SportBikes Inc Magazine August 2014

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . MOTO TECH

AUGUST 2014 VOL 4 ISSUE 11

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

LOEFFLER & PRUST THE DRUMMER & THE BUILDER D.J. KILMORE | THE EBR 1190RX | ANALOG MOTORCYCLES’ DB3.5 | PAINT THE QUARTER PINK | EVERYTHING TO GAINES | WHAT ARE THE D.J.’S LISTENING TO? | THE POWER OF MUSIC

License to thrill

New Hypermotard SP

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Professional rider on a closed racetrack

Official Sponsor Developed with

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THE FEATURES THE FIRST RIDE: 2014 EBR 1190RX

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PAINT THE QUARTER PINK 2014

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D.J. KILMORE

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THE SHOW: ANALOG MOTORCYCLES DB3.5

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WHAT ARE THE D.J.’S LISTENING TO?

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THE DRUMMER & THE BUILDER

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THE USUALS

AUGUST 2014 - VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=12 12 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16 16 THE INBOX http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18 18 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - FLEMINGTON CIRCLE http://issuu.com/action/page?page=38 38 THE SHOW - ANALOG MOTORCYCLES DB3.5 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=50 50 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58 58 LAWLESS - By Michael Lawless http://issuu.com/action/page?page=66 66 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=70 70 THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE - By Dystany Spurlock 88http://issuu.com/action/page?page=88 EVERYTHING TO GAINES - By Ian Gaines http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98 98 FEATURED CLUB - THE SPARTANZ MC http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102 102 KNOW YOUR ROLE - By Kim “Lady Kim” Roper http://issuu.com/action/page?page=112 112 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James http://issuu.com/action/page?page=120 120 FEATURED RIDERS 126http://issuu.com/action/page?page=126 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood 158http://issuu.com/action/page?page=158 FOCUSED - By Kiana Gadson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=162 162 DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS - By Billy Morrison http://issuu.com/action/page?page=170 170 THIS LIFE - By Tyson Beckford 172 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=172

INTERACTIVE CLICK ON NUMBERS TO JUMP TO A PAGE

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150 STAFF STUFF

FEATURED RIDER: TENNY CRAWFORD

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FEATURE STORY

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Obligatory selfie with the fellas... (L to R) Dean, Sam and Pete of Chevelle.

M

usic has always motivated me. Music got me through junior high school, high school and a few years of art school. In the same manner that music has been my motivation, motorcycles have been my savior. The two work in tandem, guiding me through this thing called adulthood.

They help maintain whatever is left of my sanity and allow me to revel in the entity that we know as creativity.

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As life imitates art, my career in the motorcycle industry has created so many opportunites for me to meet many of the bands and musicians that have listened to for years. And if nothing is truer than fact, music and motorcycles truly bring people together. Enjoy the Music Issue of SBI. Best, Allan allan@sportbikesincmag.com

THE TEAM Publisher/Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com

EDITORIAL

Lifestyle Director: Tyson Beckford tyson@sportbikesincmag.com

Staff Writers: Dystany Spurlock dystany@sportbikesincmag.com Michael Lawless lawless@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com

Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com

Contributing Writers: Joanne Donn Ian Gaines

Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com

Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com

Road Racing Editor: Corey Alexander corey@sportbikesincmag.com Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Rev Limiter Editor: Leah Petersen leah@sportbikesincmag.com Bike Life Editor Lady Kim ladykim@sportbikesincmag.com International Correspondent Billy Morrison billy@sportbikesincmag.com

ART & DESIGN

Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Photographer: Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com Cover Photographer: Grant Schwingle Contributing Photographers: Grant Schwingle Brian J. Nelson Drew Ruiz Craig Sutters

SportBikes Inc Magazine - August 2014 Volume 4, Issue 11 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2014 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

In no way can any part of this magazine be reproduced in print, digital, broadcast or any other manner without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

SportBikes Inc Magazine (ISSN 2158-009X) is published monthly by Hard Knocks Motorcycle Entertainment.

SportBikes Inc Magazine is not responsible for any advertising claims made by its advertisers or partners.

Any and all items submitted to SportBikes Inc Magazine will become the sole property of SportBikes Inc Magazine and are subject to, but not limited to edits, comments and titles.

Sportbikes Inc Magazine, staff and partners are not responsible for injuries, loss or damage to their being, vehicle or property, including death that may result from contest submissions.

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THE PRESS ROOM BROCK’S PERFORMANCE NOW SELLING SPRINT AIR FILTERS

Brock’s Performance will distribute the Italian air filter Sprint Filter in the US. Known in MotoGP and World SuperBike, Sprint Filters are made from a polyester material that captures more dirt than the cotton based competitors yet still allow

for maximum airflow. The beautuy of the Sprint Filter is that it can be simply cleaned without any harsh liquids or chemicals. Applications exists for most late model Japanese sportbikes and Harley Davidsons.

DUCATI NORTH AMERICA HIRES NEW PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER Ducati North America announced the appointment of their new Public Relations Manager, Nathon Verdugo. Verdugo is an industry veteran having served in various positions at Dainese, Alpinestars and Troy Lee Designs. Verdugo is a buddy to SportBikes Inc Magazine and we wish him well in his new position.

Nathon Verdugo (R) is congratulated by Pro Freestyle Stunt Rider Aaron Colton.

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ICON RELEASES 2014 FALL LINE UP Ever on the prowl for pushing the envelope to go beyond what is expected from an apparel and safety gear brand, the 2014 ICON fall lineup includes their new Hypersport Collection, additions to their Overlord Collection and a selection of new helmets with kick ass graphics.

The Hypersport is composed of aritcles that are a combination of materials, strategically selected and constructed to offer the highest level of comfort and performance ranging from jackets to gloves and pants.

The Overlord Collection is complimented by new textile articles that expand the riders options in functional riding apparel. Items such as the upgraded Overload boot that now features a replaceable toe slider are accompanied by the textile Overlord gloves and the denim Overlord Riding Pants. In addition to new accessories items, the line up is highlighted by several new Airmada helmets with stunning graphics that feature Werewolves, Miscreants, Ganesh and of course, Skulls.

To see the entire line up, visit: http://rideicon.com.

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THE PRESS ROOM CONTINENTAL ISSUES RECALL FOR CONTISPORTATTACK AND CONTIRACEATTACK TIRES Over 175,000 tires have been recalled by Continental Tires, globally due to a possibility that the tread or belt can separate.

To date, there have been no actual reports of the tires failing but the company wanted to get in front of the issue. The tires affected are the 120/70 ZR 17 and 120/70 R17 ContiSportAttack and ContiRaceAttack. For more information on the recall, please visit Continental’s site by clicking HERE.

SERVO BUDDY NAMES WOODCRAFT TECHNOLOGY AS THEIR EXCLUSIVE US DISTRIBUTOR The Servo Buddy is a cool piece of bike tech that assists your bike fuel injection issues when you replace the exhaust system and the factory servo motor, resulting in the FI being lit on the dash. The Servo Buddy still functions as an alert system in the event that there is a real concern with your bike’s fuel injection.

The Servo Buddy is now being distributed in the US exclusvely by Woodcraft CFM, have applications for a majority of late model sportbikes and come with a one year hassle free warranty.

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POLARIS UNVEILS THE INDIAN 2015 SCOUT

Polaris Industries unveiled their new 2015 Indian Scout at the 2014 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota, in grand fashion. In a night filled with VIP’s and celebrities, the first Scout to hit the scene in 70 years, made its debut. The 2015 Scout is a solid looking handsome machine that pays great great tribute to the original Scout, yet is optimized with on point engineering, comfort and

style. The liquid cooled, v twin six speed Scout weighs in at 558 pounds and packs 100 horses and 72 foot pounds of torque, delivering a great power to weight ratio for its class.

The 2015 Indian Scout is priced at $10,999 and will be available at Indian dealerships this fall.

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THE INBOX BROUGHT TO YOU BY KRIEGA

Email SportBikes Inc Magazine at INBOX@SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM. Every month, we are giving away a R25 Back Pack from Kriega and an SBI T Shirt to the LETTER OF THE MONTH!

LETTER OF THE MONTH Dear SBI, Your Ladies Issue (June 2014) is why I have respect for your magazine. Too many girls get the attention because of all the skin they show and not because of the skills they have or the passion they have. We’ve all seen the skin models on bikes. Show us what’s real! Plus, when you stay covered up, you get to keep your earned respect and your dignity! Thank you SportBikes Inc for giving those who deserve the attention and recognition some time in the spotlight.

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Aria, Thanks for reading and supporting SBI. It is important for us as a magazine to represent real riders and give them the respect they deserve. For us, there is nothing sexier than a woman riding her own bike. Our annual Ladies Issue is a salute to all of the women that ride their own rides and keep it one hundred, one hundred percent of the time.

Best, SBI Magazine

Dear SBI, I have a very unique 2009 Yamaha R6 and am looking to get it in your magazine. This R6 is far from stock. I painted it shamrock green and had carbon fiber custom made for it. I did all the work on this bike as I am an auto body technician so the paint on the plastics is flawless. I have had it in numerous motorcycle shows with great success.

Dane, Thanks for sharing. Your R6 looks super clean.

That green paint job is tight and offsets the carbon fiber bits nicely. Keep up the great work and keep reading!

Best, SBI Magazine

- Dane South Dakota

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DEALERSHIP SPOTLIGHT: FLEMINGTON CIRCLE

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Flemington Circle

CONTACT:

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Dealership name: Flemington Circle Location: 300 Route 202 Flemington NJ 08822 Showroom Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00am to 7:00pm, Friday 10:00am - 8:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday 12pm - 4pm Year established: 1999 Brands serviced: Kawasaki, Yamaha, Polaris, EBR

F

lemington Circle began in 1999 in Kinderhook, NY as Xtreme Powersports. Since then, through the thick and thin, the ups and downs and the ebb and flow of the motorcycle industry, the company has flourished. There longevity is a testament to not only their commitment to customer service, but to their commitment to the business of powersports.

They have been based out of Flemington, NJ since 2005 and are now their area’s premier Kawaaki, Yamaha, Polaris and EBR dealer and certified Dynojet tuning center. In fact, they employ

three certified tuners. They have really cemented themselves as part of the motorcycle community.

During the East Coast riding season, Flemington Circle hosts weekly Dyno Runs at which customers battle it out each week in different classes for dealership gift cards. Further, they work in harmony with the regional riding and motorcycle clubs to host events and provide sponsorship. The dealership is also a presenting sponsor for the Clutch Control 2014 motorcycle lifestyle event in Philadelphia.

Want to see your shop or dealership featured here? Drop us an email!

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THE FIRST RIDE

THE 2014 EBR 1190RX WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: DREW RUIZ 22 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE FIRST RIDE: THE 2014 EBR 1190RX

T

he EBR 1190RX is not sexy. It is not necessarily slim nor is it graceful. In fact it is quite loud and rambunctious. It doesn’t give the exquisite nor sensual presence that evoke the male pheromones like its European counterparts do. And that is just fine. It is not supposed to be any of those things.

For everything that it is not, here is what it is... the 1190RX is handsome with strong lines that evoke a sense of prominence and power. It’s manly, loud and robust. In a lineup with its Euro and 24 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Japanese counterparts, the EBR 1190RX is undoubtedly all American. It’s whiskey served as God intended it, from the bottle to the glass to the back of your throat. It is powerful and fast, beyond quick. It is everything that an American sportbike should be when presenting itself on the world stage... patriotic sans the patronizing overture.

