As the 2016 Monster Energy AMA Supercross 250SX Western Regional Championship nears its mid-season break, it’s time for the east coast riders to gear up and prepare for battle. Although people have a tendency to believe the west coast is the more stacked field, which at times is can be, the east coast for 2016 has a list of strong contenders ready to contest for the title. For this latest edition of MotoOnline.com.au’s Countdown, we’re outlining a selection of those top contenders heading into the season opening round on 27 February.

6. Shane McElrath
The Troy Lee Designs/GoPro/Red Bull KTM rider will be a consistent podium threat in 2016. He has the experience behind him, the speed and now a factory KTM 250 SX-F underneath him with his previously factory-supported team becoming the full factory KTM 250SX team in 2016. Last year McElrath began lifting the pace and turning some heads, first it was with impressive heat race performances, then it was main event podium finishes. I’d keep an eye out for this likeable factory KTM pilot, 2016 is his time to shoot for that elusive maiden victory.

5. Aaron Plessinger
This guy is one talented rider, there’s no denying that. The Yamalube/Star Racing Yamaha rider came out firing in his rookie year landing on the podium in supercross before going on to take an overall win in motocross. Plessinger earned himself the rookie of the year title and will return with the familiar Yamaha squad in 2016 as a serious contender for this championship. After being so strong in his rookie season, now returning with a year of experience under his belt, a lot more confidence and a better feel of the professional scene overall, he will be impressive that’s for sure.

4. Justin Hill
Justin Hill, the younger brother of former 450SX winner Josh Hill, is a multi-time podium finisher and previous winner in the 250SX class. Not only does he have strong results, he’s experienced, smart and fit. Hill, like McElrath, is aboard a factory KTM 250 SX-F with the Troy Lee Designs/GoPro/Red Bull KTM team. Coming off the back of a rather sub-par 2015 season with time sidelined due to injury, Hill will be fired up and ready to battle for this 2016 Eastern Regional 250SX number one plate.

3. Malcolm Stewart
Malcolm Stewart, the brother of James Stewart, the rider who at one stage considered giving up the sport before returning to the 250SX class and capturing a main event victory in 2015. Stewart is one of those riders who you want to watch at all times, you just never know what he’ll do out on the track. For a bigger rider in the 250SX class, Stewart carries an incredible amount of momentum around the right tracks – it’s amazing what he can do. Returning with the GEICO Honda team for 2016, with a win under his belt and looking super strong in pre-season events, expect him to be right there in the thick of things.

2. Jeremy Martin
Although the younger of the two Martin brothers may be considered an outdoor specialist, the Yamalube/Star Racing Yamaha rider has won a 250SX main event in his career, he’s no slouch indoors. Coming into 2016 with more experience, more time on a supercross track and a more mature mindset, Martin will be searching for an indoor title to sit with his two impressive outdoor number one plates. And although these guys may not be the best of buddies, you can bet your bottom dollar Martin has been taking notes from blistering fast teammate Cooper Webb at the test track.

1. Tyler Bowers
He may have less friends than most in the 250SX class, not known for his delicate approach to passing fellow racers in tight situations, but he’s definitely one of the fastest and most talented out there. The Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider has shown he’s the real deal when it comes to supercross, there’s no denying he has what it takes to win championships. A previous main event winner, Bowers battled with a back injury during 2015, eventually bowing out of the championship to have it repaired. All looks to have gone well and a healthy Bowers heading into this series could make times tough for the rest of the field.