The Dakar Rally for 2024 concluded on 19 January and while we didn’t have any Aussies on the podium, our two legends of the event – Toby Price and Daniel Sanders, placed in the top 10 in the motorbike category. Any finish in this most challenging event should surely be taken as a win!
The 2024 event was the 46th staging of the event and the 5th time that it was held in Saudi Arabia. The course covered nearly 8,000 kilometres over the 14 days including numerous stages which apparently really tested competitors. The course covered ancient cities, the Red Sea shores and dunes.
Competitors include cars, trucks and motorbikes with a total of 239 vehicles out of the 340 that started, finishing. In the motorbike category, 132 started and 96 finished. This annual endurance rally is a real test for riders and crews and for their machines. Reviewing which manufacturers finished in the leading group may be buying inspiration for those considering an adventure ride purchase.
Dakar Rally – Top 10
The winner of the 2024 rally was Ricky Brabec from the USA on a Honda CRF 450R. This is the second title for the champion after he won in 2020. Second over the line was Ross Branch from Botswana, notching up a landmark ‘first podium’ for Indian motorbike brand Hero and the first for Botswana. Honda also took out third place with Adrien Van Beveren making his debut podium appearance.
Australian legend Toby Price, a two-time winner, finished in 5th spot behind his KTM team mate Kevin Benavides. Australia’s Daniel Sanders rode is GASGAS to 8th. A position which was around 1 hour 15 minutes behind winner Brabec. Stefan Svitko and Martin Michek rounded out the top 10.
Congratulations to all riders and crews and while Toby Price may reportedly not be competing in the 2025 edition on two wheels at least, Daniel Sanders who had only recently recovered from an injury, is already setting his sights on next year.
Leading Manufacturers – Dakar Rally
For prospective buyers looking at the event for buying guidance, here’s the top 10 analysis. Honda had the most teams in the top 10 with 3, including the 1st and 3rd placegetters. KTM with Price and Benavides and Svitko also notched up three. GASGAS, Husqvarna and Hero one each.
Intel for buyers to hit the showrooms, or the net, to check out the latest models and any deals currently on offer.
Honda Motorcycles is one of the most popular brands on 2 wheels. In competition, the brand has a deep heritage with our own stars such as Mick Doohan amongst their riders. The brand offers a range of models to suit all types of riders including those looking for a LAMs model.
The model ridden by Brabec was the CRF 450R. This model is in the Competition category and will be a favourite ‘must test-ride’ for motocross enthusiasts. The ride has features which make provide greater stability even when making fast turns. These include the rigidity of the frame, suspension and bump absorption. If touring or commuting is more your riding style, Honda have rides for most riders.
If a KTM is your preference, you could be in for a saving with the brand advertising some great savings on a number of models. The 2023 models of the 690 SMC R are being advertised with a rideaway pricing of $17,895 and several 2022/2023 models in the Adventure range for $19,795. According to the brand, these prices represent savings between $2,200 and $3,600. Very appealing and worth heading to our Finance Calculator for motorcycles to see what those prices may represent in monthly credit repayment estimates.
Financing a Dakar Rally Winning Motorcycle
Entering an iconic endurance rally event may be outside your capabilities or possibilities, but owning a machine of the same brands as some of the winning teams could be a reality. To own a Dakar Rally winning motorcycle brand – Honda or KTM, contact Jade Bike Loans for lower rates on individually sourced secured motorbike finance.
Our better motorcycle interest rates across funding for all brands and models are negotiated from across a lender base of 80+ banks and lenders. Our brokers save riders the massive time commitment to cover off on the many options available by handling the entire credit process. From initial request for quote through to settling you’re your dealer.
Credit is available for all types of rides – competition and daily rides, of all sizes. Special services available to assist new, young riders get on their first ride with affordable credit.
For low rate financing of a Dakar Rally winning motorcycle, connect with Jade Bike Loans on 1300 000 003 or online.
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