“USA is the largest and therefore most important market in the world," states Stefan Limbrunner, Managing Director for KTM Bike Industries. "You really need good partners for that." And he believes Iowa-based North America Cycles (NAC) is the best partner in the biggest market. KTM has shifted exclusive distribution rights for the American market to Messingschlager USA (owner of Cycle Force Group). Messingschlager recently purchased Cycle Force Group and its subsidiaries, including North America Cycles who will be the sole distribution point for the KTM brand bikes.
NAC VP of Sales & Marketing Matthew Nims says he is optimistic about the prospect of offering KTM to the US market. “We have worked with and distributed many European brands in the past, so we’re thrilled to work with KTM and the dedicated people behind this legendary brand. KTM has a great market position and brand recognition in Europe and have proven themselves to be a reliable partner for the independent dealer. We are excited to further that success through the US market.”
Importing bicycles from Austria is nothing new to the Nims family. Matthew’s father, Nyle, started importing Austro-Daimler and Puch from Graz as far back as 1978. “I began my career in a bike boom and couldn’t be more excited for one more project, especially one as significant as this,” notes Nyle Nims.
“It has been our philosophy at Messingschlager to partner up with brands and help them grow and succeed in the market," adds CEO Dennis Schömburg. "The same is true now with our US entity. We want to support brands that already have a successful European business to make their step into the US market as smooth as possible. We’re looking forward to working with KTM and bringing the bikes into our IBD and emerging powersports network."
Models offered will include full suspension analog and electric bicycles, gravel, lifestyle and the new Revelator Alto featured in this year’s Tour de France. The first bikes will be arriving in November 2022 and full availability of the assortment will arrive spring 2023. The apex of the KTM range will be occupied by the Macina Prowler Exonic, an enduro bike that features SRAM XX Eagle SL AXS and a Bosch Gen 4 smart system.
"The combination of NAC, Messingschlager and KTM Bike Industries is exactly what we have been looking for: Competence, distribution and passion for the bicycle market and cyclists," concludes Limbrunner. "We are happy that things are finally getting started together.”
North America Cycles will begin establishment of a limited KTM dealer base with exclusive territories. Sales reps with non-competing lines are being sought in select territories. Dealers and reps are encouraged to contact Nyle or Matthew Nims at sales@nacycles.com or 844-622-2453.
