Australian Mitch Evans has hailed reigning MXGP world champion Tim Gajser a ‘great teammate’ as the pair prepare for the upcoming 20-round season aboard the all-new CRF450RW.

Evans joins the Team HRC operation as a premier class rookie this year, and the squad just uncovered a heavily updated bike that will be piloted by the duo.

The Queenslander says Gajser has been the perfect benchmark in his pre-season campaign, although he’s concentrating on himself as the season-opener looms on 1 March.

“It was a dream come true to sign with Team HRC at the end of last year, and even though I’ll be riding in a new class on a brand new bike, I feel ready to show everyone what I am capable of,” Evans explained.

“I know it won’t be easy because the MXGP class is filled with top riders, but with the help of everyone in the team I believe I am ready to go out there and get some good results. My off-season has gone well and when I jumped on this brand new Honda CRF450RW, I felt good right away.

“Each time I get on the machine I feel like I am improving and when I’m riding with Tim, I have the perfect gauge to see just how well I am doing. He has been a great teammate so far but I know the results are down to me and that’s what I am concentrating on when the season begins at the MXGP of Great Britain on 1 March.”