Indian rider Harith Noah, representing the TVS Factory Racing Team, emerged victorious in the challenging seven-day TransAnatolia Rally in the B1 class, which features bikes under 450cc. This achievement serves as valuable preparation for the Dakar Rally 2024.
Harith Noah, a veteran of four Dakar rallies, chose to participate in the TransAnatolia Rally as part of his preparations for the Dakar Rally 2024. Riding his Sherco TVS 450RTR, he claimed the top spot in the B1 Motorcycles class, which is reserved for single-cylinder bikes with 450cc engines. Harith Noah, a Red Bull athlete, expressed his joy over the phone from Turkey, saying, “It is nice to be on the top of the podium again. I am very happy as this is the first time I am winning an international rally-raid event.”
Having represented India, Harith Noah achieved recognition as the fastest rider at the prestigious Dakar Rally, finishing in the Top 20 in his second attempt in 2021.
The TransAnatolia Rally spanned seven days, commencing in Samsun and concluding in Izmir. The event featured a challenging mix of terrains and conditions. With his precise navigational skills and determination, Harith Noah secured victory in the rally-raid, finishing fourth overall with a cumulative time of 17 hours, 09 minutes, and 55 seconds.
Harith Noah had undergone wrist surgery before the rally and aimed to use the event as an opportunity to regain his form and adapt to his bike’s new suspension setup. He overcame technical challenges and demonstrated confidence on the bike throughout the stages. Following his successful campaign in Turkey, he planned to further test the bike’s performance in the desert in Morocco.
Reflecting on his performance during the rally, Harith Noah said, “Coming back from wrist surgery, the goal was to finish and learn as much as possible as it was a rally raid with navigation. I was riding this bike for the first time with a new suspension setup the team had worked on. Overall, I was confident on the bike, and the stages went well.”
Despite facing some technical issues on Day 5, Harith Noah managed to complete the two Special Stages and a Super Special on the Turkey Motocross GP circuit. He encountered challenges on various days but showcased resilience and determination to stay competitive.
Harith Noah expressed his satisfaction with the new suspension on his bike and expressed gratitude for being able to pursue his passion. His participation in the TransAnatolia Rally serves as a crucial stepping stone in his preparations for the Dakar Rally 2024, which is set to take place from January 5 to 19, 2024, marking the fifth edition of the event in Saudi Arabia.
-IANS
