TM might be the smallest manufacturer in the world, but its passion, craftsmanship and commitment to racing make them a respected name in the paddock. The Italian brand continues to punch above its weight, producing a large percentage of its bikes in-house while taking on global giants with a fraction of the resources.
For 2026, TM has made headlines by signing one of Europe’s brightest young talents, Cas Valk, to lead its MX2 World Championship campaign. It’s a significant move that underlines TM’s ambitions for the future, balancing tradition and innovation while remaining true to its core values. We caught up with TM Moto’s team manager, Massimiliano Costantini to discuss the team’s philosophy, their goals for the upcoming season, the exciting addition of Valk, and the challenges of competing against much larger factory programs.
GateDrop: TM isn’t the biggest factory in the paddock, but it’s known for its passion and quality – how would you describe the philosophy and vision of the TM Moto project?
Costantini: As you said, we are the smallest manufacturer in the world. Our production is limited, but the care and passion we put into our motorcycles are evident, and we are appreciated all over the world. Our financial resources are limited, but the challenge fascinates us and drives us to do better and better. We build 87% of our motorcycles ourselves, and this takes time and resources, but we never give up and always look ahead.
GateDrop: What are the main goals for the team in 2026 and beyond?
Costantini: We want to be competitive in the MX2 World Championship and the EMX125 European Championship, but we have to deal with our budget and our staff, which is reduced compared to the global giants.
GateDrop: Cas Valk is one of the most exciting young riders in Europe and is probably the most exciting TM signing since Max Nagl. How did the deal all come to fruition?
Costantini: It was a long process that required patience and a good deal of risk-taking. It had always been a “dream” to sign a two-year contract, and it was an excellent job for TM.
GateDrop: You must be delighted to sign such a talented rider in Cas Valk?
Costantini: I’m not happy, I’m in seventh heaven – it was a masterstroke! I hope he brings us lots of satisfaction because we need it.
GateDrop: Do you see Cas as a long-term project for TM?
Costantini: We don’t like short-term relationships, the contract is for two years, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be extended. He’s very young.
GateDrop: What are your expectations for Cas in 2026?
Costantini: As I already said, we hope to be protagonists in the 2026 MX2 World Championship. If we can make it onto the podium it would be fantastic, but I want to keep expectations low.
GateDrop: After Cas tested the TM, what was his feedback about the bike?
Costantini: You will surely have the opportunity to ask him directly, but he was very impressed by the combination of frame and suspension. The bike is very easy to handle, very stable, and has exaggerated traction. As for the engine, it’s good, but we still need to work on improving it.
GateDrop: Just on Julius Mikula, he did a pretty good job I feel for TM in 2025. What was the reason for him to move on – was it mutual or did one side want to split?
Costantini: Many thanks to Julius, his wonderful family, and his coach Pavel. It has been an exciting season that has certainly contributed to the growth of the bike and the team. The decision to move on was mutual.
GateDrop: Did you ever consider a two-man rider line up to take on the MX2 World Championship in 2026? Or would you consider that in the future?
Costantini: Yes, I thought about it a lot, but we are a small team, and having two riders in MX2 means a lot of staff and a big budget. We also have our 125 machine, which is a fantastic bike, so the best decision for us is to have one rider in the EMX125 class and one rider in the MX2 World Championship.
GateDrop: Will there be any major updates or new developments for next season’s bike to try and close the gap to the other factory machines?
Costantini Yes, the company is working on several fronts, we are evaluating and discussing some innovative solutions.
GateDrop: How much of an input will a rider like Cas have in testing and development?
Costantini: Getting feedback from a professional pilot like Cas will help us a lot.
GateDrop: How do you find competing against much larger factory programs? Just how difficult is it?
Costantini: Believe me, it’s really very difficult. We don’t have much money to spend, so we have to organize everything in the best possible way. We have to keep costs down without depriving ourselves of anything. It’s really very difficult, but our motivation and pride are at their highest.
GateDrop: Do you think smaller manufacturers like TM get enough recognition or support from the championship organizers?
Costantini: Unfortunately not. They should consider that we produce 1,600/1,800 motorcycles per year of all models, profits are linked to the motorcycles sold. If we consider that the big brands produce the same number of motorcycles in a month, it is difficult to compete. Investments made in racing are part of the revenues from motorcycle sales. This is a fact, so organizers should provide assistance based on the investments that each manufacturer can afford.
GateDrop: What’s your view on the EMX system as a development platform for young riders – is it working as it should?
Costantini: I would say yes, the EMX is a good showcase for young riders.
GateDrop: Where do you hope to see the TM Moto project in, say, three years’ time?
Costantini: We have already made great strides. Five years ago, TM was not present in any championship.
GateDrop: Could TM look to expand its involvement – maybe even back into MXGP full-time in the future? That would be exciting!
Costantini: For the moment, we have no plans to participate in MXGP, but who knows what the future holds…
