SportBikes Inc Magazine December 2014 by Hard Knocks Unlimited

THE

STUNT ISSUE

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 SHOW: THE DEADPOOL

THE MAIN POINTS: RYAN HAWCO

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

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LINES OF A LEGEND: THE NINJA H2 - CONSULTING

THE UNDEFINED UNDERGROUND

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ANDREW WHEELER

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THE USUALS

DECEMBER 2014 - VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3 INTERACTIVE

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=12 12 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18 18 THE INBOX http://issuu.com/action/page?page=20 20 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - DUCATI WINCHESTER http://issuu.com/action/page?page=24 22 THE SHOW - THE DEADPOOL http://issuu.com/action/page?page=34 34 THE GRID NEWS 42 TURN ONE - By Sandra Stammova http://issuu.com/action/page?page=42 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=52 52 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson 64 THE MAIN POINTS - By Dena Sodano http://issuu.com/action/page?page=64 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=100 100 FEATURED CLUB - 2UP 2DOWN RIDERS 4 LIFE M.C. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102 102 KNOW YOUR ROLE - By Lady Kim http://issuu.com/action/page?page=108 108 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James 115http://issuu.com/action/page?page=115 FEATURED RIDERS 118http://issuu.com/action/page?page=118 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=128 128 DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS - By Billy Morrison http://issuu.com/action/page?page=134 134 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=142 142 STAFF STUFF

CLICK ON NUMBERS TO JUMP TO A PAGE

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FEATURED RIDER: KURT MILLER

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FEATURE STORY

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L O O P D

A E D E H T

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EDITOR’S LETTER Kyle Sliger photograped by J.Billera

s a rider that came up on the streets and highways of South Eastern, Pennsylvania that graduated to the track, my fascination with bikes has always been about speed and performance. In the streets, it was about how fast I could get from one point to another. On the track, it is all about lap times. Numbers don’t lie. Time doesn’t lie. I am constantly battling with myself to be better and faster than my last session. I’m always looking to implement techniques that will make my ride smoother and quicker. Practice. Practice. Practice. Yes... We’re talking about practice. I have always appreciated stunt riders. I’ve learned a great deal by working with some of the best in the world and watching sessions, routines and performances from the back lot to a front straight for a MotoGP race weekend event. They are dedicated in the same manner that any other discipline of our culture would and should be. Hours upon hours, sometimes days have been spent committed to learning a new move. Then once it’s learned, another week or so of riding to include that move into a series of transitions to formulate a smooth run. Dedication. I see it. I respect it. I salute it. Stunt riders are talented athletes and should be respected as such. The level of passion that they guys and ladies have,

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to put their bikes and bodies on the line to compete with themselves to be the best is inspiring. Many do compete but there really aren’t that many competitions about anymore for these talented riders to showcase their skills. Short of the very small roster of pro riders that are sponsored and can say that they are earning a livable wage off of their skills, the average stunt rider can be found in a lot behind some complex or building structure. There, in a group of peers, they work on their craft. In the absence of competition, the stunt riders have turned their lot sessions into events where they are not competing against one another. There in these mega lot sessions, they appreciate on another and learn from one another. The stunt world truly is an amazing element of our culture. It needs to be celebrated and supported. What I have learned the most from stunt riders is very simple, yet extremely profound. It doesn’t matter how many times you fall down. What truly matters, is how many times you get up. This issue goes out to all my stunt riders. Put one wheel up in the air if you feel me... Best, Allan allan@sportbikesincmag.com

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

EDITORIAL

Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Rev Limiter Editor: Dena Sodano dena@sportbikesincmag.com Bike Life Editor Lady Kim ladykim@sportbikesincmag.com International Correspondent Billy Morrison billy@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Dystany Spurlock dystany@sportbikesincmag.com Michael Lawless lawless@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com Sandra Stammova sandra@sportbikesincmag.com Joanne Donn joanne@sportbikesincmag.com

Contributing Writers: Red Spade Ian Gaines Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@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: Christina Lee Billings Contributing Photographers: Kwame Olds Daiane De Sales Freitas Sierra Gate Flashpix Redline Images Mike Engel J. Billera John LaSure Jason Haigh Eric Swahn Piotr Morky Nic Coury Leon Brittain Vic Scwantz Ashley Victoria A&D

SportBikes Inc Magazine - December 2014 Volume 5, Issue 3 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 SUZUKI HAS UNVEILED THREE OF THEIR 2016 MODELS Getting a jump on the competition, Suzuki released details on their 2016 GSX-S1000 , GSX-S1000 ABS and the 2016 GSX-S1000FA ABS. The naked 2016 GSX-S1000 packs a 999cc inline four cylinder, liquid cooled engine that is based on the GSXR 1000 engine. Other components featured are the Traction Control System, Brembo Brake set up, a single headlight design and angled radiator covers that give great lines as well as assist in cooling. These features also offered on the ABS

2015 AMA VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE DAYS The American Motorcyclist Association has announced the 2015 dates for their Vintage Motorcycle days festival. The event will take place in Lexington, Ohio at the Mid Ohio Sports Car Course, July 10-12, 2015. The event is a fundraiser for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and includes activities such as the AMA Vintage Grand Championship, North America’s largest swap meet, bikes shows and the American Motor Drome Wall of Death Stunt Shows. 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

model with the addition of the antilock braking system. The 2016 GSX-S1000FA features the same engine as the GSX-S1000/ABS but is equipped with a dual headlight set up, ABS and a front fairing with a significant windscreen for those that want more of an aerodynamic ride. No MSRP’s have been released.

RECALL: YAMAHA ISSUES A MINOR RECALL FOR THE 2014 R6 Yamaha has issued a recall for 28 R6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, model year 2014. The issue is with the wheel hardening process and that the front and rear wheels of these units were not properly treated, preventing them from reaching their required level of hardness. The results of the fault can range from loose wheels to lack of proper tire sealing. Owners are bring alerted and the dealer network has been instructed to replace the front and rear wheels at no charge.

RECALL: HONDA ISSUES RECALL FOR THE 2014 GROM

The ever popular Honda Grom is being recalled because of a fuel pump issue. The resin bracket inside of the pump could potentially swell and disrupt the operation of the impeller causing pump failure. The

result would be a cease in fuel flow causing stalling of the bike. Updated fuel pumps will be provided to dealerships who have been instructed to replace the faulty pumps at no charge to the owners. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13

THE PRESS ROOM RICKEY GADSON’S CUSTOM KAWASAKI NINJA H2RG After weeks of hints and sneek peeks, SBI’s own Rickey Gadson debuted his custom Kawasaki Ninja H2RG at the New York International Motorcycle Show. Modified for the drag strip and designed to break speed records, the H2RG sports an extended dual sided swingarm by Strong Arm which is matched with BST carbon fiber rear wheel to shave weight. The H2RG is equipped with a handlebar mounted air shifter to compliment the OEM’s quick shifter. Gadson also outfitted his H2RG with a JRI rear shock to work in harmony with the new extended swing arm. Most noticeable is the familiar Kawasaki green with the Gadson racing number 62 emblazoned on the left and right fairings. Look for the H2RG to be featured in an upcoming issue of SBI.

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THE PRESS ROOM GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES UNVEILS THEIR AUTISM SPEAKS CUSTOM HONDA GROM IN TIMES SQUARE

Garwood Custom Cycles unveiled their 2014 Custom Honda Grom that they built for Autism Speaks, in the middle of Times Square, New York. On a chilly Thursday morning, the team from GCC along with representatives from Austim Speaks premiered their custom build. The build was completed in one week to meet the deadline for it to be displayed in Times Square in the morning, before it was ridden over to the Jacob Javitz Center where it was displayed in the Progessive Insurance booth as part of the International Motorcycle Show’s media day. 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

“Garwood Custom Cycles is honored to be able to be a part of this noble project. We hope this motorcycle will not only bring awareness but also help in fund raising. It is truly our pleasure to be able to build this custom motorcycle. We are both humbled and honored.” - Steve Garwood, General Manager of Garwood Custom Cycles. The custom Autism Speaks Honda Grom will be eventually raffled off with all proceeds being donated to the charity. For more information on Autism Speaks, please visit http://autismspeaks. org.

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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, I just read the November issue with the Nightmare Busa on the cover. Cool issue with some great photos. I really like how you you guys blend all the different types of riding styles into one magazine. I wanted to ask about the painter of the Nightmare Busa. I saw that Killer Kreations is listed as the painter of the bike but in one picture there are two helmets on the ground next to the bike. One is a Jack O Lantern and the other is a Skull. Were they also painted by Killer Kreations? The magazine is nice. Keep up the great work! -Jay Elkton, MD Dear Jay, Thank you for reading. The Nightmare Busa was built by Breaklite Motorsports and yes, it was painted by Killer Kreations. The helmets, however, was painted Bruce at 18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Virtuair Airbrush Studios. Bruce is a talented artist that not only paints helmets, but bikes as well. Check out http://virtuairbrushstudios.com. Hit them up and tell them that SBI sent you! Best, SBI Magazine Dear SBI, Will there be a Clutch Control 2015? I missed this year but I heard it was popping. If there is going to be a 2015 event, will it be around the same month or time of year? Thanks! - Rodney, Abington, PA Dear Rodney, There will absolutely be a Clutch Control 2015. Sorry that you missed this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event but 2015 will be bigger and better. There will be a press release in early January with information about the 2015 event that will be posted to the SBI Blog. Stay tuned. Best, SBI Magazine

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SHOP SPOTLIGHT: DUCATI WINCHESTER

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Ducati Winchester

CONTACT:

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Dealership Name: Ducati Winchester Location: 663 North Loudoun Street. Winchester VA 22601 Showroom Hours: Tuesday - Friday 10:00am to 6:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Year Established: 2006 Brands Serviced: Ducati (Exclusive)

f you are in the Northwestern region of Virginia and you are looking for top quality Ducati sales and service, look no further than Ducati Winchester. The Ducati exclusive dealership was honored with the 2014 Top Sales Award in the Mid Atlantic Region by the manufacturer. In 2012, they broke the then standing record of 100 new Ducatis sold in one year. Their 5000 square foot dealership houses an impressive showroom, parts and service departments. On staff are three Ducati Factory Trained Technicians, two of which are Master Technicians. Additionally, they keep two Ohlins Certified Technicians on hand. That knowledgeable staff shares their education to their customers with

seminars and classes. Ducati Winchester also offers Women’s Only, Suspension and Track Day programs. Do you want to get to know your bike’s engine on a deeper and more personal level? Attend the Ducati Engine 101 seminar. All of these programs are offered for free at the dealership. They reach out to the community via charitable efforts with Blue Ridge Hospice and Evan’s Home for Children. While the dealership’s motto is, “Performance is our passion”, they are much more than than. Passion, education and community are the pillars of Ducati Winchester.