The problem is, the EBR 1190RX may not know what it is. For everything that it is not and for everything that it is, the 1190RX is struggling to find its place in the consumer

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THE FIRST RIDE: THE 2014 EBR 1190RX

sportbike market. The bike is currently being raced in both AMA Pro Racing in the US and abroad in World SuperBike. It was only a few short months ago that Larry Pegram, in a wildcard spot road the EBR 1190RX to a top ten finish at Laguna Seca earning EBR the privilege of being the only american manufacturer to ever score points in WSB. As the accolades continue to rush in, EBR as a brand must continue to be active in capitalizing on any and all opportunities that present themselves. In fact, they have been very pro active in seeking new roads to ride to broadcast their message especially

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regarding the EBR 1190RX. The truth is, the 1190RX may just be what the doctor ordered.

I had the grand opportunity to be among the first set of motojournalist to participate in a press launch at the famed Indianapolis Speedway. The first half of the day, it rained off and on but the newly repaved track seems to become grippier perhaps due to the humidity. Either way, the opportunity to check out the 1190RX’s performance and handling in the wet presented itself and I was all in. The bike is equipped

with a serious traction control system with settings ranging from 1, the lowest, to 20, the highest. At 20, the traction is extremely noticeable and slightly overbearing, even in the wet. Coming out of the apex and rolling on the throttle, the engine would abruptly wind down as the back tire gave the slightest hint of slippage. Roaring onto the back and front straights, the traction control again hindered the initial throttle response making a less than stellar burst of acceleration. With that said, the traction control works, as it should.

The 1190RX’s dash is very user friendly, displaying the necessary info in an easy to read format. Speed, RPM’s, traction control and gear position and other vitals are laid out for easy reference, while selections and adjustments are sorted via three buttons on the side of the console.

The 1190RX is a comfortable ride with a seat height of 32.5 inches. The Showa big piston front forks and rear single give great feedback out of the box. However, during the lunch break, I had the suspension adjusted and dialed in for my height and

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THE FIRST RIDE: THE 2014 EBR 1190RX

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THE FIRST RIDE: THE 2014 EBR 1190RX

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THE FIRST RIDE: THE 2014 EBR 1190RX

weight (six foot, two hundred forty pounds).

The sun came out so I also had the traction knocked down to a lower setting. Settling around 8.5, I headed out and immediately felt the difference. It was the difference between night and day. The bike’s power and agility were in full effect. Honestly, it felt like I was riding completely different bike.

The v twin, liquid cooled engine boasts hefty 185 horses and 101.6 foot pounds of torque. When I cracked the throttle, the bike made sure that I believed it. Shifting through the gears, tipping into corners and rolling on the throttle toward the exits became

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smoother with each passing section of the track. The delivery of power was consistent and reliable from the lows to the mid RPM’s yet the bike really came into her own in the higher revolutions.

Then, there is the braking. The EBR 1190RX is equipped with a single 386mm perimeter rotor. That’s 15.19 inches of rotor being gripped by an eight piston inside out caliper. The oversized calipers are complimented by their own air intake system to keep them cool under the heated pressure of braking. And this bike can stop. I mean

really stop. The application of the brakes is gradual, sturdy, and firm. There is an above average sense of feel and control as you slow down or come to a stop.

If there is a comparison to be made in relationship to the 1190RX’s class counterparts, it can be quite simple.

The European models do tend to honor the female physique, mimicking curves and lines, offering the rider the sensiblity of being in another place at another time... The fantasy, the magic of being a motorcyclist. The EBR 1190RX honestly and passionately pays homage to the American

sportbike rider, with its rugged good looks, strong jaw line and unapologetic presence of power. What the EBR 1190RX offer’s its rider is the reality of riding, right here and right now.

To say that there is nothing else like it on the market right now is spot on because there is nothing else like it on the market today.

This is part of the definition of the EBR 1190RX. In a room full of others, it stands alone. Better than that, it holds its own. Let’s not compare it to other bikes. Let’s celebrate what it is not and salute the EBR 1190RX for what it is.

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THE FIRST RIDE: THE 2014 EBR 1190RX

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OPTIMIZE YOUR PERFORMANCE

DEVELOPED IN THE HEAT OF BATTLE R 77

> CARBON

>STAINLESS

THE R-77 IS PART OF THE YOSHIMURA RACE SERIES PRODUCTS MADE IN THE USA > GO TO YOSHIMURA-RD.COM Non Signature Series mufflers are designed, manufactured, intended, and sold for use on vehicles that are operated only on closed course racing circuits unless otherwise noted. Use of these products on public roads or lands is strictly prohibited and may be a violation of local, state, or federal laws. Products intended for use on vehicles operated on public roads or lands are clearly so indicated. ŠYoshimura R&D of America 2014.

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Written in the unmistakable voice of Earl “the Squirrel” Hayden, The First Family of Racing gives readers an inside look into the lives of the Hayden motorcycle racing dynasty.

NOW AVAILABLE IN THE HAYDEN BROTHERS GENERAL STORE HAYDENBROSGENERALSTORE.COM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37

THE SHOW

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ANALOG MOTORCYCLES THE DB3.5

WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: GRANT SCHWINGLE SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39

THE SHOW: ANALOG MOTORCYCLES

A

nalog Motorcycles’ Tony Prust has been putting in serious work for quite some time now. His list of clients is more than impressive, it’s authentic. Prust is an authentic builder. The 1996 Bimota DB3 Mantra, also known as DB3.5 is a testament to his work ethic and pedigree.

The tank, the subframe, seat pan and hump are all custom, one off. That means you are not gonna find these bits sitting on a self or on a website for easy ordering. That’s only the beginning of the DB3.5’s uniqueness.

Prust, revitalized the engine and added up to date electronic components and an all new electrical system to ensure proper running application of those components.

The BD3.5 is aesthetically dialed in when it comes to the details. The paint job and upholstery of the seat work in tandem, complimenting the stark lines of the bike’s symmetry. The gold trim, highlights and accents give life to the grey tank and the bold black framework. The configuration of the open underbody exhaust is highlighted by golden muffler tips, giving a somewhat metal tinging when the pipes open up.

It is aggressively designed to be and look aggressive. In that, it looks like nothing else on the road. Even if it reminds you of another bike that you may have seen, upon further inspection, you discover that it truly doesn’t. The BD3.5 is short and tidy and built with purpose... To be ridden.

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THE SHOW: ANALOG MOTORCYCLES

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THE SHOW: ANALOG MOTORCYCLES

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THE SHOW: ANALOG MOTORCYCLES

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Analog Motorcycles “THE DB3.5” 1996 Bimota DB3 Mantra Engine: Refreshed engine. Custom timing belt covers. Keihin FCR Carbs. EVR slipper clutch and slave cylinder.

Brakes: Full custom ISR brake system, custom Hel brake lines.

Exhaust: Custom fabricated exhaust.

Suspension: Rebuilt stock Pailloi forks and rear shock.

Frame: Custom fabricated subframe.

Custom Aluminum tank.

Wheels: Alpina tubeless spoke wheels.

Custom fabricated spacers for wheel swap.

Tires: Pirelli Diablo Rossa III. Accessories: Koso speedometer gauge, Vortex clip ons with Speedy Moto bars.

Rizoma rear sets with custom fabricated brackets. Emgo headlight bucket with LSL mounts. CRG bar end mirrors. Upholstery

by Rod’s Design. Earth X Lifepo4 Battery.

Builder: Analog Motorcycles Paint: Kiel at Crown Autobody.

Owner: Sam Loeffler

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THE GRID: NEWS MIROCK: RICKEY GADSON’S CLUB WARS RETURNS TO ATCO 10 time champion and SBI Drag Racing Editor is bringing his Club Wars back to ATCO Raceway on September 5-7 as part of the 45th Annual Orient Express Motorcycle US Nationals. Club Wars 2014 is an all out grudge match between the region’s Motorcycle Clubs and their best riders. The 2013 winner was the Barbarians MC from Philadelphia. This year the title of MIRock Nationals Fastest Club is up for grabs as well as some cash.

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Competitors must be wearing their club colors with their riding names visible in order to participate and pay a $50.00 entry fee. The winning club will recieve $500.00 while $200.00 and $50.00 go to the runner up and semi finalists, respectively. The winner will also grace the cover of an upcoming issue of SportBikes Inc Magazine.

Visit http://mirockracing.com for more details.

MOTOGP: CRUTCHLOW SAYS GOODBYE TO DUCATI, SAYS HELLO TO HONDA FOR 2015 In what can best be described as a no surprise but surprising turn of events, Cal Crutch and Ducati have abruptly end their relationship. Anyone paying attention to Crutchlow’s efforts on the Ducati this season has seen his frustrations with the bike and perhaps his very own performance. Regardless, Crutchlow and Ducati have agreed to part ways.

Crutchlow will be replaced by Andrea Iannone. Crutchlow confirmed that he will join the CWM-LCR Honda Team in 2015.

WSBK: TOM SYKES REMAINS WITH KAWASAKI THROUGH TO 2016 Tom Sykes has signed an agreement to remain with Kawasaki in World Superbikes for the 2015 and 2016 seasons. Sykes won the championship in 2013 and currently has a commanding lead in the points. Sykes has competed on Kawasakis since 2010, winning 22 of race victories, all on Ninjas.

“I am very excited to re-sign and the decision was quite easy. I am looking forward to another two years with a great manufacturer.

Kawasaki and I already have quite a good history. This is my fifth year as a rider with the brand, my fourth year with the current model of the Ninja ZX-10R, so for me it was an easy decision to continue.” - Tom Sykes.

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THE GRID: NEWS AMA PRO RACING: THE AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST ASSOCIATION RE-ACQUIRES AMA PRO RACING It was announced that American Motorcyclist Association has relieved the Daytona Motorsports Group of their duties effective at the end of the 2014 season. The KRAVE Group and the AMA will take over sanctioning, operational, promotional and commercial rights for professional motorcycle road racing in 2015. The KRAVE Group, headed by Wayne Rainey is scheduled to launch a new AMA and FIM racing series entitled MotoAmerica.

MOTOGP: DONINGTON PARK TO HOST THE BRITISH GP IN 2015 Donington Park has been elected by the Circuit of Wales and Dorna Sports as the alternative venue for the British Motorcycle Grand Prix for the 2015 event. The Circuit of Wales will

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be ready to host in 2016 per their long term agreement with Dorna. The agreement will have the British GP at the Circuit of Wales until 2024.

NCED: NNOU JUST A LL OF FAME A HA ony, AM

rem ion Ce Induct elcome W Public

MOTORCYCLE GROUP

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THE GRID

Images: Courtesy of Jason Disalvo

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THE NUMBERS EVERY MONTH, WE ASK PROS AND AMATEURS WHY THEY CHOSE THE NUMBERS THAT IDENTIFY THEM ON THE GRID...

JASON DISALVO

#40

“T

he story behind it is special but not the number.

It’s the last two digits of my AMA license number.

When I was little, my dad said that’s how they used to assign race numbers back in the day... So that’s what I did.”

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THE GRID

LAWLESS: THE SHOEMAKER FILES WORDS AND IMAGES: MICHAEL LAWLESS

T

he phone rings. “Hey, it’s Jake. Can you come out to Lima give me a hand?”

when the money being used for racing is your own money.

Sure thing! I knew the next race was in Lima, Ohio.

Lima is the legendary half mile cushion or loose surface track. Jake told me this was not his favorite track and that he could use a little help. He was just coming back from Knoxville were he had a win in the qualifying race but had an engine failure in the main. The ups and downs of being a racer. A lot of hard work, money and traveling. Extra tough

You cannot sign up for you AMA credentials online so Jake dropped me off at the track to sign in. Two hours later, standing in blazing sun I get through the line! How super frustrating. By the time I could get past the AMA people and find Jake, he had the bike unloaded and the pits set up. How would have it looked if I had taken potential sponsors with us and we had to wait two hours to get in. Keep

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in mind we are part of the show yet we get treated like this? Don’t get me wrong, there are some good people in the AMA but they need to streamline there systems. You never know. Maybe the sport may even grow.

As practice begins, Jake is not happy. He has always hated this track. We make some minor suspension adjustments and send him back out in the next session. Back in, we swap out to a stiffer rear spring. I watch him from turn one... Jake closes

the gap at the entrance but seems to lose it on exit.

