Source: Supplied.

Penrite Honda Racing’s Brett Metcalfe is anticipating a tough premier class field come this Sunday at Newry’s season-opening round of the Pirelli MX Nationals in Victoria.

Metcalfe, who signed with the returning factory Honda outfit operated by Yarrive Konsky for the 2018 season, will embark on a full campaign in Australia for the second year running following an illustrious career overseas.

“American Honda provided me with a bike to start practicing on last year and since my return in January I’ve had a rigorous testing schedule,” said Metcalfe. “Our preparation has been great and we are ready to race,”

“There are many fast guys in Australia who could race inside the top 10 internationally. I expect fierce competition from several riders but I feel I am ready to compete week in week out for podium finishes.”

The South Australian’s 2017 season saw him transfer across multiple manufacturers, and despite missing a round, he was still able to round out the year seventh in the standings with a number of podiums to his name.