Max Vohland Interview: Tampa Press Day
February 07, 2025
Welcome back! How does it feel after such a long time off?
Yeah, it's been a year away from racing, but honestly, going into my fifth year as a pro, it doesn't feel much different. It just seems like I took some extra time off the bike. I've had a long offseason with no hiccups, which is good. I've been itching to ride different tracks and get back to racing. So, I'm excited to be here and stoked to be back.
How is the hip and the recovery from that?
The hip's good now. I don’t know if I’ll ever fully regain my nerve function, but my foot is slowly getting more feeling back. When I wear boots, I feel the most normal. Other than that, everything’s good.
Your hand/finger brake—was that weird to get used to?
Maybe for some people, but I grew up riding e-bikes with hand brakes, so the switch wasn’t too bad. The hardest part was figuring out clutch and brake turns, as well as brake tapping. But as the offseason went on, it became muscle memory again. Now, it feels like I’m riding a normal bike.
Last year, people were really impressed with the speed you showed. How do you feel this year compared to back then?
Honestly, not much different. I feel pretty close to where I was last year. Fitness-wise, I feel great. I can do motos strong. I won the first heat race last year, so I don’t know exactly where I stand now, but I feel close to that level. I'm riding really well and confident at the test track—just trying to bring that to the races.
You were in California before, right? Now you're in North or South Carolina. How has that move been?
Yeah, it's been good. I was cooped up in the house in California for months while I was injured, so it was nice to get out and have a reset. The club facility has been great—the tracks are amazing, and we have an awesome track guy, Miguel, who does a great job. It's been a really good change.
Last question—any expectations for the season?
Not much, to be honest. I have a two-year deal, so I'm not stressing about getting another ride. Of course, I expect myself to do well, but pressure-wise, I don’t have many expectations. I just want to see where I'm at.
