ROAD RACING • DRAG RACING • STUNT RIDING • CUSTOM BIKES • LIFESTYLE
AUGUST 2016 VOL 6 ISSUE 11
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM
THE 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21 | MOTOGP WITH B.T. | RICKEY GADSON: LINES OF A LEGEND | 2016 WPGC BIKE FEST | ON THE COME UP | THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN: OF MICE AND MEN
2 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
UNTIL NOW, WE HAVE BEEN ASKED TO TA K E S I D E S. T O C H O O S E B E T W E E N W I C K E D O R V I R T U O U S , B R U TA L O R S O P H I S T I C AT E D , R E F I N E D O R W I L D , G E N T L E M A N O R B A S TA R D . Y O U D E S E R V E B O T H.
© Ducati North America 2016
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 3
CONTENTS
AUGUST 2016 - VOLUME 6, ISSUE 11 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16
16 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46 46 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54 54 THE NUMBERS - By Tom Sykes 62 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=62 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 92 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102 102 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=108 108 THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN - By Michael Lawless http://issuu.com/action/page?page=116 116 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=122 122 STAFF STUFF
FEATURED RIDER: DAVE JENKINS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=104 PAGE 104
4 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5
FEATURES
AUGUST 2016 - VOLUME 6, ISSUE 11 THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21
28
LINES OF A LEGEND: BACK IN THE SEAT, AGAIN...
62
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=70
ON THE COME UP: DRAG RACER EDITION
80
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=108
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=28
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=62
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=80
6 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
MOTOGP WITH B.T.
46
2016 WPGC BIKE FEST
70
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46
108
THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN: OF MICE AND MEN
©2016 BMW Motorrad USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks.
BMW Motorrad USA
2016 S 1000 RR
The Ultimate Riding Machine™
DON’T JUST SEIZE THE DAY. LEAN INTO IT. MAKE LIFE A RIDE.
Not everyone takes the chance. Even fewer have the passion and the courage to make the most of it. But for those who can, for those who do, there is the 2016 BMW S 1000 RR. bmwmotorcycles.com. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 7
FEATURE STORY
8 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21: A FLYING FORTRESS
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=28
PAGE 28
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 9
STAFF
Publisher//Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
ART & DESIGN
Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com
Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com
Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com
Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Michael Lawless lawless@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com
Contributing Photographers: Asphalt & Opportunity Kwame Olds Annette Jenkins Kevin Wing Brian J. Nelson Leon Brittain Ted Ellis Mr. Spade
Contributors: Red Spade Adam Waheed Tom Sykes
SportBikes Inc Magazine - August 2016 Volume 6, Issue 11 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2016 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.
10 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 11
FOLLOW US TO LEARN MORE
AK TROOPER PACK BE SAFE, BE SEEN IN OUR HI-VIS RIDING BACKPACK // MSRP - $180.00
The Trooper was designed for, well, anything and everything you can imagine. It's big. It's tough. It's perfect. Of cour exterior pockets, tie-downs, the expected fittings and adjustments, a special laptop/tablet pocket and hydration com place for first aid, a place for eyewear and the ability to secure your helmet to the back. You're going to quit before t 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
rse, it includes interior and mpatible. Not to mention, a the trooper even gets close. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13
FROM THE EDITOR
D
rag racing is a sport comprised of many elements. Of those elements, none seem greater than the skillful art of reaction. Races are often, some may say always, won or loss based on how you start. When the lights come down the tree, your ability to launch at the right moment is the split difference between victory or defeat. The myth that drag racing is simply a matter of having the biggest motor or the fastest bike is just that… a myth. Without the skill, your race fueled turbo charged, nitro boosted Busa is just an expensive paper weight that will get left at the line, every time. The skill of reacting translates to all genres of motorsports. Ever watch the end of a MotoGP qualifying session? Valentino Rossi is practicing his starts because he knows just how important it is getting away from the pack before turn one. Jorge Lorenzo is a master at getting incredible starts, when his heart is into it… In Motocross, when the gate 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
drops, the hole shot is the momentary goal… be the first one there. All reaction time! Great starts all begin with precision reaction. It’s been a few years since I’ve been at the drag strip. As much time as I spend on track, I honestly miss the straight line. I often think about what would be possible if I actually dedicated some serious seat time to the strip and honed my reaction times as well as the other skills necessary for a proper drag racer’s box of tools… Hmmm. Perhaps it’s time to to give Rickey Gadson a shout and let him know that I’m looking to continue my education at his Drag Racing School. Expect a call, Big Bro. Best, Allan allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Perfo r
manc
e
Cafe
Sho
rty
Rear Sets Cli
p-O
Distributed by:
ns
www.VooDoomoto.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15
THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS 2017 AMA VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE DAYS The 2017 dates for the annual AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 3 day event have been announced. Scheduled to take place the weekend of July 7-9, 2017, the 2017 event will happen at the Mid Ohio Car Course in Lexington, OH. A showcase for vintage motorcycle racing, bike shows,stunt shows, seminars, vendors and swap meets, the event began in 1990 and serves as a fundraiser for the nonprofit AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. For more information, please visit: amavintagemotorcycledays.com.
HARLEY DAVIDSON RECALLS 27,000 BIKES Almost 30,000 Harley Davidson motorcycles from the 2016 model year have been recalled by the manufacturer because the clutch master cylinder can lose the ability to generate lift to disengage the clutch. This can be more apparent if the bike has been sitting still for a long period of time. The total 27, 232 affected models include: Electric Glide Ultra Classic (FLHTCU), Electra Glide Ultra Classic Low (FLHTCUL), Ultra Limited Low (FLHTKL), Ultra Limited (FLHTK), CVO Street Glide (FLHXSE), Street Glide (FLHX), Street Glide Special (FLHXS), Road Glide Special (FLTRXS), Road Glide (FLTRX), Police Electra Glide (FLHTP), Road Glide Ultra (FLTRU), Fat Boy S (FLSTFBS), Softail Slim S 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
(FLSS), and CVO Softail Pro Street Breakout (FXSE). Owners will be alerted and the dealer network has been instructed to repair the clutch set up, free of charge.
2016 HARLEY DAVIDSON BREAKOUT
ROLAND SANDS CUSTOM DUCATI X DIAVEL S UNVEILED IN STURGIS Roland Sands and Ducati teamed up to unveil a custom one off X Diavel S at the 76th Sturgis Rally in South Dakota. This was Ducati’s first debut appearance at the rally and teaming up with Sands was a premium manner to make an introduction. When the X Diavel was launched earlier in the year, Sands also launched an exclusive line of accessories and components for the Italian cruiser. Plans for a custom version of the X Diavel was already in the works by
the former road racing champion turned master bike builder and the unveiling at the Sturgis rally only seemed kismet. Sporting a seamless, integrated tank and tail body, the RSD X Diavel takes the original bike down to it’s essence and performance, rebuilding it as a Italian cruiser/ flat track devil. Truly setting it apart is the custom exhaust set up that gives the bike a strong competition vibe while the flake paint job, pin striping a muted gold details keep it old school.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 17
THE PRESS ROOM LANE SPLITTING IN CALIFORNIA IS FINALLY OFFICIAL Lane splitting is now being legally regulated in the state of California, thanks to a new bill signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown. The new law means that the act of lane splitting or filtering is now subject to guidelines. A number of other states have similar legislation under consideration, including Nevada, Georgia, Texas, Washington and Oregon.
RHODE ISLAND’S NEW AUTO CYCLE LAW If you live in Rhode Island and ride a three auto cycle, you no longer need a motorcycle license to legally operate the vehicle. A new law that recently passed allows for drivers to operate what is considered an auto cycle or vehicle
18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
that has three wheels with only a state issued driver’s license. Auto cycles, as a reference point, would include Polaris Slingshots, Can Am Spyders, T Rex, etc.
