When you think of fast young Ontario riders who appear destined for stardom, Jonathan Bergeron’s name most certainly comes to mind. After a solid season in 2022, which saw the likeable kid from the Ottawa area finish on the podium at the Walton TransCan and then travel to the Mini O’s in Florida, Jonathan is now busy preparing for the 2023 race season which kicks off at Gopher Dunes in April. Jonathan is a product of the MX101 Yamaha Training Facility, and every time he rides, you can see him improving and building a solid foundation for the future. Keep your eye on this kid, as he will no doubt continue to turn heads this season. We caught up with Jonathan for this installment of Young and on the Rise, Presented by CCR/MP1/Yamaha.
MXP: Hey Jonathan, how are things? My opening question for you is where do you call home?
JB: First, I would like to thank you Chris, for giving me this opportunity. My home is in Cumberland, Ontario. It’s a small village east of Ottawa. I am lucky to live in the outskirts, which means less houses and more space to play outside.
Can you tell me something interesting about your hometown?
Cumberland, for me, is still considered close to the MX101 track, which is where I do most of my training. It’s close to an hour west of my house, but I can easily get there and back in a day.
That is cool as SDL is one of my favourite tracks. How long have you been riding a dirt bike, and how did you get started?
I started riding at four years old. My dad had bought my cousin a PW50 which he never used so they gave it back to us. I liked riding so he kept buying me bikes and gear. I remember the PW50 had training wheels when I first started. We often would ride at home in my backyard. My dad had made a small track which was perfect for me at that time. Then, I participated in my first race, and my love for motocross just grew from there.
Do you remember how that first race went?
I remember that my first race was at Sand del Lee. I was riding a KTM 50cc. At that time, my number plate was 100. I’m sure it didn’t go that well because I was recently looking at old pictures and holding up a Future Star trophy.
Well, at least you got something. Do you have a favourite track in Ontario?
My favourite track is Auburn Hills because of all its elevations. It was added to the AMO Racing tour last year and I really enjoyed it! It’s one of the farthest tracks for us to get to, but it was so worth it. It takes us close to 7 hours to get there.
It was great that AMO Racing was able to get Auburn back on the schedule. Do you have anyone who trains you or gives you advice?
My dad and Adam Powell are my two biggest trainers. My dad has always liked motorsports (motocross, snowmobiles, cars), and although he is not the best on a dirtbike, he still gives me good advice. On the other hand, Adam Powell has a lot of experience on a dirtbike, and he rides really well. Since he knows his stuff and he’s able to give me great pointers so I can get better and faster. He has a nice track at his house that I ride when I can. I’m always open to getting advice and tips. I hear you have a great supercross track. Maybe I can come and ride there this year and we can work on my SX skills?
We will have to get you over in the spring for sure. I know you went to the Mini O’s in November, but how often do you plan on going south in prior to riding season here in Ontario?
I’ve already been back in December and January. The whole family spent Christmas in Orlando, and then I stayed for another week with my dad training and racing. I returned in January for an extra long weekend, again to do training and racing. My dad and I plan to go back in February for a week. Then in March, the whole family is again going to Orlando for March break, and then I will stay for an extra week or so to train and race. At the same time, we will be bringing back the RV home to Ottawa.
That sounds like a good plan and it should have you ready to the season in Ontario. Have you been watching the Monster Energy Supercross Series? Who is your favourite rider, and can you imagine yourself racing in that series one day?
Yes! My Dad and I watch the series every week. When I have a race day on Sunday, we watch it together on Sunday night, so I can get a good night’s sleep on Saturday.
My favorite 250 racer is Jett Lawrence. He’s super funny and seems to be a wholesome person. He’s always positive, which is one of the things I appreciate most about him. In the 450 class, Eli Tomac has always been my favorite. My Dad and I have always loved him as a rider. He got even better when he made the switch to a Yamaha which was no surprise to me (laughs).
