SportBikes Inc Magazine February 2014

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . MOTO TECH

FEBRUARY 2014 VOL 4 ISSUE 5

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S T I L L

R O L L I N ’

M O D E L L A R T ’ S

AMATISTA

LOCA

THE CUSTOMS ISSUE

THE SHOW OUT | THE FASTEST MAN IN INDIA | HOW TO GET SPONSORED | A BIKER’S BALLAD | HOW TO SAVE THE FRONT END, PART 2 | THE GREAT AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE SHOW

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THE FEATURES STILL ROLLIN’ MODELLART’S AMATISTA LOCA

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LINES OF A LEGEND: FASEST MAN IN INDIA

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A BIKER’S BALLAD

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THE SHOW OUT!

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HOW TO GET SPONSORED

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THE GREAT AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE SHOW

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THE USUALS

FEBRUARY 2014 - VOLUME 4, ISSUE 5

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14 14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18 18 THE INBOX http://issuu.com/action/page?page=20 20 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - LONGWOOD CUSTOMS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=82 82 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=88 88 THE INSIDE TRACK - By Corey Alexander http://issuu.com/action/page?page=94 94 THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE - By Dystany Spurlock 98http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98 CAPO’S CUT - By Ashon CAPO Dickerson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102 102 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=112 112 VIOLET STARS & HAPPY STUNTING - By Leah Petersen http://issuu.com/action/page?page=122 122 FEATURED CLUB - THE PACK MC http://issuu.com/action/page?page=124 124 KNOW YOUR ROLE - By Kim “Lady Kim” Roper 130http://issuu.com/action/page?page=130 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James 134http://issuu.com/action/page?page=134 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=140 140 ASK THE PRO WRENCH - By Thomas Campion http://issuu.com/action/page?page=142 142 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=164 164 SPORTBIKES INK!!! http://issuu.com/action/page?page=166 166 THIS LIFE - By Tyson Beckford http://issuu.com/action/page?page=168 168 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=174 174 STAFF STUFF

INTERACTIVE CLICK ON NUMBERS TO JUMP TO A PAGE

FEATURED RIDER: SHEENA WASHINGTON http://issuu.com/action/page?page=134 PAGE 134 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5

FEATURE STORY

STILL

ROLLIN’

AMATISTA

LOCA

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MODELLART’S

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BUY WITH THE RIDE WITH THE

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New Hypermotard SP

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Professional rider on a closed racetrack

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EDITOR’S LETTER W

hen engaging attempts of visual greatness, it is very easy to overlook the finer details that separate the valid from the invalid. Let us be very honest, if only for a moment... As consumers, observers and viewers, we have become comfortable. Too comfortable. Comfortable to a point of detriment. What we have come to accept as visual greatness is often not the case.

There was a period of time, not too long ago when it appeared like everyone and their mom was a custom bike builder. It was like if you had a box of wrenches and you installed an aftermarket pipe on your buddy’s bike... You would call yourself a builder. Trends rise. Trends fall. I’m referring to the trend of those that gave themselves titles with no education or real experience to back up their own self subscribed theories. There were a lot of poorly assembled bikes on the road during that time. Dark days in deed. When the smoke cleared, only the real custom bike artist and their real custom creations were standing. Sometimes, the purge is necessary.

I consider a true custom motorcycle a work of art. A sculpture on two wheels, if you will. This occurs when the bike takes on its own identity and is removed from the intended look and style that it housed in the factory or on the showroom floor. A custom is a more than dropped and stretched. It’s more than flashing lights and shiny bits. A true custom has its own soul.

A true custom will not only move you from point A to point B, it will take you on journey where there is no asphalt.

This issue is a salute to the real custom bike artists, the Garwoods, the Fishers, the Ueckers, the Tempestas, the Rookes and the Sands, the Walters, the Navarros... These are a few of the true artisans whose creations and ethics have set the bar high. That bar separates the builders from the true artists in the same regard... the boys from the men.

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

EDITORIAL Lifestyle Director: Tyson Beckford tyson@sportbikesincmag.com Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com Road Racing Editor: Corey Alexander corey@sportbikesincmag.com Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Rev Limiter Editor: Leah Petersen leah@sportbikesincmag.com Sr. Drag Racing Technical Advisor: Ashon Capo Dickerson capo@sportbikesincmag.com International Correspondent Billy Morrison billy@sportbikesincmag.com

Social Media Editor Lucky Yogi luckyyogi@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Lisa Macknik lisa@sportbikesincmag.com Dystany Spurlock dystany@sportbikesincmag.com Michael Lawless lawless@sportbikesincmag.com Kim “Lady Kim” Roper ladykim@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com

ART & DESIGN

Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com Contributing Photographers:

Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com Steven Spoons Ryo Kaneta Greg Caparell Mike Levin Rob Fisher Leon Brittain Aditya Bedre Anthony Pesch Marcell C. Valentine

Cover: Photographer: Ryo Kaneta

SportBikes Inc Magazine - February 2014 Volume 4, Issue 5 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2014 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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THE PRESS ROOM RYAN SUCHANEK SET A NEW GUINNESS WORLD RECORD: FASTEST WHEELIE ON ICE Ryan Suchanek set a new Guinness World Record in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. Suchanek, whose lower leg was amputated in 2007, broke his own record of an 108.5 mies per hour wheelie on ice that was set in 2013.

Suchanek went out onto the frozen Lake Koskonong aboard his Kawasaki ZX10R and set a new world record for the fastest wheelie on ice with a speed of 109.5 miles per hour.

MV AGUSTA’S BRUTALE DRAGSTER 800

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MV just released their new Brutale Dragster 800, a bike that is visually aggressive and has the proper package to back it up. The illusion of a longer wheelbase is achieved by shortening the tail section and the widening of the rear tire to a 200.

The Dragster features adjustable handlebars and sliding mirrors.

Its inline 3 cylinder engine boasts 798cc’s, 125 horses and a 13,000 redline.

MSRP is $14,798.

MYRTLE BEACH’S BIKE WEEK EXPO 2014 Myrtle Beach Bike Week will never be the same! After the much celebrated 2013 Bike Week Expo, Jonathan Martin, event owner announced the dates for the 2014 weekend event. Bike Week Expo is set to kick off May 22 and run through to May 25. The event will return to the Myrtle Beach Mall and of course SBI will be on hand to capture all of the action.

Visit http://bikeweekexpo.com for more info.

To see SBI’s coverage of Bike Week Expo 2013, click here...

RICKEY GADSON BECOMES THE FASTEST MAN IN INDIA SBI’s own Drag Racing Editor, Rickey Gadson has once again shown the international motorcycle community why he is the very best at what he does.

It was in India at the 2014 Valley Run Event that Gadson took a 2014 Kawasaki ZX14R, equipped with only a Brock’s Megaphone Exhaust and engine mapping and made a history making and record setting pass of

9.843 at the Aamby Valley Airstrip. In addition, Gadson also set the record for the fastest reaction time in India at .06 seconds.

Despite traction issues, Gadson was able to rely on his abilities and experience and give those in attendance an opportunity to witness history on Indian soil. Check out the video and then hit up the SBI Forum to discuss and leave comments.

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THE PRESS ROOM ICON’S SANCTUARY JACKET FEATURED IN THEIR NEW SHORT FILM With the release of their spring apparel line, ICON has dropped a new short film to spotlight the new Sanctuary Jacket. “Own the Urban Circuit” stars Jason Britton and follows his off season training to prepare him for his impending assault on the streets.

The Sanctuary Jacket is engineered to be the highest performing hybrid jacket with its strategic blend of Brazilian leather and textile paneling. It offers the highest level of protection while keeps you cool when it gets hot under the collar. Check out the video below to the Sanctuary and Jason in action. Enjoy...

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ERIK BUELL RACING ANNOUCES 60 US DEALERS FOR THE 1190RX For those looking to get an up close and personal look at and to purchase the the EBR 1190RX in the US, it just got a little easier.

Eric Buell Racing has announced their first 60 dealers in North America. To find the dealer closest to you, please check out the list by clicking here...

KAWASAKI’S BIKE NIGHT IN THE DAY LIGHT Kawasaki is once again putting on the Bike Nite in the Daylight for Daytona Bike Week 2014! Stop by the Kawasaki display at the Daytona International Speedway and enter your Kawasaki in the competition for a chance to win one of the following: a 16 gigabyte iPad mini, a $500.00 debit card or a feature in SportBikes Inc Magazine of you and your bike.

There are four classes to enter: SportBikes, Vintage, Cruiser and Unique. This competition is open to Kawasaki machines but anyone can vote so make sure that you stop by and cast your vote on your favorite.

This year, Kawasaki has enlisted SBI’s very own Allan Lane aka “Stunt Mouth” to host the event so you know it’s going to be a good time!

Here are the details: Kawasaki’s Bike Nite in the Daylight Kawasaki Display at Daytona International Speedway Friday, March 14, 2014 12:00pm – 3:00pm For more information and the official rules, please visit: http://kawasaki.com.

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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! Dear SBI, Just wanted to say keep up the good work! Your response to the January letter of the month was great. As a female rider it is important to me to be treated like an intelligent human being. Also, young women need more role models in alternative sports. Putting your money where your mouth is by being about sportbikes and not sex is very respectable. Although it is funny that the sponsors ad on the adjacent page contradicts the issue, I won’t hold it against you, especially if I could win new Kreiga bags!

Seana, Thank you. As you know we treat all riders as riders first... regardless of their sex. We are a motorcycle magazine that focuses on motorcycles. What a novel idea, right? Regarding the ads in SBI, we make a strong notion to our advertisers about our vision.

At the end of the day, our rule of thumb is that we will not publish any T and A in our editorials. Either way, we strive to keep it classy.

Thank you for your support!

In tires we trust.