TRIUMPH’S INFOR ROCKET STREAMLINER BECOMES THE FASTEST TRIUMPH AT BONNEVILLE
Piloted by Guy Martin, the Triumph Infor Rocket Streamliner broke the record, previously held by Bob Leppan in the Gyronaut X-1. Martin achieved a speed of 274.2 mile per hour on the Salts of Bonneville. The previous official Triumph record, set by Leppan, were 264mph and 245.667. Constructed with a carbon Kevlar monocoque body, the 25.5 foot long Triumph Infor Rocket houses two turbocharged Triumph Rocket III engines that produced a combined 1,000 braking horse power at 9,000rpm. With a height of 3 feet and a width of 2 feet, the Infor runs on methanol in the Division C category for streamlined motorcycles.
PERFORMANCE RIDING MOTORCYCLE ACCESSORIES
Strapless Transport Motorcycle Stands ● The Original Trailer Restraint System, Since 2004 ● No Stress on Suspension or Handlebars ● Bolts to Trailer / Long Bed Truck Floor ● Solid Steel, Axle Bar Included, 100% Secure
WWW.MOTODRACING.COM /MOTODRACING
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19
20 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 21
THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS RULE CHANGES FOR THE SUPERBIKE AND SUPERSTOCK 1000 CLASSES IN MOTOMERICA In 2017, the Superbike and Superstock 1000 classes in MotoAmerica will look a lot more like the WorldSBK classes thanks to several rule changes. It was the goal of Motoamerica from the beginning, to emulate the rules and vibes of the WorldSBK Championship and they’ve been working toward it over the last two years. The rules for the Supersport and Superstock 600 classes remain the same. The following is a list of changes for the 2017 the MotoAmerica Superbike class: Numbers And Number Plates: No specific background or number colors will be required. Fuel-Injection Systems: The addition of fly-by-wire systems will not be allowed. Throttles must remain as homologated. No modifications to the variable intake track adjustment device if equipped. Ignition And Electronic Control System: 2014 “American Superbike Kit” not legal for 2017. Main Frame: One-bike rule with complete spare motorcycle. Front Suspension (Using World Superbike-Capped Components): Fork can be replaced. Swingarm: Swingarm can be replaced. Here is the list of changes for the 2017, the MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 class: Frame Body And Rear Sub Frame: Frames will 22 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
follow Superbike rules. Front Fork: The upper and lower fork clamps (triple clamp, fork bridges and stem) may be modified or replaced. Swingarm: Swingarm must remain as originally produced by the manufacturer for the homologated motorcycle with the following changes: Gussets and bracing may be added. A provision for shock absorber and spring clearances is allowed. The range of axle adjustment may be modified by machining existing components. Any modifications to the swingarm assembly must be pre-approved by MotoAmerica. Rear Suspension Unit: The rear suspension linkage may be modified or replaced. Removable top shock mounts may be replaced. If replaced, they must retain their homologated geometry. Fuel Tank: Superbike fuel tanks will be allowed.
STEFAN BRADL JOINS NICKY HAYDEN AT HONDA FOR THE WSBK 2017 SEASON The Honda WorldSBK team has announced it’s 2017 lineup. Nicky Hayden will be joined by former 2011 Moto2 Champion, Stefan Bradl. Mark Van Der Mark will be released at the end of the 2016 season. Van Der Mark will be joining the official Yamaha WorldSBK team alongside current Yamaha rider, Alex Lowes for the 2017 season.
@FATS_BAR
FUEL FOR THE ROAD AHEAD Keep your mind right and your body fueled with our clean fats-based snack bar. Going for a long ride with your buddies? Getting ready for your next race? Feeling hangry? Don’t worry.. We’ve got you covered all day every day!
JOIN THE CONVERSATION USING #FATSME
Gluten Free - Vegan - Non-GMO - Healthy Snack Bar
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 23 Visit FATSBAR.com For More Info or To Order Now!
THE PRESS ROOM THE SACHSENRING WILL HOST MOTOGP FOR THE NEXT 5 YEARS Since 1998, the German round of the MotoGP championship has taken place at the famed Sachsenring and it will continue until 2021. This is thanks to a new contract that secures the circuit as the GP venue for the next 5 years.
DUCATI WINS IN MOTOGP FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2010 It had been 6 years since Ducati graced the number spot on the podium in a MotoGP race and that was courtesy of Casey Stoner in 2010. Killing a few birds with one stone, Andrea Iannone not only took his first MotoGP
24 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
win in his career, he also returned Ducati to the number one spot at the Austrian GP. Completing the one, two punch combination, Andrea Dovizioso took the number two spot, giving Ducati their best result this season.
STREET RIDERS ONLY
Monday, September 12th One day school Designed for street riders No track suits required Champions Habits for street riding $250 WWW.RIDELIKEACHAMPION.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25
26 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 27
THE FIRST RIDE
2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21: A FLYING FORTRESS
WORDS: ADAM WAHEED//IMAGES: KEVIN WING 28 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 29
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21
T
HE V TWIN BAGGER SCENE GOES HIGH TECH WITH MOTO GUZZI’S SINISTER LOOKING MGX-21 FLYING FORTRESS.
C
arbon fiber and traction control— stuff you expect on the latest and greatest sportbikes, not a 784 pound Italian-made cruiser… until now. Feast your eyes on Moto Guzzi’s fresh masterpiece: the MGX-21 Flying Fortress. Moto Guzzi was so bold as to launch it at the epicenter of V-Twin motorcycling: the 76th annual Sturgis rally in South Dakota. If there’s one thing Italian bike brands understand, it’s design, and the MGX certainly raises eyebrows. Whether you’re a sport, or cruiser rider, prepare to be mesmerized by its sleek curves that pay homage to a variety of machines, both real and make believe. From the short B-17 bomber wing-shaped windscreen, menacing Gotham City stance, with liberal use of carbon, the Guzzi stirs the imagination. But its more than just a cool looking motorbike. It runs, rides and drives better than you’d think, considering its size. Seated at the helm, it offers the type of premium feel expected from a top shelf gofast manufacturer. The instrument panel is both elegant and detailed, with a pair of classic round face gauges atop of LCDs — adding depth, similar to what you’d expect inside Aston Martin’s latest coupe. Not only does it
30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
look pretty, it’s easy to interpret, and loaded with goodies, such as air temperature, a gear position indicator, and various riding metrics like fuel level and economy — keeping tabs on the 5.4-gallon fuel tank. The rest of the touch points, including the seat, grips and handlebar are of pleasing build. One complaint: the switchgear could have better tactile feel. For instance, when manipulating the audio joystick control, or the engine ‘mode’ rocker switch, there’s no detent, making adjustment problematic, especially at freeway speeds. Oddly enough, the engine start/stop button is also finicky. At the same time, it’s hard to be too critical. The four speaker, 50-watt stereo sounds legit, and has an AM/FM radio plus an easy to pair Bluetooth set-up, so you can jam your favorite smartphone playlists. There’s also a hidden auxiliary USB input inside the dash. Sound quality is reasonable, but it’d be nice if the volume could be cranked up louder. Bass and treble adjustment would be a welcome addition, too. Cruise control is standard, and works as advertised. The quirk? The green dash indicator light flashes annoyingly when enabled, as if you forgot to cancel the turn signal.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21
