When he strapped into the pedals a year ago, Johann Esterhuyzen didn't realise what lay ahead of him.

Just last month, Johann took the bicycle fraternity by storm, picking up silver at the Australian cross-country bike championships in Thredbo.

The 13-year-old said he did not expect to get silver as it was only the third race he had ever competed in.

"I just went in it to have fun not realising I would come second," he said.

"I tried to stay second the whole race, so that the person in front of me set the pace.

"Then I gave him a run for his money towards the finish line but I just couldn't get there.

"I would really like to thank my dad who coaches me because if it wasn't for him I wouldn't be racing."

Not long after, he placed first in round two of the State series at Yellomundee in the under-15 division.

Johann said he has followed in his father's footsteps, who used to ride in South Africa and Italy professionally.

"He has really helped me," he said.

He said his dream was to eventually become a professional rider, however he says he doesn't want to start training seriously until he is 15.

"I don't train except for riding around with my mate, Matthew after school," he said.

"I am not going to push it because I don't want to burn out.

"But I love to race competitively so I will just see how I go."

Johann said his weekends were mostly taken up by competing in the Southern Highlands Cycle Club competitions.

"I live on my bike because it's the most comfortable seat in the house," he said.

His mother Cheryl said Johann has become a lot more confident and has grown in self esteem since he started.

"He has a lot of determination and is motivated to get out there and ride," she said.