Buenos Aires - Spain's Marc Coma practically sealed overall victory in the motorcycle event of the Dakar Rally after Saturday's timed section of the 14th stage.

The KTM rider stayed well in front of nearest rival Cyril Despres of France after the 227-kilometre special stage between Cordoba and Buenos Aires.

Barring any setbacks on the untimed 341-kilometre liaison ride into Buenos Aires, 32-year-old Coma will repeat his success in winning the bike rally in 2006.

The Catalan finished the time stage with a lead of 1 hour 25 minutes 38 seconds over fellow KTM rider Despres, who won the rally's last edition in 2007 as well as in 2005.

David Fretigne of France on a Yamaha was third overall, 1:38:56 behind Coma.

After Friday's 13th stage, South African Giniel De Villiers, driving for Volkswagen, was set to take the car section honours as he led team-mate Mark Miller of the United States by 2:20 going into Saturday's final special. (dpa)