Coming just days after the revelation that Tye Simmonds and KTM have parted ways, it's been announced that Simmonds has chosen to ride Honda for the 2012 season.

The likeable rider from Bourke is excited by the new opportunity and looks forward to the challenges in front of him. "This is something I have been looking forward to, riding for myself and starting my own team," said Simmonds. "I look at what Chad Reed has done on the Honda and I have been impressed by his results, particularly last year in Supercross where he was a full privateer. The Honda has been doing the business in Supercross and Motocross and I feel confident I can get straight on it and go fast," said Simmonds.

Tye has also been impressed by Ben Townley's results in the New Zealand Championships and
believes that the Honda has proven it can win at the domestic level. "Ben is riding well and I know that his bike is based on the production CRF450. This gives me further confidence and I know my decision to ride Hondas is a good one".

Honda Australia has been supporting privateers since their inception. General Manger of Honda Motorcycles Tony Hinton appreciated Tye calling Honda; "There is no doubting Tye's ability, he has an impressive resume and when he contacted us to ride Honda I was excited to hear from him. We are dedicated to supporting riders on varying levels and we are glad to have Tye riding Honda's this year. We look forward to a successful relationship and seeing him on the 2012 CRF450R".

Tye Simmonds has an impressive history, winning the 2008 Under 19 championship and following
on from there with top five overall finishes respectively in the Lites and Opens all the way through to 2011. His impressive history makes him a threat for the 2012 Australian Motocross and Supercross Championship.

Tye Simmonds will be riding the new 2012 CRF450R in the up and coming 2012 Australian Motocross and Supercross championships.