Matt Robertson chats with Professional Motorcycle Racer, Cody Webb, about his upcoming races and navigating a major career transition, moving from Sherco to a three-year deal with Yamaha.
Cody also shares an inside look at the challenges and opportunities of being a privateer, from managing his own team to testing cutting-edge bike modifications. He opens up about the lack of development in two-stroke bikes, the surprising risks of certain parts, and his plans to potentially transition into a research and development role with Yamaha after retirement at age 40. Lastly, Cody also reveals his best advice from mentors, pre-race rituals, and the craziest tracks he’s ridden. This episode offers a unique glimpse into the high-stakes world of professional motocross through Cody’s engaging firsthand account.
Also in this episode:
- Transition to Yamaha: Cody has signed a 3-year deal to ride for Yamaha, a significant change from his previous sponsorship with Husqvarna.
- Bike Modifications: Cody is extensively modifying a 2006 YZ 250 bike, including adding an electric start, upgrading the clutch, and changing the compression ratio. He’s documenting the process on YouTube to share his learnings.
- Industry Insights: Cody provides insights into the off-road racing industry, noting the financial struggles of the KTM group and the lack of recent development in Suzuki bikes. He’s excited about Yamaha’s renewed interest in the sport.
- Racing Strategies: Cody emphasizes the importance of getting a good start in races and maintaining a steady, efficient pace, rather than sprinting early and burning out. He also discusses the mental preparation required for endurance events.
- Retirement Plans: Cody plans to race until age 40, then potentially transition into a research and development role with Yamaha, leveraging his mechanical engineering degree.
- Mentorship and Advice: Cody credits the guidance of mentors like the late Kurt Caselli for teaching him the importance of efficiency and conserving energy while racing.
- Formula One Experience: Cody had the opportunity to attend a Formula One event with Red Bull, experiencing the VIP treatment and high-profile atmosphere of the event.
- Hearing and Vision Concerns: Cody discusses the potential long-term impacts of his racing career on his hearing and vision, noting issues with his left eye and the need for earplugs at loud events.
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: Cody has a coaching website, CW2training.com, which he sees as a “fun project” that helps support his family, though his primary focus is on his racing career.
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About Matt Robertson
Matt Robertson is a visionary artist who has made a significant mark in the glass art world with his unique matte-finished caricature sculptures, each reflecting pivotal moments from his life. His playful spirit shines through in his whimsical glass animal sculptures, often depicted in humorous scenarios that embody his vibrant personality. Inspired by creatures like giraffes, Robertson is captivated by the challenges of working with glass, a delicate medium that demands intense focus and energy, which he channels into his art. Each piece captures a dynamic energy, freezing it in time and offering a glimpse into his imaginative universe. After discovering his passion for glassblowing at Sheridan College in Ontario, he honed his craft in Eugene, Oregon, before returning to Canada to co-founded the Edy Roy Glass Gallery, a pioneering space that merges high art with functional glass pipes. Now based in Evergreen, Colorado, Robertson continues to evolve as a glass artist while hosting “The Robertson Stash” podcast and showcasing his work in galleries worldwide, all while advocating for contemporary glass art and its vibrant possibilities.