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

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THE SHOW

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THE DEADPOOL words: allan lane images: JB Stunts

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THE SHOW: THE DEADPOOL The stunt bike as a machine has evolved. There was a time when the stunt bike was identified as a nothing more than a naked work mule that only needed to run. Basically, it was nothing more than a collection of bits, an amalgam of parts... a Frankenstein of sorts. The stunt bike reflected the attitudes of the riders and their riding styles. Raw, in your face, aggressive and unapologetic. It was all function at full throttle with a minimal nod, at best, to form.

career. They began to understand the concept of the total package. Being a skilled rider, being an exceptional rider was no longer enough. You needed to be a rider with vision, conviction and means. Perception has always weighed heavy on presentation. As riders matured in their understanding, so did their machines. The stunt bike evolved into an extension of what the rider was hoping to convey about themselves and their skills. The days of not being taken seriously were over. It Then something happened. A change occurred. was time to get down to business. As companies began to invest in the sport of stunt riding and the culture, the attitudes A gleaming example of proper bike presentation is Professional Stunt Rider JB of the stunt community began to take shape. Stuntsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2009 Kawasaki ZX6R. Aptly named The riders realized that what they were so passionate about could be translated into a Dead Pool, the bike bares the likeness of the

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notoriously mouthy mercenary, ninja trained comic book character by the same name. It’s clean, complete and looks professional. It represents JB as a rider and as a representative for his sponsors. JB and his Dead Pool are talented and skilled mercenaries that slay the streets, the lots, the competition... Whatever and wherever it is needed. JB’s approach to the aesthetics of Dead Pool is fun, colorful but deadly serious. The green and white work in harmony providing a sufficient canvas to display decals from his sponsors. But it also shows his creativity and commitment. JB completed the wrap work himself in a total of 16 hours and included the rear sprocket in the theme. The Dead Pool also features a

custom seat up by HT Moto that is specifically designed for the rider to be able to place a foot in what would be traditionally a passenger seat. This allows the rider to perform a number of maneuvers. The engine has been tuned to work in flow with the slash cut megaphone exhaust and the power commander to provide burst of power making it capable to muscle through a variety tricks. To compliment those bursts of power, JB installed a big rotor kit from Joker Riders that includes a 300mm brake rotor equipped with 3 Honda CBR 600RR brake calipers. A custom designed fuel tank allows for JB to move smoothly about the bike while rolling as well as provides a seat for him as he wheelies. There’s

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THE SHOW: THE DEADPOOL

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no better way to protect his investments and hard work than installing a stunt cage and rear sub cage that not only protects the bike, it also provides platforms for JB to place his feet while stunting. You can not look at The Dead Pool and think that it is just another work mule. It looks great and runs hard as JB puts it through the paces every chance he gets. Presentation means so much regardless of whether you have sponsors or not, or if that is even on your radar of personal goals. The point remains that looking good while riding hard makes you feel great. It really is a boost in the confidence department to be able to perform on a bike that is show bike quality. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 27

THE SHOW: THE DEADPOOL

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JB Stunts “THE DEADPOOL” 2009 Kawasaki ZX6R Engine: Power Commander. Brakes: Stock front. Joker Riders Big Rotor Rear Kit with a 300mm disc and three Honda CBR600RR Calipers. Exhaust: Slash Cut Megaphone. Suspension: RG3 Rear Shock. Swingarm: Stock with a reinforced brake mounting tab. Wheels: Stock with a lot of chrome. Tires: Dunlop Q2 front. Whatever I can shred in the rear. Custom/One Off Accessories: Custom Fuel Tank. Impaktech cage and subcage. 5th Gear 64 tooth rear sprocket. Custom seats by Ben Dunn. Builder: JB Stunts. Bike Wrap: Get Displays and Edwardstown Powdercoating. Owner: JB Stunts.

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THE SHOW: THE DEADPOOL

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THE GRID: NEWS ASRA: THE 2015 DAYTONA 200… AND THE SHOW GOES ON!

Daytona International Speedway announced that the 74th Daytona 200 will occur under the sanctioning of the American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA). The race will see 600cc machines competing on March 14, 2015, beginning at 1pm. MotorAmerica had been trying to secure the

sanctioning deal with Daytona International Speedway but were unable to an agreement. In addition to the Daytona 200, ASRA and (Championship Cup Series) CCS will host a full schedule of races for the Daytona 200 weekend, from Thursday, March 12 through March 15, Sunday.

MOTOGP: BMW WILL CONTINUE TO BE THE OFFICIAL CAR OF MOTOGP THROUGH 2020

BMW has been the official car of MotoGP since 1999, providing a fleet of safety cars to Dorna every season. Since 2003, it has become customary for a BMW M to be awarded to the season’s best qualifier. Dorna and BMW have signed a deal that continues the relationship well into 2020 and will celebrate their 20th together anniversary in 2019.

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MOTOAMERICA: JOSH HERRIN RETURNS TO US ROAD RACING WITH MEEN MOTORSPORTS. Former AMA Superbike Champion Josh Herrin has joined Meen Motorsports for the 2015 MotoAmerica racing season competing in the Supersport series. “First of all, thank you to Ameen Sajjadi and the entire Meen Motorsports team for giving me this opportunity. I’m really happy to be racing again in America and to be able to return to my Yamaha roots. Riding the R6 that I am so familiar

with will truly be icing on the cake. I’m confident that together the Meen Team and I can achieve our goal of winning the MotoAmerica Supersport Championship in its inaugural year. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it and I am really looking forward to having fun racing motorcycles again,” comments Herrin. Herrin’s return to US racing soil follows his stint abroad, racing in the Moto2 Championship Series.

MOTOAMERICA: TECHNICAL RULES FOR 2015 The AMA has published the3 technical rules for MotoAmerica’s 2015 inaugural season, covering all classes except for the KTM RC390 Cup. Thew KTM RC390 Cup rules will be released at a later date. To read the technical specifications in their entirety, please click here... SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35

THE GRID: NEWS WSBK: EBR RACING SIGNS PEGRAM AND CANEPA FOR 2015 Erik Buell and his EBR team are returning to the World SuperBike Arena in 2015 once again in partnership with the Hero Corporation. EBR has enlisted two new riders for their 2015 efforts. Larry Pegram, who rode into the history books in 2014 by scoring a top ten finish at Laguna Seca as a wildcard, thus making EBR the first American manufacturer to place a top ten finish in World SuperBike, will be a full time pilot along with his new team mate Niccolo Canepa. In addition to being a pilot, Pegram will also step into the role as overall team manager.

MOTOGP: TICKETS FOR THE 2015 RED BULL GRAND PRIX OF AMERICA AT COTA ARE NOW ON SALE You can now purchase your tickets for the 2015 Red Bull GP of America at the Circuit of America. The race weekend kicks off on April 10 and runs through April 12, 2015. COTA is including a display of memorabilia from Evel Knievel, the second annual Handbuilt

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Motorcycle Show and are also offering free parking for all motorcycles as added features for the 2015 event. Visit http://circuitoftheamericas.com for more information.

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THE GRID

Images: Courtesy of Shane Narbonne

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

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SHANE NARBONNE

#64

“T

he reason I picked my number 64 is because it was my best friend Aaron Creamer’s AMA dirt track number. I want to make him proud and keep the number going strong!” SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39

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THE GRID

TURN ONE: NEW ZEALAND BLUES

WORDS: SANDRA STAMMOVA IMAGES: COURTESY OF SANDRA STAMMOVA

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fter the New Zealand winter series I was supposed to enter the New Zealand Nationals in North and South Island. We decided to spend some money on a few modifications before the Nationals started to make the bike faster so we sent my Honda to our engine builders in Hamilton. The first few rounds were scheduled on South Island circuits, which was a completely unknown area for me, but I was so excited to see the tracks and give it a go on my more modified faster bike. A few days before the first round I took my car with my bike, tools and tyres on the trailer and left to South Island by myself. It was a very long drive, seven hours, to Wellington, the capital of N.Z. From there, I had to take a ferry to South Island and drive another six hours at night to our friends where I was staying for first few days. I planned to stay three weeks as there was three rounds planned within such a short time. By the way, I ran out of petrol at 3AM in the middle of nowhere as all gas stations were closed in South Island. I had to sleep in the car until the morning...

pits. After only a few laps, my engine blew up! It dropped the valve and that was the end. We couldn’t manage to put the bike back together on time for many reasons. It was just the worse when you put so much effort into things and then it all goes wrong. That’s life I suppose. At the time, we didn’t have the support of a big team or the budget to buy a new engine to be able to fix my bike. It was my first year and we did the best with what we had. On the other side of it all, I must say everybody tried to help me and find a bike I could race. I was given a spare bike of one of the Suzuki Team riders so I could ride at least for the day. I couldn’t use it to race in case something happened and they would need their spare bike. I could understand that. It was very kind for the team to allow me to use it at least for some practice to experience the track as I was already there. That was the last time I rode a bike in New Zealand.