We talk in the pits after the session. Jake decides to swap gearing. With practice over, we know its up to the rider now.

Racing hard in the second heat Jake drifts the Kawasaki hard up against the air fence. The crowd lets out a sigh. Pushing very hard he comes in third.

Enough to qualify for the main. Sixteenth on the grid Jake climbs up to eighth in the main. A good day of racing comes to an end.

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THE GRID: LAWLESS

Have you been to a flat track race or watched a race? Flat Track racing is ground zero for motorcycle racing. Part drifting, part NASCAR. Uniquely American, loud and intense. Colorful and well named racers like ‘Slammin’ Sammy Halbert and Brad “the Bullet” Baker. Strangely, only Harley Davidson supports the sport though Triumphs, Suzuki, Kawasaki and even Ducati race. Flat Track racing is very respected in the MotoGP world, too.

Top stars like Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez train by racing flat track on their practice tracks.

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At an event earlier this year in Spain, the Superprestigio, American champ and factory Harley Davidson rider Brad Baker faced the some of the best GP riders including the currently unbeatable Marc Marquez. In a spectacular battle between between the champs of two different worlds straight out of the movie “Rocky”, Baker won! Marquez’s day ended laying in the dirt having learned why they call Baker the Bullet.

Nothing like being on the box but in Jake’s mind he won’t rest until he wins. He’s a racer... a fighter.

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Brian J. Nelson

WYATT FARRIS

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NAME: Wyatt Farris HOMETOWN: Calistoga, CA AGE: 20 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing GOALS: Win national races and championships. Compete at a World Level.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

5 AMA Pro podiums, Third overall in 2013 AMA Pro Supersport West championship.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: It’s a feeling that can’t be duplicated, a 24/7 addiction.

CONTACT:

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

LINES OF A LEGEND

WORDS AND IMAGES: RICKEY GADSON

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I

had an interesting conversation with my nephew Richard Gadson on our return trip home from my last win at a race. I was reflecting on how much racing has changed over the last 20 years. The thing that stands out the most to me that has changed over the years is definitely going to be the size of a the racer.

Back in the day at 150 to155 pounds, I used to be considered the perfect size for a jockey.

Everyone wanted me to ride their motorcycle to see just how fast it would go with a little guy on it.

In today's drag racing world at 10 pounds heavier 160 to165 I'm not considered small anymore. The younger grudge and pro riders are at least an average of 25 to 30 pounds

lighter than I am.

In the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, I used to race the 600 Super Sport class and was considered to be light, but by the time I won the Super Sport Championship in 2009 I had outweighed my competition by 30 pounds and I had not gained a pound. You see, today's up and coming talented riders are not only getting younger but they're getting smaller and smaller.

In some cases I am almost 50 pounds heavier with the riders like Tony Ferland weighing in at 110 pounds.

In the 1990’s there were a lot of teams out there searching for light weight riders to pilot their machines and even if that rider needed a

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

little polishing, there was a good chance that he or she could land a job riding someone's fast bike. Back then little riders with a clean image were used to try to get sponsors on board especially if he was doing good in the race and received TV time.

Being talented and little in today's NHRA drag racing world means nothing unless you can bring money to the table. It feels like the size of your pockets is the only thing that matters when it comes to NHRA. In the mid 90s when I used to race Pro Stock (NHRA), you needed to be a good rider that could qualify and go a couple rounds to get TV time to possibly land a sponsor to carry you through the rest of the year. But by the time I would venture into any cherry for a second time in 2005 things had already changed. Riders no longer got paid to ride Pro Stock motorcycles. Now if you had a dream to race NHRA, you needed to either have deep pockets or brought along a sponsor that would transfer your sponsorship money to 68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

the team. So what that meant is if you had a sponsor that was paying you $10,000 a year to represent their company, that sponsorship money that you were getting paid, you would no longer profited from because it only covers renting a bike for two NHRA races. That cost only covers the team to service, transport and rent you a competitive motorcycle for the weekend. If you have a dream to race NHRA for an entire year that cost would rise considerably to over $100,000 to rent a competitive bike.

Things have also changed considerably in the grudge racing scene. It used to be about who had the best rider on their motorcycle now with the inception of the slider clutch it's all about who has the best tuned motorcycle because you don't really need a good rider anymore with two steps, auto shifters, auto trans and slider clutches. The riders these days simply have to be able to cut a light and hold on.

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE WORDS: DYSTANY SPURLOCK IMAGES: MEEKAIL SHAHEED

T

his month has truly been a bit of a challenge for me on the drag strip. I know that challenges and obstacles will occur but they seem to come at the worst of times. Even with you think that you have taken every step possible to make sure that you are the most prepared, you tend to run into a wall.

The Mirock Superbike Series WPGC Bike Fest was due to kick off on the last weekend in July. Now, I don’t normally ride my bike on the street unless it’s for a charity event or bike week. Knowing that Myrtle Beach bike week along with some other community events had just passed, I decided to give my motorcycle a much needed tune up. That included me changing the oil, oil filter, coolant, clutches and spark plugs. I wanted to be one hundred percent ready for the big race. I went to Morton's BMW to get every item that I was going to need for the tune up. I return home I immediately get to work with my assistant, my Grandfather. He wouldn’t let me do it alone, anyway!

Unfortunately, by the time we were done, I was not able to get to the race track to test before the big race. The weather canceled the test and tune night the weekend before the race so I made sure to get Maryland International Raceway that Thursday night so I could race in the test and tune session on friday evening. On Friday in the quarter mile I ran 8.89 which was perfect for the Crazy 8 class that I race in. In the 1/8 Mile I ran a 5.65 which is perfect for the 5.60 index class that I also race in. I was entering into the weekend’s race full of confidence!

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It was now Saturday which was qualifying day. I took my first qualifying pass in the in the Crazy 8s class and my bike went a 9.20. My motorcycle has spun so I thought that was maybe the reason so I brushed it off and got ready to do my qualifying session in the 5.60 index class.

My motorcycle went a 5.80. I immediately said to myself that something is wrong.

I went back to my pit area and began to take my motorcycle apart to recheck everything that I had changed. I could not find anything wrong. Everything was in the proper place. Once I had taken my bike down and put it back together I only had one qualifying pass left. I quickly put my suit back on, checked the air pressure in my tire, grabbed my helmet and I was off.

I went to the staging lanes to make my last and final qualifying pass in the Crazy 8 class. I crossed the finish line and made my way to the ticket box. I got my ticket and it said 9.22. At this point I’m puzzled.

If everything that I had changed was properly placed back into its correct spot then why is my bike not corresponding.

I spent most of that night taking my bike apart trying to find something that is not correct. Again I did not find anything wrong. I put my bike back together and went to my room to just pray and hope for the best on Sunday. Sunday was here, I was extremely nervous because not only do I want to do great but I also want to win. I went to first round in the Crazy 8 class and my bike did the exact same thing that it had been doing all weekend.

My motorcycle bogged and fell on its face at the line. I was unable to run the number that I needed to to win. I was

upset but I knew that I had another class to race. I continued to stay focus and went into the next class with a positive attitude.

Once again my motorcycle was unable to perform at its highest ability.

Once I was out of both of my classes I was determined to figure out what was going on with my motorcycle. I went to a lot of my fellow racer friend to get their opinions and thoughts of what it could possibly be. Everyone was puzzled. No one could come up with a solution. A lot of mechanics don’t know a lot about the BMW to automatically diagnose the problem because there is not a lot out there about them.

It was my injectors. My motorcycle is used to me running VP Racing fuel in it. When I ride it on the street I run regular 93 octane gas. I had been riding on the street with 93 for so long that I messed up my injectors up.

So far, at every Mirock Superbike Series WPGC Bike Fest, something goes wrong with my bike. Just when I thought I was taking precautions, my motorcycle teaches me something else. And that’s why I love racing motorcycles because I am constantly learning new things. The point remains the same, always be prepared for the unexpected and you will be ahead of the game.

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PAINT THE QUARTER PINK 2014

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: PAINT THE QUARTER PINK

M

aryland International Raceway was the setting for the 14th Annual WPGC Bike Fest, part of the Mickey Thompson MIROCK Superbike Series. Over 750 registered racers and thousands of fans converged at this track for a weekend of fun and racing.

Despite the sporadic rain, Jason Miller and his staff pulled off another record breaking

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successful weekend. Highlights of the weekend included MIROCK Superbike series first ever Top Fuel action with Larry the Spiderman McBride and David Vantine blazing down the track. During the third Exhibition run, the Spiderman blistered down the track with an ET of 5.791 at 232.23MPH while Vantine ran a 5.974 at 237.46. This was the first time in Top Fuel history that two Top Fuel bikes ran in the

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: PAINT THE QUARTER PINK

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5’s side by side!

The weekend also had fourteen ladies participating in the 4th Annual Pink the Qauter Pink race to raise funds for Bikers Against Breast Cancer. Kelly Clontz, Crystal Dickerson, Edythe Decker, Jaleesa Minor, and Lea Martinez raised over $7300! For me, the most touching part of the race was the opening burn out by Crystal and Kelly on pink “Smoke Bomb” tires donated by Shinko. The finals pitted Clontz of Mechanicsville MD against Jody Butler of Locust

Grove, VA. Kelly took the final with an ET of 8.083 at 148.99 MPH. Yours truly had the honor of presenting Kelly with a custom MS Fotography two by three foot action canvas as part of her winnings! The weekend also included bands, vendors, stunt shows, and the famous Bikini Contest. If you missed this event you missed one of the premier bike events in the country! You can follow all of the MIROCK action at www.mirockracing.com.

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Elyse Brice Lloyd McKinnon

ELYSE MCKINNON

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NAME: Elyse McKinnon HOMETOWN: Lawrence, KS AGE: 27 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: NHRA, NHDRO and any heads up Race I can find! Engle Motors.

GOALS: Continue to get faster in the 1/4 mile and join the 200mph Club in the standing mile.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Foot Shifted 8.77 @ 166mph, Runner Up at Street Car Takeover KC. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I’m highly competitive when it comes to racing and relentlessly work to get faster; I can’t stop until I’ve beaten milestones of those who have come before me, and don’t think I’ll be able to stop once I get there, either!

CONTACT: HTTP://DRAGBIKEGIRL.COM

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THE REV LIMITER

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NOTHING TO LOSE...

EVERYTHING TO GAINES WORDS: IAN GAINES IMAGES: JOHN MULLER, IAN GAINES

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THE REV LIMITER: EVERYTHNG TO GAINES

T

he trek to Sturgis started dark and early on Sunday morning. To be honest I was filled with such excitement I barely slept at all. If anything all I did was spend the majority of the three hours lying still and trying not to let Sunday morning know I wasn't asleep.

Getting to the airport was a breeze. The 4AM traffic was light and even allowed me to arrive a bit before planned,which is a blessing with today’s flight regulations. I was so tired boarding my first flight, that I failed to use all but one of the first class amenities I had been so excited to use ...the blanket. Oh never has that blue ,scratchy, paper thin fabric felt so good. Just a little piece of shrink wrapped heaven that morning .

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As for most of us I wasn't happy to see that my itinerary had a layover plopped right in the middle, but Chicago wasn't bad! One of my favorite cities and favorite NFL teams so I was happy to be in he windy city. As I approached the gate of my final flight on my pilgrimage to what many consider Motorcycle Mecca, I knew then I was headed to the right place. The terminal was filled with boots and leather, tattoos and ear rings, Harley Davidson shirts of all types and people of all ages with huge smiles on their faces, almost like children waiting for daybreak on Christmas morning and like teenagers stirring on the the last day of school. And me? Well, let's say I fit right in.

