Brent Bookwalter makes his return to racing for the BMC Racing Team Tuesday at Circuit de la Sarthe, nearly six weeks after being sidelined by injury.

A stage winner at the Tour of Qatar last year, as well as runner-up in both the U.S. national time trial and road championships, Bookwalter crashed in the final kilometer of the opening stage of Tour du Haut Var on Feb. 22. He injured his right knee, hip, hand and elbow.

"I hadn't planned to have such a gap in racing this spring, but the time off has only enhanced my motivation and appreciation for the bike," Bookwalter said.

"I have had a couple good weeks of training since my knee began feeling better and am excited to go back to Sarthe for my second appearance there."

Joining Bookwalter will be Tour Méditerranéen winner Stephen Cummings, Ben Hermans, Martin Kohler, Daniel Oss and Peter Stetina.

Sport Director Jackson Stewart said the race-mandated six-man rosters could play a factor in the four-day, five-stage race that includes a 6.8-kilometer individual time trial on Stage 3.

"It should make for some exciting racing," Stewart said. "I think we are bringing a strong, experienced team that can expect results. Cummings, Hermans, Kohler, and Stetina have all showed they are having a strong season so far."

BMC Racing Team Circuit de la Sarthe Roster (April 8-11):
Brent Bookwalter (USA), Stephen Cummings (GBR), Ben Hermans (BEL), Martin Kohler (SUI), Daniel Oss (ITA), Peter Stetina (USA).