Eli Tomac Responds to Ricky Carmichael’s Comments on Skill vs. Technology
Eli Tomac Responds to Ricky Carmichael’s Comments on Skill vs. Technology
Eli Tomac, one of the most dominant riders in modern motocross, has always been known for his dedication and relentless work ethic. So when Ricky Carmichael, often considered the greatest motocross rider of all time, weighed in on the debate about motocross eras, claiming that today’s riders, like Tomac, benefit from advancements in technology that were not available in his own time, Eli Tomac didn’t hold back in his response.
Carmichael, speaking on the ever-evolving landscape of motocross, acknowledged Tomac’s incredible achievements but suggested that riders of his generation, including himself, developed their skills in an environment where technology wasn’t as advanced. “Eli’s a phenomenal rider, and I have all the respect in the world for him,” Carmichael said. “What he’s achieved is nothing short of amazing, but you’ve got to look at the full picture when comparing eras.”
Carmichael’s remarks seemed to suggest that motocross riders from his era had to build their skills with less sophisticated equipment and technology, making their accomplishments even more impressive in his eyes. According to Carmichael, “Our era built the skills, not the tech.”
Tomac Fires Back with Confidence and Perspective
Tomac’s response was quick and reflective of his understanding of the sport’s history, but also his awareness of the hard work and perseverance that has gotten him to 
The 2020 Supercross Champion and multi-time Motocross National Champion emphasized the importance of both the mental and physical aspects of his career. “Technology helps, but at the end of the day, it’s the rider who makes the difference. Sure, the bikes are better now, but they still require precision and skill to ride at the highest level.”
Tomac is known for his dedication to training, often spending hours in the gym and on the track refining his technique. While modern bikes may be equipped with more advanced suspension systems, electronic fuel-injection systems, and traction control, Tomac’s incredible consistency, race craft, and ability to adapt to various track conditions continue to set him apart from his competitors.
He went on to say, “You don’t win multiple championships, whether it’s Supercross or Motocross, without having the right mindset and the ability to perform under pressure. It’s not just about the bike; it’s about how you adapt to every situation and stay at the top of your game.”
The Changing Landscape of Motocross
The debate between Carmichael and Tomac isn’t new to motocross enthusiasts. The sport has evolved dramatically over the last two decades, with improvements in technology, training methods, and even rider nutrition. While Carmichael’s era had less technological support, riders like Tomac benefit from high-tech equipment, data analytics, and a deeper understanding of fitness and recovery. However, as Tomac pointed out, all of these advantages would be moot if not for the mental toughness, technical skill, and sheer determination required to excel in the sport.
The current era of motocross is characterized by riders who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Riders like Tomac, Ken Roczen, and Chase Sexton, for instance, combine world-class athleticism with access to cutting-edge technology. But they don’t just rely on their bikes—they are masters of their craft and know exactly how to extract maximum performance from both their body and their machine.
Respecting Both Eras
Tomac’s response is a testament to the respect he holds for Carmichael’s achievements while also asserting the hard work and discipline that has been integral to his own success. In many ways, both eras of motocross riders have faced their unique challenges. Carmichael, who raced in a time when the sport was still evolving rapidly, had to create and define the skillset that riders like Tomac now build upon. Tomac’s generation, in turn, faces a different set of challenges, like managing the demands of modern media, sponsorship expectations, and the relentless speed at which motocross technology is advancing.
In the end, the conversation between the two legends is a reminder that while the tools of the trade may change, the fundamental components of success—hard work, determination, and passion—remain the same. Whether on the track or in the gym, both Carmichael and Tomac share a common goal: to be the best in the world.
Ultimately, it’s clear that both have contributed to shaping the motocross landscape in their own way. And as long as the sport continues to evolve, it’s likely we’ll see more debates about which era truly “built” the best riders. But for Tomac, his focus is squarely on the present and future, where hard work remains the ultimate key to success.
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