I returned back to Auckland after two weeks. Times were getting tough as my working visas My business partner John had to stay in were due to run out and I couldn’t manage Auckland to earn money and be able to to get them extended. I couldn’t see how we support all the costs I needed while I was could go forward with racing unless we found racing. I had no mechanics or suspension guy reasonable sponsorship. I couldn’t accept that but I was promised help from Mick Ruane who it was all over and just give up on my racing ran the championship at the time. My first test dream. It was all I wanted. I wanted to see was meant to happen at Teretonga or Ruapuna how far I could go. It seemed like there was circuitt. I arrived at the track in the early morning no way forward at the time. And with my visa and asked the guys to help me set up my little issue, I would have to return to Slovakia where SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43

THE GRID: TURN ONE

there wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t any road racing opportunities at the time. I felt like my world fell apart. Then... one day while reading my FaceBook messages, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe what I saw. There was little light at the end of the tunnel. There was a message from Daniel Stauffer, a factory Yamaha rider in Australia. He asked me if I 44 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

would like to come to race in Australia. He was willing to help me to find a team that I could ride for. He had lots of connections and he believed we could make it happen for me in his country. We exchanged a few ideas on the phone and I was ready to go! We organized a sports visa for myself and I left New Zealand after two and half years to chase my racing

dream. It was extremely hard and emotional for me as I felt like New Zealand became my home. I found my passion there. Living there opened my eyes and I realized who I was and what really matters to me. I had a few very close friends there including John, who was my best friend that I worked with and who supported my racing.

I had to leave them all behind. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. My heart was completely broken, but I was excited to start a new adventure in Australia with the vision of being back in the saddle. I had no idea where I was going. All I knew was that it was called the Gold Coast. My family couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand what I was doing. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 45

THE GRID: TURN ONE

They wanted me back home in Slovakia and doing normal things as they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t consider racing normal. My mother planned for me to run our family business which was a type of private hospital for children that have problems with lungs and allergies. My great grandmother built it in 1928. The communists took it from her but my mother decided to get our company 46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

back from the government. After a seven year battle, she succeeded. I sold everything I had in New Zealand and moved to Australia in the April of 2010. I was ready. The adventure continues in the next issue...

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 | 47

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Troy Jordan Bezuidenhout

TROY JORDAN BEZUIDENHOUT

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NAME: Troy Jordan Bezuidenhout HOMETOWN: Port Shepston, Natal, South Africa AGE: 14 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: MSA (Motorsport South Africa), European Junior Cup. GOALS: To race in MotoGP ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

2008 2nd 50cc championship 2009: 1st 50cc championship 2010:2nd 150cc championship 2011: 4th 150cc championship 2012: 2nd 125GP championship 2013: 1st Moto3 championship 2014: 13th in jerez European Junior Cup on my debut!

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: To me riding a bike is not just throwing your leg over a bike and riding it, it’s a way of life. When I ride I feel at home. CONTACT:

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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. ÂŠYoshimura R&D of America 2014.

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MSRP $489

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

LINES OF A LEGEND WORDS: RICKEY GADSON IMAGES: RG//ALLAN LANE

awasaki’s H2 street machine and H2R racebike are the most talked about motorcycles of this era because the company engineered a supercharger into a liter class sportbike, which I didn't think was possible, with pump gas. The EPA legal H2 is said to produce about 200 crankshaft horsepower, while the closed course only H2R makes 300hp. Kawasaki’s "printed" horsepower "on paper" claims might be underestimated. I believe that the numbers are politically correct. There are strict requirements to make the bike legal to get into the United States as a street legal motorcycle. The one I rode a year ago in Japan did not feel like 199 horsepower. And since I know how to measure horsepower the old fashion way, by seat of the pants acceleration. I'm telling you I trust my butt knows what 199 feels like, and that wasn’t it. I was told projected numbers in Japan and the race version is spot on but the street version is about 20hp off. My involvement with the H2 stretches back more than a year. It began at Kawasaki’s 2012 dealer meeting when Kawasaki Heavy Industries President Scott Kiyama told me that they were working on a special project. He asked me if I would be interested in coming to Japan to help with something that he felt would be of great interest to me but he wouldn't be able to tell me anything about the project until he was sure it was going to happen. Of course an opportunity like this only comes once in a lifetime and I couldn't wait to pack my bags! I have flown the Kawasaki flag since 1996 and I'm Kawi’s longest contracted athlete. This would be the first time any company had enlisted the help of someone who didn't have a bunch of engineering degrees in his background to help in developing a new motorcycle. I was floored that the president of KHI asked me to do that and that he valued my opinion enough to ask me to come over and be 52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

THE KAWASAKI NINJA H2: CONSULTING

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND involved.

something crazy.

In November 2013 I finally received a call from Kiyama-san asking me to travel to the corporate office in Japan to test a prototype but didn't tell me what the prototype was. Just a week before boarding the plane, a European magazine released the rumor of a Kawasaki Supercharged engine that was on the horizon. This was the first time I had heard such a thing, but with all the embargo and confidentiality papers we had to sign I knew I was about to be involved with

So two days before Thanksgiving my manager Kiana, Coby Adams the owner of Adams Performance and myself boarded an 18 hour B class flight to Japan to get details on a bike we knew nothing about. My first introduction to the H2, code named “8200,” was on Thanksgiving day during a conference at KHI with the president and the H2’s engineering team. The room was filled with engineers, and two motorcycles sat covered in sheets in the middle of the

THE 200MPH BULLET TRAIN, BUILT BY KAWASAKI 54 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

“The first supercharged prototype motorcycle was sitting in front of me made of clay and we were the first civilians to lay eyes on what was to become the worlds most powerful hand built production motorcycle.”

floor. When they pulled off the sheets, “Wow, I was floored!” It was true. The first supercharged prototype motorcycle was sitting in front of me made of clay and we were the first civilians to lay eyes on what was to become the worlds most powerful hand built production motorcycle. As me and Coby Adams looked over the radical new machines, we were surrounded by engineers who were writing down our observations and opinions. Everybody was writing down everything I was saying. I thought it was amazing that they were that detailed. The guys over there at KHI had a lot of respect for my knowledge of motorcycles of what it would take to make this thing what they wanted it to be. I recall asking KHI’s president, “Why would you guys retool and spend this kind of money to make a bike like this when you are already on top of the game? Your flagship motorcycle, the ZX-14R, is already the quickest, fastest and most powerful motorcycle ever made." He gave me the coolest response ever, "Because we can.” The following day at the Tokyo Motor Show, the new Supercharged motor was on display but there was no mention of a bike coming. My wife, Coby, the H2 engine designer and I all had to play dumb when asked is that motor going to be in a bike or not. After that, the crew and I rode the Kawasaki built 200mph "Bullet Train" to one of Kawi’s private test facilities that contained a dragstrip. The first thing Saturday morning, we were off to the testing site to see and ride the new most powerful prototype in the world. There were no pictures or videos allowed of the bike by anyone. I've never seen such a level of secrecy! First up for testing was the street legal H2. Not knowing what to expect I went through the gearbox, short shifted every gear and got to fourth gear and nailed the throttle! I'm safe in fourth gear. Just as I said that to myself, the gas tank punched me in the chest which undoubtably got my attention! I thought to myself damn this bike is not lacking power, to say the least.

SUPERCHARGED MOTOR ON DISPLAY

Next, it was time for some acceleration runs, which SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55

THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

proved to be quite a challenge even for one of drag racing’s best. The H2 has so much brute power that I was initially unable to fully open the throttle during the first eighth of mile because its front wheel kept flinging itself skyward. Trying to get the throttle opened on that thing was such a challenge, the prototype hadn’t yet been fitted with its electronic rider aids. It took a lot of patience. 56 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

In my dragracing school, I instruct students to quickly get the throttle open as soon as the clutch is released. Well, you can’t ride an H2 like that. If you snap the throttle to get the bike to launch forward, you’ll be laying on your back. After several passes I was able to get it pinned about 600 feet out, slightly before the eighth mile or 660 foot mark. In comparison, making back to back passes on a

ZX-14R is simple on the quickest production streetbike on earth. But after getting off the 1000cc H2, I all of a sudden thought the intensely powerful, ZX-14R felt very docile and easy to ride! And we all know that the ZX-14R is anything but "docile". At the end of the day, I went about 1.5 tenths quicker on the H2. While that might not sound like much of a difference, it is important to remember that the

H2’s throttle was fully opened for less than 3 seconds during the quarter mile runs. Also noteworthy is the H2’s abbreviated wheelbase is some 1.7 inches shorter than the 14R’s 58.3 inches, which increases its tendency to wheelie, hence, inhibits maximum acceleration. I was thrilled to ride the H2 in it's early unfinished stage. But now the excitement was growing brighter SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57

THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

the next day when I got my first crack at the H2R. I just couldn’t believe what I was looking at – the exhaust, the wings, the carbon fiber, and the fact they lowered it in the front… It was the H2. On futuristic steriods! Before hitting the strip, I made some top end runs at the facility with my wife and KHI engineers watching. If you know Kiana you know that she doesn't get impressed easily, but this time was different. She was so excited to hear the roar of that thing! Just the echo of it coming toward them, how it sounds and the swirl of dust that was behind me like an F-18 fighter plane. When I stopped, she was like "That was amazing!". I whispered to her, "I’ve never been so scared in my life." I was only scared because the bike was so powerful that the front end never wanted to be on the ground! Remember, I’ve been on every configuration motorcycle known to man and nothing ever excited me and scared me all at the same time like the H2R. It took me so long to get the throttle open and the whole time I was rolling the throttle on, it was trying to pick the wheel up. A late start to the day resulted in an abbreviated test session. Nevertheless, and despite the short track, I 58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

was able to bag times that were 2.5 tenths quicker than the 14R. Most impressive was the 15mph faster trap speed, a massive difference in the quarter mile. Especially when taking into account that I only got to full throttle for a brief moment before the finish line. I knew I was on something special by that point, for sure. The next day I was back at KHI for a debriefing. He sat in the center of the room surrounded by at least 45 to 50 Japanese engineers. They had a powerpoint presentation pinpointing everything that I had said the last three days. It's had every opinion I had, my reaction after I got off the motorcycle, the things I told my wife, even quotes from Kiana. It was amazing how they were so detailed and held on to every word. These guys are some of the most intelligent engineers that have done an incredible job in all the years past on their machines, and here they are implementing changes because of my life learned experiences. I left Japan with the most amazing feeling of accomplishment that anyone could ever have. In the next issue, we’ll talk about designing and building my custom hybrid Ninja H2RG!

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Kwame CourtesyOlds//B.J. of Brice Lloyd Pryer

B.J. PRYER

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NAME: B.J. Pryer HOMETOWN: Chesapeake, VA. AGE: 20 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: I race in the IDBA series formerly known as MIRock. GOALS: My goals are to win a IDBA championship and to help my parents retire early. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: The accomplishments so far have been being apart of this magazine, picking up more sponsors every year and just being a well known guy to such a huge family of all colors and sizes. I won my first race in 2010 which was only my second year racing and I’ve always been a competitor in a sport full of excellent riders. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: There aren’t words strong enough to express the passion I have for this sport, the racers of IDBA (Mirock) and the track officials are my family. CONTACT:

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THE REV LIMITER

THE MAIN POINTS

WORDS: DENA SODANO IMAGES: JASON HAIGH

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RYAN HAWCO SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65

THE REV LIMITER: THE MAIN POINTS

his month’s issue is specially dedicated to the amazing and awesome sport of the freestyle stunt riding world. I had a chance to catch up with yet another trendsetter and fast paced rider, Ryan Hawco right out of Alberta Canada. Let’s see exactly why there are a few loose screws and how Ryan Hawco clutched up his first wheelies into freestyle stunt riding Never Land. DS: You have always had some sharp looking bikes. A clean bike is a happy bike right? Tell us, why riding?

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RH: The technical aspect of stunt riding is what initially attracted me to the sport. The clutch, brake and bodywork... It still amazes me today. Being able to manipulate a 400 pound sport bike to do and go where you want it is extremely impressive. DS: What about the beginning? When and how did you get into riding? What was your first bike? RH:I got my first bike at the age of 16. I happened to come across a stunt team from Nova Scotia one summer, Street Punishment, putting on a stunt show. It was the first time I had ever seen anyone do a controlled wheelie on a sport bike in person. I bought a copy of “Starboyz FTP3” off them and watched that a million times. I was hooked. I’m from a small town in Newfoundland so there was no stunt scene at all. So I pretty much learned from stunt DVDs and the Stuntlife forums online. My first

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THE REV LIMITER: THE VIOLET MAIN STARS... POINTS

bike was a 2004 Yamaha R6. I grew up on dirt bikes and still remember my exact thought when I first rode it... How do people wheelie these things? DS: What two wheeled machine do you have now? RH: With the help of Blackfoot Motorsports, I am currently building a 2013 Kawasaki ZX6R for the 2015 season and I have a 2008 Kawasaki ZX10R Drift Bike. DS: We have all been there as stunt riding is dangerous but oh so fun. What type of injuries have you had? RH: More road rash then I can remember. In 2013 I low sided a drift and shoulder planted into the pavement causing torn ligaments in my left shoulder which put me out for a couple months. Other than that. I have been pretty lucky. 68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

DS: What’s your favorite trick or move? RH: Drifting, I think has to be my favorite. There’s no better feeling than flying sideways, steering locked and banging the rev limiter! DS: 2015 is coming quick. Any plans for next year? Any comps or big lot sessions you plan to attend? RH: I have events booked with my teammate, Craig Latimer, across western Canada for the 2015 season. As for competitions, there is one trying to get off the ground here in Alberta, so I am planning to attend both of those. Hopefully, I’m gonna try and make a trip to the USA for either a competition or a big lot session. Keep an eye out for Ryan Hawco, one of Canada’s finest, coming to a lot session near you.

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THE UNDEFINED UNDERGROUND

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WORDS: IAN GAINES IMAGES: PIOTR MORKY SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 71

THE REV LIMITER: UNDERGROUND VIOLET STARS...

s a contributing member of a unique subculture, I have been longing to see stunt riding sit amongst the ranks of other action sports such as Freestyle Motocross and BMX. As amazingly obtainable as that seems, it appears that stunt riders can’t seem to get out of our own way. As such, I began to search for the problems holding us back. I began to ask questions and find out why we just can’t round the corner. I meditated on the issue of street stunts versus parking lot stunts and this is what came to mind... “In the dark corners of each state in the Union, there is a stirring. A movement that year after year is attempting to find its way. Sometimes it’s misunderstood. Other times its misdirected, but at most times it seems to be polarized, the middle ripped apart by two competing ends. One end reaching for heights unseen by the industry while the other remains rooted in its origins. Both holding fast to their principals, with relentless intent, giving no ground to the other and leaving the sport I love, and the one you love to watch, hovering in suspended animation. That is the Undefined Underground. It’s scientific, it’s physics, it’s basic. Two equal forces bound together and pulling in opposite directions will remain stuck. And fixed they will be until one or the other tires and gives in. But that is not in our nature. Quitting is not in our vocabulary and failing is only what happens just before we try again. When your strengths are weaknesses and the very things that make you successful are keeping you trapped, how do you free yourself?” If you know anything about stunt riding, titles such as “Urban Street Bike Warriors”, “12 O’clock”, “C and I” and “Servin’ It Up” should stir up a few memories of the good old days and the beginning of stunt riding or sport bike freestyle in America. The sport was born

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in the streets. There is something to be said about riding a wheelie for miles or clutching up a Highchair wheelie next to the pretty girl in the red convertible. You come alive and the highways become your stage. It’s exhilarating! Who wouldn’t want to experience that? To

this very day riders still take to the streets in enormous packs, riding wheelies in an amazing display of control, balance and skill. The talent of some of the “Street Riders” is unmatched and their ability to control their motorcycle at high speed, on one wheel, and in traffic is

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THE REV LIMITER: UNDERGROUND VIOLET STARS...

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mesmerizing to watch and hard to resist. However, on the other side of the coin there is the general public. Though, many riders jockey for the title of “King of the Streets,” the streets are not their kingdom. The roads are rumbling with cars and trucks, school buses and mini vans, delivery trucks and eighteen wheelers with drivers and passengers who would like to get to their destination on time and safely. As incredible as these riders are, many civilians feel that the nature of stunt riding impedes on the rights of other motorists, compelling local governments to create more traffic laws, and making it extremely difficult for this breed of stunt rider to express themselves in this way. But is it all bad? If the public has an opinion, it means people are aware of the sport. And if it is true that there is no such thing as bad press, then these street riders are helping to bring our subculture from the darkness into the light. They are giving people who may never see what we do the opportunity to witness our craft. If you think about it, billboards are strategically placed along the highway for a reason. No one goes out of their way to find an advertisement and in a way that’s what these riders are: One Wheeled Rolling Billboards, bringing stunt riding to the masses. So why can’t we be featured at the X Games? Why do the police continue to pull these riders over? Why won’t anyone take us seriously? Why can’t we express ourselves? Why? Because it is illegal. Regardless of our opinions and skill level, the law is the law and stunt riding will continue to be stigmatized until the law changes or we find more legitimate outlets for the sport. If we

want our sport to survive, if we truly want more out of the countless hours we spend riding and wrenching on our machines, we may need to evaluate our current perspective and redirect our approach. So what now? Do we relegate ourselves to closed courses and private property? That could help, but many riders would say “no” to that solution arguing that this all started in the streets and that’s where it should stay. Yes, the streets were the beginning. As a people at our beginning, we were newborns and as babies did we not sleep in cribs and crawl on our bellies? When we were infants our parents changed our diapers and fed us our food. Imagine if your development stopped there. Imagine if stunt riding never progresses. Don’t get me wrong, the pampered and carefree nature of being a baby is great but as babies and children we have limits. It is not until we develop into adults that we begin to achieve our full potential. Now imagine stunt riding as an infant that we all have the responsibility of nurturing and developing. Are we teaching it anything? By remaining stuck in the same pattern, are we helping it grow? Is our undying commitment to not “sell out” and leave the streets keeping it from reaching its full potential? I don’t know. But I believe it is time we cut the umbilical cord. It’s time to loosen our grasp and let it grow into the sport we all know it can be. The streets are where it started and we should never forget our roots. However, if we don’t push our sport beyond its infant state and let go of the streets, we will be perpetually in the streets. Where do we go from here? How do we maintain our culture while attempting to legitimize the sport? Is sanctioned competition the answer? Is the next phase of our evolution the parking lot? I don’t believe that one is better than the other, just that one needs to be chosen. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 75

THE REV LIMITER LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

VISUAL FREESTYLE WORDS: ALLAN LANE

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he freedom that comes with being a rider unlike any other. Regardless of your discipline or style of riding, it is the actual ride that liberates us. It’s not a hobby. It’s not something that we do to pass the time. It’s not a passing trend. Riding is equivalent to breathing. One of the most captivating forms of expression of this freedom is the art of freestyle stunt riding. Be it in a lot, the streets, a competition... the thrill is the same. Whether engaging in the session or just as an observer, one cannot deny that talent is a requirement but it is a creativity that makes it entertaining. Enjoy a few of these moments of freedom captured for your visual enjoyment.

