the guys that will be going for the championship have raced for me. We know for sure these guys are going to be tough competitors. At Yamaha you have Doug Henry and Mark Burkhart; Troy Lee Designs will field Chris Fillmore and the ever young Jeff Ward; Husky is running David Baffeleuf and Aprilia has retained the services of Darrel Atkins.
You’ve switched from Michelin to Dunlop. How will that impact the team? This year we will be running the 16.5 front wheel instead of the 17 inch one. This should reduce some of the chatter that we had in 2005.
I understand that you will be podcasting this season. Can you give us some information on the program? We are partnering with Horsepower Marketing and they will be shooting video and podcasting the team and sponsors. We will be bringing excitement on and off the racing tarmac. We hope the fans and enthusiasts really enjoy it.
Thanks for taking time for the 2006 team review. Have a great first race at the end of April in Fontana, Ca. We are cautiously optimistic and I look forward to talking again after Fontana.
