Roberts will be gunning for the AORC #1 plate that he formerly held.

Former Australian Off-Road Champion Anthony ‘AJ’ Roberts will be riding red again in 2010 with the announcement by Honda Australia that he has formed his own team to take on the AORC, Australian Four Day Enduro and other key events on the calendar.

“I’m excited to say that for 2010 I will be racing for the Force Honda Thor Michelin Off-Road Team,” AJ said. “Honda Australia has given me a great opportunity to represent them at the highest level in off-road racing and along with major support from Force Accessories, Gas Imports and Michelin Australia, they are giving me the best opportunity to put together a great race season.”

AJ will also be contesting the Finke Desert Race under the guidance of former Finke Champion Michael Vroom, owner of Desert Edge Motorcycles in Alice Springs.

“This will be my first year racing Finke so there is a lot to learn, but riding under Michael’s new DERT Team will give me the best chance I can get out there,” Roberts continued.

The 27-year-old will also take on the Australian Safari with the help of GHR Honda, who have backed numerous winners over the years.

“The Safari will be a priority of mine and with the help of GHR Honda, the long haul to Western Australia will hopefully be a trip to remember – it’s definitely one of Australia’s most gruelling events,” he concluded.

Roberts has also launched a new website at www.aj36.com, including video of the multiple champion taking out his 2010 CRF450R for its inaugural ride.

The first round of the AORC will be held in Port Macquarie, NSW, on 13-14 March.