Experienced New Zealander Josh Coppins is adamant that having a fresh new teammate in 2012 won’t affect his program whatsoever at CDR Yamaha for the upcoming Monster Energy MX Nationals season.

Coppins took the title chase down to the wire last year in a head-to-head dual with former teammate Jay Marmont, just falling short of the title after crashing out in the third moto at Coolum’s finale.

With Marmont’s defection to Monster Energy Kawasaki, Coppins told MotoOnline that it won’t change his position at CDR, and he looks forward to competing alongside CDR newcomer Lawson Bopping this year.

“I’ve been around a long time and to be honest, it doesn’t really change much for me,” Coppins said. “Lawson’s a good kid and I met him for the first time last week. I had a good time testing with him, so I think the CDR team is great.

“There was never any favouritism towards Jay or me, we just did our job, and it was awesome. To be honest I don’t think it’ll make any difference. Lawson’s a good guy and I look forward to working with him.”

It’s expected that the 2012 season will be former world number two Coppins’ final year of professional racing.

Stay tuned for a full interview to come with Coppins next week on MotoOnline.com.au.