KOVE Claims Two Stage Wins at the 2026 DHD Rally

KOVE has made a strong start to the 2026 China Dahaidao International Motorcycle Rally, winning both SS1 and SS2 with the 450 RALLY EX.

Across the Gobi landscapes of Xinjiang, the opening stages combined high-speed tracks, sharp rocks, soft sand, riverbeds and demanding navigation. The KOVE line-up secured five podium finishes over the two stages.

KOVE SWEEPS THE SS1 PODIUM
SS1 covered 405.20km, including a 253.63km special stage.

Martin Michek set the fastest time at 3h 22m 57s. Milan Engel finished second in 3h 24m 51s, followed by Neels Theric in third at 3h 25m 55s, completing a KOVE sweep of the motorcycle podium.

Around 15km from the finish, Neels was forced to stop due to a technical issue. Sunier turned back to assist him, putting the team ahead of his own result. With Sunier’s help, Neels reached the finish and retained a podium position. It was a powerful display of teamwork under demanding race conditions.

NEELS THERIC WINS SS2
Neels returned the following day with a determined performance in SS2.

The 296.34km special stage ran through Yardang terrain, open Gobi tracks and riverbeds. Neels took the win aboard the KOVE 450 RALLY EX, with Martin finishing second. After being helped to the finish in SS1, Neels’ victory in SS2 reflected both his determination and the strength of the team behind him.

TESTED THROUGH RACING

The first two stages put the 450 RALLY EX through nearly 550km of timed competition. High speeds, repeated impacts, changing surfaces and difficult navigation tested its performance, control and endurance.

For KOVE, racing is a vital part of motorcycle development. Data collected in the desert will contribute to the continued development of the 450 RALLY EX and future rally models.

For KOVE, racing is a vital part of motorcycle development. Data collected in the desert will contribute to the continued development of the 450 RALLY EX and future rally models.