Jo Shimoda Bio
Early Life and Background
Jo Shimoda was born on May 16, 2002, in Suzuka, Mie, Japan, to parents Yoichi and Ai. Growing up in a family that appreciated motorsports, Jo was introduced to riding at a young age when his father gifted him a dirt bike. This early exposure led him to participate in numerous local races, fostering his passion for motocross. As he progressed, his family sought more competitive opportunities, which included racing in Europe and the United States.
Path to AMA Supercross and Motocross
Jo began racing full-time in the United States in 2016, where he quickly made a name for himself. He won the AMA Amateur National Championship in Super Mini 2 at Loretta Lynn’s in 2016 and signed with the Honda Factory Connection’s amateur program the following year. After a successful amateur career, Jo turned professional in 2019, competing in the AMA Pro Motocross Nationals and establishing himself in the motocross community.
Jo Shimoda Career
Early Career (2019-2020)
Jo Shimoda made his professional debut in 2019, racing in the AMA Pro Motocross Nationals. He finished the season strong, showcasing his potential. In 2020, he competed in the 250SX East series, finishing third overall and earning the AMA Supercross Rookie of the Year award. In motocross, he achieved a best finish of fifth and ended the season ranked 11th in the championship.
AMA Supercross Breakthrough (2021-2022)
In 2021, Jo raced the 250SX East series, where he consistently placed in the top five and secured his first career win, finishing second overall in the championship. His motocross season was marked by three podium finishes, culminating in a fifth-place overall finish. The following year, Jo continued to excel, finishing fourth in the 250SX East championship with two podiums. In motocross, he achieved two overall wins and finished second in the standings, further solidifying his status as a rising star in the sport.
HRC Honda Era (2023-Present)
In 2023, Jo announced his move from Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki to HRC Honda. Despite facing challenges, including a shoulder injury that limited his participation early in the season, he returned to finish strong, securing one win and four podium finishes in motocross, which earned him a third-place finish in the standings. He also competed in the inaugural SuperMotocross Championship, winning the opening round and finishing second overall.
Motocross Style and Strengths
Jo Shimoda is known for his aggressive riding style and technical skills on the track. His ability to adapt to different racing conditions and maintain consistency has been a key factor in his success. He combines speed with strategic thinking, making him a formidable competitor in both Supercross and Motocross events.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Jo’s career highlights include being the 2025 SMX 250cc Champion and securing multiple wins in the 250cc AMA Supercross and Motocross series. His journey from local races in Japan to competing at the highest levels in the United States showcases his dedication and talent in the sport.
Jo Shimoda Career Wins
Jo Shimoda has achieved significant success in his motocross career, with notable wins in both the AMA Supercross and Motocross series. He has secured three wins in the 250cc AMA Supercross and six wins in the 250cc AMA Motocross, marking him as a prominent figure in the sport.
Current AMA Supercross Series Highlights
As of 2023, Jo has three wins in the 250cc AMA Supercross series. His first win came during the 2021 season, which marked a turning point in his career. His most recent win in the series further solidified his reputation as a top competitor.
Previous AMA Motocross Series Achievements
In the 250cc AMA Motocross series, Jo has achieved six wins across the 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 seasons. His consistent performance has placed him among the top riders in the championship standings.
Jo Shimoda Family
Family Background and Motocross Lineage
Jo Shimoda comes from a supportive family that has played a crucial role in his racing career. His father, Yoichi, was also a motorcycle rider, which influenced Jo’s early interest in the sport. His family’s commitment to his racing journey has been evident as they facilitated his participation in various competitions.
Personal Life
Jo resides in Clermont, Florida, USA, where he continues to train and compete. While details about his personal life are limited, his dedication to motocross remains a central focus.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a significant year for Jo Shimoda as he aims to defend his title as the SMX 250cc Champion. With his recent transition to HRC Honda, Jo is looking to build on his previous successes and establish himself as a leading contender in both the AMA Supercross and Motocross championships. As the season progresses, his performance will be closely monitored, especially as he seeks to secure more wins and improve his standings in the competitive landscape of motocross.