32 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Once speed is set, the light turns solid, and annoyance is forgotten. A stereo and cruise control are fine and dandy, but the three-way adjustable engine power, and traction control maps make this techy bagger stand out. Similar to a RSV4 superbike, the combined throttle and engine power character can be modified via a swipe of a button. TC keeps both wheels inline when riding on sketchy surfaces, and can be manually disabled, say, if you feel the urge to kick some gravel, or lay rubber from a stoplight. Like extra crisp throttle response? Run the ‘Veloce’ setting (meaning fast in Italian). Subtle twist grip inputs equal immediate action from the rev happy Twin, making it more amusing to ride than a big, heavy bagger should be. While we’re talking revs, this thing loves ‘em. Compared to the rich low-end torque of an American Twin, the MGX’s powerband is opposite: No short shifting here. Work that gearbox and let the 1380cc (84 cubic inch) Twin sing, delivering a claimed 95 horsepower at 6500 rpm. It rewards, delivering pleasing acceleration, with a matching ‘lets go faster’ exhaust note before the rev limiter chimes in 1000 rpm later. There is some vibration, but it’s the welcome kind, adding to the experience. That classic engine torque twist effect of older Guzzi’s is gone, and we’d be lying if we said we miss it. The transmission meshes between each of its six cogs flawlessly, but we’d love to see a quickshifter for more acceleration thrills. There’s no slipper clutch, but the clutch lever is weighed better than its Anglo counterpart, and is more responsive in action. When worked hard however, it emits a peculiar odor. Maybe that’s MG’s way of warning you to go easy on it? Lever position adjustment is another plus— SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21 a common feature on sportbikes that finally makes it to the dark side. Shaft drive puts a claimed 89 lb-ft of torque (at 3000 rpm) to the rear 180/60-16 Dunlop Elite 3 — both perform without any thought (good thing). Those that prefer an organic, American twistpull experience will dig the ‘Turismo’ (touring) mode. There’s also a ‘Piaggio’ (rain) function that retains touring throttle response, albeit with reduced engine power for riding on slippery roads. It’s fair to say that this set-up would also be appreciated by new riders, but what newb’s going to ride a bike with a 5.5-foot wheelbase? But if they did, they’d be happy on how well it handles, especially considering its shod with a huge 21-inch front alloy wheel (with a carbon cover). As much show as it is go, the MGX does take some mileage to acclimate to its distinct handling. Awkward at first, especially at first or second gear speeds, you’ll come to appreciate how friendly the MG is to wield. In fact, for a bagger, its got sport appeal. Max out the preload adjustment on the shocks and it’s borderline absurd how much cornering clearance this bad boy offers. True, with the oversized front rim, it falls into turns to a certain degree, yet it’s a sensation that you get use to. In an effort to make steering transitions more natural, engineers fitted a steering damper beneath the bottom triple clamp. The suspension glides over the road and delivers agreeable ride. However the rear end gets active when wailing through faster sweepers, as you would on a sportbike. It also can get flighty in crosswinds near triple digit speeds. We’d love to see more damping, especially at the rear, considering its sporty nature. Cruisers aren’t known for their braking prowess, but Moto Guzzi changes that. At the front, a 34 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21
36 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
set of 320mm diameter stainless-steel double discs are matched to radial-mount two-piece calipers from Brembo. Behind, there’s a large 280mm disc squeezed by a twin-piston caliper also by Brembo. Stainless-steel lines, conventional axial-style brake cylinders, and ABS complete the setup. Brake force is strong and consistent, without being overly sensitive at either lever. Again, the ability to tailor the position of the front brake lever fore and aft is a huge benefit — making the anchors more effective in application. Most motorcycles get achy after a 400-mile ride, but not this one. The seat is deep, wide and comfy for eight hour hauls. The midsection, below the seat, is broad which makes it a stretch to get legs around it, and feet firmly planted on the ground. The upright handlebar is relatively conventional for a cruiser, and the footpegs position is balanced between fullforward and pulled back streetbike setup. Of course, a bagger isn’t a bagger without bags, and the carbon fiber hard cases function without fuss. The latching mechanism is simple to use, and can be locked when your away. Either side swallows nearly eight gallons of capacity and inner liners keep stuff from being tossed around on bumpy rides. They also work perfectly for shuffling gear back and forth. Lastly, MG says the cases can be removed if desired. Up until now, the bagger segment has have never been closely associated with technology, nor performance. Thankfully, this new MGX aims to move the yardstick. A head turner, and conversation sparker, it backs up its good looks, offering a level of road appeal that will make more sport-oriented riders think twice about a heavyweight cruiser. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21
38 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21
2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21 SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 1380cc liquid-cooled V-Twin; eight-valve, SOHC Bore and Stroke: 104 x 81.2mm Compression Ratio: 10.5:1 Fueling: Electronic fuel-injection with ride-by-wire Clutch: Wet multi-plate; hydraulic actuation Transmission: Six-speed Final Drive: Shaft Frame: Double cradle tubular steel Front Suspension: 45mm fork with spring preload and rebound damping adjustment; 4.72 in. travel Rear Suspension: Twin shocks with adjustable hydraulic spring preload adjustment; 4.72 inch travel Front Brakes: 320mm discs with Brembo four-piston radial-mount calipers w/ ABS Rear Brake: 282mm disc with dual-piston Brembo caliper w/ ABS Wheels: Cast aluminum 21 x 3.5-inch front, 16 x 5.5-inch rear Tires: Dunlop Elite 3, 120/70-21,180/60-16 Curb Weight: 784 lbs. (with fuel, ready to ride) Wheelbase: 66.7 in. Rake: 27.5 deg. / Trail: 4.3 in. Seat Height: 29.1 in. Fuel Capacity: 5.4 gallon MSRP: $21,990 Warranty: Two year, unlimited mileage
40 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
“A stereo and cruise control are fine and dandy, but the three way adjustable engine power and traction control maps make this techy bagger stand out.”
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 41
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21
2017 MOTO GUZZI MGX-21 SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 1380cc liquid-cooled V-Twin; eight-valve, SOHC Bore and Stroke: 104 x 81.2mm Compression Ratio: 10.5:1 Fueling: Electronic fuel-injection with ride-by-wire Clutch: Wet multi-plate; hydraulic actuation Transmission: Six-speed Final Drive: Shaft Frame: Double cradle tubular steel Front Suspension: 45mm fork with spring preload and rebound damping adjustment; 4.72 in. travel Rear Suspension: Twin shocks with adjustable hydraulic spring preload adjustment; 4.72 inch travel Front Brakes: 320mm discs with Brembo four-piston radial-mount calipers w/ ABS Rear Brake: 282mm disc with dual-piston Brembo caliper w/ ABS Wheels: Cast aluminum 21 x 3.5-inch front, 16 x 5.5-inch rear Tires: Dunlop Elite 3, 120/70-21,180/60-16 Curb Weight: 784 lbs. (with fuel, ready to ride) Wheelbase: 66.7 in. Rake: 27.5 deg. / Trail: 4.3 in. Seat Height: 29.1 in. Fuel Capacity: 5.4 gallon MSRP: $21,990 Warranty: Two year, unlimited mileage
42 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43
44 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Have you got it? NO OTHER EXHAUST SYSTEM LOOKS, FEELS OR SOUNDS LIKE A SCORPION.
Hand crafted from the finest materials in the heart of England, Scorpion have a formidable reputation for performance, thanks to a racing heritage which is rooted in the company’s very DNA. For 2013 Scorpion have announced a whole range of exciting new models including additions to its flagship race inspired systems which feature a unique red inlay tip. Regardless of your riding style, each Scorpion system delivers a unique combination of looks, sound, engineering excellence and performance - in all situations. We call this ‘Red Power’. Have you got it?
