Ken De Dycker is returning to Honda. The 31-year-old has reached a deal with Honda’s MXGP satellite team, 24MX Honda Racing, for 2016. The Belgian spent the past four seasons with Red Bull KTM.
“I am really happy with my new start at 24MX Honda Racing. I’m very motivated to prove myself and bounce back after two disappointing years,” De Dycker said in a team statement. “
“As I started to test the 24MX Honda CRF450R I couldn’t help but getting all excited and riding with a big grin on my face! The bike is very easy to ride yet it’s pretty powerful. I have some unfinished business in MXGP so I’m thrilled about this new challenge. A big thanks to all my fans who have stayed with me throughout these difficult times!”
Over the past two years, De Dycker has missed fifteen rounds of the FIM World Motocross Championship due to injury. In 2015, he missed the final eight rounds of the series due to a shoulder injury sustained at the MXGP of Germany. He returned to action at the Motocross of Nations, helping Belgium to a third place finish.
“In my opinion De Dycker is one of the most underestimated riders. Time and time again he has shown that on his day he can pull something special out of the bag,” said team principal Marc Boone.
“As a new team it was not only his speed that attracted us in Ken. His ability to help us further develop the bike and to guide the team are equally important. I also think his relaxed, friendly attitude and his calm determination are a great fit with the team.”
