Jeffrey Herlings Shocks the Motocross World: A Legend Switches Teams
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the motocross community, five-time world champion Jeffrey Herlings is leaving his long-time partner KTM after nearly two decades to join forces with Honda HRC for the 2026 season. This unexpected transition marks the end of one of the most successful rider-manufacturer partnerships in the sport's history, leaving fans and insiders alike eagerly anticipating what's next for this legendary rider.
But here's where it gets fascinating... In an exclusive, in-depth interview, Herlings opens up about the emotional decision to leave KTM, his initial impressions of the Honda factory machine, and the stark contrasts between Austrian and Japanese engineering philosophies. He also reveals the intense motivation he's already feeling within the HRC structure, where he's been immersed in a level of professionalism and dedication that even he, a veteran of the sport, finds astonishing.
The Interview Unveiled
Geoff Meyer from MXLarge (http://mxlarge.com/) generously shared this interview with us, offering a rare glimpse into Herlings' thoughts as he embarks on this new chapter.
Jeffrey, the entire motocross world is buzzing about your move to Honda. How does it feel to be at the center of such excitement?
Herlings: It's surreal, to be honest. After 17 years with KTM – my entire professional career, really – leaving felt strange. But Honda holds a special place in motocross history, with legends like Thorpe, Geboers, Jeff Stanton, Ricky Carmichael, and Jeremy McGrath. HRC has this unique aura, and I'm thrilled to be part of it. The testing process has been mind-blowing. We had 25 people dedicated to me, including 15 Japanese engineers who flew in specifically. The level of detail, the professionalism – it's unlike anything I've experienced, even after a long career. We tested from 8 am to 8 pm, three days straight, fine-tuning the bike to my liking. It's a completely different approach compared to KTM, where the Austrians are more aggressive in implementing changes. The Japanese take a more methodical, long-term view.
And this is the part most people miss... When I first rode the Honda, the handling immediately stood out. I'd never tested another bike before, so this was a revelation. The turning was incredible, especially on hardpack tracks with off-chambers and downhills. It's not that the Honda is universally better – the KTM is an excellent bike, too. But the Honda's handling suits me perfectly. The power delivery is different, though, and that's something I'm still adapting to. Interestingly, while the stock KTM might have more power, the Honda's factory bike is a beast in its own right. The way HRC works, with their meticulous testing and development, is a refreshing change.
Controversial Question: Is the Honda really superior to the KTM, or is it just a matter of personal preference?
Herlings: That's a tough one. Both bikes have their strengths. The KTM's power is undeniable, especially in the sand, but the Honda's handling and overall package feel more tailored to my riding style. It's not about which is better, but which works best for me. And right now, the Honda is ticking all the boxes.
The Gear Switch: A New Challenge
Transitioning to FOX gear after years with Alpinestars hasn't been without its challenges. While the pants, jersey, and gloves were relatively easy to adjust to, the boots and helmet required significant effort. Kenny Day, FOX's Global Sports Marketing Manager, flew in with multiple bags of gear to ensure I felt comfortable. It's a testament to the level of support I'm receiving from my new team.
Behind Closed Doors: The Secrecy of Testing
During testing, strict no-video and no-photography rules were enforced, particularly when working on the 2027 prototype bike. The components are incredibly specialized – think footpegs worth €5,000, melded from a single piece. HRC is protective of their innovations, and rightfully so. It's a level of secrecy I'm familiar with from my KTM days, but it underscores the cutting-edge nature of this project.
The Holeshot Question: Will Herlings Dominate Starts on the Honda?
Herlings: The Honda is known for its holeshot capabilities, and my initial starts on the bike felt incredible. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Racing is a different beast, with 39 other riders vying for the same spot. While I'm optimistic, the real test will come on race day. It's possible my struggles with starts on the KTM were due to setup issues, but only time will tell if the Honda gives me the edge I need.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Argentina
As I prepare for the opening round in Argentina, my focus is on training and testing. I'll be racing at Mantova, Hawkstone Park, and Lierop in the lead-up, and I'm considering joining other riders for training sessions in Spain to gauge my speed and feeling. With the weather in Holland being less than ideal, Spain offers the perfect conditions to fine-tune my skills. The first real test will be at Mantova, where I'll get a sense of where I stand.
Final Thoughts: A New Era Begins
This move to Honda represents more than just a change of teams; it's a new era in my career. The motivation within the HRC team is palpable, and I'm excited to see what we can achieve together. But I want to hear from you – do you think this switch will propel me to even greater heights, or is it a risky move? Let’s spark a discussion in the comments!
