The ongoing feud between Eli Tomac and Ricky Carmichael over the issue of “skill vs. technology” has been heating up lately, with each side passionately defending their stance. It’s no surprise that James “Bubba” Stewart, one of the most skilled riders in motocross history, would have something to say about it. In a recent interview, Bubba shared his thoughts on the matter, bringing a unique perspective that blends his personal experience and unwavering belief in the power of skill.
“You know, the technology’s always going to play a role in racing, no doubt about it,” Bubba began, addressing the debate head-on. “We’ve come a long way with the bikes, and there’s no denying that tech plays a big part in how we race. But when it comes down to it, you can have all the fancy bikes and gadgets in the world, but you need the skills to back it up.”
This is a perspective that only someone like Bubba can truly speak on with authority. Throughout his career, Stewart was known for pushing the limits of what was possible on a dirt bike, often out-riding his competition with sheer talent and instinct. He had the ability to make a bike do things others thought were impossible, regardless of the technology that was available at the time.
“I’ve been on both sides of that,” he continued, reflecting on his own journey. “I started on bikes that didn’t have nearly the kind of technology we have today, and I had to learn how to make them work. Over time, technology advanced, and the bikes got faster and more advanced. But at the end of the day, no matter how much tech you throw into the mix, it’s still about what you can do with it. My whole career, it was about what I could do with the bike, not just the bike doing the work for me.”
Bubba’s words ring true when you look back at his dominance in the sport. He was known for his incredible speed, control, and ability to handle the most demanding tracks with an ease that set him apart from his competitors. While the technology behind the bikes improved, it was Bubba’s natural skill and mastery over the machine that made him stand out.
The feud between Tomac and Carmichael is just the latest chapter in the long-running debate over the role of skill versus technology in motocross. Tomac, who is known for his aggressive riding style, has often leaned into the advantages of advanced bike technology, while Carmichael, a seven-time AMA Supercross Champion, has always emphasized the importance of raw talent and rider skill. It’s clear that both sides have valid points, but for Bubba, skill will always be at the forefront.
“Eli’s a beast, no question,” Bubba said, acknowledging Tomac’s impressive riding ability. “But at the end of the day, it’s about how you handle the bike, how you ride it, and how you push yourself to the limit every time you hit the track. That’s where the real separation happens.”
Stewart’s words cut to the core of what makes motocross such a unique and challenging sport. It’s not just about the machine under you, but how you make that machine perform. The best riders in the world are those who can adapt to any situation, push their limits, and bring their own flair to every race. Technology may help, but it’s the rider’s skill that truly defines them.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: James Stewart believes in the power of skill above all else. And with his unparalleled success on the track, it’s hard to argue with that.
