Brad Anderson will be a darkhorse for the 2012 MX Nationals title. Image: Kevin Williams.

Carlton Dry Honda Thor Racing’s Brad Anderson admits that he likes the backseat role he has taken to new teammate Ben Townley in the lead-up to the MX Nationals, Australian Motocross Championship.

The dual British Motocross Champion arrived in Australia late last month and has largely flown beneath the radar to date, but in an exclusive interview with leading European website MXlarge, Anderson said that’s exactly how he likes it.

With the Aussie series commencing on 1 April at Conondale in Queensland, Anderson believes consistency will be the key to the national title.

“Well, people think Ben is the favorite for his background and he’s just done well in New Zealand and he beat Josh Coppins and Cody Cooper there, so it’s wasn’t a real test for him,” Anderson explained. “I don’t know, I think there will be a bunch of different winners.

“I think the guy who is consistent will win it and I know I am consistent. You have to be injury free to be in with a chance. I am always the underdog, so I feel okay with that role.”

Anderson is certain the factory Honda team can learn a lot from Townley’s experience, but is more than aware that if he manages to capture the title, he’ll deserve it.

“I think the team can learn something from him, positive feedback for the bike and such,” he added. “The thing is if I win the Australian title with Ben here and all these other riders then I will be a true champion.”

Anderson stunned in 2010 by dominating the Raymond Terrace round aboard a privateer Honda on debut, but ranks Australia high on the international motocross map.

“Obviously when I came into it last time I won those races and I won them easy, but if you look at these top names it’s going to be hard to win it,” Anderson added. “It’s in my opinion the second best national series in the world behind the American series.

“Mind you the Maxxis British Championship also has some good riders in it, so that is also up there.”