As we began our descent into Rapid City the pilot began to rattle off his usual jargon, "We

have begun our initial descent, fasten your seat belts, temperature is, winds are...” He closed with something I never would have expected. He simply said, “See ya’ at Sturgis!” At first I thought I was only a friendly gesture. You know just playing off all of our egocentric excitement , assuming everyone must be going to Sturgis so I left it at that. The long “livestock” like shuffle to the front of a plane can almost seem like an eternity and in those few moments curiosity got the best of me. I had to ask.

Just before stepping off the plane I asked the flight attendant at the door, "Did the pilot say he was going to Sturgis? " She smiled as if she had been waiting the entire flight for someone to ask that.

“Yes he did and he is. We all are." " Well, ok then." I said. "See ya’ at Sturgis!" As we

shook hands the sleeve of her blouse crept up just a bit revealing what looked to be the tail end of a full sleeve tattoo. Yes indeed. I was finally there. Even the pilots and flight crew were ready to ride the Black Hills.

LANDING AND LOADING It's seemed as soon as the wheels touched the runway the whirlwind began. First things first, we had to go meet with the girls... Our bikes. They had been shipped a little over a week ahead of our arrival and were waiting to be picked up at Black Hills Motorsports. Once we arrived at the dealership, we immediately starting cracking open our shipping containers and loading the trucks. No matter how many times I’ve done this I always feel like I should be a part of the circus, SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91

THE REV LIMITER: EVERYTHNG VIOLET STARS...

TO GAINES

which believe it or not, makes me love the industry even more. After loading up the bikes and all the rest of our gear, Black Hills Motorsports provided us with a few things we needed for our trip. Two Kawasaki Z1000's. I had never spent much time on this particular machine and was excited for the opportunity. Life’s little surprises and the perks of being on a trip with a Kawasaki factory rider.

Thanks Jason.

WAVE, SMILE AND WHAT DO I DO WITH MY HANDS? Bikes loaded? Check. Rental house keys obtained?

Check. Have we eaten? No, so no check but there isn’t any time. Once we threw down our bags and grabbed the key for the house we'd be staying in for the next few days it was off to meet with the Mayor.

What a group we were. We had them all. There we were: Jason Britton, Eric and Ben Bostrom, Lance Armstrong, DB Customs, the Harley Stunt Riders from Unknown Industries, a few bodyguards, myself and the Mayor of Sturgis, Mark Carstensen.

Now it was show time. Well, not really. There wouldn’t be any wheelies ridden for at least twelve hours, but either way we would be performing.

Our first stop of many was the Easy Rider Saloon.

I thought to myself, “How will this eclectic group of ”bikers” respond to us?” I mean how well would this blend of outlaws, sixty year old something baby boomers and rowdy middle aged rally goers receive us? It was like the beginning of a bad joke... "Two black sportbike riders, three Harley stunt riders, the Mayor, a superbike champion and Lance Armstrong walk into a bar...”

me to that very moment.

We all filed off the stage and off to our Main Street walk with the Mayor. This brought it all to life. There were vendors and bikes as far as the eye could see. Bikes of all types, colors and sizes. Much to my surprise, so were their owners. Our next two stops were the Knuckle and Loud America. Much like our visit to Easy Riders, we felt the love. So much love, in fact, that Lance Armstrong was invited on stage to play drums. He slayed it! That was definitely a moment I think we all will remember for years to come.

RISE AND RIDE The next morning, we had an early call time. Jason and I fired up those two Z1000's around 7am and headed to fall in formation at the Mayor’s ride. We rode a few miles with the processional and then zipped back to what had become known as the Boz Bros Lot 32. This is where we planned to shred the pavement. Lot 32 was rocking with Jason Britton and I on our sportbikes, the Unknown guys thrashing those Harleys and Jeremy "Twitch" Stenberg flying high above us all. Collectively and effectively, we brought the adrenaline to the 74th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

If you've yet to take your pilgrimmage to Sturgis, I suggest you add it to your bucket list. No matter what you ride, you must set aside the time to visit and find a way to get there. As people, we are always seeking acceptance and inclusion. We love to be around others that share our views. For motorcycle enthusiasts, Sturgis is that opportunity.

It is in the Black Hills of South Dakota that I found purpose and discovered what makes me so enthusiastic about motorcycles. What a culture and what an amazing community. I’ve met some of the greatest people on a bike and I can't wait for next years adventures at the 75th Sturgis Bike Rally.

To my surprise it all went well. They were excited to see us and again I felt the spirit of Sturgis. I witnessed the magic spell, the almost euphoric state the Black Hills held over each person breathing in their shadows. That moment brought an Thanks for the memories South Dakota! Until the uncontrollable smile across my face. I felt so blessed next one. that is was my love of motorcycles that had brought 92 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Jan SicChic

JAN SICCHIC

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NAME: Jan SicChic HOMETOWN: San Diego, CA AGE: 28 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: The Sic Shop.

GOALS: To be able to travel the world and motivate others to share my passion of stuntriding.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I have been able to take the sport across the border and be able to have had the first stuntshop in San Diego, California serving all of Baja and Mexico providing stunt parts to a lot of young people filled with raw passion for the sport that have not had the access to stuntparts and have had to build their own for a very long time.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: #onelove #stuntlife CONTACT:

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THE LIFE: FEATURED CLUB

Images: Courtesy of Spartanz MC

Rocker Interpretation: The helmeted and armed Spartan warrior, pictured on the Spartanz center patch is grey to represent their open mindedness when it comes to themselves and potential members. Color of skin nor type of bike is a factor when it comes to their members. It is the character of the rider that matters.

History/Origin of Club: The mother chapter of the

SPARTANZ M.C. CHAPTER: Wilks Barre, PA FOUNDED: NA MEMBERS: NA ELECTED OFFICIALS: PRESIDENT – Mack Ace VICE PRESIDENT - T Dawg PRO - Shizz SERGEANT AT ARMS - Koolion TREASURER - Ty

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Spartanz M.C. hails from the Bronx, N.Y. worthy cause.

The Wilkes Barre Chapter is a newer club, but they are set to make waves in Future of the club: the community.

The Spartanz M.C. feel very strongly about destroying the myth that motorcycle Club milestones/memorable moments: clubs are a gang. Part of their mission Recently, the club has been involved is to move forward in a progressive and with Breast Cancer Awareness events in positive manner, proving by their words the community, collaborating with local and actions that the myth is the furthest radio stations to bring attention to a much thing from the truth.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

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THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

WHAT ARE THE D.J.’S LISTENING TO?

WORDS: LADY KIM IMAGES: COURTESY OF D.J. FONZ, D.J. FXX, D.J. KAOSS

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W

hat music do the bikers like to listen while they are riding? I can’t tell with the bikers that have on ear plugs but the bikers with the serious sound systems on their motorcycles varies from region to region. I was at Myrtle Beach this year and the cruisers had more music systems installed then the sport bike riders. The older crowd played a lot of Blues, R&B, 60’s and 70’s music. The Southern bikers listened to the Southern rap artists! The Hooters parking lot was filled with Harley Glides blasting their sound systems. So what happens when it starts to rain on your speakers? When I grow up and switch to a cruiser then you will hear me blasting House Music, Disco, Old School and Classis Hip Hop! But if you want to know what music the bikers like to hear then you have ask the DJs that ride!

Jeff “DJ FXX” Alston is a member of the Agape Rydaz Motorcycle Ministry in Maryland. He has always had a love for riding and he has been riding since 1995. He had a Ninja ZX6, until it was stolen. Now he is seeking a Vulcan and keeping it Kawi! He says he rides because it's the closest he can be with God. He started djing back in the mid 80s. He said “Dj Dangerous Dee gave me my first go at the nightclub in Temple Hills Md.”

Lady Kim: Do you listen to music while riding your bike?

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DJ FXX: I listen to music that's in my head, however I will install a system on my next ride and I will play most of my own mixes!”

Lady Kim: Is there a difference when you DJ a biker party versus other types of parties?

DJ FXX: Yes, there is a huge difference playing for the MC clubs verses other clubs or parties.

You don't have folk in your ear asking to play this or to play that, which I love... Let me feel the crowd and go for what is good. Less drama and the clubs pay the DJ for their worth and sometimes give more.

Lady Kim: What are some of the songs the bikers like to hear in your area?

DJ FXX: My club doesn’t have a theme song yet. Most clubs love hearing their club theme song, Frankie Beverly and Maze "Before I Let Go”, all of the line dance songs, Old School Hip Hop and Go Go. Lady Kim: The DC area is known for playing Go Go music! I have been to motorcycle events where that was all they played and sometimes a live band would perform all night.

The music reminds me of Fat Albert and the Junkyard Band! What songs or music videos do you like with motorcycles in it?

DJ FXX: I like “Ride” by Mary J Blige, “Stuntin Like My Daddy” and “Ride It Like A Motor Bike”. There are more but I just can’t name them

D.J. FXX

all! Songs that are good for a stunt show mix are “Start It Up”, “It’s Going Down”, and “Ride Out”.

Newbie to the bike world is Mike “DJ Kaoss” Davis from South Jersey. He is a member of the Iconz MC. He started riding three years ago.

He said, “It was something that I just had the desire to do. My buddy had a bike and I liked how heads turned when he came around. I had an opportunity to buy a GXSR 600 so I purchased it to learn how to ride.” He started djing in 2000 with two portable CD players.

He upgraded over the years.

Lady Kim: Do you listen to music while riding your bike?

DJ Kaoss: I often listen to other DJ mixes while

I'm riding. I like to hear different styles of mixing and scratching. It also gives me that extra feel good vibe when I'm riding and my favorite song comes on.

Lady Kim: Is there a difference when you DJ a biker party versus other types of parties?

DJ Kaoss: In my experience bike parties have generally an older crowd so there is a difference in the type of music I play. I like to mix the old with the new and put my own flavor to it. When I DJ, I do it mostly on the spot. I call it free styling because most of the time I do the mix for the first time at that party and I usually get a feel from the crowd as to what song I'm playing next. If your a good DJ, then you can feel the vibe of the crowd and feed off of it.

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THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

D.J. FONZ Lady Kim: What are some of the songs the bikers like to hear in your area?

DJ Kaoss: I found that a hit song at biker parties is the Tuff Crew’s “My Part Of Town”. It doesn't matter what's going on but if you drop that song at a biker party then they will dance.

Lady Kim: What songs or music videos do you like with motorcycles in it?

DJ Kaoss: Believe it or not I'm not a video person. To me they are full of unrealistic things that the average person cannot achieve so I keep my ear to the radio and I follow the internet for new artists and music.

Lady Kim: If you had to create a mix for a stunt show, road race or drag racing, name some songs you would use.

DJ Kaoss: That's different then what I have done before but I'd probably would start with Lloyd 106 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Banks “Start Em'up” then follow it with a faster track like Joe Buddens “Pump It Up”.

Lady Kim: What's the best song for clubs to hold their colors up to?

DJ Kaoss: To me a good song would be “My Hitta” by Y.G. featuring Young Jeezy Lady Kim: When is your next event?

DJ Kaoss: Our next event is going to be our “Tony Thornton AKA Shorty Day”. On September 14th at South Delsea Drive Park in Glassboro NJ. We will start our day with a ride to honor our fallen brother then we will meet back at the park to celebrate his life with a Cookout and BBQ. Of course, I'll be DJing. It's a free event, a day we give back to those who support us in honor of Tony. All riders and clubs are welcome to attend and ride with us.

If you are in the 757 area of Virginia which includes Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Suffolk, then you will run into DJ Fonz. He is the Public Relations Officer of the Street Violataz MC from Portsmouth, Va. He rides a 2005 Kawasaki ZX10R. He started riding at a friend's cookout in 2002. DJ Fonz says, “I had just moved back home from Richmond, VA and found out at a cookout that my buddy and a couple of my close friends had bikes. He let me ride it at that cookout and I've been in love with bikes ever since. None of them ride anymore, only me.”

Lady Kim: How did you get started DJing?