- Seana Seattle, WA

LETTER OF THE MONTH Dear SBI, You guys seem to be all over the place. It’s like you can’t decide what type of magazine you want to be. You need to pick one style of coverage and run with that. Every month, your magazine throws in something from racing, stunting, street, etc... and tries to but them under one roof.

Do you see any other magazine doing that? Nope and with good reason.

I like the magazine and all but you need to stop trying to cater to all genres. Keep it simple. Just my two sense.

- Jack New York Jack, Thanks for taking the time to read SBI and for writing your letter. But if you read what you wrote us, I believe you’ve already answered your 18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

question of why we incorporate all aspects of the rider lifestyle into every issue. No other magazine is doing what SBI is doing and that makes us stand out from the crowd. We take great pride in understanding that almost all of our readers and supporters are involved in multiple levels of the bike cultures and sub cultures. SBI has a great network of industry friends and associates that have allowed us to become a meeting spot, if you will, for all things sport bike and then some. SportBikes Inc is just what the name implies... the incorporation of all things sport bike. We love the fact that in one issue, you can read about MotoGP stars, drag racing champs, custom bikes, what’s popping on the motorcycle club scene, what’s going on in the freestyle stunt world and so much more. It is our mission to seamlessly incorporate the love for all things two wheels into one title and prove that it truly is one love for al things two wheels.

Just our two sense.

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SHOP SPOTLIGHT: LONGWOOD CUSTOMS

Words: Allan Lane Images: Steven Spoons/Justin Reid

CONTACT:

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Shop name: Longwood Customs Location: South Plainfield, NJ Hours: By appointment, only.

Year established: 2011 Brands serviced: Vintage Honda and Triumph

K

eeping “old school” alive is not just a shop motto or creed, it’s a way of life for Justin Reid, owner and operator of Longwood Customs. Based out of South Plainfield NJ, Reid launched Longwood in 2011 and specializes in custom vintage bikes.

Reid keeps things simple and clean in his work ethic and custom builds. His mission is to transform every machine that enters his garage into a one of kind creation so that when it rolls out the door, it is a true one off custom motorcycle.

has acquired over the years makes it clear that this Longwood style is getting noticed. Landing in the top bracket in several national custom bike shows gives Reid a great sense of pride in the work that he is doing.

Offering powder coating and carbon fiber work and applying their specialities gives all of Reid’s builds that Longwood style. The accolades Reid

Check out Longwood Custom’s Rising Star on page 64.

“The bottom line is I love what I do and I take pride in my work. It’s what comes out the shop doors that speaks for itself.” - Justin Reid, Owner of Longwood Customs.

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

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S T I L L

R O L L I N ’

M O D E L L A R T ’ S

AMATISTA

LOCA

WORDS: ALLANLANE I M A G E S : R Y O K A N E TA SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25

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rue art will always survive any trend or exploitative period of time in which popular culture decrees it the “in thing”. True artists will always persevere, while maintaining their sense of self worth and core values: no sell out and no bitchassness. The motorcycles produced by these artists transform the vehicles into functioning scultptures. The bikes function as art and as modes of transportation. The history and legacy of the art of customization must be acknowledged and preserved.

his masterpiece, Amatista Loca. Translated, it means “Crazy Amethyst” which is in reference to the bike’s mesmerizing amethyst color scheme that mimics the visual properties of the stone of the same name. The “crazy” can be attributed to the beyond wild appearance and presentation of this 2005 Kawasaki ZX10R.

The Amatista Loca finds its inspiration in the West Coast Low Rider car scene. Kimihiko proudly admits his fascination and influence with the US custom car and bike scene and Enter the Japanese bike artist Kimihiko Tsuzuki gives much praise to his good friend and of Still Rollin’ Model Art. More specifically, enter fellow bike artist, Carlos Navarro. From the

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design and application of the pin striping to the custom leather stamped seat, the bike does more than tip its hat at an American culture.

You have to step back and observe the bike in the round. You have to orbit the bike, revolve around it and take your time. The details reach out to you and pull you in. The offsetting purple in the brake calibers, cylinders and grips play well against the completely chromed out chassis that visually keeps the eyes moving from the front to the back and over the tank, cowl and fairings. There is not a piece of this bike’s body that has not been touched and that includes the return spring on the side stand.

Kimihiko made it clear that by no means is Amatista Loca meant to be a trailered and parked show bike. Amatista can frequently be seen rolling around the streets of Tokyo, catching eyes and turning heads. The Myrtle

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STILL ROLLIN’ MODELLART “AMATISTA LOCA” 2005 KAWASAKI ZX10R ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: K&N Air Filter, NGK Iridium Spark Plugs, Power Commander III. BRAKES: RC Components Rotors, Chromed Calipers.

EXHAUST: Custom Full System with Laser GP style canisters.

WHEELS: 18x3.5, 20 x10.0 RC Components Czar TIRES: Avon Storm 120/70/17 front, Avon Cobra 280/40/VR20 rear.

SUSPENSION: AirFX Air Ride with Instant Up Kit. SWINGARM: Myrtle West 300 with 10 inches over.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Fully Chromed Chassis and Candy Contrast (Hand sanded and polished in House), Custom Leather Seats by Maurico Aguilar at Azteca Customs.

BUILT BY: Kimihiko Tsuzuki at StillRollin’ Modellart PAINT BY: Steve Deman at Kolor Kings OWNER: Norifumi Narita

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West 300 rear tire kit that sustains the contrasting RC Components Czar wheels give a sense of grounding but reflect light in such a manner that the bike appears to maintain motion while standing still. The brilliant paint job lends toward the “in motion� theory as the lines of the ZX10R are precisely complemented in a flowing transition and offers an odd side effect. If you look at one portion of the bike, it gives the impression that the entire bike is moving. However, if your eyes begin to move over the bike, investigating all of the details and moments, they will keep moving as they look for and find more to observe. That is what makes Amatista Loca a success. It possesses an abundance of stimulation with a stark absence of monotony.

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THE SHOW OUT A VIRTUAL BIKE SHOW FEATURING A COLLECTION OF HAND PICKED CUSTOM RIDES, VARYING IN STYLES AND GENRES. KEEP BUILDING. WE SEE YOU...

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THE SHOW: GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES

NEPTUNE

IMAGES: COURTESY OF GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES

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“T

his bike has a 19 inch front wheel. When the bike is parked it gives the appearance of launching. The custom paint turned out beautifully as we have come to expect from Team Neyon. Neyon has been our paint shop for over 8 years and they always amaze us. The dual color light kits allows you to choose either blue or white color or you can have the kit alternate between the two for really cool effects.� - Steve Garwood SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 41

THE SHOW: GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES

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GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES “NEPTUNE” 2007 SUZUKI GSXR 1000 ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: Power Commander V. EXHAUST: Voodoo Exhaust WHEELS: RC Component Temper Wheels (19x 3.25 front and 18x10.5 Rear).

TIRES: Avon.

SUSPENSION: AirFX Air Ride System.

SWINGARM: C and S Custom 300 Wide Tire Kit. CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Chrome Forks, Front Rotor, Brake Calipers and Foot Peg Assemblies, Dual Nitrous Bottle Kit, Chrome “See Thru” Engine Covers, Chrome Blade Levers, Chrome Fairing Screens, Chrome Fork Caps, Chrome Half Grips, Chrome Spike Bar Ends, Dual Blue and White Light Kit with Dual Headlight Halos, Custom Seat By Shawn. Custom Powder Coating by Custom Cures Powder Coating.

BUILT BY: Garwood Custom Cycles.

PAINT BY: Team Neyon.

OWNER: Garwood Custom Cycles.

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THE SHOW: ROARING TOYZ

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WHITE OUT IMAGES: ROBERT FISHER

“W

hite Out is a prime example of when a master builder takes it back to basics. Showing that when you remove all the smoke and mirrors and there is nothing to hide behind, a solid build is just that... a solid build.Clean, simple and sexy, Fisher once again flexes on game with true contrast... black versus white.

You can’t get more contrast than that! With a dope hidden four speaker, bluetooth sound system, White Out is white hot!

Somewhere in a galaxy far, far away... a Stormtrooper is drooling.” - Allan Lane

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THE SHOW: ROARING TOYZ

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ROARING TOYZ “WHITE OUT” 2010 KAWASAKI NINJA ZX10R ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: Power Commander.

BRAKES: Performance Machine Four Piston Rear Brake Caliper, Roaring Toyz Stainless Steel Brake Lines.

EXHAUST: Yoshimura Carbon Fiber.

WHEELS: Performance Machine Shock Chrome Wheels 17x3.5” Front Wheel 18x8.5 Rear Wheel.

Chrome Plated with White Powder Coat Inserts TIRES: Pirelli Diablo.

SWINGARM: Roaring Toyz Billet Four Inch Over Single Sided Arm, Black Anodized To Match Frame.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Custom Four Speaker Stereo System Running Off Bluetooth.

BUILT BY: Roaring Toyz.

PAINT BY: Roaring Toyz.

OWNER: Brody Gentz.

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THE SHOW: SCOTT’S CHOP SHOP

THE BIKETOWN RAT IMAGES: SCOTT CARABOOLAND

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“A

ll my bikes sit very low to the ground, real ground pounders. Not this sitting on top of a horse bullshit. When riding through a crowd, take for instance Sturgis Main Street, your head is at tank level of other bikes. That's what attracts everyone’s attention in a crowd. Then when they see what I’m on they really flip out. I think most people appreciate the rat rod type of build. They see it in cars but not so much in bikes. My pipes always go forward because I think they look bad ass and it pisses people off.

