Eggens plans KTM four-stroke for 2003.

Leading Dutch rider Erik Eggens has re-signed to race for the factory KTM supported Champ team for 2003, but has decided to ride a new 250cc four-stroke in the 125cc World Championship.

Speaking to motograndprix.com, the 24-year old commented that he had been approached by KM race manager Kurt Nicoll to spearhead the development of the four-stroke.

"Kurt approached me about two months ago and told me about his plans for running the new four-stroke and how KTM wanted me to race and develop it," Eggens revealed, "I was interested immediately and flattered that the factory was giving me the responsibility of working with a new bike.

"I have ridden Javier Garcia Vico?s 500 several times and liked the characteristics of the engine. Obviously a 250 will be a bit different to a 520, but I enjoyed the feel of the bike and have the firmest belief that KTM will produce a good four-stroke."

Eggens is not bothered by the prospect of campaigning a brand new machine - especially having witnessed the trials and tribulations of Jamie Dobb and Gordon Crockard trying to get the new 250 two-stroke on the pace in the premier quarter-litre class, and having managed only one podium between them so far - and even has a handy back-up plan.

"In my contract it states that I can revert back to the 125 two-stroke if we are struggling to make the bike competitive," he explained, "After all, KTM already have an excellent 125. Although the four-stroke is a really positive move and an exciting idea; I?m sure it will be successful."

Eggens is set to return to action at Gaildorf on 18 August, having broken his leg and damaged ankle ligaments in a training incident prior to the GP of France in May. With three podiums from four races before he severely twisted his leg and suffered the injury, the Dutchman was a favourite for championship success.

"I originally wanted to be back for Genk, but the GP has come around too early," he admitted, "I was riding the bike for the eighth or ninth time this week, and I?m getting better with each outing, but my speed and fitness is not good enough yet; I was feeling tired after about 20 minutes. I wish to return at 100 per cent, and Gaildorf is a realistic target.

"I?m still ahead of schedule. The doctors said I wouldn?t be able to ride for three months and I?m back on the bike in two. The goal now is to take a bit more time and reach the same level I was before the injury in the last couple of races so I can get a good run into 2003.

"The four-stroke news was a nice boost after the disappointment of my injury, and it was nice to know that my experience counted for something. I believe the first running engine will be ready in November and that will mean a busy testing period of four months to get the bike ready."

Fellow Dutchman Marc de Reuver has signed to ride with the Champ KTM set-up for the rest of the year alongside championship contender Steve Ramon, but
Eggens remains the only rider to have committed himself to the team for 2003.