Shlok Ghorpade Clinches A Podium Finish At MRF MOGRIP SuperCross FMSCI Championship In Coimbatore

In the sweltering Coimbatore heat, KTM India’s rising star Shlok Ghorpade makes a comeback, though in vigorous pain due to an arm injury. Within a tight timeline and minimal preparation, he managed to secure the 2nd spot overall in Round 2 of the MRF Mogrip SuperCross FMSCI Championship on August 10, 2025.

Fresh off recovery from an arm injury, Shlok had barely a week of saddle time before lining up against India’s top motocross talent, making this podium finish a testament to sheer willpower and racing instinct. This dedication resulted in the winning campaign overall in front of thousands of spectators in a hot weather environment.

Moto 1: Stuck in First Gear, Still on the Podium

In the Moto 1 event, Shlok chose to start from the outer gate but failed to achieve a strong start. During the race, he patiently clawed his way to the third position, but that’s when disaster struck. A collision with another rider who was behind him broke his shift lever and locked his KTM 250 SX-F in first gear. This mechanical failure with the bike occurs only during the final five laps of the race.

Despite losing crucial drive on straights, he moved the bike home for an outstanding P3 finish in the opener. This made him climb up the podium not as a race winner but as a 3rd runner-up in the event.

Moto 2: Red Flag Drama and Late-Race Charge

In the next Moto 2 event, Shlok opted for the inner gate to start the race, but the race was red-flagged due to a false start. After the restart, battles through the course suddenly led to another incident for him. His arm pumped by lap seven, which slowed his pace, but mistakes from the front-runners opened the doors.

Demonstrating exceptional race consciousness, Shlok attacked, going over the line in second position, achieving 2nd overall for the round. The victory was not possible, but a mistake on the part of other rivals allowed him to maintain second position.

Chasing Performance in Tough Conditions

After the race, Shlok admitted struggling with traction and corner control in the dry, dusty conditions. He commented, “My wheels were spinning, which negatively impacted my two starts, and I struggled to maintain in the corners. The suspension felt too stiff, and the bike would slip when I tried to accelerate. I’m still working on finding the right setup after my injury.”

Despite this, he credited his family and KTM India for keeping his championship dreams alive.

Next Stop: California

Shlok’s next move is a high-intensity training program in California until the end of August, after which he’ll return to India for the championship’s October rounds, aiming to climb one step higher on the podium.

Final Standings—Class 1 SX 1 (Up to 500 cc)

1. Rugved Barguje – TVS RTR 300
2. Shlok Ghorpade – KTM 250 SX-F
3. Prajwal V. – TVS RTR 300

​CarBike360 Says

Shlok's Coimbatore podium was not about perfection, but about resilience, racecraft, and KTM grit. The orange rocket is far from done this season. Even thanks to KTM for supporting young riders who have the potential to win championships around the world.

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