In 2018, KTM and Yamaha dominated the smallest IDM class. That could change soon. Kawasaki has a strong interest in the IDM Supersport and , with the new Ninja 400, has a suitable motorcycle in its lineup. The German importer plans to intensify its support for young talent in 2019 to build a stepping stone toward the Supersport . According to Kawasaki manager Carsten Haufe, a three-man team for the IDM is under discussion, with the team structure expected to have World Championship experience.
One rider has already been confirmed, and it’s no secret: Troy Beinlich, who switched from the Yamaha R3 to the new Kawasaki Ninja 400 midway through last season and finished seventh in the IDM. The 15-year-old has been racing motorcycles since he was six. Riding the Kawasaki, he narrowly missed out on a podium finish twice recently. Negotiations are underway to fill the second rider spot, while the third remains vacant.
The minimum age for competing in the IDM Supersport is 15. To ensure a level playing field among the various motorcycle brands eligible to participate, weight and RPM limits are in place for each model. The KTM RC 390 R, Yamaha YZF-R3, Honda CBR 500 R, and Kawasaki Ninja 400 are on the starting grid for the IDM Supersport .