Matt Moss has experienced the highs and lows throughout his two-decade career in the pro ranks. The nine-time Australian motocross and supercross champion recently joined the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team. While practising for the Australian Supercross Championship, DA’s Grant Reynolds caught up with the veteran to talk about his new ride, what it means to him, and his future plans.
Interview and photos by Grant Reynolds/FiftySix Clicks
DA: Matt, how did your ride with CDR Yamaha come about?
MM: I felt it was a long time coming. For me, it was the dream ride. Since I came back from my suspension, Yamaha was the team I really wanted to get back on. Craig Dack and I had a bit of an argument in Perth at Manjimup. We spoke to each other and tried to understand why there was tension between us. We squashed it, and at the end of the conversation, I said, “Mate, if you need a Supercross rider for this year, I’m open for it.” Then Yamaha, with Matt Ferry, Scott Bishop, reached out. I’ve been loyal to them over the years and have achieved some great things with them, so I think that played a role. Since day one, I’ve felt at home on the bike.
DA: The Yamaha seems to suit you, as you’ve been on it for quite some time now.
MM: I don’t know if it’s just my style or the bike itself. The power is very good, and the new bike turns amazingly, so for me, it’s just a comfortable fit.
DA: How has your journey been coming back to the factory ride, and what does it mean to you?
MM: Oh, it means everything. As I said, coming back from the suspension, my dream was to win a Championship again, and it’s so hard doing it as a privateer. I was one point short two years ago, and I felt that if I’d been on Dacka’s team, we would’ve won the Championship that year. Now, with the best equipment and everything I need, this is my shot at winning a Championship, 100%.
DA: How do you feel physically and mentally getting back into racing?
MM: Today, terrible (laughs). I’ve been crook for four days. Mentally, I’m 100%. Like I said, I’ve got the best equipment—Dunlop tyres, factory suspension, everything I’ve wanted. And being part of a team that’s had so much success it makes a big difference. When you ride for a team like this, arguably the best in Australia, you’re expected to win. Mentally, I’m in a good place, and physically I’m pretty close. We’re about three and a half weeks out, and I think I’ll be on my A-game before Round 1.
DA: You’ve had a long and successful career. What are some of your favourite highlights?
MM: Winning Championships when I was younger was great, and I obviously reflect on them now. My win in Newcastle was massive for me personally, coming back from suspension, and winning in Wagga was special too. Coming second in the Championship was pretty good, and Paris was amazing. Since my suspension, I’ve gained a wife and two kids, so I’ve come back with a different attitude—more open and respectful. The wins I’ve had since coming back are way more special. If I win the Australian Championship, that would 100% top everything. Having my family watch me would make it the most satisfying win of my career.
DA: Injury is part of the sport, and you’ve had your fair share. What’s your process for coming back when you’re injured?
MM: Yeah, I’ve had some pretty gnarly injuries. My first instinct when I crash is always, “How long until I can get back on the bike?” If I didn’t have that drive, I probably wouldn’t be racing. It’s part of my mentality—I always want to ride again, no matter how long it takes. The injuries don’t scare me; they’re part and parcel of the sport. I’ve never been afraid of pain or adversity, and I’ve been riding with a wrist injury since 2010, where I’m in constant severe pain.
DA: I remember that—was that during the Suzuki days?
MM: Yes, back when it was legal to get injections on race day. I’d get injections from the doctors every day. Obviously, you can’t do that now, so I just have to bite my tongue and deal with it.
DA: What’s Matt Moss’s future? Any plans to go overseas for Supercross?
MM: No, I think that part of my career is done. I’m enjoying being in Australia and doing what I’m doing now. When I came back, my goal was to win the Australian Championship. I’ll be racing in India and doing some Supercross there, but I’m not going to race in the US or take on Jett Lawrence or Chase Sexton. That part of my career is over. I’ll still do some international events, like the Indian Supercross League and maybe Paris, but Supercross in Australia is where my focus is. I’m also doing World Supercross with Dack this year, which is exciting.
DA: Whenever I’ve seen you, you’ve always been passionate about Supercross.
MM: Yeah, I love it. If I could get a ride with this team for Motocross/Supercross, I’d take it. I wouldn’t want to ride for another team.
DA: Is there any possibility of doing outdoors or Pro Nationals with Dack next year?
MM: Who knows? I know they want a Supercross and Motocross rider next year, and I think Beaton’s a done deal for that. If the offer comes up, I’ll take it for sure.
DA: Awesome! One last question—your dad helped out with Dazzy Lawrence a fair bit in the early days. What are your thoughts on the Lawrence brothers and their rise to the top?
MM: Mate, it’s unbelievable. In one word: unbelievable. My dad had a big part in their early development, but I don’t know Darren, Jett, or Hunter that well. I was doing my own thing while my dad was coaching them. But their rise to the top is incredible. They’re two of my idols, even though they’re younger. Watching them race every weekend is exciting, and they’re a great family.
DA: That’s awesome. Thanks for talking with us today, and good luck with the remainder of the Supercross season.
MM: Cheers, Grant. I appreciate it. Thanks heaps, and I’ll see you at the track!
To find out more about the upcoming rounds of the Australian SX series visit www.australiansupercross.com.au
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