Image: Simon Cudby.

Australian legend Chad Reed charged to a respectable 10th in Saturday’s 15th round of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship on debut with an updated Husqvarna FC 450 ‘Rockstar Edition’.

Electing to race his machine of choice in 2018, Reed opted for the Husqvarna FC 450, racing a regular production unit fitted with a selection of performance enhancing components up until the weekend’s stop in Foxborough.

In the lead up to the event, the multi-time supercross champion took delivery of the Rockstar Edition FC 450, which is the same limited up-spec model that only Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing duo Jason Anderson – who leads the championship – and Dean Wilson have piloted this season.

The model, which is anticipated to be a preview of the 2019 production bike, boasts upgraded chassis, engine and bodywork that differ from the standard 2018 model specification.

Reed’s latest bike proved to be a positive choice, as despite limited time aboard the all-new machine, was promoted from his heat directly into the main after claiming fifth before putting in a strong challenge to complete the weekend.

Reed currently sits 13th in the championship standings as just two rounds remain, with the 16th stop scheduled for this weekend in Salt Lake City.