Source: Supplied.

Monster Yamaha Tech3 rider Bradley Smith will return to the MotoGP circuit at this weekend’s grand prix in Japan after sitting out the past three races due to a knee injury.

The British rider initially injured his knee while contesting the Oschersleben eight-hour endurance race, which effectively forced him to the sidelines for over seven weeks.

“I am excited about jumping back on my YZR-M1 and even though I know it will be a challenging race,” said Smith. “I am determined and I will do my very best. It will be the first time that I can ride a MotoGP bike after seven weeks and even though I am almost fit, it will take me a bit of time to fully adjust to being back on the Yamaha.”

Smith explained that this weekend’s grand prix at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit is a special one for himself, although he understands that the challenging nature of the track will make it physically demanding.

“Japan is a special place, with it being the home of Yamaha and also the country where I won the Suzuka eight-hour event last year. Plus, the fans are fantastic and really supportive which will motivate me even further.”

“However, I know this weekend will be physically demanding due to the stop and go nature of the circuit, plus, there are a lot of hard braking corners but I am certain that we can start the flyaway races positively before we head to Phillip Island,” he continued.