Ben Townley is on target for a Taupo return later this month.

Reigning New Zealand Motocross Champion Ben Townley is on track for a return to racing at Taupo’s final round of the 2013 series, according to Carlton Dry Honda Racing team owner Yarrive Konsky.

Townley has been absent since escaping serious injury in a heavy fall at the season opener near five weeks ago, his focus switching to the Australian Motocross Championship.

With an all-new 2013 CRF450R to develop and after sitting out much of last year through injury, Townley and the team made the decision to turn their attention to the MX Nationals.

“Ben and the team decided after the crash he has that we should focus on getting the 2013 all new 450 up to speed for the MX Nationals,” explained Konsky.

“We as team just felt it was necessary to have Ben and the bike in form for round one of the MX Nationals.”

Despite their decision of focusing on the MXN series to date, Honda is scheduled to field both Townley and teammate Ford Dale at Taupo’s final round on 31 March.

“The team will fly over with Ford and Ben to race at Taupo,” he added. “Ben has been back training since his fall and is looking forward to continuing the progress with the bike and his preparation.”

The MX Nationals will officially commence at Raymond Terrace in New South Wales on Sunday, 14 April.