Interview by Chris Cumbo #2G
Name: Christopher Micklos
Age: 33
Home Town: Riverside, CA
Class: 30 Master
Bike: Honda
Number: 174G
How old were you when you started riding?
Chris Micklos: “I was 2 1/2 years old when I started riding. My first bike was a Yamaha PW50 with training wheels. Those training wheels finally came off by the time I turned 3.”
What was your most memorable race and why?
“At Star West when I was 14, my Nana and Papa came to watch my race. I was excited but the excitement got to me, and I went down in the first turn. I remember being so frustrated, picking up the bike, noticing something wasn’t right, but being determined to finish the race. It wasn’t until after the race that I realized I had broken my hand in the fall. It was the only race they ever went to, and I finished dead last.”
What is your family history with racing, motocross, and who would you like to mention cultivated you in racing?
“I’m the oldest of 5 siblings; all except for one grew up riding. Our Dad had a racing background and as soon as he could he put his kids on bikes. My brother Kevin and I were the only ones to ride competitively though. We’re Irish twins, only 9 months apart, and were often each other’s biggest competition and learned from each other. Back in our younger racing days if we weren’t at school we were at the gym or track training for the next race. I was that annoying kid in school who would relate everything back to motocross no matter what subject.”
Who sponsored you early on and which classes of motocross?
“At the age of 13, I was sponsored by Orange County Suzuki and No Fear to race 85cc. I remember signing the contract for No Fear and Sean Hamblin was there to sign his contract the same day. I was stoked as a kid to get all these motorcycles from Orange County Suzuki, our garage was always filled with bikes.”
Have you ever broken a bone while racing?
“Yes, the story I mentioned earlier with my grandparents where I broke my hand and ended up dead last. Also, last year during the OTHG Summer Series at Glen Helen, I broke my Fibula and tore tendons and ligaments in my ankle. It happened on the first lap of my last race; I landed on another rider who luckily rode away fine and ended up getting first place. I didn’t get back up and finish the race on that one.”
Any advice you would give to another rider so that they avoid injury?
“I’ve broken 13 bones throughout my riding career, most during practice. Both hands, both wrists, left collarbone 2x, right collarbone 4x, right lower leg, left lower leg and my left femur. My advice to avoid injury is to stretch before riding, take a sight lap and, always wear your protective gear, but ultimately injury comes with the sport and challenging yourself.”
Have you raced continuously from when you were young until now?
“I stopped racing at the age of 17 due to the financial crisis in 2007. Our family ended up selling all our dirt bikes. In 2013 I bought a 2005 Suzuki RM250 but unfortunately it was stolen shortly after. Then in 2016 I bought my 2001 Honda CR250 from my soon to be wife’s uncle and put “FUN” on the number plates; I was just excited to be riding again so it seemed right. I was able to re-enter the racing world and raced REM that year, running the number FUN.“
What bikes do you prefer when looking back between your younger days and now?
“When I was younger, I only raced on Suzuki but now I’m racing on Honda. I prefer any bike that can get me around the track.”
What is your favorite track to ride?
“I have fun riding any track, there’s always something to learn even if it’s a peewee track. A peewee track is normally tight and hard packed which teaches you balance at a slower pace. No matter what level you’re at you can learn from the vet track or a slower bike, such as different lines or a new way to execute the track.”
Do you plan to attend all of the OTHG Nationals during the 2022 season? How about Iron Man?
“With gas prices rising and motocross already being an expensive sport, I’m going to do my best to race as many OTHG races as possible.”
Are there any stories you’d like to share about other riders in the OTHG? Any Gang shout-outs?
“My friends and mechanics, Dennis and Justin Turner. Mike Miller for letting me carpool with him to American MX. Barret Kiick, who helped zip tie my back fender that I broke at American MX. Eric Clemson, Lanny George, and Nate Jones who fixed my flat at Glen Helen in between motos. And everyone in OTHG for all the support and being out there. “
What do you find most challenging about motocross?
“Being able to afford the sport and endurance. After years of riding, the injuries start to take a toll. Then, you get new injuries competing with old ones. Some days it’s difficult to get out of bed, let alone ride a 30 minute moto.”
What are you doing to combat that challenge?
“For endurance, I’m working on eating healthier, exercising more during the week but also not over doing it and risking injury in the process. For the financial side of things, I have started MXBMXETC; the goal is to create a community where riders can connect and learn from each other.”
Would you consider giving motocross training techniques to fellow OTHG riders?
“Absolutely, you can go to www.mxbmxetc.com and check out FUN MX Racing for information and to contact me regarding training.”
Would you like to share more about your new venture in MXBMXETC?
“Check out the website! It’s in the early stages but we’re excited to at least get it going. Lots of ideas and opportunities, we’re thrilled to explore and find ways to expand.”
Where would you like the 2023 OTHG South National to be held at?
“Perris MX track.”
Congratulations to Chris Micklos on becoming Rider of the Month for April 2022!
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