One of the reasons I built my first rat was to just beat on a bike and not worry about it. And to make a statement against the waist of money custom choppers. In this day people appreciate things more than ever. Whether it’s the college kids at Starbucks or the old timer at the grocery store... They all love to look at my rats.” - Scott Carabooland SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 49

THE SHOW: SCOTT’S CHOP SHOP

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SCOTT’S CHOP SHOP “THE BIKETOWN RAT” 2006 SUZUKI GSXR/ 1978 HARLEY DAVIDSON IRONHEAD BRAKES: Suzuki OEM. EXHAUST: Custom Fabricated.

WHEELS: Suzuki OEM. TIRES: Shinko Smoke Bomb Tires.

SUSPENSION: Suzuki OEM Front End. Scott’s Chop Shop Custom Dual Shocks.

SWINGARM: Suzuki OEM. CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Hand Built Frame, Hand Pounded Oil Tank With Seat Pan, Hand Built Bars, Pipe and Rail Road Ties Suicide Shifter.

BUILT BY: Scott’s Chop Shop and ShitBox Cycles.

PAINT BY: Mother Nature.

OWNER: Scott Caraboolad.

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THE SHOW: RSV4-CE

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RSV4-CE

IMAGES: COURTESY OF CLINT EWING

“I

t’s not often that you see a stunt bike that is an Aprilia RSV4. In fact, I believe this the first time that an RSV4 has been transformed into a stunt bike. Clint Ewing, carving a path of his own opted for the Italian finery and outfitted it with a custom tank and tail section to assist with his rolling acrobatics. Ewing applied other components, typical and necessary for a stunt bike to operate and perform to the RSV4 and now has the world’s first Aprilia RSV4 Stunt Bike... The RSV4-CE.” - Allan Lane

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THE SHOW: RSV4-CE

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CLINT EWING “RSV4-CE” 2013 APRILIA RSV-4 ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: K and N Air Filter, Race ECU. BRAKES: Brembo Masters and Calipers. EBC Vee Rotors, Bikemaster Brake Pads with Core Moto Braided Lines.

EXHAUST: Competition Werkes.

WHEELS: OEM. TIRES: Dunlop Q3.

SUSPENSION: Nitron Racing Systems.

SWINGARM: OEM. CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Custom Sprocket Cover, Custom Cage, Custom Tail, Handbrake Bracket, Tank Lip and Scotts Stabilizer Mount. Cox Racing Radiator Guards, Race Seat, Gilles Rearsets, Convertibars, Scotts Stabilizer, RSC Stunt Clutch, Samco Radiator Hose Kit, Driven Gas Cap and Oil Plug, Renthal Gold Chain, Vortex Sprocket.

BUILT BY: Clint Ewing.

FABRICATION BY: Mike Shapiro.

WRAP BY: Motographix.

OWNER: Clint Ewing.

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THE SHOW: MILLS & DILLARD

“T

he Carrera 1300R has a new unique approach on the custom Hayabusa, with a simple philosophy brought to the fore front of the custom bike world. The problem that I see with the Hayabusa generation is that there have been minor changes within the frame and some color variations but nothing significant within the bike’s existence. The Carrera 1300R is the upgraded Hayabusa, with a sleeker, sexier, more power custom build. Many custom sport bike owners, feel as though they have reached their potential with the Hayabusa, simply by adding a custom swing arm, different size tires, and a detailed paint job. You may have changed the look slightly, but The Carrera 1300R has changed this image.” - Maurice Dillard

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THE CARRERA 1300R IMAGES: MAURICE DILLARD

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THE SHOW: MILLS & DILLARD

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LORNE MILLS/MAURICE DILLARD “THE CARRERA 1300R” 2006 SUZUKI HAYABUSA ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: Nitrous, Power Commander, MPS Injector Kit 62lb, Healtech Gear Indicator Pro .

BRAKES: Tokico Front Calipers on 320mm Stainless Steel Discs. Rear Single Hydraulic Disc.

EXHAUST: Brock’s Performance Ceramic Coated Alien Head Full Exhaust Systems.

WHEELS: 240 RC Components Prowler Custom Wheel Set, Flat Black Lip. TIRES: 120/70-17 Shinko Advance Front, 240/40VR18 Shinko 005 Advance Rear.

SWINGARM: Myrtle West 240 Swingarms Six Inch Over.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Custom Body Kit, Navigation Bluetooth, Eight Inch Over Drag Tail, Custom Paint Chrome Accessories, Custom 240 Under Tail, Custom Floating Tire Hugger, Custom Gauge Console.

BUILT BY: Lorne Mills and Maurice Dillard.

PAINT BY: Overtwo Customs.

OWNER: Maurice “Showtime” Dillard

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THE SHOW: SULLY’S CUSTOM CYCLES

IRISH GREED

IMAGES: COURTESY OF NICK SULLIVAN

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“T

he detail in the paint and how everything worked together with the theme is what sets it apart. There are over 200 led's throughout the entire bike. The shamrock in the healgaurds follows through to the seat and the screen by the header. The airbag was airbrushed to look like a pint of guinness and there are eight leprechauns spread over the bike. The grips, triple tree, fluid cups, gas cap and axle plates were plated in gold. The levers, bar ends, clutch plate and the crg mirror were powdercoated candy green. I wanted a bike that was dark with a little flash without using chrome, and I think I did just that.� - Nick Sullivan

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THE SHOW: SULLY’S CUSTOM CYCLES

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SULLY’S CUSTOM CYCLES “IRISH GREED” 2007 KAWASAKI ZX14 ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: Driven Smog Plates, Power Commander with Custom Tuned Map, Muzzy Cooling Fan. BRAKES: RC Components Savage Two Piece Rotors, EBC HH Pads, Core Moto Braided Lines, Roaring Toyz Four Piston Rear Caliper with EBC HH Pad. EXHAUST: Brock’s Performance 4-2-1 Alien Head System.

WHEELS: RC Components Billet Savage Wheels.

TIRES: Avon Venom, 330 Rear.

SUSPENSION: Progressive Front Springs, AirFX Air Ride Rear.

SWINGARM: Roaring Toyz 330 with Jackshaft.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Lexan LED Heal Guards, One Off Intake and Behind the Front Wheel Screens, EvoTech Quarter Turn Gas Cap, Ball Z Motorsports Clear Clutch Cover, Ostrich Skin Seat with Inlay, Driven Grips, Euro Components Fluid Cups and Caps, Fork and Yoke Smooth Billet Covers, Yana Shiki Triple Tree, Pazzo Shorty Levers.

BUILT BY: Nick Sullivan.

PAINT BY: Backyard Kustom.

OWNER: Nick Sullivan.

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THE SHOW: LONGWOOD CUSTOMS

THE RISING STAR IMAGES: STEVEN SPOONS

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“I

don’t believe that having a big store front and ten employees makes you successful. I strive to make every bike that goes out the door of this small operation a complete one off creation by using unique styling and materials in my builds. I do a lot of powder coating and carbon fiber work in house and we make sure to utilize our specialties in every build. I have taken great pride into making my style of work very noticeable and one off so when you see one... you have no doubt that it’s a Longwood Customs bike.” - Justin Reid.

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THE SHOW: LONGWOOD CUSTOMS

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LONGWOOD CUSTOMS “THE RISING STAR” 1982 HONDA CB750 ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: K and N Air Filter, NGK Iridium Spark Plugs, Power Commander III. BRAKES: 2006 Honda CBR Front Master Cylinder with Stainless Brake Lines Disc Front, Rear Drum Brake.EXHAUST: Custom.

WHEELS: OEM. TIRES: Avon Roadrider.

SUSPENSION: OEM Front Air Suspension, Powder Coated, Adjustable Nitrogen RFY Rear.

SWINGARM: Custom Carbon Fiber.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Vintage 1960’s Lucas Style Triumph Headlight, Pod Air Filters, Digital Gauge Cluster, Clubman Bars, Custom Rear Sets, Vintage Style Tail Lamp, Carbon Fiber Bodywork.

BUILT BY: Longwood Customs.

PAINT BY: Longwood Customs and A2D Designs.

OWNER: Longwood Customs.

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THE SHOW: THROTTLELIFE CUSTOMS

STEALTH

IMAGES: LEON BRITTAIN

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“I

certainly don't have the first slick black R1 with a 300mm wide rear tire kit. But what sets mine apart from others is the gloss and flat black combo accented with a racing stripe from the windscreen to the rear tail section. Also, the hand painted gun metal gray and gloss black VIP Alliance Marlene rims complement the stealthy design perfectly. Much respect and thanks to Myrtle West, VIP Alliance, Roaring Toyz, Avon Tyres, and Garwood Custom Cycles for the contributions and support and to the guys at Coleman Powersports in Woodbridge, VA for the solid mechanical work on engine. All highly recommended!� - Leon Brittain

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THE SHOW: THORTTLELIFE CUSTOMS

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THROTTLELIFE CUSTOMS “STEALTH” 2004 YAMAHA YZF-R1 BRAKES: Roaring Toyz.

EXHAUST: Yamaha GYTR. WHEELS: VIP Alliance Marlene.

TIRES: Avon Storm Front, Avon Cobra Rear.

SUSPENSION: AirFX Air Ride System.

SWINGARM: Myrtle West.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Molded Windscreen.

BUILT BY: ThrottleLife Customs.

PAINT BY: ThrottleLife Customs.

OWNER: Leon Brittain.

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THE SHOW: ICON MOTOSPORTS

ICON 1000 SPEEDMASTER IMAGES: MIKE LEVIN

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“B

uilt by ICON Motosports, the ICON 1000 Speedmaster is our third commissioned build with Triumph Motorcycles. Triumph 650 twins ruled the dragstrip in the 1960s. Being lighter, and more powerful than their contemporaries, they were opportune platforms for modification.

