Dean Wilson has enjoyed a remarkable 17-year journey in professional motocross, marked by remarkable highs, challenging setbacks, and sustained determination. Starting as a teenager with Pro Circuit Kawasaki, where he won the 250 AMA Pro Motocross title, Wilson has grown into a respected figure in the fiercely competitive 450 AMA Supercross class. Known for his resilience as much as his speed, the British rider has maintained a lengthy career by adapting and pushing through adversity.
Now 34 years old and managing a persistent knee injury, Wilson has adjusted his approach to racing by stepping back from completing full AMA Supercross seasons. Instead, he opts for a carefully curated international race schedule, which keeps him competitive while preserving his health. This global itinerary includes events across Australia, Brazil, and the United States, alongside more time spent in his Scottish homeland, allowing Wilson to extend his career without sacrificing his passion for the sport.
Adapting the Race Calendar to Preserve Career Longevity
Wilson acknowledged the necessity of modifying his race commitments due to the toll his knee has taken over the years. He explained,
“I just have a really really bad knee that just can’t really sustain 17 rounds anymore.”
Prioritizing longevity, he designed a selective schedule featuring international races such as Costa Rica, Brazil, and Australia, combined with partial participation in the U.S. Supercross rounds. This tailored approach provides a balanced season that keeps him engaged and competitive without overwhelming his physical limits.
Wilson pointed out his satisfaction with this adjusted routine, stating,
“It’s a good schedule for me, it works and keeps me racing. I’m enjoying it so that’s half the battle.”
Aside from extending his career, his international travels have also afforded him more time in the UK, reconnecting him with his roots in Scotland, which holds emotional significance.
Embracing His Scottish Origins Amid Racing Travels
Having spent much of his professional life racing internationally, Wilson values the opportunity to return home more frequently. He highlighted the joy of revisiting familiar places from his youth, sharing that last year marked a significant moment as he competed in a UK-based racing series for the first time since his early days on 60cc bikes.
“To be able to show the family where I grew up and the houses I used to live in and go to the places I used to go to as a kid, it’s pretty cool,”
Wilson reflected.
This personal connection has offered him a refreshing sense of closure and fulfillment as he balances his professional pursuits with family and heritage.
Watching Supercross From the Sidelines: Reflections on Competitiveness and Change
Wilson attended the initial rounds of the AMA Supercross season as a spectator, an experience that came with mixed feelings. Although he enjoyed observing the races, it was difficult to watch while knowing he once competed at that level. He remarked,
“I still do feel like I have what it takes to be out there battling for top 12’s which is very strong.”
He acknowledged the high caliber of current riders, calling the 450cc class “so so stacked” with athletes who push an intense pace.
Wilson described the evolution of the sport and the fierce competition, noting,
“The pace is so fast, they’re all just full on athletes, the level is just so so high. I’m definitely exiting at a pretty good time I think.”
His observations reveal not only his respect for the sport’s present standards but also an optimistic acceptance of the timing of his transition away from full-time competition.
Deep Affection for Racing and Observing Emerging Talent
Despite stepping back from full-time racing, Wilson’s love for motocross remains strong. He differentiated himself from some riders who may see the sport merely as a job or a phase, indicating his deep passion.
“I do love it, even as a kid I watched all the Supercross rounds,”
he said.
Wilson expressed enthusiasm about seeing veteran riders like Eli Tomac, who is just a year younger than him, still competing at a high level alongside newer talents. He appreciates the mix of generations battling on the track, stating,
“It’s cool to see our generation still out there and mixing it up with the new kids coming up who are really really good.”
This blend of experience and emerging promise energizes his connection to the sport.
Considering Opportunities and the Decision to Maintain a Select Schedule
Wilson was approached by Triumph to return to full-time Supercross racing after some injuries in their team, but he chose to continue with his selective approach. He recounted,
“They booked me in for a meeting and they wanted me for this year to race Supercross but I didn’t pursue it very hard.”
Even being called back when a teammate, Jordon Smith, moved to 450cc and then got injured, Wilson elected to prioritize his current program.
