Carlton Dry Honda Racing yesterday announced a new partnership that will see the factory outfit run Pirelli tyres for the 2012 Australian motocross and supercross seasons.

The move ensures that riders Ben Townley, Brad Anderson and Ford Dale have access to the best product available in their quest for 2012 championship success.

Pirelli boasts 56 world titles in motocross and their commitment to racing at the elite level is unmatched.

The tyre giant is the official supplier to F1 and the FIM Superbike World Championship, they are also a dominant force on the world motocross stage and now the coveted AMA Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross championships with James Stewart and the Joe Gibbs Racing Team.

Pirelli’s proven commitment to motorsport gives Carlton Dry Honda Racing faith in their choice of tyre for 2012.

Honda Australia’s general manager of Motorcycles, Tony Hinton acknowledges the need to have tyres capable of winning.

“The level of competition around the world is high and it’s the same in Australia,” Hinton stated.

“We needed a tyre that was capable of winning and Pirelli have proven their capabilities worldwide.

“It is great to be working with a company so proactive in elite motorsport. Honda welcomes Pirelli to the team and looks forward to a successful relationship,” he added.

The Carlton Dry Honda Racing Team has already competed twice with Pro Open rider Ben Townley in New Zealand.

Townley, who has made a great start to the season with two victories, was adamant prior to signing with the team that they had non-genuine parts that performed and that included tyres.

“I spoke with Yarrive and I needed to know that he was going to use products that worked, products that were capable of winning and performing at the level we are now racing at,” Townley explained.

“I am glad Honda went with Pirelli, they are proven performers and are continually developing in an effort to stay at the front.”

Acknowledging Pirelli sell what they race, Brendan Stoeckert, general manager Link International (Official Pirelli Moto importers) said the tyre company was extremely excited to align themselves with Honda Racing in Australia.

“When the team called we were pleasantly surprised,” said Stoeckert.

“This is a great alignment and sponsorship for Pirelli. The team has three amazing riders and we look forward to the newly formed relationship.

“Working with a team that has chosen to ride with our product is gratifying and all involved look forward to a successful season,” he concluded.

The team’s first appearance together in Australia will be in Queensland on 1April 1 for the first round of the Australian MX Nationals.