Chad Reed believes that Jay Marmont’s decision to switch teams while on top for 2012 is a risk, but says that the seven-time Australian champion could potentially be “even faster and stronger” next year.

Marmont has departed the CDR Rockstar Energy Drink Yamaha team that he won five titles (four motorcross/one supercross) in four years with to join Monster Energy Kawasaki.

It’ll be a new challenge for the 28-year-old who enjoyed an unbeaten run at Yamaha in the MX Nationals under Craig Dack’s guidance.

TwoTwo Motorsports team owner/rider Reed is certain Marmont will take time to adapt to an organisation other than CDR, but has pointed toward Marmont making progress with Pro Circuit support aboard the Kawasaki.

“I think in this situation it’s always a risk, but you can look at it from so many different ways,” Reed told MotoOnline.com.au in an exclusive interview during a special edition of ‘The Point‘ feature.

“My opinion is that he’s leaving a race team that is a proven winner – a team that gets the job done.

“His first initial feelings will be really positive and he’ll be pumped, but I think come race time he’ll miss the organisation that he just left a little bit.”

Reed says the fact that the opening Australian Motocross round will not take place until April will play into Marmont’s favour, giving him a full four months to adapt to a new bike within a new team.

“In the off-season, the fact that Jay actually has four months to prepare, if Troy [Carroll]’s team is right in with Pro Circuit then I think Jay will be more than comfortable,” Reed continued.

“I know Mitch [Payton] builds the engine and suspension, and I believe that as a motorcycle it’s far better than the one he just won on.

“I think as far as equipment and Jay being happy with the bike, he’s going to be even faster and stronger than what he was on the Yamaha.”

To read the extended and full interview with Reed, check out The Point feature story at this link.