Other than motocross, what other sports do you like?
I enjoy staying active by playing soccer, badminton, and frisbee with my friends.
Okay, let’s talk about last year for a moment. What were some of the results that you were most proud of?
My proudest moment of 2022 was the last AMO race at Gopher Dunes. I was against fast riders, and it was a challenging weekend, but in the end, I got my first Supermini overall win.
That’s amazing! What a great way to end the season. Looking back to the summer, how did the Walton TransCan go for you?
Everything considered I’m happy with my Walton TransCan results. I wasn’t at my best due to a previous crash during the May long weekend at Sand Del Lee. I was still recovering from Anemia which played a part in my endurance and physical strength, but I managed to finish 2nd in the 85cc 7-11 and overall in the Supermini class.
You definitely rode well that week and good on you for battling through. Heading into this season, what do you feel like you have to work on the most?
I definitely have to do some work on my starts. If they can get better and I can start the race in front instead of fighting my way there, I could get better results. Starts have always been a struggle for me. I also have to work on power shifting. If I can get more efficient at shifting, I can shave off seconds off my lap times.
That’s interesting Jonathan. I don’t think I’ve ever heard a rider say they need to work on their shifting. But it does make sense. Do you enjoy racing on the Walton track, and do you generally enjoy the TransCan experience?
Yes, I do enjoy riding the Walton track. It’s usually a very technical track which tests most of my abilities. Between the ruts, the rain, the jumps, and the whoop section, I have to constantly be riding my best if I want to make a podium. As for the TransCan experience, it’s always a great week of riding. It’s well organized, and I get to see or meet the Pros, which is pretty awesome.
Obviously, you’ve had to do a few long drives with your family to get to the races. Can you give us your craziest road trip story?
My longest drive was our road trip to Mini-O’s. It took us over two days to get there. At least we stopped at a few tracks on the way which helped break the long drive a bit. The craziest road trip would probably be this year while coming back from Deschambault ECAN. We had to stop twice. Once, the side fender of the RV was flapping, so my dad had to bolt it back. Then, we blew a tire on the trailer about 30 minutes later. We had to stop on the side of the road again and change it. Thankfully, the rest of the trip went without any incident.
At least you made it home safe and sound. Although this sport is an individual one, you still need a good support system. Do your parents love racing as much as you do?
My mom never raced, but she does love seeing me race whenever she can. She does help me off the track by training with me in the mornings. As for my dad, he used to grass-drag snowmobiles when he was younger. I definitely got my love of racing from him. It’s team effort and we love doing it together.
Let’s talk about school for a moment. What grade are you currently in, and what is your favourite subject?
I’m currently in 7th grade. I changed schools this year to start middle school. My favourite subject is math since it comes easily to me.
Well, if you like math, you must be good with numbers. Let’s fast forward five years. Where do you see yourself in 2028?
In 2028, I would be 18. I see myself in a factory team battling for a Pro Championship. I understand this will take hard work and dedication which I am definitely ready to give. When people ask me what I would like to do when I’m older, I always say that I want to race dirt bikes.
If you asked your parents to best describe you in one word, what would it be?
So, I asked my parents and they decided ‘dedicated’ was the best word to describe me. I truly am dedicated to this sport and becoming the best I can be on and off the track. When I missed close to three weeks of school to go to Mini-O’s, I did as much school work as possible before leaving. During the off-season, I train to maintain good physical health and try to make healthy lifestyle choices to become a better athlete. I love watching the Pro SX and MX races so I can learn from the best.
Thank you for doing this Jonathan. Is there anyone or any sponsors you’d like to thank?
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my mom and dad, as well as MX101 Yamaha Racing, Wheelsport, FXR, OG’s optic, SSS suspension, Lynx motor, Yamaha Motor Canada, 6D helmets, Gaerne boots, the Powell family and Kevin Tyler for all their continued support. I really could not do this without all of their help.