Unfair advantage came in the form of a raft of factory sold performance parts. The ICON 1000 Speedmaster was built to honor this past, while updating it for modern competition. Fork mounted nitrous oxide bottles have been added to more than double the horsepower with a single push of a button. A fully bespoke Vance & Hines exhaust prepares the Speedmaster for quarter mile excursions, while holding a little something up its sleeve via race tuning by Latus Motors Triumph. The ICON Speedmaster built for the most important rule of all - "Go Fast, Look Flash." - The Good Folks at ICON Motosports

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THE SHOW: ICON MOTOSPORTS

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ICON MOTOSPORTS “ICON 1000 SPEEDMASTER” 2013 TRIUMPH SPEEDMASTER ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: K and N Pod Filters, Custom Ram Air. BRAKES: Kawasaki ZX10 Master Cylinder, EBC Brake Pads, Galfer Brake Discs.

EXHAUST: Vance and Hines Custom Exhaust.

WHEELS: Tiger 800XC. TIRES: Avon Speedmaster Front, M/H Racemaster Drag Slick Rear.

SUSPENSION: Progressive 970 Piggyback Rear Suspension.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: 75 Shot Fork Mounted Nitrous Oxide Wet System. 1960 BSA C15 250cc Tank. Honda Dream Headlight.

Zombie Performance Clip Ons. Biltwell Whiskey Throttle. New Church Moto Seat. Loaded Gun Customs Rear Sets.

BUILT BY: ICON Motosports.

PAINT BY: Garage 31 Paint.

OWNER: ICON Motosports.

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THE SHOW: BREAK LITES MOTORSPORTS

“T

his bike was a complete build for the shop, from driving the 200 miles to find the right candidate to build. We started this job just after Thanksgiving, ordering all the parts, tearing the bike down, and powder coating the whole bike.

We actually built this bike at the Springfield Motorcycle Expo over the course of a weekend in front of everyone to see.” - Mark Tempesta

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WINTER’S END IMAGES: GREG CAPARELL

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THE SHOW: BREAK LITES MOTORSPORTS

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BREAK LITE MOTORSPORTS “WINTER’S END” 2007 SUZUKI GSXR 1000 ENGINE/POWER UPGRADES: Power Commander V, K and N Air Filter.

BRAKES: Performance Machine Rear Caliper.

EXHAUST: Taylor Made Racing half System.

WHEELS: Performance Machine Luxe Contrast Chrome wheels.

TIRES: Avon Venom.

SUSPENSION: Arnott Rear Air Rider Suspension, Vortex Lowering Link, PSR Lowering Kickstand.

SWINGARM: C and S Custom 300mm Single Sided 10 Inch Extended Swingnarm.

CUSTOM/ONE OFF/ACCESSORIES: Memphis Audio Stereo System Featuring 300 Watt Amp, 5.25” Front Speakers, iPhone 5 Cradle and Media Center. Fusion LED Stage Five LED Lighting System.

BUILT BY: Break Lite Motorsports.

PAINT BY: HD Kustoms.

OWNER: Phil Sordillo.

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THE GRID: NEWS TOMMY “HOLLYWOOD” AQUINO...

IN MEMORIAM Tommy “Hollywood” Aquino passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2014 as a result of injuries suffered in a motocross accident at the Piru Motocross Track in California.

Aquino was a friend of SportBikes Inc Magazine and considered a part of the SBI family. His mother Carrie wrote a monthly column for SBI and is still an active contributor.

“Tommy was like a little brother to me. I have many fond memories of his excitement and lust for racing

and life in general. I’ll always remember when he told me that he was going to win his first race at New Jersey Motorsports Park… A month later, he sure enough won his first race at NJMP, giving me a shout out on the podium. I love him and I will miss him.” – Allan Lane, SBI Magazine Publisher, Editor in Chief.

The staff of SportBikes Inc Magazine extends their deepest condolences to Carrie, Michael and Tommy Sr.

Tommy "Hollywood" Aquino 1992 - 2014.

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WSBK: THE 2014 DUCATI WORLD SUPERBIKE TEAM Ducati returns to the WSBK grid as a factory team in 2014 with Chaz Davies and Davide Guigliano, on board the Panigale 1199.

The official team presentation occurred in Italy at the Ducati Auditorium where the 2014 livery was unveiled.

AMA: LARRY PEGRAM RACING AND EBR FOR 2014 AMA SUPERBIKE Larry Pegram will pilot the Buell 1190RX for the upcoming AMA Pro Racing Superbike Season as his Larry Pegram Racing and Foremost Insurance team up with Eric Buell Racing, AMSOIL and Hero MotoCorp.

EBR announced their World SuperBike Team at the end of last year with pilots Aaron Yates and Geoff May. EBR’s continued efforts in the AMA paddock allows them to develop the EBR1190RX on a national and international level.

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THE GRID: NEWS BSB: REV’IT! SIGNS JAMES RISPOLI James “The Rocket” Rispoli recently announced his move Keith Flint’s BSB SuperSport Team Traction. REV’IT! has just signed the two time AMA SuperSport Champion to support Rispoli in his 2014 campaign.

“My move to race full time overseas is a big change and step forward for me. The people, country, tracks and rules are all different. It’s a new start and I am looking to take my career to the next level. In doing so I wanted to surround myself with multi national partners that were like minded, and could match my enthusiasm, passion for sports and dedication. I found that enthusiasm in my discussions with REV’IT! Managing Director Ivan Vos and I’m super excited to start a new journey with REV’IT! and do my part to help continue to build on the great reputation they have in the industry.” - James “The Rocket” Rispoli.

TT: MICHAEL DUNLOP JOINS FORCES WITH BMW FOR 2014 Michael Dunlop has won the Isle of Man’s Tourist Trophy seven times. His efforts of winning an eighth will be done so on a BMW S1000RR. Dunlop teamed up with BMW Motorrad UK and Hawk Racing. Dunlop will also pilot the S1000RR in several other road races for the 2014 season in the Superstock and Superbike classes.

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AMA: STEFANO MESA TO RACE SUPERBIKE FOR DMS RACING IN 2014 Coming off a great 2013 season in which the the now 19 year old Stefano Mesa finished third in points in the AMA Pro SuperSport East series, Mesa will be moving up to the premiere class for the 2014 season. Mesa will race for the DMS Racing Team aboard the DMS Racing Kawasaki ZX10R. “I am really happy to be a part of DMS Racing for my 2014 season. I will be doing a big jump and stepping it up with the superbike guys so that has me anxious a little bit but I still think that’s my best choice that I got! I honestly couldn’t do it without the DMS crew and all my sponsors being a part of the team this year. Now it’s time to give it my best and have fun!” - Stefano Mesa

AMA: THE SUPERBIKES RETURN TO THE DAYTONA 200 IN 2015

Since 2005, the Daytona 200 has been raced on 600cc and machines close in engine size.

Prior to 2005, specifically from 1985 through to 2004, the race belonged to the 1000cc superbikes. The AMA just announced that the superbikes will again take to the grid for the Daytona 200 in 2015.

“Getting the SuperBikes back in the Daytona 200 has been a fan request for years and we’re thrilled to be making this announcement.

The Daytona 200 is America’s premier motorcycle race, and our goal is to once again feature the biggest names in motorcycle road racing in the event.” - Michael Gentry, AMA Pro Racing Chief Operating Officer.

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THE GRID

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

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JOSH HAYES

#41

“W

ell... back in the day, I ran #131. In 2002, I went back to ride for John Ulrich and he asked me to chose a non three digit number to look more professional to sponsors. My birthday is April 4th and 4 was available. When I went on to ride superbike, you were required to have a two digit number unless you were a previous champion in the class. So I put a 1 after the 4. Hence, 4 and 1... 41.”

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THE GRID

THE INSIDE TRACK

WORDS: COREY ALEXANDER IMAGES: JOHN HANSON

I

’ve been slammed with graphic design work related stuff as well as working on the designs for myself, the team, and my friend James Rispoli for this upcoming 2014 season.

This month’s article is based on custom bikes and designs which is oddly enough something I can relate to heavily.

I spend many hours in front of a computer screen brainstorming and more times than not designing something I don’t like when I’m done anyway. Whether it be a website, a twitter background, my next set of leathers, or the design for a new bike paint scheme.

I think it’s becoming more evident by the minute how crucial design is in every way, shape, and form. The world as we know it has evolved from black & white to an extremely colorful place. People love seeing things done differently, people are attracted to the beauty of things like never before. This means that people also put a ton more emphasis on every detail and everything must be perfect as well as appealing to the eye; otherwise it has no value.

The moral of the story is that if you look at everything that relates to motorcycle riding or in my case racing, it’s all in the details. Bike designs, helmet designs, leather designs, and even the semi designs around the world have all become a work of art. It’s not just about who wins the most races anymore, it’s about who looks the best whilst doing so. Looking the part has become equally as important as playing the part.

This theory trickles down from the top. If you

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look at the progression of the livery of race teams across the world, from MotoGP right here to in the AMA, the motorcycling world is a much more pretty place to be. People long to differentiate themselves from everyone else,

by the way they dress, by the music they listen to, and now the way their bikes look. Check out some of the work I’ve done whether it be for bikes that we sell at our dealership or my personal race bikes. Image is everything.

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Shane Turpin

SHANE “THE TORNADO” TURPIN

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NAME: Shane “The Tornado” Turpin HOMETOWN: Salt Lake City, Utah AGE: 46 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: FIM, AMA,CCS, AFM, MRA, USBA GOALS: To help people learn the sport I love so much.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 14x CCS National Champion, Wild Card For WSBK 2012 E-Bike Winner at Indy 2013, E-Bike Lap Record holder at Laguna and Indy.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Motorcycles are my life.

