Stefan Pierer, CEO of KTM, said he viewed the new regulations as an excellent way forward for the sport of Motocross and would help to guarantee its future in a responsible 21st century context.

"I welcome the farsighted and courageous decisions that have been made by FIM," he declared. "I am convinced that by putting these steps into place, and above all by reducing the exhaust noise, that this is important and necessary for the future of Motocross sports. I particularly welcome the new regulations for the two-stroke motorcycles because this creates attractive economic circumstances for young riders and for amateur sport, thus making it possible to further develop this market segment."

As well as a number of decisions already taken, KTM is also very positive about another regulation that is still under discussion but which will probably be finalised shortly. It concerns the reduction of the larger MX1 bikes down to 350cc.

Stefan Everts, team boss of KTM's factory team and 10-times MX world champion is particularly positive about this prospect: "This is definitely a very good move. With development of the latest technology, I am sure that riders will in fact be able to go quicker on a bike less than 450 cc. These will be lighter and more fluid machines that are also better suited to the current track layouts. This is valid beyond the grand prix racing scene and it will be excellent for amateur and hobby riders. The 450cc bike is much too powerful for a amateur."

Everts said he hoped the proposed regulation would come into effect as soon as possible to allow manufacturers to start working on an alternative displacement bike as soon as possible."

Heinz Kinigadner, twice 250cc Motocross world champion and KTM Motorsport consultant emphasised that to move to give equal status and importance to both 2- and 4-stroke machines was an excellent way forward.

"It is very good that the two stroke will now have a fairer chance in competition, in fact this is also made possible thanks to the enormous development in four-stroke technology in recent years," he said. "Two-stroke machines are an economical alternative for amateurs and beginners and this change in the regulations will provide a strong basis for the sport to further advance."

Pit Beirer, KTM Offroad Sport Director spoke about the decision to allow young riders only to compete on two-stroke machines.

"To restrict all young competitors to riding two-stroke is a very important milestone in the sport," said the former grand prix star. "First I am convinced that a rider who learns to completely master a two-stroke machine can ride any motorcycle in the future. Second, this is the only possibility for financing new riders into the sport. Thirdly, maintaining the bike and the fun factor for young guys is an enormous advantage."