RED POWER DEALERS
Find your local dealer at:
www.tawperformance.com/ www.tawperformance.com/dealers
WWW.SCORPION-EXHAUSTS.COM Scorpion // Hand crafted in Great Britain
58 CYCLE • 434.685.5858 HUSTLE HARD • 208.571.0173 aerospace grade titanium and carbon fibre, RP-1 GP gives true ‘bolt-on’ performance plus huge power gains and TAW Performance FAST BIKED INDUSTRIES • 828.435.0125 MOTOSTARZ • 604.370.4899 weight savings over O.E. Designed primarily for racing it is also road legal for most applications. I S T R I B U T I O N HARD RACNG PERFORMANCE • 704.799.2192 PJ’S PARTS • 865.233.2883 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 45 SCORPION SYSTEM SHOWN: RP-1 GP ON BMW S1000RR Completely hand crafted from featherlight
THE GRID
MOTOGP WITH B.T.: THE CATALUNYA GP... RIDE ON MEXICANO, RIDE ON! WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: MOTOGP.COM
At 4:55 pm on Friday, June 3rd, Moto2 rider Luis Salom was pronounced dead as a result of injuries he suffered in a crash at turn 12 of the Catalunya Circuit. It was during Free Practice 2 that Salom suffered the freak accident that would claim his life. If this statement seems rather harsh to read, welcome to the stark reality of motorsports! Although racing is safer now than it's ever been, the reality is, there will always be an element of danger in racing. Always has been, always will be. It's what the sport is... dangerous. The reason why you, me or anyone else watches motorcycle racing is up to the individual. I love motorcycles and I love racing. Combined, it is like having pizza and ice cream being served by Serena Williams on the beach... As you watch a MotoGP race! Everything is just perfect. We know that the element of fatality is just around the corner but as it eludes you, race after race, week after week, year after year, you tend to distance yourself from the harsh reality of death and how it plays on your emotions. Only when it happens are you smacked in the face that this could happen at anytime. That time happened the first Friday of June on a hot Friday afternoon. What happened afterwards was a testament to the riders, DORNA, MotoGP and the family of Luis Salom. 46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
At a Rider's Safety meeting, the family of Luis Salom was asked what they would like to be done that weekend. They said the races should continue and that their son would have wanted it that way. Under the circumstances it would have been understandable if the weekend was cancelled. Although this wasn't the first time death has struck the MotoGP paddock, with Marco Simoncelli being killed in 2011 at the Seapng circuit. This was the first time a death had occured at the beginning of a race weekend! How the riders were able to focus on the job at hand was a true testament to professionalism. I don't pretend to know what it's like to be a motorcycle racer. Sure, I talk to them. I tweet or leave a comment on their Instagram. But what it's like to live that life, I don't know. We all handle death differently but how do you handle death when it slaps you in the face like it did that fateful Friday morning? It truly showed how much of a cut above MotoGP racers are. The entire weekend had an ominous feel to it and even led to an unexpected outburst of emotion by Johann Zarco during a post race press conference directed at one of the reporters who he perceived to be disrespectful to the riders under the current state of the weekend.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 47
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
48 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
This proved to be unfortunate as the racing was another gem for the books. In Moto3, Jorge Navarro claimed his first ever win and kept points leader Brad Binder in his sights. In Moto2, Johann Zarco, clearly riding with a lot of emotion, claimed victory over points leader Alex Rins and is back in the hunt for the championship. In MotoGP, the duel we've been waiting for all year materialized as Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez locked horns. This duel had everything. The Young Champion, the Old Veteran and settled underneath it all was a deep hatred for one another. Hate always makes a rivalry that much better! Let's just be honest, it'd be just like watching Donald Trump in a boxing match in Mexico with one of the locals with the winner taking all. Who wouldn't watch that? That's what Rossi versus Marquez is. It's must see racing! Sure Lorenzo is great but Rossi versus Marquez is the "Thrilla in Manilla" on two wheels. In this race, Rossi overcame a bad start and methodically picked off his competition until it was just he and Marquez. Rossi and the Yamaha are a match made in heaven, combined with those Michelin tyres, Rossi at times is smoother than Denzel Washington in a love scene. (Editor's note: What?!) Marquez on the other hand is the only one who seems to be able to control the Honda! It's like watching a ranch hand trying to tame a bucking Bronco. After nearly crashing twice , Marquez decided to settle for second and The Doctor claimed his second victory of the season. What was even more stunning was in parc ferme' when Rossi and Marquez shook hands! This bought a roar from the crowd. When two SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 49
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
bitter, bitter, bitter rivals can brush aside their loathing for one another for one race again shows the true professionalism MotoGP racers posses. While some question how long this rekindled friendship can last, that is not the point. The point was that sometimes it's best to brush aside differences for something bigger than the task at hand. MotoGP is a family! Nine months out of the year, these guys and gals battle each other, travel together, etc. The circle is small and when someone inside that circle passes it certainly has an affect. A family member is gone, doing what they all love to do... Racing motorcycles. The Catalunya GP was a hard race to watch and still resonates with me. I've forgotten the number of times I've cried over Luis Salom. The smile I remember seeing on the camera or talking to him at COTA this year as we rode the bus to the paddock. The Rossi and Marquez handshake will be rembered for those two recognizing that some things are bigger than a rivalry... That's life and how quickly it can end. I salute all those brave riders in MotoGP who found that special something on that first weekend in June to give us fans something! After all the dedications were done, as cliche' as it sounds, I have to think Luis Salom would have been proud. It was a fitting tribute to the fierce rider known as "The Mexicano"! Ride in peace, Mexicano... Ride in peace, Mexicano!
50 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 51
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
BRITISH ICONS GLOBAL LEGENDS REBORN
THE LEGEND IS BACK THE NEW 1200CC BONNEVILLE THRUXTON R
To find out more visit: triumphmotorcycles.com
52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Forcefield: the most advanced protective armour system in the world.
rider:
Christian Iddon Team Tyco BMW
British Superbike Championship
LOW PROFILE
LEVEL2
23.5mm
Pro L2K Evo
$179
877.789.4940 | motonation.com
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 53
THE GRID
THE NUMBERS EVERY MONTH, WE ASK PROS AND AMATEURS WHY THEY CHOSE THE NUMBERS THAT IDENTIFY THEM ON THE GRID...
IMAGES: COURTESY OF TOM SYKES 54 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
TOM SYKES
#66
“I just finally ended up with the number after a few seasons of not getting the number that I really wanted. I used to be 36 but when I moved to British Superbikes, Gregorio Lavilla was already that number so I ended up with #66 as my team mate, Shane Byrne was #67. Since then, I’ve had some success with the number and I like the fact that it’s symmetrical.”
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55
BYOB - BRING YOUR OWN BIKE DEMO RIDES | KID ZONES | STUNT SHOWS OPEN PADDOCK | MINI-MOTO DEMOS | MEET THE RIDERS
HAYES
HAYDEN
BEAUBIER
TICKETS ON SALE NOW @ NJMP.COM
56 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
ELIAS
FOLLOW US TO LEARN MORE
Comfort explained. Our technique combines a specifically formulated viscoelastic polymer also known as SaddleGEL with the latest in co-molding comfort technology to reduce engine vibration transmitted to your body by up to 50%, and reduce direct impact forces by up to 92%.
Shock and Vibration are the real world forces acting on
your body that cause rider discomfort and fatigue. Take a moment and think about your last
ride and ask yourself – Are rough roads and constant vibration cheating me out of the ride I deserve? If the answer is yes, you owe it to yourself to read on and learn more about what GELcore Technology can do for you. Newton’s third law of motion states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Understanding the forces acting on your body while riding is critical to understanding why homogenous polyurethane foam seats developed in the late 1940’s and probably on your motorcycle right now are preventing the extended ride times you desire. Saddlemen uses science to change everything by offering a complete line of seats featuring our unique manufacturing process known as GELcore Technology. GELcore is engineered to dampen, divert, and deflect energy through a mechanical process resulting in a smooth, therapeutic ride.
Saddlemen invented GELcore Technology and today we are widely recognized as the industry leader, selling more gel seats than any other seat manufacture. However when it comes to the benefits of gel don’t take our word for it. NASA uses gel to protect sensitive camera equipment on the Space Shuttle Discovery as it pierces the Earth’s atmosphere at 17,000 mph. NASA also uses gel to keep the International Space Station in orbit, gel is currently used in the medical industry for Wheelchairs and Hospital beds to proWheel mote blood flow, and major league baseball mitt manufactures utilize this cutting edge material to dampen the impact of a 100mph fast ball. Instead of relying on foam cushions or air bladders that may impose improper contours, a riding saddle with GELcore Technology provides a topographically neutral suspension that will conform to the shape of the person who sits in it. Using pres sure-mapping technology, we experimented with different tensions across the backrests and seats, fine-tuning our designs to produce the desirable distribution patterns: peak pressure zones under the ischia, with wide distribution of lower values along the thighs and across the back, avoiding the spine and the area behind the knees. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57
THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
SABINE HOLBROOK
ADRIAN HACKETT
58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
NAME: Sabine Holbrook HOMETOWN: Trasadingen, Switzerland AGE: 36 years old. SERIES: FIM Alpe Adria Road Racing Championship, Essenza Custom Bike Sprints SPONSORS: Law Offices of Fran M. Haasch, Herrin Compound, Bell Powersports, Dunlop, Galfer USA, Chicken Hawk, Roaring Toyz, BikersPost.com, Vortex, Race Tech, Pit Bull, Drippinwet.com ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Currently, I am holding three female lap records on different European tracks. GOALS: Great lap times and top results in my championship. Set new limits with bikes. Inspire other people to ride. Make life a ride. Be able to live my dreams. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: There is nothing where I have more passion for, this is what I love to do the most. CONTACT: WWW.SABINE3RACING.CH
IMAGES: COURTESY OF SABINE HOLBROOK
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 59
Bodywork for race and street Quality you can afford
2016 Kawasaki ZX10
Get There Faster (760)
510-9799
www.catalystracingcomposites.com 60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 61
THE STRAIGHT LINE
LINES OF A LEGEND: BACK IN THE SEAT, AGAIN...