DJ Fonz: I've always loved music in general, but I was also considered a "band geek". I'm a percussionist and have studied percussion since the 6th grade, specializing in marching percussion. In October of 1994, while in marching band at Virginia State University, a fellow percussionist of mine, DJ Shameek, had his turntables in his dorm room where he would hold rap cyphers and generally play music for the entire dorm floor. A Detroit native, he would leave his turntables at various bandmates' houses as he traveled to his hometown on breaks. One day, I just happened to be at the house when he dropped his turntables off for fall break. I asked his permission to play with them, he gave it to me and I stayed up about

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THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

twelve hours into the next day playing on them. I ride, but I pick and choose because I like And just like motorcycles, after that first day, I've to hear my surroundings for safety. So it will been in love ever since. vary. But when I do listen to music it's usually rap music, specifically "Trap Music" which is Lady Kim: Do you listen to music while riding Georgia based, hard rap. It keeps me hype your bike? when I'm riding. But the funny thing is, I don't DJ Fonz: Sometimes I will listen to music while listen to "Trap Music" off the bike. It's really 108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

weird.

Lady Kim: Is there a difference when you DJ a biker party versus other types of parties?

DJ Fonz: For me, it isn't. It's the same. But it was not always like that. Before I did parties within the biker community, I would attend events and be faced with the same format in the music programming. You could count on "The Wobble" and other slide songs to be played ar every party! And after those songs were played, people would sit down or just hang around the dance floor. I was in total shock because I've never seen dance floors that empty when good music was being played. So after I made a name for myself DJing within the MC community here, I declared the 757 as "No Wobble Zone". Presently, the movement has traveled throughout Virginia, parts of North Carolina and South Carolina and all the way to Texas. Whenever I'm spinning, anywhere, in any MC community, you will not hear "The Wobble". We come, we dance, we have a good time, we leave. It's that simple. But if you catch me at a wedding, family reunion or cookout, you just might hear it.

"I'll be sliding down your block, with my bike at 12 o'clock...” I repeat that part in parties.

"Start It Up" by Lloyd Banks and the “Ruff Ryder Anthem” video!

Lady Kim: Does your club have a theme song?

DJ Fonz: My club doesn't have an actual theme song because times change and we didn't want only one song to represent us. My club is currently diverse with African American, Panamanian, Dominican, West Indian and natives from various states here in the United States so we never have the same song. It changes to whatever is current and fits our club.

Lady Kim: What's the best song for clubs to hold their colors up to?

DJ Fonz: I don't believe in holding up your colors. They make flags for that. Colors belong on your back. But if there was a song I think that all clubs could represent to it would be "Who You Wit'" by Lil Jon and the Eastside Boyz.

Lady Kim: When is your next event?

DJ Fonz: Currently, I'm spinning Thursdays at Purrsha Lounge for Trump Tyght Ridas MC Bike Lady Kim: What are some of the songs the Night here in the 757. Also, every 2nd and 4th bikers like to hear in your area?

Wednesday in Petersburg, VA for the 804 Bike DJ Fonz: The 757 theme right now is Mykko andSkate Night at The Skate Factory. I have Montana "Do It". That song was passed to me various charity events, bike shows and bike and about three years ago by a close friend of mine car washes coming up but my next major event who is a part of Fyne Dymez MC. Nobody is the Street Violataz MC Labor Day Weekend here in the 757 knew what it was until I played Lockdown, August 30, 2014. My first time it. I kept playing it until the set embraced it and spinning my club's event! we've been rocking to it ever since.

With all the distractions out here on the roads, Lady Kim: What songs or music videos do you take extra precaution because drivers are like with motorcycles in it? texting and using their cell phones drifting in DJ Fonz: My club's homie Oboy Money out and out their lanes. If you listen to music while of New Jersey has a song and video we rock riding, then keep it at a safe volume and keep with called "BikeLife Anthem", Meek Mill's lyric the throttle twisted and ride safe! on "Dreams and Nightmares" where he says SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 109

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THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN

TURN DOWN FOR WHAT?!

WORDS: LION JAMES IMAGES: COURTESY OF THE FEMALE RIDERS FORUM, LION JAMES

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s one of the fastest growing demographics for new motorcyclists, women have had to put forth just a little bit more effort than their male counterparts when it comes to this testosterone dominated sport/lifestyle/hobby. Women have been rapidly upgrading their traditional role as pillion passenger to owner and operator, and right fully so. No longer are ladies confined to the back of the bike. When you pull up to a biker on Any Road, USA it is no longer a safe assumption that there is an X chromosome somewhere under the helmet. Ladies are riding and riding well. Not only must you make room for them on the roads but you may find yourself struggling to keep up with them.

This past weekend I joined a wonderful group of young ladies who met up for an organized and enjoyable ride from Central NJ south to Ocean City, MD for lunch. The group hosting the ride is called the Female Riders Forum and is a collective of female motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy all that this two wheeled lifestyle has to offer just as much as any man but they do it with just a bit more class and style than we do gentlemen. These ladies rode in tight formation responsibly and safely. There was wonderful communication of intended lane changes, hand as well as motorcycle turn signals and direction. The entire day which started at 10am and ended right around 10pm was incident free with no motorcycle malfunctions, moving violations or injuries. All together there were approximately thirty motorcyclists including a passenger meeting up from New York to Maryland and all points between. The ride was close to 400 miles for some and less for others but every one of

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those miles navigated with style, class, safety, fun and skill.

The Female Riders Forum which is an online community for ladies that enjoy motorcycles, riding and fellowship. The sisterhood and camaraderie shared by these two wheeled vixens was amazing especially considering that a many of them had never met in person prior to the ride. I know what you may be thinking, “if it was an all ladies ride then why were you there?” and believe me I got that question several times throughout the day as well as a few odd stares when I pulled in with the wave of riders coming from the north. The reason I was welcomed to join this high speed hen party is because four years ago Chokolate, President and Founder of the Jer-z Jewelz MC, Ghost of Curve Killaz MC, as well as myself started and moderated the Female Riders Forum online.

Back then the forum, affectionately referred to as the “FRF,” was a stand alone online community independent of popular social media such as Myspace, Instagram or FaceBook and boasted membership spanning the globe coast to coast as well as abroad. The forum organized several gatherings, contests and group rides. The forum was a buzz daily with discussion on topics ranging from riding, motorcycle mechanics, gossip, humor, group rides, Motorcycle Club community fodder, announcements of motorcycle legislation on tap for the areas in which its members rode and just about anything else you would want in a virtual meet up spot for ladies and a few gentlemen claiming their own piece of the proverbial motorcycle pie. In fact

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it may interest readers of Sportbikes Inc Magazine and specifically those of you who enjoy “The Lion’s Den”, I began my career as journalist with a blog on the FRF titled “The Roar Report.” My blog was pretty much an objective, passionate and articulate view of motorcycling through my helmet.

The Female Riders Forum is now a Facebook subcommunity and forum which has the benefit of reaching many more motorcycle enthusiasts from much farther places. While no longer a moderator or member of the FRF I support what the forum does and represents. The friendships I have made as a result of my membership on the forum have been enjoyable, rewarding and will last a lifetime.

During this recent ride with the wonderful and skilled ladies of the FRF I was instantly transported back to four years ago when the original FRF hosted a similar ride to the same place for a lunch meet up. I was honored to be included in this ride and contrary to what is seen in the motorcycle community myself and the other fellas played the back of the pack and “stayed in our lane” while the ladies took point leading us to our destinations.

Once we reached our lunch destination, Phillip’s Seafood in Ocean City, MD, the group parked in reserved parking specifically for our group. These ladies had the day’s trip and meal planned out well

in advance. We made our way to the second floor seating area also reserved for the Female Riders Forum for an all you can eat seafood buffet at one of Maryland’s most celebrated seafood restaurants.

During our meal the restaurant was filled with the sounds of conversation, laughter and the fellowship not of a bunch of women, but of motorcyclists… of friends. There was of course dozens of photos being taken, full bellies and the exchange of contact information. Announcements of upcoming FRF happenings and a big thank you from the trip’s organizers Chokalate and Icy, both of the Female Riders Forum and the Jer-z Jewelz Motorcycle Club as well as accomplished and skilled motorcyclists in their own right, capped off the delicious lunch and wonderful conversation. After the meal was done and the checks paid, we all went outside for a series of group photos to commemorate the day and said our slow goodbyes, partially because when having that much fun you want it to last and partially. Okay, mostly because with tummies as full as ours were, we needed a little extra time to let our meal digest. As any motorcyclist will tell you, a stomach that is too full and a long ride on two wheels is not a comfortable combination.

The ride home was much smaller in terms of the number of motorcyclists in the group, down to only seven, the group left in three different waves all

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heading in different directions and the pace much more “spirited”. You know what I mean. But equally as enjoyable. I broke off from the pack just around forty miles short of them reaching their starting point for the day. As soon as I was riding solo again that day, I missed my sisters.

I often hear the word “brotherhood” thrown around in the motorcycle community and it tends to discount the bonds we gentlemen form with the fairer sex of this world and the bonds of sisterhood that these ladies who ride form with one another.

I enjoy spending time in the saddle with anyone who knows how to ride, respects the sport and has the type of personality that keeps me around and makes me want to return to their company regardless of gender. I got this and more during that ride with the ladies of the FRF and I am thankful for the experience. It was immediately obvious on the ride that the ladies did not need us guys in their formation but it was nice to be included. Women are riding more and more each day and I think it’s a wonderful thing. There’s enough road out there for men and women so a word to the fellas on two wheels, you better start making a lane for the ladies before they take it from you. Chauvinism and male macho bullshit aside, the ladies are 116 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

turning up at bike nights, MC functions, charity and group rides, at dealerships with cash in hand and leading their own way. I’m not saying this to earn brownie points with the female riders here, I truly believe that every woman with the desire, ability and wherewithal to ride should do so and I personally welcome them onto my road with as much enthusiasm, acceptance and mutual respect as I was so graciously welcomed on Sunday’s ride.

You guys out there on two wheels who are satisfied with a woman’s place on a motorcycle being the back seat, behind the bar or in a bikini with a soapy sponge might want to check your ingredients because the ladies are showing out and turning up.

There are many such online communities, forums, websites and organizations, both private, local and national, created in the interest of promoting ridership among women and sisterhood through the sport, lifestyle and hobby of motorcycling.

For more information regarding the Female Riders Forum please log onto www.facebook.com/ femaleridersforum and when you join please tell them Lion sent you. Until we meet where rubber reaches street, ride safe and often.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Rob Sider LOCATION: Freeport, N.Y.

AKA Pie

OCCUPATION: Stationary Engineer.

YEARS RIDING: 14 years.

RIDING STYLE: I am a street rider.

BIKE/S OWNED: 1982 Yamaha Maxum 650, 2003 Suzuki Katana, 2002 Suzuki 1000, 2003 Suzuki Hayabusa, FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My custom dual VooDoo pipes. The “deep growl” sound they produce when I turn the throttle.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My riding gloves, they keep my hands comfortable and free from fatigue.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: I overslept and had to get to work

on time. I rode from long Island to Newark NJ, down the Southern State Parkway to the Belt Parkway, across the Verranzano Bridge, up the Staten Island expressway, across the Goethals Bridge, up the NJ turnpike to Newark in 43minutes. In midday traffic. 55 miles.

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Tenny Crawford LOCATION: Los Angeles, CA OCCUPATION: Real Estate Agent YEARS RIDING: 5 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street, canyons and track.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2012 Yamaha R6 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Carbon Fiber.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Alpinestars Women’s Vika Jacket MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My first ride up the scenic Pacific Coast Highway.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Edward Clay LOCATION: Spencer, W.V. OCCUPATION: Computer Security Architect.

YEARS RIDING: 38 years. I started in 1976.

