Racer Interviews: Matt Novakovich

This is the first in a series of ArcticCross racer interviews. This will be a chance to get to know some of the competitors, whether they typically finish in 1st or 20th. Being a democratic organization, we also welcome nominations! Let us know who should be on our hit list.

For the first interview, it only makes sense to talk to The Bicycle Shop's Matt Novakovich. Matt has not only competed in more ArcticCross races than anyone, he is also a 2-time defending series champ. This year, Matt finds himself in a series tie with Team Kaladi-Subway's Josh Yeaton, with 2 races to go.

9/25/2007
Nick: So Matt, what do you think of this crazy sport of cyclocross?

Matt: One of the main reasons I love Alaska is the Fall. Competing in the fall is nostalgic of my younger years when I ran cross country running in high school. The smells, the crisp, cool air, and the rain bring me back to some of my best memories. Cyclocross comes during this time when so many people hang up their bikes and start talking about spin trainers and indoor workout clubs. Do they not realize that the first Moose Run TT in April is over 7 months away?

The randomness, the hardcore-crazy formats and race venues found in cyclocross utilize most of our cycling skills; yet add a new-dimension that allows me to not get burned-out.

Nick: You have had the opportunity to compete is some high-caliber road racing events, like the recent Green Mountain Stage Race. When will we see you try a similar level 'cross race down south, like maybe a USGP event?

Matt: Last year, I actually did the cat 1-2 Cyclocross championships in Spokane, Washington. I got smoked! When I look back to that event I realize that Cyclocross is huge in the lower 48. It seemed that every competitor had a "decked-out" bike and everyone had impeccable form. This year I may venture out again but hopefully try to be a little more fit. In Alaska we have snow about the time things are just rolling in the U.S. - so we have about a month where I would have to stay dedicated to the trainer and running treadmill, and Acceleration Alaska in order to be fit and ready come November.

Nick: Tell us about the current set-up on your race rig.

Matt: I race a Cannondale Cross bike, which is full aluminum with a Reynolds Carbon Fiber fork. I use Reynolds Carbon bars and seat post, which work well to deaden some of the hard hits. I love my top bar-mounted brake levers, as I spend a lot of time with my hands there. I use tubular Tufo tires, mounted to Reynolds deep dish carbon rims. The whole rig weighs in at just over 17 lbs with my egg beater pedals.

Nick: It's been exciting to see someone actually give you some serious competition this year. What do you think of that young Josh Yeaton kid?

Matt: I feel I'm still strong enough to beat him, but not so strong that I can drop him anymore. I like the hilly-run-up courses because I feel I have an advantage on those courses.

I'll be excited to see Josh's progression in cycling. If I were to offer him some advice, not that he's asking, it would be that he continues to pursue lots of sports and hobbies because burnout can creep up on all of us, especially the youth.

Nick: Now be honest... what is your favorite race event in Alaska?

Matt: Cyclocross! Honestly. I love events that are hard and keep people honest. I like that I can do a pull-up or push-up and not cry because I gained 2 ounces on my left bicep. Cyclocross forces you to work out your own survival and success. No one can pull you, no one can carry your bike, no one can lift your beat-up shins over the barriers... heck- you don't even carry water during the race! Truly an event that has the best of all the endurance sports.

Nick: Thanks Matt and good luck in these final two races.