Five-time world motocross champion, Jeffrey Herlings move to HRC is for me, one of the greatest moments in the sport’s long history. A KTM man for the last 17 years and always known as the man in orange is now in red and for us, the motocross fans, it’s a huge step.

I know thousands, maybe even millions will be sitting up to watch the opening round of the 2025 MXGP championship, which opens in Argentina in the second weekend of March, will be watching how the Dutchman can perform on the HRC machine.

Having only become official a few days ago, Herlings has been riding long days on the red bike and going by video’s, he is already looking very comfortable on a bike that many feel is the best in the sport.

“The Bullet” sat down with Dutch media NOS 1, on their sport channel and gave his opinion of the last few days and what a magnificent change it is for him and his career.

A Big Change

Jeffrey Herlings: Everything is different, not just the bike, but the clothing, the engine and the people I am working with. Everything is different. The relationship with me and the bike is a relationship where we have to find each other.

Time with KTM

Jeffrey Herlings: 17 Years with KTM. I cannot remember somebody riding for the same brand for so long in professional motocross. In the media, this was a thing in our small sport of motocross. I had it good (with KTM), but a lot happened and I wanted a new challenge.

Honda a World Power

Jeffrey Herlings: Also with the company (KTM), they had financial problems, not so long ago and that isn’t a secret, the world knows that. That problem was solved, but Honda is a very big company. They have also delivered a lot of world titles. In my eyes, the Honda is the Ferrari of motocross and as a rider, I always thought it would be nice to ride for them.

The Honda Differences

Jeffrey Herlings: I don’t know one specific thing, but the motorcycle is completely different, a completely different world. I have ridden the same bike for seven years and this is completely different. An aluminium frame, something I haven't ridden. That was a huge thing I had to get used to.

Time In the Sport

Jeffrey Herlings: I am 31. I have two, three, four years, if I am really optimistic, but I think two more years is realistic. I have had a lot of luck (with lasting problems from injuries) and I feel really good, really fit. One and a half months before the first race and two months until the first world championship event.Try and stay fit, good testing, no injuries.

When are you Satisfied in 2026?

Jeffrey Herlings: To be world champion. From the last five rounds from 2025, when I was really fit, I won three and twice second, so I think I can (be champion again). We will see. I am going to do my best. If I can be first, second or third, I am okay, but the world title is the goal, and I think I can do it.