Image: Supplied.

The Penrite Honda Racing Desert Team will has been introduced by Honda Motorcycles Australia for 2018, focusing on the Finke and Hattah desert races in its inaugural year.

To be managed by former Finke champion Michael Vroom, under the direction of Honda’s factory motocross and supercross owner Yarrive Konsky, the team will field Jacob Smith and Callum Norton on CRF450Rs.

“It’s tough trying to race whilst organising everything with my brother, so I feel a weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I can really focus on racing,” Smith stated. “I also feel I can help the team and the other riders by sharing my experiences and knowledge. I am really looking forward to the season ahead.”

Norton, who will also contest the MX Nationals MXD championship and Australian SX2 series, claimed fourth in last year’s Hattah Desert Race and has gained official Honda support for this season. This year will mark his debut at Finke.

“I am pumped to be racing for Honda and doing some desert racing,” Norton commented. “The Finke has always been on my radar, so I’m certainly keen to be as competitive as possible and give it my best.”

The team has also signed Mark Grove and Caleb Auricht to race in the 250 class. Both riders have proven worthy of a factory ride and are ready for a big season ahead as part of the new-look factory program.