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THE REV LIMITER: VISUAL VIOLET STARS... FREESTYLE

IMAGE: ASHLEY VICTORIA 78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

IMAGE: LEON BRITTAIN

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THE REV LIMITER: VISUAL VIOLET STARS... FREESTYLE

IMAGE: DAIANE DE SALES FREITAS IMAGE: FLASHPIX

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IMAGE: CHRISTINA LEE BILLINGS SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 81

THE REV LIMITER: VISUAL VIOLET STARS... FREESTYLE

IMAGE: SIERRA GRATE

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IMAGE: MIKE ENGEL SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 83

THE REV LIMITER: VISUAL VIOLET STARS... FREESTYLE

IMAGES: IWHEELIE 84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Celio Coelho

CELIO COELHO

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NAME: Celio Coelho HOMETOWN: Worcester, MA. AGE: 42 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: The Freestyle Motor Show. GOALS: I would like to open my own school for stunt riding. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I have performed in Brazil, Europe, Canada, Peurto Rico and in the USA. I performed in the Shriners Circus throughout Canada in 2012. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: To be able to stunt ride and perform for as long as I can. Contact:

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Mike Engel

JESSICA PECORA

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NAME: Jessica Pecora HOMETOWN: West Palm Beach, FL. AGE: N/A ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Sponsored by Clutchup Clothing. GOALS: To compete, to help grow the sport and to do circles wherever and whenever I want. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I haven’t been arrested or blown my motor for doing wheelies. I also had the opportunity to compete alongside some of the top riders along the east coast at the Maryland International Raceway.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I love this sport because I am constantly surprised by my abilities. Contact: WWW.JESS-STUNTS.COM

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Joey Saporetti

JOEY SAPORETTI

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NAME: Joey Saporetti HOMETOWN: Framingham, MA. AGE: 28 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: NorthEastChill, 508 FlyBoyz, Conn Men, SickNasty Clothing, Turf Technologies Inc. GOALS: Travel more. Do more stunt shows. New tricks are a must. Get drifting my bike down. Place top three at a competition. Pick up more sponsors. Do a stunt show for the U.S. Troops. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I own three Kawasaki 636 stunt bikes, a ZX10 and a 250F dirt bike. I got sponsored by a clothing company. I’ve gotten to travel and meet new riders from different states. I’ve ridden with a lot of the riders I looked up to as a kid watching them ride. I did stunt shows for cops and kids. I’ve been paid to do shows at the Worcester Summer Nationals Weekend Stunt Shows and the Thompson Speedway Stunt Show. I’m on the hood of the SickNasty Truck. My stunt bike won “Best in its Class” at the 2013 World of Wheels in Boston. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion is riding... It makes me feel alive and gives me the best adrenaline rush. Contact:

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Chris Schmeltzer

CHRIS SCHMELTZER

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NAME: Chris Schmeltzer HOMETOWN: Collegeville, PA. AGE: 25 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: DeCordre Automotive & Performance Inc. GOALS: Get sponsored and make a career of doing what I love. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Various circle wheelies, rolling stoppies and the jump to spreader. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: To me it’s about having my own style of riding and pushing the limit until I can’t pull my clutch in or twist the throttle anymore, love what you do and do what you love. Contact:

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of James Palmer

JAMES PALMER

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NAME: James Palmer HOMETOWN: Roselle, N.J. AGE: 35 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: 973WoWBoYz, 973BikeLife GOALS: To live up to my potential. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Best moto drifter in the world. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Riding my Bike takes me away from Everything. Contact:

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FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION AND RATES, EMAIL INFO@SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE LIFE: FEATURED CLUB

Images: Courtesy of 2UP 2DOWN RIDERS 4LIFE M.C.

Rocker Interpretation: The 2Up 2Down Riders wear a two piece patch with a red, black and white colorway. The black and white represent the various races that compose the human race. The blood that ties all of us together is represented by the color red. Club history: The club was started by Legend and HiTek and founded on their passion for motorcycles. Their goal is to maintain a long line of tradition by doing their part in upholding motorcycle club set standards. “We strive to keep the bike set what it should be. One hundred percent bikers and one hundred percent bike owners.” Their members have committed themselves to be examples in the community. They focus on demonstrating their beliefs and setting examples whether they are on the bike or not.

2UP 2DOWN RIDERS 4LIFE M.C. CHAPTER: Hampton/Newport News, VA. FOUNDED: 2009 MEMBERS: N/A ELECTED OFFICIALS:

PRESIDENT: Legend FOUNDER: HiTek VICE PRESIDENT: Nappy ENFORCER: Venom ROAD CAPTAIN: 1st Down

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Future of the club: Dedicated to being a strong motorcycle club with strong members that promote a positive and safe image, the 2Up 2Down Riders will continue to “burn the path for other to follow.”

Want to see your club featured here? Drop us an email!

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THE LIFE

KNOW YOUR ROLE: A CLUB OF ANOTHER CLOTH WORDS: LADY KIM IMAGES: REDLINE IMAGES//JOHN LASURE JR.

CSBA PRESIDENT JOHN LASURE JR.

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t’s that time of year when clubs start gathering events, rides and planning road trips to put on their club calendar for 2015. I am always looking for new rides to bond with my bike and other riders. Although I like attending the parties, I joined my club to ground pound. Not everyone in a club joined for the love of the ride or the brotherhood and sisterhood. Some have no plans of riding but enjoy the reputation of being in a club, dating girls or guys and dressing alike for events. I am constantly hearing complaints about clubs that have bikes but don’t ride out. The set has been inundated with so many clubs that it is hard to support them all. If you have been on the set long enough, then you will notice that the real riders will attend the events they enjoy riding with other riders. That is the best way to network with bikers. Ride your scoot! If you’re a rider that likes to get into the wind, then I suggest you check out the Pennsylvania Christian Sport Bike Association Chapter (CSBA) for some awesome rides through Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Delaware! Don’t let the name fool you... This club rides! I know a few riders that rode on their tours and they said the routes they rode were awesome! So this will be on my “Ride to Do” list next Spring. They are best known for hosting a monthly spirited ride and promoting their CSBA “Day at the Races” program at various road racing tracks. They are a non profit organization that participates in community service events and outreach projects. They partner with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for motorcycle safety programs, which they promote at their hospitality booths at all their venues. I caught up with the current President of the club, John LaSure Jr., to get some more details about their riding events. LK: What is the background history of your SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 103

THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

club? JL: We are a Ministry Motorcycle club based out of the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania. We are open to all religions and bike brands. Our mission is to bring the light of Christ to the tri state area by participating in track days, bike nights, rides, rallies and racing to be a witness unto them. We are an offshoot from the Christian Motorcycle Association. Their national President lives in PA. We have chapters in Europe, Australia and six chapters in the U.S. Our PA chapter is ten years old. We have about fifteen members that live throughout PA but we have at least forty riders that join us from various states for our road trips each month. We do not wear vests but we have a small CSBA 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

patch. We do support other biking events in the community. Once a year, we have a community service project in Quakertown, PA. LK: How many rides do you plan a year? JL: We have nine rides a year which are scheduled on thfirst Saturday of every month from April to December. We tour through the Northeast corridor of Pennsylvania on the back roads including New Jersey, New York and Delaware. We do the following rides: Leap Around Lancaster, Blue Mountain Run, Pocono Screamer, Dive into Delaware, Shamokin Screamer, Rattlesnake Run, Dauphin County Screamer, Pounding the Poconos and the Berks County Blitz. These rides are for those riders that

want to enjoy a spirited ride. We ride through curves, valleys, twisties, flat roads and roads with elevation changes in the mountains. This is not about cutting up on the roads. You must wear your leather gear, ride in formation and fellowship. LK: You said “spirited ride”. Does that mean they are all fast paced? JL: Not at all. We divide the riders into three to four groups of eight riders by riding experience. We have slow, cruiser, medium and spirited groups. You do not have to worry about getting left behind or not knowing the route. Each group has a CSBA member that leads the group, knows the route, has the GPS locations

and coordinates. You will not get lost. We have a sweeper in the back of the formation. We ask everyone to read and abide by our riding policies. We want you to ride within your comfort zone. LK: What is a typical day like on a tour? JL: Our rides meet at 8:00am at the Starlite Diner in Allentown, PA. We tell everyone to fuel up before you get to the diner. We eat breakfast and then we leave at 9:15am. We do not wait for anyone so be on time! We will leave you. We ride and then stop for lunch about 11:30am.After lunch we fellowship, we gas up and ride some more. Sometimes we have an ice cream stop but we try to have the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 105

THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE group back by 5:00pm. We ride about 180 to events. We attend track days in NJ, PA, NY, WV, VA, NC and FL. We have members on 320 miles in a day. It is a full day of riding! the CSBA race team that follow the CCS racing LK: What is your most popular tour? circuit. We set up a booth and cookout. It is very family oriented. Everyone is welcome to JK: The Pocono Screamer! It is fast paced. The come and bring friends. ride is technical and moves. The elevation changes throughout back roads of PA into NJ I am definitely going to get out and ride with and we end up in New York at Hawk Nest a tight winding section on Route 97 in the CSBA because they are about the ride! I just Delaware River Valley just outside of Port Jervis. need to get my body to wake up early in the morning to be there by 8:00am when I am The ride ends near Mount Pocono near I-380 and RT 940. already an hour away from the meet up spot. I do know of riders come from DE, MD and CT to ride with this club so I have no excuses LK: The Pocono Screamer is the ride I keep but to drink a 5 Hour Energy Drink to start hearing about. I plan to ride that in 2015! my morning. Ladies, they encourage you to Tell me about the CSBA “Day at the Races” come out as well! So everyone check out their program. JL: For those riders that want to ride their bikes website at www.pacsba.com and take a tour! See you all on the Pocono Screamer! to its fullest potential, we have road racing

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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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THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

THE LION’S DEN: A VISIT FROM SBI WORDS AND IMAGES: LION JAMES

’was the month we celebrate Christmas, and within the pages of SportBikes Inc Magazine, were stunts, lifestyle articles, tips from racers and other two wheel things. The cover was amazing and featured riders deserving of their shine, the very best in moto-edutainment page after page and line after line. The staff still elated from celebrating the magazine’s 5th year, excited that 2015 would soon be here. With our Editor In Chief setting the tone, Our readers hear from the writers, designers, photographers and pros. The annual stunt issue is upon us when life on one wheel, becomes our focus to help you improve your skills. From wheelies to stoppies and other daring tricks, the stunt world’s elite as well as those on the come up help you get your fix. The usuals, feature story, new ish, turn one and the backshot too, are just some of the offerings presented in this issue. And what to the readers’ wondering eyes should appear, but the shop spotlight, the grid, the straight Line and reviews of new gear. The rev limiter, friction zone and know your role presented by Lady Kim, The hit list, staff stuff and of course the Lion’s den. Everything you could need or want out of this 108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

bike life, served up monthly for free exclusively online. As the winter weather chills push bikers indoors, we'll impatiently await what spring has in store. But there’s hope for the cold as we look at our motorcycles and sigh, And we are comforted by the wonderful content of SBI.

Our event coverage, wrenching tips or track technique overviews, keep you informed, entertained and educated too. The stunt riders we introduce do amazing things on one wheel, and make the impossible look easy while mastering the unreal. Now Allan Lane! Now Rickey Gadson! Now Dystany Spurlock and Meekail Shaheed!

Now Tyson Beckford! Now Leon Brittain and the rest of the team. On Kiana Gadson! On Billy Morrison and Thomas Campion! We have “Lines of a Legend” and “The Youngest in Charge” straight from the champions. If only Santa’s sleigh had the horsepower of these two wheel machines, adults would be as excited as children for St. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 109

THE LIFE: THE LIONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DEN

Nicholas to put presents under the tree. But more than reindeer, elves and a jolly ole fat man in a red suit coming this year, I look forward to the latest issue of Sportbikes, Inc. Magazine to get here. With the Christmas shopping done and the tree decorated just right, my leathers hung up nice and neat and the bike put away for the night. I wiped down my motorcycle and washed the bugs off my lid, then fondly reminisced on all the fun riding I did. And as I lay down my head and closed my eyes for a holiday nap, my snores sounded more and more like vroom vroom and braaaap braaaaaap. When I awoke the next morning looking forward to a day free from work, 110 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

I was greeted by my computer with a new e-mail alert. To what did I owe this good news from the web, Why the December issue of SBI of course that I have not yet read. To hell with the gifts wrapped brightly under the tree, Sportbikes, Inc. Magazine is the first thing I want to see. As another great year comes to a close and a new one is set to begin, I say thank you to all the readers, contributors, family and friends. So Sportbikes, Inc. nation I wish you happy holidays and may there be a smile on your face, and in closing as always ride oftenâ&#x20AC;Ś And safe.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Joe Rabena LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: Lead Software Test Engineer. YEARS RIDING: 12 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2013 Yamaha R1 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Leo Vince Carbon Fiber Exhaust.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Shoei RF1100 Merciless Helmet equipped with Uclear.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: I would have to say the Shut the

City Down Ride ride held the night before the first Clutch Control event in Philadelphia. Not only was the turn out fantastic, it was an opportunity to ride with some very talented riders from the SBI team and Jason Britton. 112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Dynamite LOCATION: Sewell, N.J. OCCUPATION: Supervisor Department of Homeland Security YEARS RIDING: 1 year. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2004 Honda CBR600RR FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My pipe or my new plastics that my brother Jack WOS put on for me. They’re hot!

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Alpinestars Black Boots! Sexy!

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: It was a ride on the back roads of Mullica Hill. Wide open with beautiful scenery. It was simply Amazing!

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Alma Kruezi LOCATION: Baden Baden, Germany OCCUPATION: Office Clerk. YEARS RIDING: 4 years. RIDING STYLE: I ride just for fun and I like to ride on the curvy streets. BIKE/S OWNED: 2010 Suzuki GSXR750 Yoshimura Limited Edition FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My favorite accessory on my bike is the plaque with the number of bike because it is a limited edition. Number 058 out of 200. It means a lot to me. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Knee sliders. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The ride was with my husband through the Balkans for one week

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Kurt Miller LOCATION: Cupertino, CA OCCUPATION: Financial Analyst YEARS RIDING: 9 years. RIDING STYLE: Street and Track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2015 Ducati 899 Panigale FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Custom Ohlins TTX Shock. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Ducati Corse Superbike Helmet by Arai MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Picking up my 2006 Ducati 749s at the Seattle Airport and immediately riding solo down the entire West Coast to San Diego.

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

GRIP-O-METER

WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: ERIC WOOD//ERIC SWAHN

have always joked that I could retire if I were able to invent a dashboard "grip-o-meter" that would indicate to riders how close they were to the limit of traction. While technology today provides features like traction control and ABS on many motorcycles, I will be surprised if science will ever be able to prevent a front-end tuck in the middle of a turn. That feedback control system is likely to forever be in the hands of the rider, and as a result, is one of the challenges that makes riding a motorcycle so fascinating. One of the most common discussions we have with riders at the Penguin school centers around the ability to feel how much traction is available at any given time. This is particularly important when bikes are on the edge of the tire. When we are in the middle of a corner, our margin for error is at its smallest. The ability of riders to sense the beginning phase of a loss of grip at full lean allows them to correct mistakes when they are still small. Top riders that we all look to emulate go through this cycle of correction several times every lap, and often times itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so subtle that we barely notice. There is nothing more frustrating than falling down and not knowing why! Early in the braking zone or late on a corner exit (when the bike is nearly upright), mistakes are usually obvious and therefore also easy to explain and correct. When a rider does not understand how to feel feedback from the motorcycle, a mistake made while cornering is much more difficult to understand. This lack of clarity

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leads to a decrease in confidence and often causes a rider to stop making progress (or perhaps even step backwards) due to a fear of repeating the same mistake. Our goal in working to feel more feedback is to eliminate this lack of clarity and help riders gain confidence, ride faster and actually reduce risk at the same time. Each motorcycle has a unique character that a rider must become familiar with. Manufacturers SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 119

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: GRIP-O-METER MAKE THE PADS TOUCH design motorcycles considering various combinations of weight distribution and chassis geometry to produce what they believe is the optimum product for their audience (customers, riders). These specific traits all come together to produce a unique motorcycle that requires specific amounts of input to initiate the corner and then carve through a given arc, and these numbers change with every motorcycle. The amount of input needed also increases with speed and the rate of change also varies from bike to bike. This is why riders who ride at the same speed on the track can rarely swap motorcycles and maintain the same pace. It takes time (and the ability to feel feedback) to collect the data needed to ride any motorcycle quickly around the track.

If you go through turn one on a given lap and your bike needs more than 5 lbs to carve through the middle of the corner, you are able to recognize the problem and make corrections. These numbers are made up for the point of this discussion, but there are some basic assumptions made that are critical to understand. The most important concept is that bar pressure changes dramatically with lean angle. Major bar effort is needed only to initiate the change in direction (shown as Maximum Effort) and once the bike is leaned a much smaller force is required (shown as Thumb and Forefinger Effort). This bar pressure at full lean was given as 5 lbs in our example above. It does not matter if the real number is 1.3 lbs or 13 lbs, what is important is that the bike only needs this small effort to maintain its arc. With this in mind, how does a rider know if they are near the limit of traction in the middle of a corner? The simple answer is freedom of motion in the handlebars. If the rider pushes on the inside bar and the motorcycle carves a tighter arc, then there is extra grip available. If the bike resists extra input, then there is no additional grip available. With this understanding, the ability for a rider to become a human "grip-o-meter" seems simple. However, there is a very important skill that must be acquired first, and that skill is one this is not fully developed in most riders (even many expert racers). This skill is simply the ability to have completely relaxed arms and hands at full lean. As simple as it sounds, this is the #1 barrier to riders acquiring the ability to feel feedback from the front tire.

