News 19 Dec 2012

Payton planning full time 450 program for 2014 season

After decades of dominance with his 250-only Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki powerhouse team, Mitch Payton has revealed plans to introduce a full time 450 program for 2014.

Mitch Payton has revealed his plans to run a dedicated 450 program for the 2014 season. Image: Simon Cudby.

After decades of dominance with his 250-only Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki powerhouse team, Mitch Payton has revealed plans to introduce a full time 450 program for 2014.

Dean Wilson and Tyla Rattray are slated to ride the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki backed KX450Fs during the 2013 American outdoor season, while both will remain on the 250 during the 2013 supercross season as part of a new-look six-rider operation.

Payton will look to step up his program with a dedicated 450 program in 2014, which he hopes will be spearheaded by 2011 American 250 Class outdoor champion Dean Wilson.

“The plan is to be there in 450 with a 450 team in 2014, both supercross and outdoors, with Dean Wilson as one of the guys,” Payton told Racer X Online this week.

“It would be great to evaluate who we can get as a second rider for 2014. This is the step, and we’re committed to it.

“We have to get Kawasaki’s commitment to make sure they’re on board with it, but I wouldn’t expect them to change their mind. I don’t think the goal is to go out and steal a top 450 guy, but to give a spot on a 450 for one of our guys.”

The team first tested the waters in the 450 class during 2012, fielding Broc Tickle on a lone Pro Circuit-built KX450F alongside its 250 team regulars.

Click here to view the full interview with Payton on Racer X.

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