RIDING STYLE: Street and track days.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2012Yamaha FJR, 2009 Buell 1125R, Honda CRF450R, two 2009 Buell Blasts and a 2007 Kawasaki Ninja 250.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: 2009 Buell 1125R which has HMF exhaust, Traxxion suspension kit in my front forks, K&N Air Filter and the EBR ECM. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Shoei RF200 helmet and Fieldsheer Two Piece Sport 2.0 leather suit.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Any day on a sportbike on a clear twisty road with no problems is a great ride. I have ridden many great roads to include Tail of the Dragon and have done track days on VIR and Summit Point. Any of the good roads or tracks bring a smile to my face when thinking about going there again.

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Mercedes Kane LOCATION: Lancaster, PA. OCCUPATION: Drug and Alcohol Counselor.

YEARS RIDING: 7 years and going strong.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2006 Kawasaki ZX6R. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: I just bought the bike this year, and I am in love with having a fuel injected bike and a newer bike as well!

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My new helmet I am getting.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: I would have to say the 2013 Shut the City Down ride. It was my first big ride I have ever done. It was such a great expierence and being able to share my passion with hundreds of others was amazing.

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

MAKE THE PADS TOUCH THE ROTORS

WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: TEAM TRACTION CONTROL

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his installment focuses on a tip for corner entry that is both easy to implement and a big difference maker for many riders. One of the most important contributors to rider confidence is to have a motorcycle that is completely predictable on corner entrance. In order to make precise and decisive steering inputs, riders must be able to very accurately predict the amount of bar pressure required to initiate the turn. One of the greatest challenges for riders on the entrance is to ensure that the suspension is moving as little as possible prior to this input.

One simple way that riders can stabilize the front end is by trail braking. At the Penguin School, we advise using some degree of trail braking on every corner entrance that requires the motorcycle to slow down. However, many riders are afraid to trail brake because they are unsure of if they have enough traction available to do so during the turn in process. We have found a simple solution for getting riders started on this path....please read on for more details.

It is often the case that the very same strategies used by top racers to maximize speed also can be applied by track day riders and Amateur racers to ride more safely. Trail braking is a prime example of one of those principles. Top riders brake right up to the moment of their major bar input, using the front brake to both set entrance speed and steer the motorcycle. Riders who are developing their skills often feel safest doing all of their braking while straight up and down and then fully releasing the brake lever as the motorcycle begins to lean.

Unfortunately, this practice often causes several problems on corner entry.

The average motorcycle these days has about 120mm worth of front suspension travel. When the brakes are fully released, the suspension extends and rides high in the travel. The absence of brake lever input allows the front end to essentially "float" and react with a lot of amplitude to every input (bumps, rider weight shifts, etc). Forks are softest (meaning the effective spring rate is lightest) at

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: MAKE THE PADS TOUCH

the top of the stroke. When forks are allowed to ride “high” in the stroke, it is very easy for them to oscillate 5-10mm up and down in the travel, which makes for front end geometry that is constantly changing.

When riders trail brake, even with very light pressure, the forks not only ride lower in the travel (making turn in effort easier) but they also react less severely to every input. The "preloading" of the front fork with lever input puts downward pressure on the front end, decreasing the unsettling motion of the forks at the top of the stroke. They also become stiffer, which by definition means that they move less

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with the same amount of applied force.

The question that always follows after explaining the benefits of trail braking is "How much trail braking is OK?". The answer in an ideal world is that riders should trail brake and set their entrance speed with every bit of traction available. The challenge with this is that it takes both excellent body position and perfectly soft arms and hands to feel the precise feedback needed to brake at this level.

However, all riders can benefit from a stabilizing effect in corner entrances by simply applying the lever enough to just cause "the pads to contact the rotors".

It does not take very much brake pressure at all (light pressure with one finger will do) to transfer weight to the front end and stabilize front end geometry.

When learning this skill riders should focus on using the front brake for chassis control rather than speed control. This often makes it easier for riders to have the confidence to trail brake, as this light pressure consumes very little traction.

This concept is an ideal starting point for riders at all levels to develop the habit of trail braking.

Applying just enough pressure to make "the pads touch the rotors" will stabilize the front end, decrease

the motion of the forks, lower the amount of bar effort needed to turn in, and greatly increase your sense of control. As an added bonus, you will slow down an extra couple MPH at the end of the braking zone and eventually be able to safely move your brake marker forward. All you have to do is keep those pads just touching the rotors when carving into a corner, and you'll find an immediate improvement in the handling of your bike on both the street and the track.

Until next time, ride fast, ride safe!

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D.j. kilmore

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usic to him is a “living, breathing entity, permeating everything” in his life. He thrives in solidarity, yet conquers the world with his heavy beats and genre concoctions. Splicing old school lyrics with new school sound, he breaks all barriers of music, landing him in a space all his own. DJ ‘Chris” Kilmore is more than a disc jockey; he is a musicologist, a magician of his time. Gaining inspiration from Pink Floyd, Public Enemy, Bob Marley and Ahmad Jamal to name a few, Kil began mixing sounds at a very young age. Being only three years old, he took his Fisher Price plastic turntable and subconsciously began his journey to become an international DJ. Chris remembers his first experience with classic rock, “My dad, brother and I would drive really fast in his truck, turning up the music.”

Absorbing the sounds of groundbreaking albums like Dark Side of the Moon and Elton John’s Too Low for Zero, Chris’ expansion of lyrical and musical knowledge was just getting started. His first audience was his classmates at their middle school dances. Michael Jackson, Madonna and Paula Abdul rocked the speakers, and “Jam on It” got them moving!

He worked at McDonalds to afford his first Pioneer 500 mixer, JBL speakers and Technic 1200 turntable. Despite some doubts, Kil worked hard at what he loved and didn’t allow anything or anyone to alter his focus. After high school he studied TV and Film at George Washington University in DC, yet continued to deliver the beats to 10,000 freshmen, five nights a week. Flyers were posted and every party was packed.

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collaborations.

Growing up in York, PA, Chris never felt part of the whole hair band scene, so he took refuge in the beats. “Hip Hop was way of rebellion for me.” He began fusing genres together that no one would consider, and in October 1995, Chris decided to hop coasts and dive into the industry in Los Angeles, CA. He quickly got to work, joining forces with the Jedi Knights Crew, the late DJ Dusk and a band called Beats and Blunts; a Reggae meets Rage Against the Machine kind of sound, who received their first record deal with Chris on board. However, the industry isn’t always the kindest so he decided to part ways with the band. This ended up being one of the best decisions of his career because on February 13, 1998 he received a call from a band called Incubus, asking him to audition as their new DJ and keyboardist. He was a perfect fit and immediately began blowing away hundreds of thousands of fans with his technical genius all around the world.

While on stage, Kil describes the feeling as, “Complete solidarity.

I’m in my own world.” Equally comparing to the oneness felt after strapping on a helmet for a ride, Chris explains, you “ride your own ride.” A yellow and black YZ-50 was his first ride that he and his brother would rip around on. Dirt bikes were his thing until 18 when his younger brother got his first street bike. Chris would soon follow, purchasing his first 2004 CBR600, which is now modified as a track bike, and currently rocks a CBR1000 on the streets. “Living in the canyons is perfect for riding. The roads are so smooth.”

Not only is Chris a beat junkie but he’s also an adrenaline junkie.

He describes his biggest adrenaline rush to be, “going 200mph on a MotoGP track” like his favorite riders, Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi. Having been a race enthusiast for nearly a decade, he admits, “If I wasn’t doing music I would want to be a MotoGP racer.” After bungee jumping in New Zealand and flying a Red Bull plane, Chris wants to push it even further and launch himself out of a plane and take a few laps in a Formula 1 car.

“The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.”

These same words that Bob Marley spoke came alive in DJ Kilmore’s life. “I want people to remember me as being a good person that helped other people.” He believes that our purpose here in this world is to “live long and prosper.” He questions, “Why can’t everyone just get along? It doesn’t matter if we are different.”

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“Complete solidarity. I’m in my own world.”

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that our purpose here in this world is to “live long and prosper.” He questions, “Why can’t everyone just get along? It doesn’t matter if we are different.”

One of the biggest hurdles we face in communication with other human beings is a language barrier that Chris has the ability to transcend. Amplifying vibrations he penetrates the limitations of verbal exchange by tapping into all other senses. Just as his mantra reminds us, ‘OM’ vibrates through you and makes one aware of the physical and spiritual realities that move through you. “The hardness in the beats I feel people can relate to. It doesn’t mean the message has to be hard. There is so much negativity on the news and it’s only getting worse.” The message he wants to spread is positivity to everyone, from all walks of life.

Living by the advice of his dad he encourages other aspiring artists, “When you fall, get back up and move forward even if you don’t know where you’re going.” “If you stay focused, work hard and stay humble, it will come.” Chris has the summer off to evolve as a solo artist, he explains, “I can’t just shut off the music in me. It doesn’t stop!” After their brief hiatus, Incubus has plans to tour internationally and state side in 2015! Keep your ears and minds open for what DJ Kilmore comes up with next.

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AND ON THE SEVENTH DAY, HE KEPT RIDING. Introducing the new Pirelli Angel GT tire. Perfect for never-ending trips or just a short weekend ride, it’s engineered to give you confidence and enhanced durability, even on wet ground. More than sport touring: this is 100% Italian Gran Turismo.

N°1 for Mileage according to an independent test of Motorrad TestCenter comparing Pirelli Angel GT with Michelin Pilot Road 3, Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart II, Bridgestone Battlax BT 023, Continental RoadAttack 2 and Metzeler Roadtec Z8 Interact M/O on 140 and | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM 120/70ZR-17 180/55ZR-17 set. The test took place in Spain, Marbella in November and December 2012, using six Suzuki Bandit 1250 ABS.

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LOEFFLER & PRUST THE DRUMMER & THE BUILDER WORDS: ALLAN LANE//IMAGES: GRANT SCHWINGLE SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 143

FRICTION ZONE: THE DRUMMER & THE BUILDER

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ony and Sam share an unbreakable bond.

Double stitched and threaded by music and motorcycles, the word friendship doesn't cover it and the term bromance cheapens it. Their friendship and understanding of one another is richer and deeper than that. Both men share a passion for motorcycles as Tony is the Tony Prust of Analog Motorcycles. Equally shared is their passion for music, as Sam is Sam Loeffler of the music group Chevelle in which he is the drummer.

I was introduced to Chevelle's music in 2002, at a time when MTV2 still played music consistently. The song was entitled "The Red", a strategic flow of moody waves crashing into and over your auditory system. The video itself was an extension of what the ears where hearing, portraying the members of the group engaged in anger management. I got it. It was clever and insightful. I went to see Chevelle perform live on their tour that year and was not disappointed. In fact, I haven't missed a Philly region show of theirs since. They're just that damn good.

About two years ago, my buddy Ben Bostrom put me on to Analog Motorcycles as he was filming Cafe Racer at the time and was riding one of Tony's builds in the episode.

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with strong jawlines... They were designed and built to be ridden while portraying a manly ruggedness. And again, I got it.

of the bike industry, I would catch a grin or a disguised smile as it ran across his face... I should mention, that Tony is not a smiler. Nor am I. Tony has a serious and sincere look of It wasn’t until I had a conversation with my observation about him at all times... So I was friend Emily at Alpinestars did I make the surprised when he would crack a grin, albeit connection that there was a connection to be short lived. As the conversation continued, I made. Emily informed me that Sam was not realized that Tony is not a mechanic. He is only an enthusiast, but a hell of a rider with not a wrench. I'd go as far to say that Tony is several bikes in his stable... mostly built by Tony not a builder. If I had to put him in a box, I'd at Analog. Emily, knowing I was a fan of the had to say that he is a creator... an artist. He group arranged for me to meet Sam at their embodies all the oddities and qualities that next gig in Atlantic City. When I met Sam, artists are known to posess. His laser like focus, Dean and Pete, I also met Tony who was on passion and determination could easily be tour with them as road manager for the group. displaced as arrogance or elitism. The reality Talk about killing two birds with one bullet. about artisits like Tony is that they exist in this Backstage, we talked bikes, MotoGP, music... world while dealing with the creative process Specifically the song, El Diablo which Sam that is ever present, ever working within their has promised will return to the band’s concert minds... It is the world's greatest balancing playlist... Then I heard, "Allan, you should come act. His eyes rattled with perception, joy and to Chicago and ride some bikes with us..." I pride as he walked me through the garage as honestly do not remember who offered the invite a painter would walk a patron through their but you don’t have to ask me twice. Come to studio, showing their new work. Then Sam think of it, I may have only heard that in my arrived... head and just invited myself! So...

