The 2012 season so far has been a learning experience for Tickle. Image: Simon Cudby

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Broc Tickle came into his rookie year in the stacked 450 class this season with all eyes on him.

Not only is he the first rider in history to pilot a big-bore machine for Mitch Payton’s team, Tickle also came into this season as the reigning 2011 AMA Supercross Lites Champion.

Tickle has had an up-and-down season so far, from taking two solid top 10 finishes, to suffering a DNQ at the Pheonix round. The series has been a learning experience for him and he has continued to make improvements every week.

“I’m feeling really comfortable on the bike,” said Tickle. “I learn something new and make improvements at each race, so I can only be hopeful of what’s to come in the next few weeks.”

Tickle heads into San Diego’s Qualcomm Stadium for the sixth round of the Monster Energy Supercross Championship sitting 14th overall in points.