“I have a good program, I’m making just as much as if I was racing full time so I’m very grateful to have what I have,”
he explained. He remains confident in his ability while recognizing the physical limitations his knee imposes, saying,
“Can I just go back full time again? I definitely think I could do it, I definitely think I could but like I said I have a bad knee.”
Wilson remains pragmatic about his future, taking it year by year and hoping for at least another year or two in the sport at his current pace.
Career Highlights and Overcoming Injuries
The pinnacle of Wilson’s career came in 2011 when he won the AMA nationals championship at just 19 years old. Looking back on that triumph, he remembers it as an extraordinary time fueled by momentum and confidence.
“Once I started winning I got the momentum, it started to come easy, I just had the confidence and that’s something that’s very hard to get,”
he shared.
However, his career has also been marked by a series of injuries that interrupted his progression. He noted battling injuries during title campaigns in 2012, 2013, and 2014, including multiple knee surgeries that stalled his momentum after signing with Factory KTM. Wilson credits a resurgence in 2017 to his time with Factory Husqvarna, where he began as a privateer before the team brought him on board. The supportive environment helped him regain consistent top-ten finishes and even podium results.
Since then, he’s enjoyed a solid stint with Quad Lock Honda, reflecting on the partnership as rewarding and well organized, boosting both his performance and enjoyment of racing.
Relationship with Mitch Payton and Growth at Pro Circuit Kawasaki
Wilson often highlights his experience with Pro Circuit Kawasaki and his relationship with team owner Mitch Payton as a defining chapter early in his career. He described Mitch as a “father figure” who communicated honestly and helped him develop discipline and focus.
“He would tell me the way it was and we just worked well because that’s how I grew up with my Dad,”
Wilson said.
Though their time together was sometimes emotionally intense, with Mitch pushing Wilson rigorously, it also yielded success including Wilson’s 2011 championship. Wilson still cherishes the opportunity to have competed with such a legendary team, feeling proud of the title he secured for Mitch and hoping for more success had injuries not been a factor.
Making a Home with Factory Husqvarna and Building Team Camaraderie
Wilson’s years at Factory Husqvarna were important for stabilizing his career and fostering friendships. He spoke highly of his teammates, particularly Jason Anderson, calling him a good friend with whom he could train and ride.
“We just kept it light, kept it fun, we put the work in, we trained together, we rode together and we just were really good teammates,”
Wilson explained.
The positive team dynamic, combined with effective mechanics and staff, provided a refreshing environment. This strong support network helped Wilson maintain solid performances and extended his career at a high level.
Supporting the Future of British Motocross Talent
Wilson remains passionate about inspiring young British riders and growing motocross in the UK. He praised current talents like Max Anstie and John Slade for their commitment and progress.
“I just wish we had more kids and I know it’s a bit harder here in the UK,”
he remarked, addressing the challenge of developing greater grassroots interest.
Wilson recognizes that many British riders opt for Grand Prix racing as a development route before possibly transitioning to American series, and he admires those who have done so successfully. He is committed to assisting upcoming talent in any way possible, expressing,
“If I can help in any way I definitely would.”
Following the Grand Prix Scene and Rooting for Veterans
Wilson keeps a close eye on international motocross, particularly the Grand Prix circuit, where he observes the next generation and established stars alike. When asked about his prediction for the upcoming GP season, he humorously endorsed “the OG Herlings,” referring to Jeffrey Herlings as a long-standing competitor and peer whose career has been marked by resilience through injuries.
Wilson’s connection with Herlings dates back to their early careers, as they both raced at the French Motocross of Nations in 2009. Reflecting on the camaraderie among seasoned riders, Wilson remarked,
“You just root for the old dogs now that I’m one.”
This perspective underscores the mutual respect between experienced riders competing alongside emerging talents.
Plans Beyond Racing and Embracing New Roles
Looking ahead to life after racing, Wilson remains open-minded about his next steps. He is currently involved in conducting training schools and believes options exist that could keep him close to the sport.
“I’ve got a few options for sure on things I can do, it’s just what I want to do, what I’m going to enjoy,”
he said.
Wilson even joked about potentially becoming a businessman or a commentator, suggesting that his knowledge and passion for motocross could find new outlets after his riding days conclude. For now, he remains focused on competing as long as he can, while embracing future possibilities with optimism and determination.