CONTACT: HTTP://SHANETURPIN.COM

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FROM THE STREET TO THE TRACK AND EVERYTHING IN-BETWEEN

20,000 Mile Warranty Kit 520 Race Conversion Kit 525/530 Superstock Kit 520 Steel Conversion Kit

www.RKExcelAmerica.com Tel: 760.732.3161 Contact Your Local Motorcycle Parts Dealer to Order SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 93

THE STRAIGHT LINE

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

W

hat is your definition of a custom bike? Is it a paint job, a wide tire kit or some LED lights on your motorcycle? Having a custom motorcycle means to be unique, being creative and makes your bike your own. It means to never be afraid of trying new things and stepping out of the box to do things that have never been done.

My 2010 BMW S1000RR is definitely one of a kind when it comes to being custom. As if being a woman in a male dominated sport isn’t already unique enough, I decided to put my special touch on my bike. I wanted my bike to represent who I am and speak for me. The first thing I set out to do with my bike was to get an exhaust system. I am not a big fan of having a stock exhaust. They are too quiet and I like to hear the motor purr.

Akrapovic exhaust is my system of choice. They have such a distinct sound to them which I instantly fell in love with, from day one. I then got lowering links or dog bones as others in the racing world like to call them. They adjust your motorcycle to a specific height of choice. Shortly after I added those pieces, it was time to get my swingarm. I had been going to the racetrack for some time and that is where I spotted D.M.E. Racing swingarms.

I always had an attraction to their swingarms because they had a sleek yet durable look to them.

Their swingarms were not skinny nor flimsy looking.

They stood out to me, so I reached out to them to see if they could make them for my motorcycle.

At this time there were barely any companies that were making aftermarket parts for my motorcycle due to the bike just being released that year.

My bike was one of the first BMW S1000RR swingarms that they made. As my swingarm was getting made I decided to order some small additions such as my Vortex Racing rear sets, Vortex Racing sprockets, EK Chain, and Vortex Racing clip ons. I will tell you as much as I love my rear sets, do not, and I repeat do not wear shorts and ride the bike when you have them because 94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE

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the back of your legs will look like they have been put through a meat grinder. Those things are super sharp. I also picked up a new sponsorship with R&G Racing. They make crash protection gear for all motorcycles. I absolutely love their products because not only do they protect your motorcycle but they also look extremely great on your bike.

It seems to me that R&G makes their products to appear as if the motorcycle came stock from the factory with them already installed. Once all of my racing additions were installed on my motorcycle it was time for the paint.

I was at the DUB Auto Show in Ocean City, Maryland where I was first introduced to Freddy of Killer Kreations. I saw his work for the first time and it was like something that I had never seen before.

All of his pieces of work were all so detailed and perfect. Freddy is like the Beethoven of art in my eyes. So once I got the opportunity to meet Freddy we sat down and talked about some awesome ideas that I had in mind for my bike. After weeks of going over different colors, designs, and wild ideas I had finally come up with an idea. That idea was to let him freestyle and let his creativity flourish. I have found that when you let artists flow and be who they are through their work, it will come out ten times better than what you could have ever imagined it to be. My only request to him was that my bike would have a lot of hot pink in it! I am in love with the color hot pink!

Weeks later, Freddy asked me if he could unveil my motorcycle to me and the rest of the world at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. I got excited and screamed at the top of my lungs “Yes! That would be super awesome!” So the day finally came around for me to see my bike for the first time. I had butterflies in my belly for a week.

Every night when I attempted to go to sleep I felt like a little kid on Christmas Eve. I remember walking around the corner and seeing this beautiful pink motorcycle. I jumped about five feet off of the ground... ok maybe that was a bit of an exaggeration but I do know that I got some air.

As I pursued to walk, or should I say run towards my bike, I saw the heavy detail in the paint. I saw the caricature of me that he painted onto the tank of my bike. It looked exactly like me. From my big bright eyes to my pretty smile, he had it down to the “T”. On the frame, he did a splatter effect that is in my opinion the most unique part on my bike.

The design that he painted is very feminine with a mean and fierce look of determination to it. He painted my front headlights with a pink tint and my back tail light black. The wheels were also painted a bright hot pink.

Once I arrived back to Virginia my custom corset seat that I designed had come in. Little did I know that Freddy had a surprise waiting for me. Everyone knew that my nickname in the motorcycle drag racing world was “Ndyian Pryncess”. The late Big John of Rockingham Dragway had given me this nickname when I first started racing because I would always wear my hair in two ponytails.

Freddy knowing this, he painted a helmet of mine like an Indian headdress. When I saw my helmet, I almost cried. It was so beautiful and elegant.

The feathers that he painted on my helmet looked as if they would start to blow in the wind when I raced down the racetrack. This helmet is by far the best helmet I have ever seen. I would like to thank you Freddy of Killer Kreations in Philadelphia for not only sponsoring me but also for being such a great friend. God has truly blessed me with great opportunities and great people in my circle.

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

CAPO’S CUT

WORDS & IMAGES: ASHON CAPO DICKERSON This is the Custom Issue of SBI so I figured I would write about how I won my $20,000 custom, one of a kind, Harley Davidson!

Yes you heard it correct! I won a $20,000 Custom Hard Tail Bobber Harley Davidson. Back in October 2008, during the Mirock Superbike Series and at the peak of the drag racing show “Pinks: All Out” on Speed TV, hosted by Rich Christensen, I was involved in the taping of the “Armdrop Bikes” episode. This was the motorcycle version of popular show.

We started the day with Competition Armdrop runs with a record attendance of over six hundred bikes going head to head. Now this grueling all day process was a hot lap, run and gun free for all battle royal with some of the baddest riders on the planet! Everyone wanted to be on TV. During the eliminations I noticed right away that my “back in the day, street racing” instincts took over and gave me an extreme advantage over the other competitors. The proof was in

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the pudding as I eliminated all in my path until there was only one other rider for me to race against.

The final two! Capo on my 2006 Suzuki GSXR 1000 versus Eddie on his 2008 Suzuki Turbo Busa, with a best of 7 hot lap competition standing between myself and history. With a crowd full of spectators, cameras rolling and Rich ready to drop those arms, I thought back to my glorious street days on Route 78 in my city of Newark, NJ...

AKA “Brick City”. The late nights on the highway when everything was on the line, even your life and I know this to be true, first hand. When I’m in that zone, I can’t be beat!

After me winning four out of five, the game was over! I realized that I had just added a highlight to my legacy! Through hard work and dedication, the highlights are still rolling and the bar is being set even higher!

Loyalty is everything and you can never stop the sun from shining!

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If ARAI is your helmet of choice, you’re invited to make The Service Pavilion your SHOP of choice!

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

LINES OF A LEGEND WORDS: RICKEY GADSON IMAGES: ADITYA BEDRE

R

ecently I have returned from India where I became the fastest man on 2 wheels, which is truly an honor. India’s drag racing following is huge and growing exponentially with every event they have. I was invited over to show the race fans in India what I can do. But with India’s altitude and traction issues, this wasn’t an easy task. One thing I have to say is India, along with promotion company Elite Octane, doesn’t half step with putting together amazing drag race events one after another. Their drag races include some of the most elaborate and gorgeous high dollar luxury cars that you’ve ever seen.

Everyone, from the extremely rich to the average Joe, comes out to the races. The pits range from indoor seating with red carpet, giant fans (for air) and servers to bleachers and fans standing on top of vehicles to witness the action. They race all kinds of bikes from what we call pit bikes to the newly introduced ZX14RR. It was amazing for me to be a part of something this phenomenal in the making for India.

The first country outside of the US I had the honor of 102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND becoming the fastest in was South Africa, several years back. The one thing that is always the same even across international borders is that, it doesn’t matter how much power you have if you can’t get it to the surface. The first time I realized that was in South Africa when I made the mistake of thinking I could setup the ZX12R that I would be riding in competition just like my bike at home. Even though it was the same bike, that was a bad decision.

After spending an entire day setting up the chassis and then tuning it on the Dyno, with really high expectations of shattering the record in the class we would be racing in, there was one humbling factor that I didn’t take into account, the lack of traction.

Watching where everyone was lining up when I first checked out the Tarlton Racetrack surface made me think that I had figured out why the record was so soft. The racers from Africa would line up on the extreme inside of the lanes darn near hitting the starting line Christmas tree as they went by. The path they had chosen didn’t have any rubber on the surface because they all believed you needed a little bit of slip to not flip the motorcycle over on the line?

Me being a scientist of drag racing, I figured if I just moved over into the car tire tracks that I would solve the traction issue, but I was wrong. Because their way of prepping the track was to wait for enough cars to lay down rubber and then the sun would heat the track enough to eventually gain traction.

But that first day it was cloudy and that theory didn’t work. By the end of the weekend I had managed a 9.26 (which was pretty good by their standards) but truthfully I had just been humbled.

Years later I would return to battle the young South African Champion Fransie Enchlebreight racing out of the KCR Suzuki camp and by then the Bear Engineering Kawasaki ZX12R had been stretched and converted to a nitrous bike. Since my last visit to South Africa, the promoter and the track owner from South Africa came over to the states to spend time with me at the races and learned how to prepare the track. By the time I returned they had built a machine to put the glue down and imported 55 gallon drums of track bite. By the end of the event we had beaten the South African champion 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

on a holeshot while establishing a new nitrous record. In 2009 I had run a 7.37 braking Africa’s 25-year-old old top fuel record for motorcycles and become the fastest man to ever race on South

African soil which at that time included cars.

2013 marked the year I would represent US drag racing in India and quickly discovered that there are no official drag strips in that country so they would attempt to find the straightest streets possible and get a legal permit to block them off to have an event, old school like we used to do it during Daytona Bike week back in da day... but you were stuck with the bumpiness and the street surface. Last year the promoter got a permit to hold a race at Aamby Valley Airport which would be the smoothest (by their standards) place to hold the event but once again traction was a major issue and this time there was absolutely no track prep at all.

