CFMOTO takes majority stake in Kalex Engineering
CFMOTO is clearly betting on the right priorities, having reportedly acquired a 51% controlling stake in the German-based Moto2 chassis maker, Kalex Engineering.
To those who are not familiar, Kalex Engineering is one of the most influential engineering companies in the MotoGP paddock, particularly in the Moto2 class. Since the category’s inception in 2010, Kalex has supplied chassis to Moto2 teams and has dominated the field, winning nearly every constructors’ championship over the past decade. Currently, 20 of the 28 riders on the Moto2 grid use Kalex frames, giving the company significant technical influence across the entire class.
The deal is seen by experts as something that will give CFMOTO big advantages. By taking control of Kalex, CFMOTO now has direct access to top-level racing technology, especially Kalex’s expertise in building high-performance motorcycle frames.
It also gives the company a stronger presence in Europe, since Kalex is based in Germany and well-established in the MotoGP paddock. Experts also say this could be a stepping stone for CFMOTO to one day enter MotoGP as a full manufacturer, letting them develop their own engines, improve chassis designs with Kalex, and compete in the top class.
Even with the new ownership, Kalex will keep running as usual. Its engineering team and daily operations won’t change, and it will continue supplying Moto2 teams, so riders and teams using Kalex chassis shouldn’t see any disruptions.
The remaining 49% stake stays with Kalex’s founders, Alex Baumgärtel and Klaus Hirsekorn, who will continue to oversee the company’s technical operations.