WORDS: RICKEY GADSON IMAGES: COURTESY OF RICKEY GADSON
62 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 63
THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND
B
elieve it or not, it was 1984 when I started out racing drag bikes. I think a lot of you know, I started out street racing my Mom’s 550 Honda on the back streets of Philly and then progressing to much faster bikes on the streets of NY, NJ, Connecticut, South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, Florida and even on major highways across the East Coast. Then one summer, I decided to kinda borrow my older brother Skip’s GS1100ES Turbo one day... Without permission! I took it to compete in my first IDBA, not to be
64 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
confused with with IDBL, at Maple Grove Raceway where I self taught myself to ride a bar bike. Unfortunately, on my first attempt, I failed to qualify for the PRO Gas 9.20 class. My next encounter with a bar bike would be in 1989 when I rode the GS1150 Top Gas bike of a friend, Brian Drappeou, and won my first IHRA Top Gas (8.20 index) championship at my home track in Atco, NJ. Even though I received the number #1 plate, it was also the event responsible for my now
famous #62 brand. I was given the #62 for being the 62nd member to join the newly formed IHRA Prostar motorcycle racing series. Over the next coupIe years I continued racing both, no bar and bar bikes until I decided to start trying to race pro. With my dad's friend Wallace King on board sponsoring my racing, we set out to attempt to buy a competitive Pro Mod bike at the AMA ProStar season opener in Gainesville, Florida in 1991. So now, I'm ready to race! But no one knew who I was and nobody
took me seriously. Here I was a 25 year old kid, literally walking around the pro pits asking the fast guys to sell me their motorcycle. Cash. Now! I was laughed at a few times. And one guy, Andy Gotsis, flat out told me no and said I "only thought" I was ready for the big leagues. But I wouldn't get discouraged. After walking around and bugging people all day I finally got World Champion Dennis Strickland to sell me his record setting motorcycle with only one qualifying run left to get in the race. On the third round of qualifying, the light turned green and on my first run ever down the drag strip on a turbocharged car tire motorcycle, I blasted out of the gate and laid down a new ET record for the class at 7.38, 177mph and won my very first Professional race and ultimately the World Championship in 1991. In 1998 I signed with Kawasaki and left Suzuki's race bikes in the rear view mirror for a while. It was back to street styled race bikes which has taken me all over the world but last month at the IDBL, I shocked the whole drag racing community when I SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65
THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND mounted my nephew Richard Gadson's former ride Hot Rod's, an old friend of my dad, GS Pro Mod SUZUKI and qualified 6th after returning to pro mod after 18 years. The month before the race I sold my competitive RST turbo charged street bike so I didn't have a reason this particular race to travel the 635 miles to the Maryland event until my nephew, RG5, offered me his ride for the weekend. It's been a dream for me and Rich to race pro mod as teammates and this would hopefully prove that his Uncle could pick right up where I left off almost 20 years ago. With Richard tuning for me we came up against the feared Ronnie “Mr. 4.60” Procopio who had won the last couple races in several different series and
66 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
was on the number this day, as well. As everybody expected, I was the under dog of course going into the quarter finals against Ronnie and no one really expected anything except another Procopio win. On this day we stunned the crowd, when pulling off a big upset on a holeshot win. But I can't take anything away from the king. My man Ronnie was on his job running a faster 4.61 to my 4.63. But lucky for me, my .003 light beat his .027 on the Christmas Tree.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 67
BradleySmith
ROARR black/white • black/silver • black
Only Sidi boots purchased from an authorized Sidi-Motonation dealer are covered by our product warranty.
Second to None www.motonation.com 68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Toll Free 877.789.4940
The pursuit of refinement is the road to perfection......
Quality Sportbike Accessories www.compwerkes.com
800 736-2114
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 69
THE STRAIGHT LINE
70 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
2016 W.P.G.C.
BIKE FEST WORDS//IMAGES: LEON BRITTAIN SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 71
THE STRAIGHT LINE: 2016 W.P.G.C BIKE FEST
E
very summer DC’s top station 95.5 WPGC heads south to Maryland International Raceway for the highly anticipated Annual Mickey Thompson Performance Tires International Drag bike League WPGC Bike Fest. With temperatures flirting dangerously around 96 degrees, two of DC’s most recognized Go Go bands and icons Rare Essence and D.J. Kool, jet bikes, bikini contests and drag bikes galore, the 2016 WPGC Bike Fest was literally and figuratively hot, hot... hot! Larry “Spiderman” McBride and David Vantine with his screaming yellow Vantine Nitrosports bike set the track on blaze in their highly contested Nitro Top Fuel Shootout, the ladies of the International Bikini Team easily added the track temps along with race pros Rickey Gadson, Richard Gadson, Joey Gladstone, Bo Brown, Robin Procopio, Chris and Kelly Clontz and Shayne Proctor who unfortunately experienced a horrific accident during a routine pass in Top Sportsman class where his bike suddenly burst into a ball of flames resulting in third degree burns and broken shoulder. We truly wish Shayne a speedy and healthy recovery. For complete race details check out raceidbl.com
72 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 73
THE STRAIGHT LINE: 2016 W.P.G.C BIKE FEST
74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 75
THE STRAIGHT LINE: 2016 W.P.G.C BIKE FEST
76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 77
Legendary
POWER Great new
LOOKS Affordable
PRICE USA distribution exclusively from TM
Sport Bike Products that MAKE SENSE!!
GenIII
www.woodcraft-cfm.com 78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
978-297-2977
POWER & PERFORMANCE IN ONE KIT
HIGH PERFORMANCE PREMIUM CHAIN AND SPROCKET KIT Kit Contains: • RK Chain Pre-Cut to Length • Premium Driven® Front and Rear Sprockets
Available Kits: • 520 Aluminum Race Kit • 520 Steel Q/A Kit • OEM Replacement Kit
Contact your local motorcycle parts dealer to order. Live Chat with us at RKExcelAmerica.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 79
THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP
DARIAN “NANU” PAYNE
80 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
NAME: Darion “Nanu” Payne HOMETOWN: Fredericksburg, VA AGE: 33 years old. SERIES: IDBL, Manufacturers Cup. SPONSORS: Mace Motorsports, Cranky Racing, N2Deep Racing. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Won the first ever Real Street race in the MIRock Series. Broke ET and MPH records in Real Street. Placed in the top 10 in PRO Street over the last 2 years. SPONSORS: To be a class champion and a role model for kids. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: If I was to die on the track, at least I was smiling while I was doing what I loved.
CONTACT:
IMAGES: COURTESY OF BRAD DARION PAYNE IMAGES: COURTESY DURHAM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 81
THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP
MONICA HARLEY
82 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
NAME: Monica Harley HOMETOWN: Prince George County, MD AGE: NA SERIES: International Drag Bike League. SPONSORS: Pretty Girl Racing. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Overcame the fear of riding such a huge motorcycle and I’m a 4th Degree Black Belt. GOALS: To win an IDBL Championship. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE:
I love drag racing and I’m willing to work as hard as I have to to get to the top.
CONTACT:
IMAGES: KWAME OLDS IMAGES: COURTESY OF BRAD DURHAM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 83
THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP
ERIC YOST
84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
NAME: Eric Yost HOMETOWN: Hamilton, OH AGE: 43 years old. SERIES: N.H.D.R.O. SPONSORS: Vansboy Racing. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 9.32 ET at 153MPH. GOALS: To race in the “Crazy 8’s) 8.88 class. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I live, eat and sleep motorcycle drag racing because it runs in my blood.