After bringing over the necessary drag race components from Brock’s, we spent all day after

flying seventeen hours, after spinning the entire way down the strip and only running a humiliating 11.7 so I had to get my Indian mechanic Stu Lima to take everything back off the bike and put the suspension completely back to stock in an effort to increase weight transfer and adjust my riding style perfectly to launch this way. The new setup produced a less spinning 10.4 second run on the first pass and with a few more chassis tricks I was able to leave the country with the fastest time ever recorded in India even with the lack of traction. Just ten months later I was invited back to put on a

show and attempt to break my own record which meant I would attempt to walk my own Shinko tire and gallon of track bite into the country. By now the new ZX14R was available in India and Rongom the event promoter had arranged for Kawasaki of India to supply me a bike to attempt to be the first in the 9 second bracket. After another 17 hour flight and arriving late on Friday, we drove another five hours in ridiculous traffic to try and get some testing in during the late night hours. The problem was we were now facing was the night hours of darkness, so we pulled

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND out an old street racing trick and aimed the headlights of the BMW X5 on an angle into the quarter mile and used my hi beams on the 14R. Since I only needed to launch the bike and run till second gear, I could test for traction in that distance without taking a chance in the dark.

The very first run on Saturday morning was 10.02 which wasn’t as good as I had hoped but better than anyone else expected. By the end of day one the spectators had witnessed the first ever nine second run... 9.95 and 9.94. On the second day a customer of Seventh Gear Customs had showed up with his 14R outfitted with a Brock’s Street Meg exhaust so I asked my mechanic Stu to switch rear tires and put the Shinko Hookup on the new bike. On the very first run it was unbelievable how much of a difference in traction the Shinko made and instantly set a new record once again while shocking the huge crowd by running an astounding 9.847 and backed it up with another 9.84 second run.

My hat and helmet goes off to the racers all over the world that do this for the same reason I do... simply because they love it.

Not having the track technology, equipment and weather that we have in the US makes achieving impressive numbers, by US standards, more of a task for some places that most people can imagine. But the things you guys can do with a motorcycle really blow me away! I’m grateful to all the countries that I’ve raced in for having me. I respect your drive, skills and love for drag racing!

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: JT Courtesy Norton//Asphalt of Brice Lloyd and Opportunity

WILL “PHARAOH” TORRES

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NAME: Will “Pharaoh” Torres HOMETOWN: Orlando, FL AGE: 39 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: NHRA Points Series, Manufacturers Cup, Texas Mile. Brocks Performance, APE Raceparts, Magic Bullet Fuel Treatment, Route 21, Cycle Pro, Shorai Batteries, EVS, Cycle Gear, Leatt, Replay XD, Vortex Racing Components, MikeyMoto Racing, BellissiMoto, Moto-D, MWR Racing Filters, Tiger Racing Products GOALS: My goal is to be competitive in the Crazy 8’s class at the Manufacturer’s Cup. I would also like to break 200mph at the Texas MIle. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: While at the track I get to unwind and forget the everyday challenges and responsibilities that life throws at you.

My happy place is being in a tuck position at over 150mph.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Drag racing has been my therapy, my outlet, my escape.

CONTACT:

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THE REV LIMITER

VIOLET STARS AND HAPPY STUNTING WORDS: LEAH PETERSEN IMAGES: LEAH PETERSEN//ANTHONY PESCH

HOW TO GET SPONSORED!

I

am by no means an authority on "getting sponsored" but over the years I have learned a thing or two from being in the stunt industry and I constantly get asked this question by upand-coming riders: How do you get sponsored as a motorcycle stunt rider?

This answer should be of interest to anyone involved in the stunt riding industry. Where and how the money comes into our sport greatly dictates the future of stunt riding's style, personalities, geography and target demographics. It's a fascinating time for stunt riding, the future is ours and by looking at the big picture we can work to turn stunt riding into something relatable, understandable and able to be enjoyed by a huge and diverse group of people.

To begin, you need to think about getting sponsored the same as you would approach

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There is an infinite amount of ways to set yourself apart, you just need to creatively think about how to apply your personal skills towards building something of worth.

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THE REV LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

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To make yourself valuable you need to examine the stunt scene and figure out what is missing. For example, how can companies better communicate with riders and audiences?

How could a company alter their image towards a certain demographic?

Take a fresh perspective.

Don’t only be unique in your self branding, also think outside the box when it comes to sponsors.

pursuing a new job. A company pays you to get them impressions... eyeballs... test their merchandise and spread the good word about their products or services. Getting sponsored doesn't mean simply "getting paid to ride."

There is a whole host of responsibilities that come along with being a sponsored rider, so if you just want to ride your motorcycle, getting sponsored probably isn't a goal you should chase.

One of the most important parts of your job as a sponsored rider is communication.

Whether it's in person, in front of an audience, online or in pictures and videos; how well you communicate in these situations is crucial.

Communication is important in both quality and quantity. You want to grow your reach as wide as you can while staying true to your personal message and core values. This means shows, events, interviews, blogs and social media platforms. Each conversation, comment, like and dislike is important - and you should treat every exchange with professionalism and respect. Task one: make yourself into a brand and get your brand out into the world.

Now I'm sorry to say, but killer riding skills and some social media handles are something pretty much anyone can cobble together. To get to the top of the stunt game you need something that sets you apart.

Be honest, why would a company pick you?

If you can't answer that clearly and concisely, don't fret, but do go back to the drawing board. There are an infinite amount of ways to set yourself apart, you just need to creatively think about how to apply your personal skills towards building something of worth.

To make yourself valuable you need to examine the stunt scene and figure out what is missing.

For example, how can companies better communicate with riders and audiences? How SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 115

THE REV LIMITER: VIOLET STARS... could a company alter their image towards a certain demographic? Stunt riding as a whole is missing a lot of things including, events, ways for people to get together and learn how to stunt, methods to perform for big audiences, TV shows and competitions, just to name a few. Finding a solution for some of the industry's problems makes you a smart choice for any company to work with.

There is certainly no formula to finding a way to ride professionally, but as more and more riders move up the ranks and become full time riders, the playing field intensifies. You need the personal brand, the online and in-person network, you need to do the footwork to get yourself out in front of these companies and most importantly you need a unique reason to make them pay attention to you. The last is the most important, you can do everything else right, but if there is nothing setting you apart from the crowd, well, no one will notice you in the crowd.

My last piece of advice is, don't only be unique in your self branding, also think outside the box when it comes to sponsors. Maybe the typical "stunt company" is not right for you.

Getting our sport in front of broader audiences and working with new products and services is crucial to stunt riding's growth and if you have success in alternative markets, the core "stunt" companies will start to get interested.

Work hard to make yourself unique, valuable and worthy of sponsorship, then the sponsorships will come naturally.

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There is certainly no formula to finding a way to ride professionally, but as more and more riders move up the ranks and become full time riders, the playing field intensifies. You need the personal brand, the online and in person network, you need to do the footwork to get yourself out in front of these companies and most importantly you need a unique reason to make them pay attention to you.

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Jhosuan “Jaystunz” Cruz

JHOSUAN “JAYSTUNTZ” CRUZ

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NAME: Jhosuan “Jaystunz” Cruz HOMETOWN: Bethlehem PA. AGE: 27 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: 610 Motors, Mobile Mechanixx, Flamitropical, Lehigh Valley Bumper GOALS: To become a professional stunt rider and be a good role model to the younger generation.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I was featured in the “Act Right” music video by EZ. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I love riding since the age of two and stunting is my passion.

CONTACT:

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ADVERTISE WITH

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

HTTP://SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE LIFE: FEATURED CLUB

Images: Courtesy of The Pack MC

Rocker Interpretation: The Pack MC has chosen a family crest to visual represent the club. The image of three wolves under the glowing moonlight envision the club’s family mentality.

History/Origin of Club: Despite being a young club, the Pack has already established themselves within the community. They host

THE PACK MC REGION: Bridgeton, NJ. FOUNDED: 2012 MEMBERS: 13 ELECTED OFFICIALS: PRESIDENT: Mr. C VICE PRESIENT: Rock SERGEANT AT ARMS: Mel P.R.O.: Pulla ROAD CAPTAIN: Freaky ROAD CAPTAIN: Cannon

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charitable bike nights with Buffalo Wild Wings, have donated 200 bookbags and supplies to needy children as well as escorting members of the armed forces returning home from tour.

Future of the club: The club will continue to expand and spread their efforts of charitable acts and representing themselves as outstanding members of the motorcycle club community.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

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THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

GET YO’ SELF READY TO RIDE! WORDS: LADY KIM

A

re you ready for bike season! This winter season seems to be extra long. I know my fellow riders can’t wait for the riding season and summer to pound the pavement. Some bikers get their riding season started by attending Daytona bike week, I will wait for spring when the days are warmer and I don’t have to wear a lot of insulation. Winter is the time of the year when most riders get custom work done on their motorcycles.

I have seen some amazing paint and body work done but what about the biker’s bodies during

SINCERE, CURVE KILLAZ M.C.

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the cold winter months while your motorcycle is in hibernation!

This is the time to improve your fitness for future aggressive riding adventures! If you are going to push your bike to the limit then you need to improve your rider performance. Every muscle in your body is used to handle a motorcycle! Working out several times a week will reduce the aches and pains during the course of your ride. Last year, I had three months of therapy to relive the pain on

DARKNESS, V TWIN M.C.

my right side for my throttle hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder. I guess I was riding too much… Not! The therapist suggested numerous exercises to improve endurance, body posture, joint strength and overall muscle tone. By strengthening and conditioning the stomach, upper arms, forearms, inner thighs, waist and legs, you will have better reaction times to impediments on the road, less body fatigue and the strength to lean your bike in the curves. If you have ever been to an all-day road racing track day

then you will understand what I am talking about.