Sam walks into the garage and the mood is I arrived in Chicago and headed to Analog immediately transformed. Sam is the unofficial Motorcycles which in essence, is Tony's garage spokesman for Analog Motorcycles and part behind his house. This is where it all started time test rider. Tony builds bikes and then to make sense. Tony gave the quick tour of Sam rides them. I could only sit back as Sam the inner workings of Analog, showcasing a hopped on just about every bike that had a few new projects as well as some top secret, clear seat available like a kid hopping on classified items that he was in the middle of horses on a merry go round before the ride producing. As I watched him and listened to started. For a moment, I'm the fly on the wall as him discussing his thoughts on the current state Sam and Tony catch up with each other as if SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 149

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FRICTION ZONE: THE DRUMMER & THE BUILDER it had been months since that had seen each other. However, I'm pretty sure that it may have only been a few hours. Yet, there they were...

The drummer and the builder.

We geared up and then hit the streets of Gurnee, a suburb north of Chicago. I had the joy of riding Sam's 2005 Ducati Monster S2R 800 while Sam rode his 1996 Bimota DB3 Mantra. Tony was on board his trusty 2007 KTM Superduke. The plan was simple, just to get out for a ride with no real point or destination. Just to ride, grab some lunch and do a bit of Benny Hill action at stop lights to swap bikes.

The Monster S2R 800 was a true street machine. Loud, rowdy and looked like a bat straight out of hell. Tony had really done his work on this bike as he took it from the early stages of a custom build to its finished form that it is today. One of the first things that I noticed on the bike was the Cycle Cat rearsets.

If you are a fan of the Monster or have ever owned one, you understand how the Cycle Cat rearsets are comparable to the Holy Grail since the company that manufactured them are now defunct. They are just really great looking and well made rearsets for a bike that didn't have a lot of aftermarket rearset options.

The Monster is very quick with explosive bursts of power paired with a snappy throttle response that gets up and goes. The front end suspension is borrowed from a Suzuki GSXR so the handling takes a little getting used to as the feedback is not as clear as it could be.

Then there is the exhaust system. The pipes are custom made, open stainless steel that rumble at idle. When the throttle is opened, the pipes audibly explode with an intimidating thunderous crackling.

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every day rider. The bike is a bull with broad shoulders and a dominating appearance. It growls but quickly converts to rthymic roar when the throttle is opened and its full Akrapovic exhuast system in harmony with its air intake set up reminds you why the sound of a motorcycle is a large part of its DNA. The Superduke's power is paired with a comfortable riding position. You're somewhere between sitting on and sitting in the bike, at a higher level. It's easier to keep your head on a swivel because you are sitting up but not upright, relieving stress

and pressure from your lower back. After a few moments on the KTM, it made perfect sense to me why Tony loved this bike so much.

The Bimota DB3 Mantra was cut from a different cloth. This bike should have maximum weight and height restrictions. Of the three machines that were ridden that day, this one was custom built and fitted for Sam. Everything about the Mantra breathed “one of a kind.�

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FRICTION ZONE: THE DRUMMER & THE BUILDER compact yet powerful and commanding. It is a combination of American retro, Euro cool with a proper salute to modern moto tech.

The three of us made our way from Gurnee to Waukesha, taking a bit of back roads, high ways, rural and suburban roads. We stopped to eat, talk, listen... We got back to Tony's garage in the late afternoon. There, we debriefed one another on our individaul experiences from the day, what bit of road we liked best and which of the bikes was a better fit for which rider.

Even though I was technically on the clock, this day reminded me why I love what I do.

I've learned over time that sometimes the best interviews aren't really interviews at all. They are mostly engaged conversations between interested parties. I've also learned that most builders and musicians have already been asked the same questions in various formats by a multitude of people. A great journalist is a great listener especially when you are in the company of individuals or groups that truly have something to say. And sometimes, there is nothing to say. Sometimes, it’s just about the ride.

Sam and Tony exemplify the relationship that exists between music and motorcycles. They represent the bridge. Music pushes us, drives us, unites us and inspires us. Motorcycles, in kind, are the vehicle upon which we take that journey. Tony is currently on the social media press junket for Analog Motorcycles' newest build, a custom Indian Scout. Sam is now on tour with Pete and Dean supporting Chevelle's new album, La Gargola. Individually and collectively, they are brothers of the bike, brothers beyond blood. Spending a day of serious seat time with Sam and Tony is a reminder of what being a rider is really all about.

There are no such things as perfect days. But that day was pretty damn close.

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FRICTION ZONE

THE POWER OF MUSIC WORDS: KIANA GADSON IMAGES: LEON BRITTAIN

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id you ever think about how the music we listen to influences us? Here's an even better question... Why do we turn down the music when we're looking for an address? Your conscience mind might tell you your being silly for doing that.

That it's just one of those weird things people sometimes do.

Music has a strong influence in our world. It always has but it seems more today than ever. Music even has an influence on fashion trends. Ever notice how young people who listen to the same music usually have similar values and they express it through the way they dress. They even recognize each other that way too, so they can communicate with more people who have similar tastes and values. Ladies, ever notice how we love to see what our favorite artist are wearing and even how they dress their children. The music and fashion industry have become so intertwined. So much that artists can now use their fame to sell their own fashion line of clothing. Artists like Diddy, Russell Simmons, Jessica Simpson, Bey-Z and so many more.

Music... It's the universal language that binds us. It can break race barriers. It can help us understand and relate to each other. It can also make us feel any and every emotion just by listening to a single song. It's essential to all cultures and can even have benefits not only for learning language, improving memory and focusing attention, but also can be used for physical coordination and development.

But what's even more interesting is that there is

a scientific sort of explanation to why we are so captivated by music. Normal activity only excites a certain percentage of our brain. It is unknown how much of our brain we normally use. And I’m not sure where the “ten percent” myth came from, but I do know that when the myth first began, doctors and scientists had no reliable way to measure how much of the brain was used. Today, even with MRI and PET scans we still don't know a perfect estimate of how much of the brain is being used at any one time. But we do know when an area of the brain is active during a particular activity, not every cell in that area is being used. A study

by Finnish researchers, published in the journal NeuroImage, to investigate "how different aspects of music such as timbre, tonality and rhythm are processed by our brain in a ‘realistic listening situation’. It revealed for the first time how wide networks in the brain light up when listening to music and these include emotions, motor actions and creativity."

Basically, has been found is that music is one of the few activities that involve using the entire brain. Let me say that again... Music is one of the few, if not only, activity we can do in our everyday life that activates one hundred percent of our brain. Which means we really do turn our music down because we literally can not see where we're going, do to the distraction in the car that is utilizing most of our brain! Mom wasn't lying. Maybe we should be careful of what we listen to. After all, it's the sound of the emotions we are feeding into our brain.

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FRICTION ZONE

DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS

WORDS AND IMAGES: BILLY MORRISON

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t always begins with a realization. Maybe it’s the thought that you went into that corner a little hot. Or maybe it’s as simple as “Shit, I am going way faster than I thought!” But the realization is always immediately followed by a bizarre time and space relationship conundrum. Basically shit slows down! And from that point on, your mind does all the work, because your body is too busy trying not to get too messed up. I’m talking of course, about crashing. Wiping out. Laying it down. Whatever you call it, there are really only two types of rider.

Those who have crashed, and those who are going to crash.

I’m not deliberately trying to be provocative, or negative, or even instill fear into your hearts, although a healthy amount of fear does us good, I believe. I’m just tackling a subject that a lot of bike riders pretend does not exist or never talk about for fear of jinxing things. To me, that’s ridiculous.

We hurtle around our streets at 70mph... (honest Officer, that’s my maximum speed on the freeway!) surrounded by oblivious assholes in two ton death machines who are mostly putting on make up, texting, drunk while operating their chosen weapon. We balance on two wheels during rainstorms or snow fall. One puncture at anything above a crawl and its curtains. We’re going to come off at some point!

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FRICTION ZONE: DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS be truthful, were down to being young, dumb and stupid. I rode into the back of a car on the M1 motorway in the UK (think multi-lane freeway) at 90mph. I attempted to get my knee down on a 90 degree corner on a Yamaha RD125LC and simply ploughed into a brick wall.

I’ve hit cars, been hit by cars, broken bones, torn fleshy bits and

added road rash to various parts of my body.

I know the weird metallic taste that appears in your mouth when you hit a vehicle at speed (what IS that taste????) BUT….. there are other accidents I’ve had that were NOT my fault. And what is interesting is that they are all the later ones – the ones that occur despite good riding ability, careful positioning or maneuvering, hawk-eye observing……the ones that you are powerless to prevent. THESE are the ones that suck the most. And these are the ones that are going to 164 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

happen no matter how great you think you are, the boy racer (see one of my earlier columns!) doing Marc Marquez impressions in the canyons on a Sunday is eventually gonna fly over a barrier simply from riding like an asshole. But the odds that the gentleman who rides safely to work each day on his “Beemer/Touring/I Can Ride Up The Andes Mountains On This Baby” bike is still going to have some idiot car driver pull out on him are not good.

I can still remember a lot of my thoughts during crashes, which heightens the “time slowing down” feeling. I mean it takes split seconds to T bone a car, so how come I can remember thinking all of this just before I ploughed into a car that had stopped for no reason in the center of a junction. “No. Really? Right there?

You’re gonna turn in front of me right now? You fucking idiot. This is really gonna hurt.

Gotta watch out for the dude behind me. He’s way too close and he’ll run me over once I hit the ground. Maybe try and aim for the front of this guys car.That way with any luck I’ll go over the top and not through a window. Fuck it! I hope my new lid survives this one because it was way too much money. At least xxxxx (insert relevant female companion name here) will be all freaked out and come visit me in hospital...”

Then whaaam! I pretty much remember that whole thought process, but in reality I noticed Mr. Asshole suddenly stop in a junction, I slammed both brakes

on way too hard and skidded sideways into the hood of his car. My aim was good and I did in fact launch directly over the hood of his car (you can add this to my thought process at this point… ”Oh shit! this is really gonna hurt when I hit the ground...” Bang! “Owww!”). But it still seems a lot to be thinking about in such a short space of time.

it is outside! Presume every car driver is a prick.

They’re not, of course but ride like they are. Presume they are all about to randomly pull left or right or do something jaw droppingly idiotic. Look ahead.

A long way ahead. And try not to pull wheelies through the town center. Actually, scrub that last one. We gotta have some fun, right?

I guess what I’m saying is this... Don’t hide from the fact that crashing on motorcycles is somewhat inevitable. It hurts and it sucks. But let’s not pretend it doesn’t happen! Wearing good gear has saved me many times. You will not see me riding up to the store in shorts and flip flops no matter how hot

PLEASE NOTE: The pic with Rossi has nothing whatsoever to do with this article. It is purely a genius moment in time that I will never forget and it’s included here for my own gratuitous pleasure.

Hahaha!

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FRICTION ZONE: RANDOM

TUNED IN...

WORDS AND IMAGE: JOANNE DONN

I

am one of the many riders who enjoy listening to music while I ride my motorcycle. I like using a bluetooth intercom headset instead of earbuds so it’s all wireless. It’s not something I always do, but I especially like it while I’m on long weekend rides (400+ miles). Nothing like a few tunes to help keep my mood happy when I’m forced to ride in a straight line for awhile. But I never blast my music so loud that I can’t hear what’s going on around me.

