Casey Stoner will be back on a MotoGP bike later this year after the former world champion was invited to test for the Honda Racing Team at Motegi.

The Australian rider, who retired from the sport last year at the age of 27, will take part in four out-of-season tests at the Twin Ring in Japan to assist Honda in their development of the RC213V. Stoner will also be involved in the development of a new production racer that Honda will sell to selected satellite MotoGP teams next year.

Stoner retired from MotoGP after last season’s final race in Valencia, citing disillusionment at the direction that the sport was heading. In a seven year premier class career, he won 38 Grand Prix two MotoGP championships; in 2007 with Ducati and in 2011 with Honda.

Since retirement, Stoner has been racing in the Australian V8 Supercars series with Red Bull Racing Australia.

“It’s been almost seven months now since Valencia and I’m still happy and comfortable with the decision I made to stop motorcycle racing, even if sometimes I miss riding my RCV,” claimed Stoner. “That’s why I am happy with HRC’s offer to do some tests in Motegi this year! This will allow me to enjoy what I miss – riding a MotoGP bike!

“I can’t wait to get on the RCV to see how it has changed from last year and I’d like to thank Honda for this opportunity.”