MotoAmerica Rising Stars Spotlight: Jody Barry

We spoke to rising star Jody Barry about his career and future aspirations.

Coming into 2021, Illinois native Jody Barry had no real idea of what to expect. Sure, he’d raced in MotoAmerica before in the Junior Cup along with a year in Supersport, but this time around he would be contesting the Twins Cup on a brand-new Aprilia that brings with it a host of challenges, and very little previous race data to draw upon.

The first 2 rounds were a mixed bag for Barry as he has finished 2 of the first 4 Twins Cup races on the podium (including a win at VIR) but also had a DNS. Like many of the other young riders, Barry caught the fever early and has been hooked ever since.

When did you start riding motorcycles?

Started riding at 6 or 7 years old. Started racing at 11 years old.

What was the first bike you learned to ride on?

I learned on a Yamaha PW80.

What was the bike you first raced on?

A mini moto Yamaha YZ85.

Where was your first race?

USAIR in Shawano, Wisconsin.

Jody (middle) won in Virginia Race 2.

What was it about racing that appealed to you?

The adrenaline! That and it’s just super fun and exhilarating.

What series did you race in over the past few years before MotoAmerica?

Raced KTM Cup in MotoAmerica in 2015 and 2016 before doing a year of Supersport on a Kawasaki 636 before competing in some club racing for contingency then back to MotoAmerica for the Twins Cup!

List your accomplishments in those series’ (podium, winner, etc.)

Had some podiums and wins in the KTM Cup. Won the Horizon Award and the AMA Hero Award. Did win Regional Champion for CCS as well.

What class are you competing in this year?

Twins Cup.

Easy to locate the white Aprilia RS660 with the #717.

What bike are you riding this year?

Aprilia RS660.

Early impressions of the Aprilia?

Great! Not anything to complain about. Absolutely amazing in the corners.

Goals for this season?

To win the championship.

Biggest challenges for this 2021 season?

New bike basically. Hard to find parts but we are making do.

Ultimate goals in the sport? MotoGP? WSBK?

Honestly just to have fun! Would be nice to make it a career.

Any racing heroes growing up?

Nicky Hayden for sure. Also Ben Spies and Valentino Rossi.

The biggest influence on your career?

My father for getting me into it and for doing all that he has done for me.

Any advice for young riders wanting to get into racing?

Seat time!!!! The biggest thing right there! And it’s expensive so any sponsor or help is a MUST!

Featured images – brianjnelson.com