Image: Supplied.

Reigning 450SX champion Cooper Webb enters his title defence motivated to show that change can be positive after exiting Baker’s Factory in favor of primarily training at the 83 Compound in 2022.

Webb, 26, has spent previous seasons training under the guidance of Aldon Baker, claiming two 450SX crowns in the process in 2019 and 2021, prior to making the switch this season.

“It does have a different feel no doubt, obviously a lot of changes… I think there is a lot of motivation to go out and try to show that change is good,” Webb commented, since working with longtime racer Michael Byrne.

“There’s motivation there and, to try and go and defend, I didn’t do it the first time and I think this time around I feel more experienced, I feel better and I feel as I get older I am getting stronger and physically fitter so I just feel like I’m in a good spot.”

The Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider will be equipped with the latest 2022 KTM 450SX-F Factory Edition in his bid for a third premier class title and, by all accounts, he is gelling well with the new bike so far.

“I think the motorcycle is for me a step in the right direction and improved in a lot of other places that I felt like we struggled with before,” Webb added. “For me, just being able to ride a dirt bike that you just feel so comfortable on.

“I’ve ridden quite a few different tracks with different guys all over and, I feel good everywhere I have been and with those guys I’ve ridden with. It’s time, it’s crazy it feels like the off-season has flown by, but I’m excited to go racing.”

Taking in Anaheim, CA, round one of the 2022 Monster Energy Supercross Championship commences this Saturday, marking the first stop of the 17 round series.