Motorsport: Duo head Suzuki assault

Cody Cooper (left) and Rhys Carter from the Mount. Photo / Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ

Suzuki NZ has named a powerful two-man line-up to contest this summer's major supercross and motocross events.

Mt Maunganui flatmates Cody Cooper, 28, and Rhys Carter, 22, will form the official Suzuki strike force this season.

Cooper is the national MX1 class champion and his selection comes as no surprise. And, with the form exhibited recently by Carter, his choice as the team's MX2 (250cc) rider must also be no surprise to many observers. Cooper and Carter finished 1-2 in the annual Tarawera 100 off-road motorcycle marathon near Kawerau in July.

"I'm pumped to be chosen," said Carter. "I have a 2012-model bike that I've been riding for practice but I can't wait to get on the race bike that's being prepared for me."

While Cooper took the national MX1 title last season, Carter had his work cut out to finish sixth overall in the MX2 class because he was on the comeback from injury.

Carter had a nine-month spell on the sidelines was no preparation at all for the rigours of racing at national championship level.

"I'm in a much better position now. I'm a lot better prepared and really looking forward to racing," he said.

Team Suzuki Racing will again be based at Moto City Suzuki in Mt Maunganui, and team co-ordinator Andrew Hardisty believes these two men will be a dominant force.

"It is Suzuki's desire to gain the best possible results again this season and we've concentrated our resources on a two-man team.

"We have a very strong team and I'm thrilled," said Hardisty.

The two-pronged line-up will have their first public outing at the big annual Taupo Motocross Extravaganza this Labour Weekend.