There are many different aspects to racing. Every time the Monster Energy Supercross Series comes to town, it’s a huge undertaking that pumps millions of dollars into the local economy, a way for athletes to push their bodies to their limits, and a way to teach kids life lessons. there is. However, the essence of motorsport should be entertainment.
All 22 riders in the Supercross A-Main have distinct personalities, but there are three who regularly set themselves apart, and whose happy, positive attitude toward life sets them apart from the crowd. You can easily choose from.
“Having good character is important, but in this sport it’s important to be a little different and get out of your comfort zone,” Aaron Plessinger told the media during his preseason press conference. “I think the fans will really resonate with that, and if you’re different, they’ll pay attention to the guy.”
Monster Energy Supercross doesn’t have a “Most Popular Rider” contest, but it’s safe to say that if there was, Plessinger would always be at the top of that list. In his sixth season riding the premier 450 class, Pressinger has gained many fans. I can hear it over the screams of the crowd.
His friendly demeanor made him one of the friendliest riders in the pits, which greatly benefited the riders and the Red Bull KTM team.
Justin Barcia brings a completely different personality to the track. The moment he bows to Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and puts on his helmet, Barcia’s friendly personality takes a backseat with intensity. His riding style has led to him finishing in the top five in 450 events 10 times since breaking into the top level in 2013, and finishing third in Pro Motocross points that year. His most recent top-five effort came last year during the 2023 Supercross season.
“This sport requires great character,” Barcia said. “We all have different personalities, different vibes. It’s great. That’s what makes this sport exciting.
“Even when we put the helmet on, people don’t always get to see the personalities, so when we do things like (preseason press conferences) we have to look at different players and us, It’s cool to see how they act.”
Malcolm Stewart agrees.
Stewart missed most of last year’s supermotocross competition with a knee injury, but at the 2023 season opener in Anaheim, the roar of his bike will be echoed by the roar of the crowd as he makes his pass in any position on the track. It weakened.
“We all have personalities here,” Stewart said. “That’s what’s fun about this game. It’s not necessarily just about racing bikes. That’s what Instagram and social media are for: to see what you do in the off-season – like Kenny. [Roczen] I love surfing, Chase. [Sexton] Lie to surf. We all have our own cool personalities and likes. That’s what makes us a fan favorite. ”
And while Barcia is right that fans can’t see the riders’ faces when their helmets are on, one of the things that distinguishes these three riders is the way their hair flows down their backs as they race down the straights. .
“The only reason I grew my hair long was because I was a huge St. Louis Rams fan, along with Stephen Jackson, so I always thought dreads were really cool,” Stewart said. “In the worst case scenario, he’ll be sitting in the shower for two hours with mud all over him. Personality is always key.”
Plessinger grew his hair long because he wanted to look like “Joe Dirt.”
More supermotocross news
Supercross Round 1 Results and Points
Jett Lawrence wins Anaheim SX
Will Christian is excited about new start times for West Coast SX
Lee Diffie: The Man in the Middle
Justin Barcia finds the fine line
Dylan Ferrandis can’t prove anything
Jarek Swoll, Evan Ferry and Joey Savatgy named 2024 Triumph Players
Hymas finally gets a chance to try on Honda’s big shoes
Aaron Plessinger feeds off of fan energy
Malcolm Stewart challenges for 2024 SX title after knee heals
