Spanish motorcycle manufacturer Rieju will return to the Dakar Rally in 2027 with its Rally 307, a production-based motorcycle prepared for rally competition. August Castella, who led the bike’s development, will compete on the 293cc machine.
Unlike the purpose-built 450cc rally bikes commonly used in the event, the Rally 307 is based on a production adventure model available to the public. Rieju says the race bike will be randomly selected from its production line and modified with accessories customers can buy.
Castella, who previously tested a prototype in Africa, recently competed in the Rallye du Maroc as part of the team’s Dakar preparations. The Rally 307 features a 293cc engine producing a claimed 33.5 horsepower.
Rieju, based in Figueres, Spain, last competed in the Dakar in 2025. The company plans to use the 2027 event to evaluate the Rally 307’s performance and reliability, with the goal of applying what it learns to future production models.
“We haven’t created a motorcycle specifically for the Dakar,” Castella said. “This bike is designed to accompany you on any adventure you want to experience. And if that means taking on the Dakar, the bike won’t be what holds you back. I am approaching the Dakar confident that I have done my homework.”
“Seeing a production Rieju take on the Dakar has a very special meaning,” said Jordi Riera, CEO of Rieju and grandson of the founder. “Taking the Rally 307 to the Dakar is a way of showing the world our work and sharing that challenge with everyone. We are going to the Dakar with the aim of completing as many stages as possible, learning and applying that experience to this and future models. We will randomly select a Rally 307 from the production line and prepare it for the Dakar using accessories that customers will be able to buy.”CN