Riding all day in the curves, stunting on your bike or cruising state to state can put a hurting on the body.

Strength training and cardio sessions are key to muscular endurance, making your bike riding more enjoyable. Check out these custom biker bodies!

IFBB Pro Bodybuilder Sharif Reid is from New Jersey and he is repping Suzuki! He is definitely about that bike life! You can catch him ripping up the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 125

THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

SXY6, NUMBER ONE STUNNAS M.C.

roads of North Jersey or training for competition in the dungeon AKA the gym! Blood! Sweat and tears! “I work out because it is a lifestyle for me and it’s the Fountain of Youth. It will hurt. It will take time. It will require dedication. It will require willpower. You will need to make healthy decisions.

It requires sacrifice. You would need to push your body to its max. There will be temptation. But, I promise you, when you reach your goal, it’s worth it! It helps with my riding. Whenever I’m in a situation where I have to react quickly, I can do it because I have the strength for it. Plus, the ladies love it too!”

Riding in the Washington, DC area, we have Aaron “Spydaman” Poindexter repping that mad Kawasaki ZX14! He is the Founder and President of Broken Silence MC. When he is not ground 126 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

pounding with his unit, you’ll find him ripping the runway or print modeling! “I love the artistic value that comes with modeling and I am trying to learn the ins and outs of this industry while trying to further my modeling career. I work out because I like the euphoric feeling I get from it as well as the overall health benefits. I’m not sure if or how it helps when I’m riding. I do know that if I’m riding a powerful bike then the rider should look just as powerful.”

On team Honda rocking a stack is Sincere “Black Panther”. He is shaking riders from Maryland to North Jersey. He is the President of the Maryland chapter of Curve Killaz MC. This club is a beast on the roads and the gym. Go hard or go home…

Their name says it all! When he is not riding with his club, he is attending his son’s AMA Motor

Cross Racing events. It runs in the family. Sincere said, “The benefits of working out for me are that it helps the body mentally and physically. I am going hard…The Panther is on the hunt! It’s very important to work out as a biker. It will make the bike so much easier to handle and maneuver while you are riding especially for women. I see a lot them struggling with the weight and strength of the bike. I would suggest for women to find a workout partner and do cardio to build your endurance. By riding several times a week, you will you get use to handling the bike and it will become easier to throw around a Killa Curve!”

Cruising in from the Mighty Midwest on team VTX Honda, we have Ren “Darkness” Mckinzie who is the president of V Twin MC out of Columbus, Ohio. He is a comic artist and an adrenaline junkie from jumping out of planes in the Army

Airborne to being an undefeated amateur Cage Fighter! He says, “I work out because it keeps me healthy and strong but it also helps me to keep up with my buff younger brother. Cliché… I know, but my brother and I are very competitive. Neither one of us will let the other get the upper hand. Being strong helps me control my bike. Hell, I believe it helps control a lot of aspects of life. But hell if it doesn’t help you look that much better atop a bomb ass iron horse!”

One of the hottest members of the Number One Stunnas Motorsports Club is Sxy6 from Virginia!

She loves to ride her SxyBusa, model and sleep… in that order! “I work out because it keeps me fit and feeling youthful and it’s a must when you have ‘Sxy’ in your riding name! Sxy is as Sxy 6’ does...

I take spin classes, it strengthens my core, gives me great riding posture which helps fight fatigue.”

Sharif Reid, IFBB Pro Bodybuilder

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THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN

A BIKER’S BALLAD

WORDS: LION JAMES IMAGES: LION JAMES//PATRICK CLIETT

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M

ore at home on the road than behind a desk in a suit and tie, I measure life’s triumphs and trials in mph, psi, rpm and octane. My behavior is governed by a code much different than yours.

I am not bound by four wheels, doors, seat belts or airbags. Traffic neither phases nor delays me. I ride the lines between the lanes and my speed’s limit is dictated by my machine and not a posted sign. You may be frightened when I arrive and you may celebrate when I leave but you will hear me coming and take notice while I am here. Some fear me, some desire me, some respect me and some see me as a menace but none can deny my presence. I am no more a threat than any other passionate pursuer of performance but God be with you if to touch my bike. I go to work, I visit the grocery store and I attend church, I just get there faster than you. When push comes to shove my family knows I put nothing above and when worst gets worse my family comes first.

I’m loud, I’m cool, I’m dangerous, I’m sexy, I’m dirty, I’m committed, I’m abrasive, I’m fast, I’m a father and a son, I’m a mother and a daughter, I’m a husband, I’m a wife, I’m a warrior, I’m a veteran, I’m a modern day cowboy, I’m a leather bound chrome clad throttle twisting street Samurai rattling windows where I go and blazing trails where I’ve been. I am a biker plain and simple though I am neither plain nor simple. I ride a motorcycle and I do it loudly, proudly and with an air of confidence about me. I’m called by a lot of names, some to my face. I have been called a rider, a thug, a gang member, a two wheeled warrior, a racer, a man’s man, a wild card, a sex symbol, a bad influence, a trend setter, an enthusiast, a criminal, a nomad, a loner, a one percenter, a daredevil, a nuisance and a motorcyclist. No you can’t touch my motorcycle, no you can’t touch my cut, no you can’t hold me back and no you can’t keep up. I will not slow down, I will not fit in a box, I will not shave my beard and I will not put my bike away until the ride is done. You can count on me, you can share the road with me, you can be impressed by me without shame and you can feel safe when I am around. I will be your friend, I will ride with and for you, I will work hard for all I get and I will SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 131

THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN keep integrity at the forefront of all that I do. This bike life has led me to new friends and amazing experiences. I am a biker, accepted by those like me and admired by those who like me. When I do right nobody remembers and when I do wrong nobody forgets.

I am a rolling contradiction as I am careful while being carefree. Throttle in my right hand, clutch in my left and the journey not the destination in my sight. I am an unrecognized friend of the community and often unjustly looked upon as the bad guy. I ride like a steed mounted knight of old, party like a rock star, curse like a sailor on shore leave and fight like a bare knuckle brawler. I’ve rolled wheel over road from here to there and all

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points in between. I’ve made a lot of noise, I’ve turned my fair share of wrenches, I’ve lost fellow bikers to this life and I have left my mark in more places that I can recall having ever been. This life has bought me joys and sorrows alike all of which contribute to the person I am today. I’ve had near misses and been scared shitless several seasons since. I’ve broken bones, lost limbs, been burned, scraped, bruised and beaten. I’ve died and been bought back to life, seen the light and rode the other way. I’ve been down and will very likely go down again but if it all ends tomorrow may it be at a high rate of speed with my throttle hand full.

I am a lover, a fighter and a motorcycle rider. I am a biker. What the hell are you?

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Sheena Washington LOCATION: Houston, TX OCCUPATION: Personal Trainer YEARS RIDING: 3 years.

RIDING STYLE: I’m a street biker.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2006 Suzuki Hayabusa FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My favorite accessory is my blue tooth lights to any color I like.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Of course, my helmet.

Safety first.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My most memorable rides is the all female breast cancer ride. Every year, female bikers in Houston come together to bond and also support a good cause.

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Alexa Murguido LOCATION: Miami, FL OCCUPATION: Busy Paralegal.

YEARS RIDING: Born to ride...

RIDING STYLE: Street rider who’s soon to hit the track.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2014 Ducati 899 Panigale.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My standard equipped quick shift.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My XR1R Nexx Carbon Fiber Helmet. It’s so light.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My most memorable ride would have to be down to the Florida Keys. You can smell the ocean.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Jeffrey Alford AKA Butta

LOCATION: Atlanta, GA

OCCUPATION: Telecommunications Technician YEARS RIDING: 13 years.

RIDING STYLE: Long distance rider. I live for the highway.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2006 Kawasaki ZX14R. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: HID lights. See and be seen.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Arai Monster Energy

Helmet. It sits in its own case separate from all of my other helmets.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My solo ride through the hills of West Virginia on my Honda RC51. Twisty turns on the extension of Route 50 that runs through Western Maryland into West Virginia on a warm August day.Â

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JB Amor LOCATION: Tampa, FL OCCUPATION: Model, Mommy and Wife.

YEARS RIDING: 7 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street but I’ve made a couple of passes..

BIKE/S OWNED: 2006 Suzuki GSXR 1000.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Stretched and lowered. plus I love my red and black. xhaust.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Favorite piece of riding gear: Earphones... If you can’t say that, then I guess my helmet!

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The Breast Cancer Awareness ride hosted by Tampa Motorcycle Riders on October 28, 2012.

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MOTO TECH Words: Mark Rozemo Image: Courtesy of Motion Pro

ASK THE PRO WRENCH WORDS: THOMAS CAMPION

Q A

: What does the catalytic converter on my stock exhaust do? Is it really necessary?

: Catalytic Converters or “cats” are for emissions, converting harmful gases into harmless gases. Pretty much, they burn any unburnt fuel from the cylinder.

Are they necessary? That depends. Are you with the E.P.A.? Obviously your engine can run without it. Actually it can run very well without it. The problem with cats are they rob your bike of horsepower. They are like sneaky ninjas after your ninja’s horsepower! Engines like to breathe! The faster the exhaust can get out the more it can produce. Aftermarket companies make high flow, catless systems that can produce more horsepower than your stock system. An added bonus to this is the weight of the exhaust after the cat is removed. Cats have a honeycomb inside coated in ceramic and this adds a lot of pounds to the system. So it is a win win for aftermarket companies. You get more horsepower yet have to deal with less overall weight. You can’t go wrong!