And I always wear ear plugs while I ride, because then I’m able to actually *hear* the music. How are you supposed to hear Michael Jackson tell you that he wants you back if the wind noise is howling louder than he is? I’ll also turn the music down pretty low or to a really mellow beat when riding the twisties.

I find that if the beat is too fast or too hard, I tend to go a bit faster and forget to set up for the next corner because I’m trying to sing my own duet. Music is nice but certainly not easy to ride with if you’re easily distracted. So that’s why I always keep my music fairly low and take breaks on long rides so I can focus and concentrate on what’s next.

I definitely think playing your music for the whole world to listen to is a bit much. It doesn’t seem like you can hear it nearly as well as you could if you had headphones mounted inside your helmet. And maybe I don’t want to hear what you’re listening to!

But that’s when I roll on the throttle and leave anyway.

Keep the shiny side up, rubber side down and don’t forget those earplugs!

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FRICTION ZONE

THE HIT

LIST

Do you ever wonder what MUSIC your fellow riders are listening to when they are not on the bike? We do... So we decided to ask them.

Nathon Verdugo! What’s on your hit list?

“God’s Whisper” by Raury. Not even really sure where I came across this 17 year old kid from Atlanta, maybe my soundcloud feed, but his cross between Andre 3000 and Coldplay guitar driving melodies mixed with his angsty teenage lyrics were enough to keep this song on heavy rotation “The World Is Yours” by Nas. When I was going through the final interview process with Ducati I made myself a playlist to get psyched up this and Jadakiss’s “You Can’t Stop Me” were very motivational.

“Feels Like We Only Go Backwards” by Tame Impala. A frustrating relationship defined musically. Their sound is super retro. It’s what the radio is missing theses days.

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THIS LIFE

L.A. TIMES

WORDS: TYSON BECKFORD IMAGE: NATHON VERDUGO

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his month, I had the pleasure of riding in Los Angeles. I don’t do it too often but when you can call Ducati and they set you up with a 1199R for my new movie “Chocolate City”, then you go all in and get it!

I’ve noticed that California is a bike friendly state. I kept looking in my rear view mirrors every time I was splitting lanes and was like... “Damn! This is allowed here? Ty stop trippin’!”

To say that I enjoyed the 1199R would be an understatement. However, the under seat exhaust was a little bit annoying. It had my balls roasting like whoa! Who do I talk to if I become sterile?! All kidding aside, I had a really great time. So next time you find yourself in California check out the landscape, take a few days and ride out there to see what’s what. I promise you that you’ll say, “Tyson didn’t lie!”

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THE NEW ISH SHOEI • X TWELVE MONTMELO MARQUEZ TC-2 The X Twelve represents Shoei’s highest standards of helmet safety and technology. Race tested and race approved, the X Twelve Montmelo Marquez TC-2 is fashioned after the current MotoGP champion and points leader, Marc Marquez with his 93 emblazoned on the side.. Available in five hell sizes, the helmet features an emergency quick release system, a dual layer EPS liner and 3D max dry interior system.

Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $839.99 Contact: http://shoei-helmets.com

SKUTRNET • SERVO BUDDY

ROLAND SANDS DESIGNS • CLASH JACKET An aggressive modern riding styled jacket with a classic rocker vibe, the Clash from RSD is a quality riding jacket with leather measuring between .9 to 1.1mm in thickness, quilted accents on the shoulder and lower back with riveted elbows. The Clash is armor ready with pockets in the shoulders and elbows and features an offset front zipper and front zip pockets. Badass doesn’t begin to describe this jacket.

Sizes: S - XXXL Colors: Black, Ox Blood Price: $650.00 Contact: http://rolandsands.com 172 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Most of us that have replaced our stock exhaust systems with an aftermarket system have experienced a run in with the factory servo motor on our bikes. What happens when we remove the stock system and the servo motor, the factory set up looks for the connection. Obviously, it’s not there and that often leads to the Fuel Injection light being illuminated on your dash when in reality there are no issues. The Servo Buddy eliminates that problem by basically mimicking the servo motor.

Simply plug the Servo Buddy into the connection and you are good to go. The Servo Buddy further acts as the servo motor by sending alerts in the event that there are real issues with the exhaust.

Price: $59.95 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com

MOTO D RACING • DIGITAL TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE A tire pressure gauge is a must have for every motorcyclist and can make the difference between a ride... and great ride. Moto D Racing’s Digital Tire Pressure Gauge features a holding valve and relief toggle so that you can dial into your desired PSI setting within .6 pounds per square inch, from 0 to 60. The digital readout is back lit with a 2.5 inch display area for easy viewing. A 17 inch hose with an angled type swivel air chuck to easy use and durability.

Price: $69.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com HAYDEN BROTHERS GENERAL STORE • “THE FIRST FAMILY OF RACING” BOOK

With unprecedented insight into who are America’s First Family of Racing, this book takes us into lives, memoirs and legacy of Earl Hayden and his racing sons: Tommy, Roger Lee and Nicky. The collection of on and off the track trips down memory lane transcend the lines of race fans, enthusiasts and family supporters. Patriarch Earl Hayden shares his life in 190 pages complete with pictures and includes chapters written by his children and wife, Rose.

SADDLEMEN SEATS • TRACK CF SEAT FOR THE YAMAHA FZ09

Price: $20.00 Contact: http://haydenbrosgeneralstore.com

The Track CF seat features Saddlemen’s Gel Channel Technology that is engineered to keep the riders blood flow optimized while relieving pressure when riding. The Track CF was designed with the more aggressive rider in mind with its carbon fiber looking vinyl covering and its gel padding to provide maximum comfort so you can ride longer and further. The Track CF is a straight replacement for the stock two up seat on the Yamaha FZ09.

Price: $420.00 Contact: http://saddlemen.com

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THE NEW ISH FAST BY FERRACCI • FBF FULL GAUNTLET GLOVES For many years, Fast by Ferracci has provided the industry with the top components for your motorcycling needs. Now, Ferracci is offering components for you, the rider. Beginning with their FBF Full Gauntlet Gloves, they feature a full grain leather chassis, double stitched seams and armored knuckles and wrist protection and palm sliders. The gloves are lightweight and properly ventilated making them a top choice for street or track duties. The color way is of course an homage to the proud Italian racing heritage that is synonymous with the Ferracci brand.

Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $149.95 Contact: http://ferracci.com

VOODOO MOTO • CAFE EXHAUST TURNOUT MUFFLER

ROARING TOYZ • QUICK ACCESS CLUTCH COVER FOR THE ZX14 AND ZX14R This is a great component to have for your ZX14R. This quick access clutch cover is more than a pretty face with its contrast cut, black anodized finish as it allows you to check, change or maximize air flow for cooling down your clutch assembly without having to drain your oil. Made from billet aluminum, the clutch cover is held in place by three allen head bolts to it’s housing making access to your clutch plates a snap. It fits all Kawasaki ZX14 and ZX14R models from 2006 through 2015 and does require modifying the lower right side fairing for installation. Made in the USA. Price: $549.99 Contact: http://roaringtoyz.com 174 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

If you are looking to finish that custom cafe project or are looking to enhance your look and performance of your current cafe rider, the Cafe Exhaust Turnout Muffler from Voodoo Moto offers a great selection at a great price. The Turnour Muffler measures 19.75 inches and fits universally on 1-3/4 or 1-1/2 pipes. Chrome plated outer shell provides durability and a great polished finish.

Internal baffles and high heat packing keep your decibels in decent range. applications include German, British and universal Japanese motorcycles.

Price: $60.14 Contact: http://voodoomoto.com

SPRINT FILTER • CLEANABLE AIR FILTER FOR THE DUCATI PANIGALE The great thing about the Sprint air filter line is that they do not require any lubrication or oil. Further, they can be cleaned with only compressed air. This is thanks to an innovative polyester material that allows for improved and even air flow when compared to the stock air filters of which they directly replace. So open up your Panigale, free up a little bit of horse power and also improve fuel efficiency with the Sprint Air Filter.

Price: $93.95 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com

DAINESE • AVANT RACE LADY BOOTS The Avant Race Lady boots are designed to provide great style and comfort while securing and protecting the ankle and foot of the rider when it is needed most. Equipped with TPU inserts in the shin and the ankle, the Avants feature an adjusting calf enclosure to ensure the proper fit while its microfiber upper construction provides a light weight feel. The Avant Race Lady boots allow you to get your fashion on while you got your ride thing going on.

Sizes: 36 - 40 (Euro) Price: $289.99 Contact: http://dainese.com

ALPINESTARS • STELLA GP PLUS R LEATHER JACKET

Equipped with the components and quality that Alpinestars is known for and then some, the Stella GP Plus R Leather Jacket offers the female rider top choice in protection and comfort. Constructed with premium leather chassis and highlighted by stretch panels in key areas, the GP Plus R jacket provides armor in the shoulders and elbows with padded chest and back compartments that can be upgraded with Alpinestars Bionic Armor. The GP Plus R jacket easily zips onto the Stella Riding Pants for a total riding outfit.

Sizes: 38 - 50 (Euro) Colors: Black/Red/Red, Black/White Price: $399.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 175

THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ICON MOTOSPORTS • COVERLEAF KNEE Before any of the naysayers begin their negative rant on the practicality of the Cloverleafs, let’s just say that are not for you and simply move on. I will tell you who these are for after we give a much deserved salute to ICON for recognizing the needs of the asphalt assassins that annihilate the on ramps, the off ramps and everywhere in between... They know who they are.

Finally, an economical and accessible piece of kit that offers real world “over the pant” protection for the rider that may feel the need to drag their knee whenever or where ever, simply because they can.

The Coverleaf Knee fit securely and feature a leather chassis that houses a removable D3O knee impact protector. The slider puck is replaceable so you can simply re-up once you have ground it down.

Sizes: Small/Medium, Large/X-Large Colors: White, Black Price: $120.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

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Cool all the way through.

GT-R Air textile jacket

The GT-R air breathes well, comes with built-in safety features and is smartly styled to boot.

The outer shell features large 3D air mesh-panels for ventilation, and stretch areas on the elbows to allow for a comfortable forward seating position. For hot summer days a Challenger cooling vest can be zipped in. Thanks to CE armor at the elbows and shoulders riders are protected against impact, and an easily upgraded back protector further enhances safety.

View the new Spring-Summer 2014 collection and locate your nearest dealer on www.revit.eu

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STAFF STUFF MONSTER • ISPORT FREEDOM WIRELESS BLUETOOTH ON-EAR HEADPHONES Allan Lane

T

he Monster iSport Freedom Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones have become a key factor in my workouts and training. I even use them in the office while working.

The liberty that they allow while going through the motions of a vigorous work out or cardio routine is amazing. Prior to the Freedoms, I was using wired, in ear headphones. I found them uncomfortable, irritating and annoying. While wearing them, I was always distracted by sorting out the wires or trying to keep them from getting twisted or tangled. They were a total distraction.

device are situated on the outside of the right ear giving you the ability to move through your music library with ease, adjust volume and even take calls.

The Freedoms are designed to be tough, durable and long lasting. After several months of serious active wear and tear, the Freedoms perform and sound just as well as the day that I removed them from the box. If you are looking for a great set of headphones to use while you are getting your work out on, while you are on the grid getting your head right for the race or just cooling out at the stunt spot, check out the Freedoms from Monster.

It was Mr. Beckford that put me on to the Freedoms. The difference in comfort and function was noticeable straight away. The Freedoms are cushioned, water and sweat http://monsterproducts.com resistant and rest on top of the ear. They are wireless and connect to your device via bluetooth. The controls for your Rating: 6 (out of 6)

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Courtesy of Billy Morrison Location: Los Angeles, CA