Cyclingheroes: When did you start racing ?

Magnus Backstedt: I started riding at the age of 12, just to strengthen my legs for my downhill skiing which at that time was my number 1 sport. I later started to focus more on my cycling, when I was 20 I did a race in South Africa and was approached by the Collstrop team. They then asked me if I had thought about turning pro and I jumped at the idea. 

Cyclingheroes: Can you tell us something about cycling in Sweden ?

Magnus Backstedt: There are races every weekend in Sweden, and the level is pretty good I must say. We have never had many riders in Sweden as cycling is a small sport up there, but the standard is quite good. It seems that we have a couple of really good Juniors coming through every year.

Cyclingheroes: What was your personal highlight of the 2006 season? Or was it a season to forget about quickly ?

Magnus Backstedt: I must say that I am struggling to find a highlight of the 2006 season. I have had too many injuries and have had to fight so hard to get myself back on to any sort of form. I can't wait for new years eve to throw this years calendar out and start over again 2007.

Cyclingheroes: You have had a few injuries. How are you doing after your last injury ? And when will you be able to train again ?

Magnus Backstedt: I'm slowly getting back on track with my shoulder injury. It's still not back to perfect, but i'm putting a lot of work in to it. I can only ride a bit on the turbo trainer every day at the moment, but i am hoping to be able to ride outdoors in the middle of December.

Cyclingheroes: You worked as a commentator for Swedish Eurosport at this years Paris-Roubaix, was it the first time you did something like that ?

Magnus Backstedt: I have done some of that stuff before. Me and my PR manager Martin McCrossan did the track worlds last year for Cycling.tv and I must say that I really enjoyed it alot. I could definitely see myself doing something like that after my career on the bike.

Cyclingheroes: With your manager, Martin McCrossan, you are helping young riders. What kind of help do you provide for young riders?

Magnus Backstedt: It varies quite a bit, sometimes its just showing up at a kids race giving out prices, other times its a bit more specific towards training or advise on bike setup. Then there is the part for the riders of about 19-23 and I do have one or two more serious projects. One is a 20 year old swedish rider who I am at the moment helping out with pretty much everything. I think he will be able to become a very good professional rider in a year or so. He is currently living with me and my family and spends all his time training with me. Learning the trade sort of speak.

Cyclingheroes: How is your coffee brand doing? We heard it's a non profit project, so what will happen with the profit?

Magnus Backstedt: My coffee is going quite well, we have had some problems with my website, so I haven't been able to build on the sales so much this year, but I am hoping to have it sorted before christmas. The money made goes in to young cyclists that me and Martin think have good potential and could need a bit of help finacially. As we all know it is not a cheap sport and to have some money coming in like this could mean that the selected riders can afford to go to another training camp or go abroad and race. I think its a way for me to put something back in to the sport which has given me so much. Keep your eyes open on www.magnusbackstedt.com or you can send a mail to Martin from my website and well get something sorted if you need some coffee now.

Cyclingheroes: You also did some track racing during the winter in the past? Do you like to do track races ?

Magnus Backstedt: I do love riding the track, and I was planning on doing some more of it this winter, but as you all know that went out the window when I smashed my shoulder. I am hoping to be able to qualify for the 2008 Olympics on the track. I like the six days as well, but I prefer the atmosphere of the world cups and the big championships.

Cyclingheroes: Can you tell us something  about the 2007 Liquigas roster?

Magnus Backstedt: We have a lot of new names and some quite big names at that, so I hope this year will be a successful one. On the paper it certainly looks like a very strong team.

Cyclingheroes: Do you already know something about your 2007 race programm? When will you do your first road race?

Magnus Backstedt: My program will be pretty much the same as last year, but I don't know yet when I will start the season. I want to make sure i'm ready for it before I head out to the races. Both my shoulder and my legs need to be in good condition to head out and race. I don't see the point in racing if i can't leave my mark on the race.

Cyclingheroes: What are your personal goals for the 2007 season?

Magnus Backstedt: It is as every year Paris-Roubaix, but the Tour starts in London next year and it will be very high up on my wishlist to do well there.

Cyclingheroes: Magnus we wish you good luck for the 2007 season and a good recovery of your injury!

Magnus Backstedt: Thank you!

More information about Magnus Backstedt: www.magnusbackstedt.com