Rob Silva has been in the MotoAmerica paddock since the beginning, and he’s been involved in road racing for even longer. Silva raced motocross/supercross back “in the day,” worked in that paddock after that and has worked as a technician and crew chief since he switched to road racing in 2008. Silva is now the brand manager for KTech Suspension USA.
What was your introduction to the motorcycle world?
My mom rode a motorcycle for transportation when she was pregnant with me.
What led to you working in the MotoAmerica paddock?
It happened by accident. I was working in Supercross, and I got a call before the Fontana (Auto Club Speedway) round from a team owner who needed a hand. I never went back to Supercross and have been involved in road racing ever since.
What part of the job do you enjoy the most?
Working with up-and-coming riders. I enjoy watching them grow with the sport. I like to keep busy at the racetrack and I feel like I’ve made a difference.
What part of the job is the most difficult?
Reading riders’ minds.
What do you like to do when you’re not at the racetrack?
When I’m away from the track, I work in my shop at home and spend as much time as possible with my family.