Kirk Gibbs will likely have to wait another season at least before stepping up to the Pro Open ranks. Image: Alex Gobert.

South Australian Kirk Gibbs admits that his hopes of stepping up to the Pro Open class for 2012 are losing momentum, likely to remain in the Lites for another season.

Gibbs will be a favourite for the Pro Lites title next year after twice finishing second in the series, expected to remain at Serco Yoshimura Yamaha for another tilt at the title.

With Jay Marmont yet to decide whether he’ll remain at CDR Rockstar Energy Drink Yamaha alongside Josh Coppins for another season as he’s courted by Monster Kawasaki, a door may open on the team’s YZ450F.

But it’s now believed that Gibbs will spend another year in the Lites, with CDR team boss Craig Dack likely to sign a rider with Open class experience if Marmont does in fact leave.

“I was hoping to go to the 450 for next year, but it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen at this stage,” Gibbs said. “I’m happy to ride with Serco again and hopefully for next year we can win the championship.”

Serco has already re-signed Luke Styke following an impressive Super X campaign, with Gibbs’ apparent signing completing the team in the coming weeks.

Coppins has committed to one more full season in Australia with CDR, which could mark his final professional year after a decorated career to date.