Watch: Aaron Plessinger’s Interview with Dale Earnhardt Jr. on Dale Jr. Download Podcast

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sets out to learn more about the world of motorcycle racing as he sits down with championship rider Aaron Plessinger. He recounts his worst injuries, biggest struggles, and greatest accomplishments in the Dirty Mo Media Studio.

Regarded as a fan favorite on the AMA Supercross and Motocross circuits, Aaron grew up around the sport thanks to his father, Scott, who was a champion off-road motorcyclist himself. Aaron explains that he followed in his father’s footsteps into the off-road world in the Grand National Cross Country Series, but ended up giving motocross a serious try and found a knack for it. He would get noticed during an event at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch and sign a deal with a factory Yamaha team, Star Racing.

Dale and Aaron discuss the different forms of motorcycle racing and how prevalent injuries are in the sport. Aaron explains that racers rarely complete the entire season due to the likelihood of getting hurt, and he shares stories of some of the attrition he’s faced over the years. The guys also chat about the training motocross racers go through and how bike setup and crew chiefs make a difference in the sport. Dale asks Aaron about the difference between good and great riders, to which he explains that confidence and mental toughness play a major role in racing success. They relate over the pressure that professional racers face and the methods they’ve used to overcome nervousness while competing. Finally, the guys chat about Aaron’s move to the Red Bull KTM team, his admiration of Dale Earnhardt Sr., and navigating fatherhood.