The interesting thing here is that the differences in inputs are often small when looking at the numbers. For example, it might take 50lbs of effort to initiate a certain corner and then take 5 lbs of bar pressure at full lean on your bike, and The oval diagram shows the three major forces your friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bike (which "feels" very different) on the contact patch of the front tire. Again, may take 55 lbs and 6 lbs in the same areas. as the sum of these three forces approaches the 120 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

amount of cornering force. The larger problem comes with rider feedback. If a 200lb rider supports even 50% of his upper body weight with the inside hand (we often see much more than that), then there is a 50 lb force on that bar. How can that rider possibly feel the difference between a bike that needs 5lbs and 7 lbs of turning force? The answer is that he cannot. If the combination of his 50 lbs of turning force and his cornering force exceed available grip, he will fall down and never know why.

limit of traction, the bars begin to get "heavy" and the bike will no longer tighten up with additional turning force. Our key as riders is to reduce the Turning Force (shown as black arrows) to the absolute minimum at full lean. For our example above, this force is equal to about 5lbs. This will then allow the maximum amount of grip possible for turning and braking – the forces we want to generate if we want to go fast.

Riders get into these habits because on the street, cornering force is so low that it’s very unlikely that the additional bar input will put the front tire anywhere near the limit of traction. However, riders who translate their light touch from the racetrack to the street will have extra grip available for emergency situations. The next time you ride (street or track) pay close attention to your inside arm and hand. If they are anything but loose and relaxed, it’s like taking your “grip-o-meter” and removing the battery. At full lean, ANY unintended weight on the bar is too much.

The solution is simple, and it only takes discipline and a few hundred miles to make it habit. Any time you feel tension in your inside So why do so many riders have trouble with this arm simply grip the tank firmly with your outside leg and allow your inside elbow and shoulder concept? The #1 reason is (added in) related to “relax into the turn”. Your weight should be to body weight support on the inside hand. shifted to the side of the bike (head over the When a bike leans over, our weight is shifted to the inside. In order to stay on the motorcycle, inside fork tube is a great place to start), and we need to hold on to something. At full lean, eyes scanning ahead. If the “grip-o-meter” ever our need for support is at its greatest and riders becomes a reality, you’ll watch the available have the greatest tendency to transfer weight to traction number climb and your confidence will the inside arm (adding unintended bar pressure soar. and additional turning force). Unfortunately, the timing of this inside bar pressure coincides with Until next time, ride fast. Ride safe! the exact time the tire deals with the greatest SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 121

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ANDREW A

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WHEELER O

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FRICTION ZONE: ANDREW WHEELER

hile attending MotoGP at Circuit of the America's last year I had the privilege of chatting with Mr. Andrew Wheeler, arguably one of the top motorcycle racing photographers to date. Having a personal vested interest in photography and motorcycles myself, I was extremely eager and excited to speak with Andrew. There's plenty of good photographers out there, people that can capture the motorcycle in action and get "the required shot". However, Andrew's photography has something more to it, his shots take on a personality, a soul and are something you can read into. Andrew told me that you shouldn't have to explain your shot, and it certainly shows. His shots posses a sense of emotion, action and humanity. He's very observant and quick whited, not to mention laid back and quite comical, all of which made me just want to engross myself in his stories. I think saying Andrew's photos have a personality as colorful as the man himself is pretty accurate. Because Andrew takes such passionate photos of riders and their machines, I had to know if there was a passion he himself felt for the metal beasts. And to my surprise it turns out that the man himself was actually almost born on a motorcycle! Andrew's parents both rode and met on motorcycles. Later on when his mother went into labor she was driven to the hospital on the back of a BSA Bantam. It would seem that fate had bestowed the love of motorcycling upon this human. Since motorcycles were always around in his family, Andrew started riding around the age of 11. Living in the UK, Andrew commuted daily on his motorcycle and even taught classes on how to ride. Since then he's owned 7 motorcycles and has had numerous accident, all not so pleasant and one which he was hospitalized for. “I spent from June 22, 1977 through to March

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3, 1978 in hospital. The first three months of that were in ICU, where I went from being nearly dead, to nearly losing both legs, then losing only one leg until they plated everything. I was in pelvic traction for at least 4 months as well.” I think Andrew’s understanding of riding after so many years and experiencing the dangers of a motorcycle has given him an unspoken appreciation and respect for this two wheeled machine. I believe that it's this deep understanding that lets Andrew capture so many rare and beautiful moments. Andrew has been shooting MotoGP since 2010, so I asked him how he keeps it interesting--it must be hard to come back to the same track and try to get "new" and creative shots. He tells me: “I try not to go to the same corners, or if I do, I try to do something other than what I have done before. Ultimately I will not bother at all, and force myself to dig

deep and find another location to shoot from.” With that said, there are requirements. Andrew points out that there are shots he needs to obtain and do so first, in case any unforeseen

accident happens. He has a plan and a strict regime he sticks to. “One rule I always adhere to is my 10 minute rule. Which is, when everything starts, I start

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FRICTION ZONE: ANDRWEW WHEELER

“P

eople ask me how do I feel if I miss a shot, and I usually say that it’s hard to miss a shot if you weren’t there. Better to have a new viewpoint than completely bore yourself mindless in one place.” Andrew Wheeler

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FRICTION ZONE: ANDREW WHEELER a stopwatch, and when 10 minutes are up, I walk or go to a new spot regardless of what I have. It’s essential to keep the discipline as it works. People ask me how do I feel if I miss a shot, and I usually say that it’s hard to miss a shot if you weren’t there. Better to have a new viewpoint than completely bore yourself mindless in one place.” The key thing Andrew told me was to always remember to be happy with what you do. Sure there are expectations, but you shouldn't let them completely control what and how you shoot. At the end of each session Andrew takes the time to shoot what his heart desires. While Andrew may not have a set shot in mind, there are some details that he always pays attention to. Weather is a big factor. Also, every track has it's own challenges and personality, but Andrew doesn't seem to focus on the negative. Instead he is able to take a track's uniqueness and expose it's beauty. For example some of my favorite shots are from Qatar's nighttime races. Shooting at night already poses it's own challenges, however Andrew seems to use them to his advantage. He uses a low shutter speed, the lack of landscape and the gleam of floodlights in the distance to his advantage. In turn it creates a very unique racing shot as races usually take place in the daytime. Another aspect Andrew focuses on is how the rider interacts with his machine. He says that 130 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

unlike photographing cars, motorcycle racing has a very humanistic quality because you do in fact see the bond between rider and machine. I think that Andrew's past history of photographing horses may have had some influence. Perhaps shooting a graceful horse and a motorcycle is very similar in the aspect that there is a visible living breathing being involved. And lastly Andrew always keeps a watchful

and observant eye on what’s happening. He shoots everything from the motorcycles, to the environment, to the animals and people that create the amazing atmosphere at the MotoGP tracks and garages. Nothing is off limits and you never know when an opportunity for a brilliant shot may arise. When you look at his vast collection of photos you most certainly get a sense of involvement and a story. His shots are like a painting where anyone can get lost and daydream. I believe that this is what makes a great capture, when the viewer can

put themselves within the image and feel the excitement… That is true engagement through a photographer's eye. I asked Andrew what he personally looks for in a shot that makes him feel satisfied: “If it has told a story For me, I like to feel I can allow the viewer to step into the image and see things. I try to leave a weekend with at least one shot that says to me, that was the weekend at... insert race track name here.”

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FRICTION ZONE ZONE:: ERIK BUELL SBI AT FIVE YEARS

DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS WORDS: BILLY MORRISON IMAGES: BILLY MORRISON

A QUICK REALITY CHECK I

approached turn nine at Willow Springs raceway for the thirtieth time... Slightly leaning to the right because of the long, fast sweeper that exits turn eight. My eyes scanning the tarmac as it rushes past me, looking for the scrape mark that tells me to haul the bike on its side and aim for an apex I can’t see. This time I’ll nail it. This time I will hit the straight already doing 80mph and crank it past the pits with everyone nodding sagely and discussing how quick I am. And yet again, for the thirtieth time... I fuck it up! Yet again, I miss the mark, miss the apex and end up heading for a pit wall, going way too fast and have to haul on the brakes to scrub off enough speed to make the turn. Not smooth, not fast and not pretty at all. I’m circulating around the Southern California circuit at a track day and all preconceptions and fantasies of channeling my inner Marquez are rudely and abruptly dismissed as I discover just how much I have to learn about the art of going fast. Track days are wonderful. They are fun, social and above all educational. And for me, having done a few, they actually slow me down on the street. Hitting 160mph on two wheels along a straight at a circuit 134 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

or getting my knee down has made me ride with way less to prove on the public highways. Obviously getting older and surviving 25 years of motorcycle riding in cities like London and Los Angeles also contribute to the general feeling of survival, but nothing has slowed me down in my day to day riding like being able to absolutely nail it on a track. I’ve learned that I am simply not a MotoGP rider and all fantasies and ego are dealt with very quickly when you first hit a fast corner on completely the wrong line. Watching the truly fast guys come past you like you’re standing still when you are tucked in behind the screen howling around a track is humbling and informative. And I guess being able to ride hard makes me appreciate just how dangerous and stupid doing any of that stuff on the street actually is. When Repsol Honda boy pulls up next to me at a red light these days, revving the nuts off his CBR600 race replica, I smile knowingly, secure in the knowledge that he’s gonna get “off the line” first, because I have no interest in hitting an oil patch on Sunset Boulevard under full acceleration, trying to “win”. The canyons in Malibu are littered with floral tributes

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FRICTION ZONE: ZONE: DIRTY SBI ATLITTLE FIVE SECRETS and home made crosses that mark the spots where the latest wannabe Schwantz or Sheene have gone in way too hot or tried getting their knee on the ground and lost it and never made it home to tell the tale. If you have the urge to prove, to yourself as well as your friends, that you are a “fast” rider, get a bunch of your riding mates together and go do a track day. You’d be surprised at how much you’ll learn... Including how slow you really are.

