CHAD REED:

The nation’s capital will host the fourth round of Super X this weekend and brings with it a fourth new format for Monster Energy Kawasaki rider Chad Reed to tackle.

The Triple Challenge will again place the focus on consistency – riders will accumulate points over a series of three 6-lap motos to determine a round winner.

Reed, the defending champion, is eager to return to the top step of the podium at Canberra Stadium after finishing second last weekend.

While quickly coming up to speed on his new KX450F, Reed said his focus would be on clean starts in order to avoid the usual mid-pack scrap for position.

“I’m looking forward to racing at Canberra Stadium, another new venue means we are taking the sport to another group of fans,” said Reed.

“It’s been a tough season so far, the Open class riders are much more prepared for the shorter races and as a result we’ve had a few different winners.

“I’m really enjoying riding the Kawasaki and am finding myself adjusting to it very well, each session gives us a chance to try a few new things and I’m confident that the bike will be fast this weekend.”

Reed is placed second on the Super X Open class ladder, 2 points shy of Daniel Reardon.

It’s been a whirlwind week for Reed, who has just returned to home soil after jetting off to Beijing to represent Australia in the prestigious Race of Champions alongside Mick Doohan.

Up against some esteemed motorsport greats, Reed showed impressive form, winning races against Dakar rally and four-time South African touring car champion Giniel de Villiers and WRC superstar Marcus Gronholm.

And while Australia was unable to move through the ranks of the knockout-style event, Reed said the experience had been one he wouldn’t forget.

“It was amazing just to be in the company of so many motorsport greats and world champions,” he said. “We raced a number of cars that each handled very differently – it was a real challenge to adjust to each one but it was an awesome experience.”