When it comes to Aussies in the world of motocross & supercross there’s one name that jumps to mind - Chad Reed!
A two-time AMA Supercross 450cc champion & a one-time AMA Motocross 450cc champion. Chad also is a record holder for the most main event starts in AMA Supercross history with 265. He’s also got 132 podium finishes!
Chad has also collaborated with Knobby two times on his awesome re-imagined take on Moto underwear. The 22PRO is a ¾ base layer that provides ultimate comfort & friction-free support. Perfect for any sport.
How did you first get into motocross?
My uncle and cousin were involved in racing MX.
When did you have your first-ever race?
It was 1986, I was 4 years old.
When did you decide to pursue motocross professionally?
I started racing Supercross at 12. I remember falling in love with Supercross and knowing it was what I wanted to do.
Who do you look up to in the sport?
I looked up to my cousin Craig Anderson (Aussie Champion) and Jeremy Mcgrath (USA Champion). Their smooth styles and dominance was something I wanted to emulate.
Did you really trade your horse for a bike?
Yes, at 3.5 yrs of age I had to decide to sell Fern the horse, so we could buy a dirt bike.
You were often dubbed an ‘underdog’ - Do you think this fueled your fire to become a success?
I think no-one at the time looked to Australia for the next American championship contenders. So considering I’m a small town boy from Australia. The underdog fighter mentality had to be there to achieve my goals. I learned early on - it doesn’t matter what “they" say…. It’s your own thoughts that steer the ship.
Any pre-race superstitions or rituals?
I always put my right side on first. Right sock, left sock. Knee pads, gloves. I can’t go left to right. I usually hold and tap my brand new helmets on the ground before I wear them out to ride or race. Kinda like it’s touched the ground - we are good to just keep it on 2 wheels. Knock on wood type thing.
Yes, this is a funny one for me. Early on they rode on PW50’s at about 4/5 yrs old and then they never rode again for years. In 2021 they decided to learn to ride again and then they asked to start racing. Tate (14) & Kiah (12) have the biggest passion for racing right now. Pace (10) loves to play ride and have fun. I really didn’t think they’d be into riding and racing. So the last 3 years have been fun seeing their love shine through.
You are based in the US nowadays. What do you miss most about Australia?
The beaches, the best seafood on the planet, friends and family. It’s always a battery recharge to come back to Australia.
If you could create your most epic motocross track what would it include?
Land with rolling hills, then just letting the track form into the natural terrain, add some sand rollers and a few technical sections to keep me on my toes. I love the clay, sand mix we have here in Florida which is why I moved back here.
If you could assemble your very own bad-ass Motocross gang, who would you pick? And what would your gang name be?
I think I’m already living that - My wife and kids are the most badass gang members. We do everything together and go racing and riding every chance we get. Instead of a gang we call it a race team, so maybe TWO TWO Crew could be the gang name.
When did you first discover Knobby?
I think it was 2015, I went to Australia and they were supporting Australian Supercross. I got to meet Rob and we hit it off.
Why does every rider need a pair of 22Pros?
It’s the base layer every rider needs under their gear. It gets rid of the need for any knee brace stockings. It protects from chaffing up under the knee braces and allows you less layers, which is a lot cooler and more comfortable. I wear the 22Pro underwear and my socks. A knee pad and my riding pants. I love the material quality that Knobby is known for HyperMesh keeps me feeling drier and fresh and the HyperChill moisture management keeps me feeling cooler. All important aspects of performance underwear.
What’s your favourite Knobby design and why?
I always ended up wearing the avocado undies. I just liked them and maybe always the clean ones on the top!
I also love the Aboriginal design. Being an Aboriginal, I'm proud to wear them and I like the design and colours! The kids love all the colours and designs that come in the mail. It’s a lot of fun.
