Travis Spader 6-20-01
- Updated: June 20, 2001
We’ve heard more than one conversation that involved the question of ATV aftermarket companies taking advantage of professional ATV racers.
With that, we decided to throw ten questions in front of a few professional riders and aftermarket people in the ATV industry. Here’s what 2000 Pro GNC Champion, Travis Spader had to say…
ATV Scene: Are professional ATV racers getting what they deserve out of their racing efforts?
Spader: Absolutely not. Look at the motocross industry, we’re not even close to being at their level.
ATV Scene: Do you think that ATV aftermarket companies are taking advantage of the efforts of their sponsored riders? If so how?
Spader: No. Because the aftermarket companies do not sell close to the volume of products that the motocross industry sells.
ATV Scene: How is the ATV manufacturers’ lack of involvement in ATV racing effecting the sport?
Spader: No television coverage because the factories are not involved with ATV racing.
ATV Scene: What does a professional ATV racer need to do in order to make a comfortable living?
Spader: Earn whatever salaries he or she can aquiere from sponsorships and win every single race to earn just barely enough purse money to survive.
ATV Scene: Why is it so difficult to field an ATV racing team?
Spader: It’s not if you are number one.
ATV Scene: What needs to be done to accelerate the sport further?
Spader: TV coverage, rider recognition through video games, videos and magazine coverage.
ATV Scene: What ATV racing series has the most potential money for a professional rider?
Spader: SFX Pro Quads because of TV coverage and large spectator numbers.
ATV Scene: What series is the most competitive, (has the most talented riders)?
Spader: GNCs
ATV Scene: What do you see happening in the future of ATV racing?
Spader: The veteran professional riders will begin to retire and the series won’t be the same.
