CHAD REED:

Defending Super X Open champion Chad Reed is aiming to make a return to the top step of the podium at Geelong this weekend after an early crash at the last round hampered his progress.

Reed took time out to rest an elbow injury earlier this week before returning to testing commitments with team members from Monster Energy Kawasaki.

He heads into the second of seven rounds placed third on points.

The 27-year-old, who was crowned AMA Motocross champion just a few months ago, said he was feeling good about his chances at Geelong.

“This week we race a different format which is 4 five-lap motos with a short break in between, it takes the emphasis away from endurance and places it on explosive speed,” said Reed.

“Consistency will be important too, and I’ve factored this in to some of the training I’ve been doing this week.

“My elbow is still fairly sore but I just have to push on with the job.

“I’m feeling confident on the bike which has been good with very little testing – each round will give us a chance to make further adjustments based on how it performs during races.”

Reed took victory at the Geelong round last year with wins across all three motos in the final.

Tomorrow’s Skilled Stadium event will open with practice and heat races before the final field of riders is selected for the four-moto final.