Big news from KTM, as the “Ready to Race” brand has appointed John Hinz as the new President of KTM North America, effective January 1st, 2017. This means that the buck will stop with Hinz, when it comes to KTM, Husqvarna, and WP Suspension brands in the United States and Canada.
Hinz will take over from current President Jon-Erik Burleson, who will stay on through January 31st, in order to ensure a smooth transition. After that point in time, Burleson will shift to a brand ambassador role for Husqvarna.
A nearly 20-year veteran of the motorcycle industry, Hinz comes to his new role in KTM USA after being with the Austrian company for the past 10 years.
Starting his career first at Yamaha, Hinz’s first position at KTM was as a product manager, before moving into an R&D post, which included overseeing the KTM/HMC RC8 Superbike Racing program.
From there, Hinz became the Vice President of Group Marketing and Product Development, with his most recent posting being the Managing Director for KTM North America.
Thus, Hinz’s appointment as President to KTM North America bodes well for street-focused riders, and surely his first set of marching orders includes building out KTM North America’s offerings and support for street riders – the brand still being heavily dirt-focused in the USA and Canada under Burleson’s direction.
“I have arrived at a point in my career in which I have decided to embark on new personal challenges,” said out-going President, Jon-Erik Burleson. “My passion for both the company and individual brands remains strong and true, as well as my personal investment in continuing industry initiatives to support the sport of motorcycling, which tie back to the company’s foundation of success and core of the brands.”
“I’m looking forward to assuming the role of Brand Ambassador with Husqvarna, which allows me to remain involved with a brand that is so near and dear to my heart and stay connected within the motorcycle industry. I have worked closely with John for many years now and I am looking forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the company.”
Source: KTM
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