Image: Simon Cudby.

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Josh Grant will be replaced by Tyler Bowers for the remainder of the 2016 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship after he opted to undergo a double ankle operation.

Grant was signed to fill-in for Wil Hahn, however his existing ankle injury has forced him out for the remainder of the year. Instead, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki regular Bowers will make his debut at Red Bud.

“The decision to have both ankles operated on at the same time was a tough one,” said Grant. “I’ve been battling this injury for a few years and I want to get it fixed now so that I am ready for the 2017 season. I want to thank the Monster Energy Kawasaki team for the opportunity to race this year.”

Multiple Arenacross champion Bowers hasn’t raced a full season outdoors since 2009 and is currently on a Supercross-only arrangement with the Pro Circuit squad, but is embracing the opportunity to ride the KX450F.

“I’m really happy to have the opportunity to race the outdoors,” Bowers said. “To be able to do it on the Monster Energy Kawasaki factory KX450F is a dream come true. Red Bud is my favorite track and I’m looking forward to taking full advantage of the opportunity in front of me.”