CONTACT:
IMAGES: COURTESY OF BRAD ERIC YOST IMAGES: COURTESY DURHAM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 85
THE REV LIMITER: THE MAIN POINTS
86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
inaugural
maryland international raceway
sePtemBer 9-11, 2016
motorcycle Drag Racing • Vendor Midway • streetbike corral • Great food & cold Beer Follow us: @raceidBl
pRO sTREET • REAL sTREET • 4.60 iNDEX • 5.60 Index • cRAZY 8’S TOP sPORTSMAN • pRO e.T. • STreeT E.T. • Grudge
Admission: Weekend Pass $40 • 1-Day $20 • Kids 6-11 $5 per day FriDAy: Open 9am • Early Bird Testing 10am-5pm • Test & Tune 6:30pm-11pm SATurDAy: Open 8am • Sportsman Qualifying 9am • Pro Qualifying 1pm, 4pm, 7pm • Eliminations 2pm SunDAy: Open 8am • Sportsman Time run 9am • Eliminations 11:30am
Email: info@racemdir.com • Office 301-884-9833 • 27861 Budds Creek road • Mechanicsville, MD 20659
raceidBl.com
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87
THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP
MIKE MORRISON
88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
NAME: Mike Morrison HOMETOWN: Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada AGE: 46 years old. SPONSORS: Cape Breton Bike Rally, Ramsey’s Harley Davidson. GOALS: To ride my bike ‘til I can’t! ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Over 60 safe and smokey stunt shows. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE:
Bikes and putting smiles on kids’ faces and stunt riding allows me to do both. Live to ride... Ride to live!
CONTACT:
IMAGES: COURTESY OF BRAD MIKE DURHAM MORRISON IMAGES: COURTESY SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 89
90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Bar ends
Re-Discover
Footpegs Pro Sliders
www.puigusa.com
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91 Plug oli cap
THE LIFE
THE LION’S DEN: IT’S HOT OUT HERE IN THESE STREETS
WORDS//IMAGES: LION JAMES
Y
ou will not often hear me speak the words “It is too cold to ride”, but the same cannot be said about the heat. Here in the lower northeast portion of the U.S., we are three days into a late summer heatwave and these 93° to 97° days feel 10 degrees hotter with the humidity. Add to that wearing long pants, riding boots, a textile jacket, full face helmet and leather gloves and I have myself more of a mobile BBQ than a warm ride. Sure the rubber warms up fast and sticks to the asphalt like a frog’s tongue on a fly’s ass but with the heat also comes aggravated motorists, high tempers, dehydration and bikes that overheat faster when running but not in motion. Now I know all you fair weather riders and probably some of my fellow year round riders alike will say that I’m crazy for not riding on a particularly hot day and that this is the best weather for riding. There are women dressed in less walking around enjoying the sun... Sidebar: sundresses, that’s what I’m talking about! Warm
92 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
summer breeze thru your hair, no regard for traffic jams, summertime cookouts and gatherings where folks look at you pulling up on two wheels as if you bought the keg to a dry party and of course the summertime night hangout spots buzzing with other bikers, crowds and fun. I ride often enough to not feel like I am missing out on saddle time when I pass up on a 95° plus day even if not justified by the reasons I mentioned previously and when the mercury gets as high as it has this past few days my bike takes a rest. In the winter you can adorn and turn on heated gear but I haven’t seen cooling gear yet and as well-equipped as my motorcycle is, it did not come standard with air conditioning. Perhaps I would be more eager to ride in these extreme high temperatures if I rode with less gear on but as I’ve stated in the past, “I’d rather be hot than hurt” so to throw a leg over in shorts and a t-shirt or with a half shell helmet is a non-option for me. It’s just no fun to get where you’re riding
and dismount only to have to wring out your shirt and have your face glistening like a fresh glazed donut. Sometimes you have to sacrifice fun for comfort and passing on a hot weather ride for the luxury of 4 doors is the order of the day right now where I live. I’m not putting anyone down who rides in this crazy heat and my ego will certainly remain in tact if any of you want to call me out for parking the bike until the weather cools off. The saying “you go where you look” extends beyond rolling on the throttle and looking thru the turn and preparing for the bad is not the same thing as looking for the bad. With that in mind I can’t help but think about how dreadful it would be to have to sit on the side of the road waiting for a trailer to arrive to pick the bike and I up should something go wrong and in that heat there’s more to go wrong. Hypothetical situation, I get a tire blowout or catch a flat running over some sharp object that digs into my rubber like a hot knife thru butter or the bike
overheats and has to sit for longer than I care to be grounded roadside before it can be operated again. If I am on the side of the road when this happens I’ve got to basically strip down and get that helmet, gloves and jacket off to keep from suffering heat exhaustion however that leaves me exposed in what could be a high traffic area. If I wasn’t concerned with that risk of being exposed I would have been out riding naked to begin with. Another hazard of riding in extreme heat that most don’t think about or worry about is dehydration. When you ride in hot weather, 95° and up, it’s hard to know when you are dehydrated because as you sweat and the moisture is wicked away from your body and evaporates due to a high rate of speed you don’t realize that you are losing moisture because it feels cool to your skin. Couple that with the lack of easily available liquids to drink in an effort to replenish that lost moisture and you are unknowingly losing more moisture in your SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 93
THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN
body than you are replacing which is essentially the definition of dehydration. Thirst is just one symptom of dehydration and a rather benign one at that. One of the least often discussed symptoms of dehydration that could have the most severe effects on motorcyclists is loss of balance. If your equilibrium and balance is off while riding it becomes increasingly difficult to self-correct or course correct when things go squirrelly on the road. It becomes more and more difficult to apply the appropriate inputs to the bike when needed and this is only exacerbated by fatigue and how quickly we tire in the heat. The macho egoism that often comes with motorcycling, especially when influenced by the group rider mentality, can sometimes lead us to intentionally or subconsciously ignore the signs of heat exhaustion such as fatigue, headache, dizziness and muscle weakness. Of course we get thirsty when riding in the heat, this is to be expected right? I’ll just grab a drink when I stop for fuel. A headache? 94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Why wouldn’t I have a headache, after all with how loud my exhaust is, the noise of the wind in my helmet just as loud, riding posture, sunlight in my eyes and smell of combusting fuel from under me, a headache is par for the course right? Ironically another symptom of dehydration and eventual heat exhaustion is a lack of sweating despite the heat and since it is already difficult to know when or how much you are sweating in full gear, noticing that you are not sweating when you should be is even more difficult to recognize. As motorcyclists, considerably more so with sportbikes, we have trained ourselves to not only expect discomfort but to ignore it while riding. This is dangerous and can even become deadly in certain circumstances. Only a coroner may ever know how frequently dehydration plays a role in motorcycle fatalities and it may never be known if or when dehydration has led to non-fatal motorcycle injuries. In this weather I am glad to have passions like
kayaking that I can indulge in because it is too hot to ride motorcycles, play paintball, hike, go camping or go shooting/tactical train. My garage isn’t insulated and air conditioned so wrenching on the bike in this heat is also off the menu. In fact I recommend unless you have a jet ski, boat or some other PWC, you should consider putting your
motorsports needs on hold until the Weatherman, Meteorologist or whatever app you use these days to let you know what to wear when you leave the house in the morning tells you it’s safe to come out and play on two wheels because its hot out here in these streets.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 95
Distinction,Details and Design.
