Former factory Honda rider and GP winner Evgeny Bobryshev is pictured testing the new 2018 Suzuki RMZ450 at a track run by one of his new sponsors for 2018. He’ll contest the British Motocross championship, MX Nationals and UK Arenacross series for the team after failing to get a full-time GP ride. He’ll also contest selected GPs.

The Russian visited Lombard Express Suzuki tam manager Neil Prince at his Northamptonshire base and rode the all-new RM-Z450 at the nearby Woodford AMCA track. The circuit is managed by Lombard Express owner Andrew Dawkins, a long-time Suzuki fan.

Bobyshev was left without a GP ride after HRC Honda restructured for 2018. With Suzuki quitting MXGPs and all other teams full, the Russian was left looking for an alternative ride. He last rode with Prince in the CAS Honda team when he won the British championship in 2010.

The Russian ace will also contest next year’s Arenacross UK championship, joining this year’s runner-up, Angelo Pellegrini, in the RFX Suzuki team.

Bobby said: “I’m really happy to sign with Neil [Prince – team manager] and race the new RM-Z450 in 2018. I have known him a long time and worked with him before, and it was a lot of fun. Hopefully we can have a good season next year, and fight for the title. I am planning to start riding the bike next week, get focused, and get ready.”

Neil Prince added: “I’m pumped to have Evgeny onboard for next year. It’s really exciting news for us but also for the championship. I’ve known him for a while now and we’ve always got on well. I’m pleased we’ve been able to put a deal together and now we’re focussed on having a successful 2018.”