RED PLATE GOES GREEN FOR 2012 MX NATIONALS

After taking out the past four MX Nationals titles with CDR Yamaha in the MX1 (formerly Pro Open) class, Marmont will bring the number 1 'red plate' to the Monster Energy Kawasaki team for the season opener.

Aside from the prominent signage of major sponsor, Monster Energy, Jay's KX 450F will also carry signage from the team's other sponsors in Boost Mobile, Skullcandy, Unit, Castrol, Uni Filter, One Industries and more.

After a summer of testing and bike development, the 28-year-old from Wollongong is primed for the opening round at Conondale in Queensland this Sunday, April 1.

"I'm excited and up for the new challenge," Jay said in a recent interview. "The KX450F is unreal. It's a very balanced bike and it feels really good on the track. The engine's strong and the Monster Energy Kawasaki guys have been great getting me familiar with the bike. I'm really enjoying riding it."

Marmont's KX 450F will wear the series leader's red plate for the opening round, but will the four-time champ retain it after the weekend's racing? Watch this space to find out!