SOLARE VENTED TEXTILE JACKET $119
Solare Vented Textile Pant $109 Twist Glove $49 SIDI Tour Air $215 Vemar Jiano $99 Dealer Locator @ motonation.com
Toll Free 877.789.4940
96 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 97
98 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
#DaineseAirbag
IN A SPORT WHERE SPEED IS EVERYTHING, D-AIR® TECHNOLOGY IS UNBEATABLE. THE D-AIR® SYSTEM CAN DETECT A CRASH IN AS FAST AS 15 MS AND INFLATE COMPLETELY IN 30 MS * DAINESE D-AIR® RACING: 15 YEARS OF UNRIVALED RESEARCH INDUSTRY-LEADING PROTECTION IS OUR #1 PRIORITY In a crash, D-air® Racing’s high-pressure airbag protects the collarbone, limits neck oscillation and reduces shoulder-impact forces by 85% compared to traditional body armor. The system utilizes a GPS, three accelerometers, three gyroscopes and a sophisticated triggering algorithm†, and includes a built-in telemetry system that allows the rider to track performance. D-air® Racing is the protection benchmark in the road racing world and is used by top riders including Valentino Rossi, Stefan Bradl, Pol Espargaró, Nicky Hayden, Tom Sykes, Leon Haslam.
D-Air Racing Misano ®
D-air®, D-air® Racing and D-air® Street are all registered trademarks of Dainese S.p.A. D-air® Racing’s triggering algorithm is intended for track use only. *Measured in accordance with European Standard EN 1621.1. Crash detection and deployment conditions explained in further detail in the user manual.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 99
100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 101
THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Tammi Booth LOCATION: Las Vegas, NV. OCCUPATION: Catering Manager at the Mirage. YEARS RIDING: 2 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2015 Suzuki GSXR 600, 2010 Harley Davidson Soft Tail Deluxe. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My lights and rims. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Area 51 First ride with the Rough Ryders. It was the scariest but fun!
102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Priest Mitchell LOCATION: Saratoga Springs UT. OCCUPATION: Law Enforcement Prospect. YEARS RIDING: Since 2012. RIDING STYLE: Street. Very little track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2014 Suzuki GSXR 1300 Hayabusa. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Full Yoshimura Single Exhaust. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My LS2 helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Breaking 208 miles an hour knowing that I still have a lot of RPM’s left. I want to break 210!
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 103
THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Dave Jenkins LOCATION: Red Bank, NJ. OCCUPATION: Retired. YEARS RIDING: 48 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: Ducati 1098. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Stiffer front fork springs, Ohlins shock, Termignoni cans, smaller counter shaft sprocket, Sargent saddle, fender eliminator. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Arai Helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Rode the Tail of the Dragon south towards Deal’s Gap, NC in second gear after a low side broke my shifter.Not as much fun as riding it twice the day before, but certainly more memorable. 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Kimmy Siedleczka LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA. OCCUPATION: Producer, Actor, Model, Mother of 5 amazing children! YEARS RIDING: 3 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2014 Ducati Monster 696 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My SC Project Carbon Exhaust. I love the deep rumble sound! Everyone on the street can hear me coming! MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The ride through The Moab Desert in Utah along side the Colorado river on my way from L.A. to Sturgis, S.D. for the 76th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. It was so beautiful, I had a hard time staying focused on the road! In Sturgis, I was adopted as the only Ducati into the Harley Family M.C. The trip took 3085 miles round trip! It was a challenge but I did it! And did it on a sport bike!
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 105
106 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 107
THE FRICTION ZONE
THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN: OF MICE AND MEN WORDS: MICHAEL LAWLESS IMAGES: TED ELLIS
108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
A
re you like me? When I get new sneakers I think I can run faster. Sammy Halbert's School gave me the same feeling. I learned new techniques and got rid of some lazy habits and presto! I'm faster! Until I bit of more than I could chew. It was the start of my last lap. Charging into the first corner, right elbow up and focused on exit. One second everything seems just right, slightly out of control. The next second, I'm looking down at my motorcycle, as if I am doing a hand stand on the handlebars. I look at my feet and see the blue sky whizzing by before I slam into the earth violently. High siding hurts! The engine is still running. I try to get up but can't move. The session is stopped because I'm lying in the middle of turn one. It’s silent for a few seconds then I hear the sound of foot steps. Sammy Halbert is looking down at me. He asks, “You alright?” “Yeah I'm good.” We don't talk about pain. There are no bro hugs in flat track racing. Sammy helps me up, picks up my bike and gets us over to my truck. He helps get my helmet off and hands me a bottle of water. I feel like a dazed boxer sent to my corner between rounds. First, I just want to be alone to gather my thoughts but Sammy keeps talking and talking. It takes me a second to realize he is trying to assess if I have a concussion or other injuries. Sammy's humor makes me laugh and he knows by my laughter that I'm ok. It all came together with the "True Grit" article I wrote about Sammy. Sammy mentioned that he wanted to bring his rider school to the east coast. Yes, you too can have one of the top flat track racers as your personal instructor all SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 109
THE FRICTION ZONE: OF MICE AND MEN for a mere $200.00 including track fees. I had mentioned this opportunity to a few and the next thing that I knew, I had a bunch of people interested. But once we announced that the date would be July 3rd, we lost several people to the holiday weekend. Then, a few people quietly told me that their significant others did not want them doing flat track because they thought it was too dangerous. I understood their position. Street bikes maybe at the limit, but flat track is usually over it. School day came and there were seven riders.
110 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Sammy got right into character, throwing a leg over his bike and sliding far forward, he announced, "This is the office.” Sammy started with basic body position and broke us up into smaller groups. Usually in flat track, practice is a pair of four lap sets but we were running twenty plus laps with Sammy intensely watching us on the Full Circle V Twins, a local bike shop, test track. He would pull us individually to tell us what we were doing right and what we need to do to improve. We all felt we made substantial gains on track and had a great time hanging out with the guys from Full Circle. My
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111
THE FRICTION ZONE: OF MICE AND MEN
classmate Bill summed it up best, “It was like hanging out with a bunch of friends except one is a top racer sharing his techniques with you. Well worth every penny.”
left scapula in the crash at school. As part of my Hemmingway existence, I decided to race injured at the Gary Nixon Invitational three weeks later.
