Aaron Plessinger: The ‘US Cowboy’ moves from KTM to Triumph

Aaron Plessinger is making an exciting move. The US rider, who is very popular with fans, has, as reported, left KTM and will be competing for Triumph’s works team in the Supercross and Motocross series from next season onwards. The 30-year-old veteran is expected to join the 5.11 squad as a team-mate to the Dane Mikkel Haarup, who rode the 450cc Triumph in the US for the first time last season.

Plessinger, who secured his first 450 Supercross victory in San Diego during the 2024 season, has had a mixed run of form at Red Bull KTM, having been repeatedly hampered by injuries and, most recently, failing to secure top placings in either Supercross or outdoor racing. The ‘Motocross Punk’ has a wealth of experience, having ridden for KTM in recent years alongside icons such as Eli Tomac and Ryan Dungey.

In 2027, Belgian rider Lucas Coenen will become Red Bull KTM’s new frontrunner in the 450cc class in the USA. Things are now moving quite quickly for Plessinger: the plan is for him to make his first official appearance for Triumph in Asia in the next few days – the venue will be an international dealer event in Thailand.

Afterwards, work will begin on setting up his motorbikes at the team’s base in Atlanta, Georgia. His first race appearance is also set to take place before the end of this calendar year. Plessinger, who has stood on the podium a total of 24 times for KTM, is set to ride the TF 450-X in front of a large audience for the first time at the traditional Paris Supercross at the La Défense Arena on 21 and 22 November.