Teenager Jesse Dobson will contest the MX1 category in the 2014 Monster Energy MX Nationals, stepping straight up following a single season in MXD.

Dobson was robbed of a podium chance in the Under 19s title chase last year following mechanical problems at the closing rounds, but said his debut was part of a strong learning year.

“I was disappointed at Coolum when both my bikes had mechanical issues at my home track, but 2013 was a huge learning year for me,” Dobson said. “After catching up with Jeff Leisk at Coolum we got talking about my future and he was keen to have me back on the KTM’s again.”

Initially Dobson was signed to race the season on the 250 SX in the MX2 class, however a desire to race the 450 SX-F was the cause of a late transition to MX1.

“I felt real good on the two stroke, but I really do see myself as a four-stroke rider and what better bike to ride than the KTM 450 S-XF, it’s awesome!” he added. “KTM, Pro Motorcycles, Fox, MPE, Kwala, Ipone and other sponsors were approached about the move and all were on board for the 2014 season.

“I was amazed on how keen all my sponsors were to see me take on the MX1 class. My goals for my first year in the class is to run inside the top 10 and learn off the factory boys

“A huge thanks goes to all the people that have made this dream come true and it really feels right to be back on the KTMs again.”