My plan was to do school on the July 3rd and race July 4th at the Barbara Fritsche Classic. But the day after crashing at school I needed help getting out of bed so I knew I was in no shape to ride. I learned that I broke my
It's a great event, much like a summer block party. I knew my Buell was too big and heavy for short track. The track surface is like riding a sport bike in the snow. In the corral for practice I heard a cattle call and saw
112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
AMA Pro Flat Track racer Henry Wiles roar by with a quick wave. On track he is quick and super stylish, sort of like watching Muhammad Ali jumping rope. We all wished we looked like that but don't. I ran a tight line in my heat race making the main but decided to run a wide line in the final finishing dead last. Bummed with my bad choice I decided to find Henry's pit. A crowd
of people stood around but Henry spotted me. He mentions, “Looks like you were favoring the right, Michael. Didn't that shoulder heal yet?” I was shocked that he was watching me on track and I tell him about my scapula. “Felt like you were having a heart attack, huh?” He laughs. “Ya’ know what the good part of being a cowboy is? We meet pretty nurses.” SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 113
114 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
ZUMA JACKET / WWW.ROLANDSANDS.COM This jacket was not designed for the timid or faint-at-heart. Introducing the Zuma. With rotated, pre-curved sleeves, stretch nylon panel sleeve inserts, a dropped back and relaxed collar opening, the Zuma fits right in to the RSD family with its aggressive riding fit and features. And aggression is something that the Zuma has in aces. Made with topgrain Buffalo leather the Zuma offers extensive protection, increased two-fold by the include foam back protector and SAS-TEC certified Level 2 shoulder and elbow armor.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 115
THE NEW ISH AGV HELMETS • PISTA GP MIMETICA HELMET This is a full carbon fiber helmet that was engineered with help Valentino Rossi, designed specifically for racing. The rear spoiler maximizes aerodynamic performance at high speeds and the new integrated ventilation system keeps the air circulating. The super light weight and uber strong lid features a wider field of vision, by 15 degrees and a micro lock mechanism in the front center of the face shield to prevent it from opening in the event of a crash. Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $1,399.95 Contact: http://agv.com
C & S CUSTOM • PARTS DRAG LITE EXTENDED SWING ARM
JOE ROCKET • BLASTER MAX BACK PACK When you absolutely must carry everything on your back while you are riding, look no further than the Blaster Max Back Pack. On the outside, the Blaster Max has 9 quick access utility pockets, a helmet carrying compartment and adjustable padded straps. The main compartment is multi chambered and includes a media pouch with audio port. Made of lobby polyester, the Blaster Max Back features reflective swatches at the shoulders, heavy duty zippers and a carry handle. Price: $124.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com 116 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Machined from 6061 T6 extruded aluminum, this swing arm set up is super light and super strong. Ready for race action thanks to the precision welding, the Drag Lite swing arms include built in air tanks and optional nitrous bottle brackets. The adjustable axle slides allow you to get the desired length needed. Applications for most late model machines. Available in raw, polished, chrome or a selection of powder coat colors. Price: $699.00 - $849.00 Contact: http://candscustom.com
WOODCRAFT CFM • IGNITION TRIGGER COVER PROTECTOR FOR THE YAMAHA FZ10 Brand new for the Yamaha FZ10 from Woodcraft CFM is the 2 piece ignition engine cover cover protector, with slider. The cover offers protection of the right hand side of the bike in the event of a crash or tip over. Machined from 6061 billet aluminum, the cover protector bolts over the OEM cover and features an internal rubber pad to provide cushion between the two. The replaceable stainless steel skid plate is bolted on the inside of the cover, making replacement hassle free. Price: $99.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com
DP BRAKES • FRONT RDP X-RACE TITANIUM BRAKE PADS FOR THE BMW S1000RR Braking is a major factor in fast racing. DP Brakes provide superior braking performance with no noise, no brake dust and no brake fade. The progressive feel is thanks to the HH+ friction rated compound. Sold as a set per front brake caliper. Price: $58.95 Contact: http://dp-brakes.com
BROCK’S PERFORMANCE • ALIEN HEAD 2 FULL SYSTEM FOR THE KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
Weighing more than 50% less than the OEM exhaust set up, the Alien Head 2 exhaust system features a 12 inch megaphone muffler, stainless steel construction and a show polish finish. The system is designed to boost performance, increase exhaust flow with an aggressive look and sound with fairing modifications needed for install. Price: $399.95 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 117
THE NEW ISH ALPINESTARS • SUPERTECH LEATHER GLOVES
Derived directly from the MotoGP paddock, the Supertech Gloves offer the latest and most advanced technology from the Alpinestars line up. A hybrid of kangaroo and cow hide, the Supertech sport pre-articulated fingers for improved dexterity at every level of the ride. CE approved, the Supertech gloves feature the Dynamic Friction Shield knuckle protection system that is complimented by injected plastic finger sliders and adjustable cuff panels that offer protection from impact and crashes. Colors: Black, Black/White, White/Yellow/Red, White/Red Sizes: XS-XXXL Price: $399.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com
PUIG USA • RACING SCREEN FOR YAMAHA FZ-10
The Racing Screen for the new Yamaha FZ 10 features a double height that aids the aerodynamics and minimizes the effect of airflow on the rider. Constructed of high impact 3mm acrylic that is strong and durable. Price: Contact Puig USA Contact: http://puigusa.com AGV SPORT • ARC TEXTILE JACKET
The Arc jacket from AGV Sport has an old school, vintage look in a gunmetal colorway but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t packed with the features that today’s rider needs and wants. The Arc has a removable quilted liner, proper ventilation for air circulation and a zipper for attaching riding pants. Protection is provided with CE approved armor in the shoulders and elbows with a compartment in the back to hold a back protector. Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $179.00 Contact: http://motonation.com 118 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
RK EXCEL • 530 DR DRAG RACING CHAIN
Specifically made specially drag racing motorcycles, the DR Drag Racing Chain from RK Excel has a tensile strength of 10,400 pounds, weighs 5.16 pounds per 100 links and is applicable for engines up to 1500cc. The 530 DR ships pre stretched and pre stressed to maximize equal load distribution. Includes a rivet master link. Available in 120, 130 and 140 links. Sizes: 120, 130, 140 Price: $131.95 - $153.94 Contact: http://rkexcelamerica.com
ORIENT EXPRESS RACING • BILLET QUICK ACCESS CLUTCH COVER FOR THE HAYABUSA This clutch cover allows for quick access to your clutch plates in between passes. CNC machined from solid billet aluminum, the cover is designed additional depth to accommodate most lock up and slider clutches. It uses the bike’s OEM gasket that is included in the box along with oil level sight window and filler. Available for the Suzuki Hayabusa, model years 1999 through 2014. Also available in anodized black. Price: $499.95 Contact: http://orientexpress.com
VOODOO INDUSTRIES • CAFE EXHAUST
VooDoo Industries now offers their quality line of exhausts to help you complete your cafe racer and vintage projects with their Cafe Exhaust. Made with lightweight, durable materials, the mufflers are finished in matte black, copper or show polish in a variation of styles. Designed to add style, boost performance and improve the sound of your ride, the Cafe Exhaust from VooDoo Industries ship with all the hardware and instructions needed for install. Prices: $51.03 - $182.65 Contact: http://voodoomoto.com
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 119
THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ICON MOTOSPORTS • AIRFRAME PRO BROZAC HELMET
When ICON dropped their new Airframe Pro helmet, they changed the way riders thought about street helmets. Building upon that innovative design platform, ICON has released a number new graphics to enhance the collection. None is more eye catching than the Brozac. The Brozac’s theme is simply a speed demon rocking a smiley face helmet which pretty much sums up the emotions that most riders have when the throttle is in hand. Underneath the graphics is a hand crafted carbon fiber shell and a five piece moisture wicking, removable and washable liner. The Brozac ships with a clear fog free ICON optics shields and a dark smoke shield. Sizes: XS - XXXL Price: $430.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com 120 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 121
STAFF STUFF FABLE RIDERS • FABLE FP-1 TOP Red Spade If you’ve ever frequented the California track scene then you’re probably already familiar with native company Fable and their performance wear. It’s presence has spread like wildfire through the track community and many women are raving about it, for good reason too. Fable’s compression undergarments are made by women for women; tested and refined by pro racer Melissa Paris to suit the needs of women in the industry. For starters I found the garment to be a great fit conforming to my body. At first I thought it would be too tight as I squeezed into it. but surprisingly even though the fabric was quite tight on me, I was very comfortable and didn’t feel any pinching or squeezing (of course make sure to get your appropriate size). All the stitching is soft and seamless; there are no tags or uncomfortable edges on the collar/sleeves. There are many compression garments out there to choose from, but what sets Fable apart from the rest is truly the fit and feel. The fabric is ridiculously smooth and feels wonderful. Because it’s so slick, getting in and out of your leather suit is a piece of cake! As someone that rides in 100 degree + weather, I can truly appreciate this. I have other undergarments that are just not as smooth to use and bunch up or pull; I love that the sleeves and pant legs don’t get bunched or pulled up. Even though the garment is skin tight on me, I didn’t feel very hot in it. I wore it in some chilly/windy conditions out at the Ridge Motorsports Park as well as in the sweltering muggy 105 heat of Barber Motorsports park. The fabric did a great job pulling the sweat away and drying instantly, all the while creating a cooling sensation when a breeze was blowing. Another great aspect of this set is that it’s two pieces. Why most manufacturers think a one piece undergarment is a good choice to wear under your leathers is beyond me. There is absolutely nothing more annoying or uncomfortable 122 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
than having to strip down to your sports bra on a cold trackway just to go pee, which you should be doing after every session! It makes me so happy that these pieces are separate, providing flexibility and comfort! Pricewise, I’m a firm believer in getting what you pay for. And to be quite honest when I look at what other compression garments go for, Fable is priced moderately if not the same. Its quality and the materials are solid. I spoke a lot about wearing this under my race suit at the track, however this is by no means a track only garment; great for anytime you’re wearing leathers of any sorts. I made the mistake once of wearing a tank top under my leathers in the mountains. Well it ended up being such a hot day that I was swimming in my suit even at the higher altitudes. I remember trying to get my suit off and what a nightmare it was; I needed a lot of help pulling and tugging. In the end I actually ripped my liner on my right shoulder because the suit was stuck to me so bad. Never again! http://fableriders.com Rating: 6 (out of 6) SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 123
124 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 125