James Stewart, the best motocross rider in the world, is celebrating his birthday today! The L&M San Manuel Yamaha rider is turning 24. Of course, we can't let that pass unnoticed. That's why MXM is serving you a special 'Bubba' menu. What's on the menu? An exclusive, extensive two-part interview for which we recently sat down with James himself, a great photo gallery and finally some clips. Happy birthday James!
You have the most impressive record of all active pilots, but it is striking that you also work hard outside of that to promote yourself and the sport? The showman James Stewart is as popular as all your competitors combined!
James Stewart: Thank you! It is true that it is important for me to show motocross in a good light. But first and foremost, I'm a racer. Jeremy McGrath was actually the first rider to pay so much attention to the public. McGrath did can-cans and nacnacs, he participated in videos and he ensured that our sport received more attention. Travis Pastrana also did that his way, but he switched to freestyle. On the other side you have Ricky Carmichael. Ricky was a fantastic rider who dominated the sport, he was the best ever. I want to combine the two, but I don't see myself as a full-time showman. I still want to race!
James Stewart the show animal!
In any case, you have a talent for entertaining and acting. We enjoyed your introductory clip (Check the second clip below!) for Bercy's driver presentation. Not every rider would like that?
James Stewart: Yes, the end result was certainly not bad! I thought it was a fun experience making that video in Paris. Although I must say that I was a bit afraid of the end result. The first time I saw the clip I was really pleasantly surprised. Normally before a race my mind is completely focused on the race. That's why it was good to clear my mind for once.
It is clear that you have handled the switch to the 2010 Yamaha 450 very well?
James Stewart: The new Yamaha 450 is easier to ride, but it is also very powerful. (big laugh) It's unbelievable how much power that engine has! It is very agile and responds excellently to the throttle.
Chad Reed switches to Kawasaki. Also you know the 450 KX-F and the team well, do you think Reed will be faster than on the Suzuki?
James Stewart: Chad Reed is an excellent pilot. He even raced with different brands before he came to the US. I can't tell you if he will be harder to beat on the Kawasaki. Only I know that the Yamaha is the most performing and most technologically advanced motorcycle of the pack. That's why I'd be more worried if Reed was on the new Yamaha instead of the Kawa! I do not worry. I will simply start in 2010 as I did last SX season.
Chad Reed and James Stewart are friends for life! Not.
From what we see on TV and read in the press, your relationship with Chad Reed is tense, to say the least. How real is that rivalry, or is it more of a game?
James Stewart: In the beginning it was indeed more of a game. However, over time it has gotten worse and that is a shame. In any case, motocross also lends itself well to controversy it's part of the game, you know? Our relationship is what it is, for me he is just another person who talks negatively about me. The only difference between Chad Reed and those others is that we compete against each other on the track. That is why his statements are widely reported in the press.
Is Chad Reed the only one who can beat you right now?
James Stewart: I do not think so. There are several young pilots who learn quickly. In the US we have Villopoto and Dungey. Or just look at Marvin Musquin in France. For my part, I always maintain maximum concentration as soon as I ride on an SX track to go as fast as possible without making mistakes. I think the other guys will do the same and they will be at their top level in a few years.
There are no Nationals on your program in 2010 either. Do the outdoors no longer interest you?
James Stewart: With Yamaha there was never really a question of riding Outdoor. We thought about it, but given the difficult economic situation we decided to focus on SX. It makes things easy for me because it allows me to concentrate 100% on my SX riding style. After all, that is what I prefer to do and it gives me more time to spend with my family. An additional advantage is that I have been able to fully recover from old injuries. For me it's a good situation. Of course, that doesn't mean I won't ride a full Outdoor season in the future!
On Wednesday you will get part 2 of MXM's big Bubba interview.
Photos credit: Simon Cudby/Red Bull Photofiles, Yamaha-Racing
James Stewart gives a tour of his crib:
