Natasha Miller is Making Waves – Next Up: Maxxis Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza
Rising through the ranks of the Slopestyle scene, Maxxis athlete Natasha Miller has already cemented her place as a force to be reckoned with. After an impressive debut season in the Crankworx FMBA Slopestyle World Championship (SWC) last year, she wasted no time making an impact in 2025, kicking off the season with a victory at the Crankworx Summer Series Christchurch Gold Cup event.
Now, with the Maxxis Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza on the horizon, Natasha Miller is looking to build on her momentum. We caught up with her to talk about her off-season preparation, favourite tire setups, and what’s ahead for her in 2025.
How do you feel heading into the Maxxis Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza after your victory at the season kick-off in Christchurch?
That victory definitely gave me some confidence so I am stoked to continue riding. Rotorua is one of my favourite courses so I am excited to try out some new tricks, have fun, and put down a run I’m proud of.
What did your off-season preparation look like? Was there anything you prioritized over the winter?
I spent a lot of time on my bike, just trying to improve overall. My main focus was getting comfortable with some new tricks, but really, it was about riding every day across different disciplines and keeping things fun.
What does your tire set-up look like for the Crankworx FMBA Slopestyle World Championship 2025, and why did you choose that set-up?
I’m running a Maxxis Ikon in the front and a Maxxis Pace in the back, somewhere between 45-60 psi. I love the Pace tires because they’re lightweight and perform well all-around!
You’re making a name for yourself in Slopestyle, but you’re also active in other disciplines. What tire set-up and pressure do you prefer for disciplines like Downhill, and why?
For Downhill, I run a Maxxis Assegai in the front at 25 psi and a DHR II in the back at 35 psi. They’re super grippy, resist flats really well, and last forever, so I don’t have to change them often.
Among all the set-ups you ride in Slopestyle, Downhill, Trail, etc., which one is your favourite?
Slopestyle with Pace tires at a crisp 55 psi. They’re lightweight but still provide great grip, which makes them my go-to.
What was your favourite moment of the 2024 season, and what are you most looking forward to in 2025?
My favourite moment was taking 2nd place at Joyride on my home turf. But honestly, I really enjoyed all the little moments during the season—random dirt jump sessions with friends and hanging out in really cool places. In 2025, I’m looking forward to more of those good times.
Do you have any big personal or professional goals for the 2025 season?
I just want to keep progressing — putting in a little bit of work every day and seeing where it takes me. I also want to get better at speaking in front of a camera.
With the 2025 season now in full swing, all eyes are on Natasha Miller as she prepares to drop into the Maxxis Slopestyle in Memory of McGazza at Crankworx Rotorua next week in front of the local audience and fans at home watching on Red Bull TV. After a dominant start in Christchurch, she’s been hard at work fine-tuning both her signature tricks and fresh additions to her arsenal. As she lines up against the world’s best on one of her favourite courses, we can’t wait to see what she brings to the table.