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Having said that, when I was flicking through some photos to include with this, I came across this one (right) of someone pulling a wheelie on a public highway. No one is perfect! And by the way Officer, I have no idea who that is on that Speed Triple! At Willow Springs, I was lucky enough to have one of those fast guys offer to spend a few laps running in front of me so I could actually see where I was going

wrong and learn a few spots where I could gain a few tenths, or get my apex right. I watched carefully, leaned in when I didn’t want to, held the throttle open slightly later than I had previously dared. In this case, it’s turn one at Willow where your whole lap depends on getting it right. I learned to think ahead about three turns. The day flew by, I turned in about 150 laps, and felt like I had gone 10 rounds with Mike Tyson by the end of it. But I got faster, understood more about how a bike behaves at triple digit speeds, learned that braking is an art unto itself. I learned to watch for my markers as they are there for a reason and to generally became a better rider. I’ve done a few of these days over the years and will always take

the opportunity to get track time if I can. I think more riders should actually. The value of a track day cannot be underestimated. But it has to be said, doing it on someone else’s bike is the way forward! Or having a dedicated track bike without the obscenely expensive fairings and side panels of our street bikes. Throwing your dream ride down the track at 120mph is something I don’t advocate. The luxury of having a loaner or a track bike and not your $20,000 pride and joy will also make you braver, faster and ultimately put a huge grin on your face! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 137

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.

Luke McCracken! What’s on your hit list? “Ruff Ryders Anthem” by DMX. I Love the gritty song and the album, but that video put the Sportbike counter culture on the mainstream. I don’t listen to music while riding but when I’m on my snowboard this is one of my go to songs to get me pumped when bombing a hill. “Talk is cheap!” “Hotel California” by the Eagles. This is my “bring to an island” song. Never gets old, paints a picture and can be interpreted in many ways. A great chill song. A classic that will never die. “Winona’s Big Brown Beaver” by Primus. I can’t get enough of this song. Goofy, and fast paced enough to get me in a great mood. Wakes me up better in the AM than a double espresso. Try it on, you might like it. Les Claypool is a god on the bass. “April 26, 1992” by Sublime. Legit, emotional portrait of what most of the country was only seeing on cable. Only one of many great songs on one of the best albums ever made. Even if you didn’t live In LA in 1992 this song brings you back to that divided feeling going on in the USA. Good or bad, it was history.

Luke McCracken Owner, President of CoreMoto

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THE NEW ISH REV’IT! • VAPOR JACKET The Vapor Jacket may have designed to be specific for the sport touring crowd but it has all of the styling to make it an attractive piece of kit for the sportbike riders, as well. The Vapor has a Hydratex Z Liner that makes it completely waterproof. At the same time, it is equipped with a VCS Aquadefence system for awesome ventilation when the weather is a bit warmer. It comes with CE rated armor and adjustment straps to make a snug and secure fit. Sizes: S -XYL Colors: Silver/Red, Black/White, Black/Red Price: $419.99 Contact: http://revit.eu

ALPINESTARS • SAN DIEGO SHOES The San Diego Shoes are an easy option for footwear that offer a reasonable amount of protection for the casual street rider. Ankle guards, a reinforced toe box and heel section are housed in a stylish lightweight shoe. The upper is made from canvas with suede microfiber inserts while the sole has a durable high strength construction.

NEW RAGE CYCLES • MIRROR BLOCK TURN SIGNALS FOR THE DUCATI 749/999 Finally there is a suitable mirror block off turn signal set up for the Ducati 749/999. The NRC set up mounts flush to where the stock mirrors were installed. Brightly visible in the day or night thanks to the 1mm LEDs, the signals are housed in CNC machined aluminum and polycarbonate fixtures to greatly improve the look and lines of the bike’s front end. Price: $104.95 Contact: http://newragecycles.com 140 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Sizes: 6 - 14 (US) Colors: Black, Black/Grey Price: $149.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com

DRIVEN RACING • GP ULTRA FOOT PEG The GP Ultra Foot Peg is a replacement peg for any of Driven’s D Axis or TT rear sets. Machined from 6061 billet aluminum, the peg is knurled for super grip, strong and durable yet super light. Sold individually. Price: $39.95 Contact: http://drivenracing.com

JOE ROCKET • LADIES TRIXIE WATERPROOF BOOT

The Trixie Boot from Joe Rocket offers great comfort while maintaining safety features needed for today streets. With an ankle hight cut, they are composed of a full split grain leather. They are waterproof and feature a DryTech breathable membrane. Other features include a side zipper for easy on and off access, double stitching in critical areas and a no slip sole.

TWO BROTHERS RACING •

Sizes: 5 - 10 (USA Women’s) Price: $99.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com

TARMAC FULL EXHAUST SYSTEM FOR THE HONDA CBR 300R

The Tarmac Full Exhaust system for the 2015 CBR300R gives a 1.55 gain in horse power and a .33 gain in torque. The boost in performance comes with an added bonus of saving 10 pounds when compared to the stock exhaust system. The system features a carbon fiber trapezoidal shaped muffler, a black billet CNC outlet and a spiral wound perforated core. The Tarmac system ships with all necessary hardware for a hassle free install. Price: $679.98 Contact: http://twobros.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 141

THE NEW ISH COMPETITION WERKES • GP SLIP ON EXHAUST FOR THE TRIUMPH STREET TRIPLE

Chop nine pounds off of your ride by replacing your stock muffler with this GP Slip on from Competition Werkes. Made from 304 stainless steel, it features a tapered baffle for optimum performance and tuning. Price: $419.95 Contact: http://competitionwerkes.com

IMPAKTECH • STUNT CRASH CAGE

HT MOTO • BUILT UP REAR FREESTYLE SEAT Now you can the same rear stunt seat with a cut out for foot placement that the top pro freestyle stunt riders use. HT Moto offers a service that will customize your pillion seat so that it can be built up and used a step. You send HT Moto your rear seat from your bike and they will modify it with their Hydro Turf foam and with your selection of cover materials. The whole process takes about a week once they receive your seat. Price: $150.00 Contact: http://htmoto.us

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Stunt bikes take a beating yet are expected to keep on ticking. They get dropped time after time as a rider learns new tricks and maneuvers. Install a Stunt Crash Cage from Impaktech to protect your ride and minimize down time. The cage mounts right onto the bike’s frame, offering protection for the motor and fairings. Available for most late model Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Yamaha in a selection of powdercoated finishes. Price: Varies Contact: http://www.impaktech.com

AEM FACTORY • TITANIUM REMOTE RESERVOIRS These remote reservoirs are more than upgrades for your brake and clutch fluid tanks. Made of titanium bodies and billet aluminum ends and clamps, they add a unique and distinguished look to your handlebar control set up. They featured a 90 degree outflow port and can mounted with the AEM billet mount brackets. Sold individually. Price: $134.95 Contact: http://bellissimoto.com

ICON 1000 • FAIRLADY GLOVE

The Fairlady is a full gauntlet styled glove made from French cowhide and designed specifically for the shape of a woman’s hand. They feature molded knuckles, hook and loop wrist strap to compliment the tactical topside metal zipper as well as perforation in the fingers and on the backhand. A well engineered glove that looks and performs every bit of the bad ass that it presents itself to be. Sizes: S - XXL Price: $140.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

MOTO D RACING • PRO SERIES POLAR FLEECE TIRE WRAPS

The Pro Series Polar Fleece Tire Wraps are a must have. They are an inexpensive way to keep your tires considerably warm as they encase the entire wheel and tire. They also do a great a job at keeping out dust and debris from the wheels while storing your bike. Sold in a pair and fits tires sizes 120 (front) and 180 to 200 (rear). Price: $49.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 143

THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ICON â&#x20AC;˘ AIRMADA ELEMENTAL HELMET Visually, this may be one of the most stunning helmets to hit the market in some time. Capturing the essence of two of the four elements, the helmet portrays water on one side while the other features fire. The message could be to strive to keep cool head when under fire. Paired with industry leading safety specifications, the Airmada Elemental helmet raises the bar of the graphics game in head safety gear. The helmet features the Twin Channel Supervent system that maximizes airflow. It ships with a fog free shield that can be easily swapped out thanks to ICONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rapid release shield change system. The Elemental helmet is equipped a fully removable and washable HydraDry interior. Sizes: XS - XXXL Price: $255.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

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Cool all the way through. GT-R Air textile jacket

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

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STAFF STUFF OXFORD PRODUCTS • HEATERZ PREMIUM TOURING HEATED GRIPS Joann Donne

It’s amazing how powerful you feel when you have the power to turn up the heat on your handgrips. One thing I hate is heavy, bulky riding gloves. I can’t feel anything and my hands feel too restricted to ride comfortably. So that’s where my Oxford Premium Touring Heated Grips come in. I’m wearing lightweight gloves that are really only meant for Fall temperatures, think 50 to 60 degrees. They’re easy to install and feature automatic shutoff in case you’ve left it on after you’ve parked! I have to give these 6 gears because my hands are so much happier these days. http://oxford-products.com Rating: 6 (out of 6)

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Ashley Victoria Location: Massachusetts