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

IMPROVING YOUR ODDS OF SAVING THE FRONT END, PT 2 WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: PUNTO MOTO CORSE

L

ast month our article focused on the importance of both riding with loose arms and maintaining the best position for control throughout the entire portion of the corner with the greatest lean angle. These critical steps form the foundation to save a front end slide.

In order to make a "save", riders must have the ability to make corrections as early in the process as possible. Without this foundation, all the even the best riders in the world do not have the tools needed to keep themselves

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upright.

Once riders master riding with loose arms and consistently place themselves in position for control, the final step for saving front end slides is to work on the actual riding techniques involved. These techniques all center on the reduction of lean angle and eliminating traction consuming forces. When riders feel the feedback from the front tire early, there is still time to employ these techniques and give the

bike the time it needs to regain traction.

The first goal for a rider attempting to save a front end slides is to eliminate all rider induced forces into the front tire. This is most commonly done by momentarily relaxing all bar input and all braking forces. The only forces remaining on the bars is the slight touch needed to keep your hands in contact with the grips. All forces are released from your arms and shoulders, effectively eliminating all "turning" force from

the tire, black arrows in the diagram, which are for a bike turning left (DIAGRAM A). By bringing all the black and blue forces to zero, the available grip is fully allocated to the red cornering force, giving the rider the best chance to stay upright In addition to allocating all of the available grip to cornering, a second technique that works to help the bike to regain traction is to reduce lean angle. Fortunately, for riders who

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: SAVING THE FRONT END are already working to eliminate all bar input, these two things tend to happen together. In order for a bike to maintain a given arc, riders typically need to maintain a small amount of pressure on the inside bar. As riders release this pressure, the motorcycle will naturally begin to stand up, reducing the cornering force and the overall demands on the tire.

Taking this technique to the next level, experienced riders will also momentarily drop their head and torso to the inside of the motorcycle as they release the bars. This action give the bike a moment to allocate all available grip to regaining traction. Now, for the important part, this movement is usually coupled with steering into the corner (essentially the opposite of counter steering).

When it do this, the physical action is a slight "pull" on the inside bar. This action will work to force the bike to stand up and further reduce cornering forces. The best place to test this technique is on a dirt bike with full motocross gear. Through frequent practice, this technique will become burned into your muscle memory so that the action is automatic when back on the racetrack.

Another technique that can also help relieve pressure on the front tire is to help to lever the bike upright with your knee. This works in high lean situation where your knee is already on the ground. It is worth noting that in order to push on the ground with your inside knee, physics demands an opposing force to achieve equilibrium. This often shows up as a "push" on the outside handlebar, which to relieve some of the pressure on the front tire. This is effectively the same thing that we did when dropping our head and applying a slight "pull" to the inside bar.

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DIAGRAM “A�

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: SAVING THE FRONT END

throttle is closed and the brakes are on then tire is suffering from too much load (this is very different from a front end push with the gas on). These type of loads nearly always show up before the apex of the corner. In these cases, riders can help regain traction by taking the slack out of the throttle cables and slightly unloading the front tire. Anything more than a slight crack of the gas will not only cause the bike to run extremely wide on the exit, but can also upset the chassis.

sometime in your riding career you will get caught taking it over the edge. As with all of our articles, the techniques here are meant to be practiced on race tracks. Practicing front end pushes on the street is almost guaranteed to shorten your stay on the planet Earth.

With that said, practicing these techniques both in the dirt and on the track will greatly improve your odds of making the right moves find yourself looking for front traction in any situation.

There is no guarantee that you will save every front end push... In fact, the odds are that

Until next time, ride fast, Ride safe!

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...Where the FIRST consideration for any product is the ability to withstand the RIGORS of the RACETRACK!!

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www.woodcraft-cfm.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 147

FRICTION ZONE

THE NEW NECK CANDY

WORDS: KIANA GADSON IMAGES: KIANA GADSON/NECKMIKE

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I

t’s your girl K.G. As always I’m focused on fashion and what’s in the now. Y’all already know that if there’s one thing you can count on Rickey G and myself for, it’s introducing that new hot gear and the latest products to you guys, whom we consider our extended family on two! And this month I’m focused on the new piece of neck candy Rickey and our drag racing school students are sporting.

It’s called the Neckmike, and it’s how we communicate in 2014. Neckmike is a lightweight and rugged communication device that uses a mic that picks up speech near your voice box for optimum sound.

The throat mic is based on military technology to pick up sound at the source to minimize the sounds of wind, loud pipes and traffic.

Last time Rickey instructed an Advanced riding mentor class for the Military, the Neckmike really came in handy to talk to the other instructors to discuss test scores in the field during the test standing 200 feet away from each other.

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FRICTION ZONE: THE NEW NECK CANDY students are gonna love the Neckmike because it has a range for up to a half mile. So we are now able to “be with” our students as they ride the entire 1320 feet (drag strip). This thing is perfect for our school because unlike other devices we’ve used in the past, Neckmike is worn on the user and doesn’t need to be hard wired into the helmet. You just pop in the ear buds and put the mic near your throat. It’s also smaller and lighter than any other device we’ve ever used before.

On the street, we can use it with or without a cellphone. So when we do our annual charity ride we can use it to talk to our road captains and have an even more organized outing regardless of how big the group is. Plus, if I do decide to connect Neckmike to my cellphone, I can listen to music and answer calls with the high-fidelity stereo ear bud speakers that sound on point and double as earplugs to block out unwanted outside sounds while on the go.

I think I’m most excited about not having to worry about my husband making up hand gestures as he goes along while we ride because we can just talk normally to each other. But don’t tell him I said that or I’ll deny it.

Such a punk thing to say, I know. Just kidding.

This is your girl K.G. and as always, I’m focused. I’ll see you soon on two’s! Muah!

Visit HTTP://NECKMIKE.US for more information on the NeckMike Bluetooth Systems. Use code: GADSON25 and receive a special 25% discount off of your order.

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FRICTION ZONE

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THE GREAT AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE SHOW WORDS AND IMAGES: MEEKAIL SHAHEED SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 153

FRICTION ZONE: THE GREAT AMERICAN...

T

he Great American Motorcycle Show at North Atlanta Trade Center was the place for local and national custom builders to showcase their work. Going strong since 1992, The Great American Motorcycle Show has been the event to attend to see vintage, current, and future bikes. If you needed any accessory, you could find it at the show.

Holding the crown as Georgia's Largest Indoor Bike Show, this year had to be one of the best. Local builders RFL Customz’s all girl shop, headed up by Stacey BikeBuilder Hicks, was in the house. She wowed OCC’s Master Fabricator Christian Welter with her builds.

Uptowngrafx was another crowd favorite with their unique paint and custom work. Orange County Choppers owner Paul Teutul Sr. along with his Senior Designer Jason Pohl were also on hand signing autographs and taking photos with the thousands in attendance that filed through the doors throughout the weekend.

Garwood Custom Cycles was on hand with their custom Harley Bagger that is sure to turn heads this summer. If you did not get to see it in Atlanta, they assured me that it will be on the streets in Daytona this year. The builders this year expressed, in no uncertain terms, that the custom bike is becoming more popular with riders. Be it sport bike, bobbers, trikes, or baggers, there is something out there for everyone along with some talented builders who have the skills and knowledge to do just about anything that can be done with a bike. If you missed this show you definitely need to put it on your calendar for next year.

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FRICTION ZONE: THE GREAT AMERICAN...

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FRICTION ZONE: RANDOM

Image: Allan Lane

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T

he episode is entitled "Betrayal's Climax."

I'm a fan of the show. It's one of the few programs that I actually watch when I have time to watch TV (few and far between). Obviously it's based on actual events in the news and reality, thus the disclaimer in the beginning of the show. However, this particular scene had nothing to do with the plot, sub plot or the inevitable twist that usually appears at about the 45 minute mark. As a track rider, street rider, TV/Film executive producer and a journalist, I am bothered by this stretch. And I mean stretch in terms of trying to fit this scene into the plot. It did not add anything to the story.

If you guys have been reading SBI, you may have read my thoughts on the actual incident and others like it around the country. There is active internal damage control by the riding and club community to effectively change the image of the way riders see themselves and their behavior, whether on or off the bike. Being a representative of the bike community goes well beyond actual riding. These efforts have been in play for the last few years. A lot of the younger riders are still slow to get the point about what being a responsible rider, regardless of style of riding, is all about. All riders have a grey cloud over us simply because we choose to ride. That grey cloud has turned black.

Either let it rain or let the sun burn through.

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THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

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

N°1 for Mileage according to an independent test of Motorrad TestCenter comparing Pirelli Angel GT with Michelin Pilot Road 3, Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart II, Bridgestone Battlax BT 023, Continental RoadAttack 2 and Metzeler Roadtec Z8 Interact M/O on SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 161 120/70ZR-17 and 180/55ZR-17 set. The test took place in Spain, Marbella in November and December 2012, using six Suzuki Bandit 1250 ABS.

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.

Mark Tempesta! What’s on your hit list?

“June” by No Malice. Personally one of my favorite songs for so many reasons. The hook is great. No one can argue with the sample from Frank Sinatra’s “That’s life”.

“Sail” by Awolnation. Talk about a song that gets stuck in your head. Lyrically, not the most complex song I’ve ever heard.

But then again, “blame it on my A.D.D.” “Guap” by Big Sean. Just a good song. My favorite line is “paid taxes, paid dues, paid bills my whole life, so Imma throw money in the air like I’m tryna pay the sky!” I mean who hasn’t felt the same way?

Mark Tempesta Owner of Break Lites Motorsports

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FRICTION ZONE: SPORTBIKES INK!!!

Want to show off your SPORTBIKES INK? Please click on the icon to send clear, high quality, hi res photos.

RIDER// Pulla BIKE// 2001 Kawasaki ZX9R TATTOO ARTIST// Ed Tatts

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RIDER// Dan Ramey BIKE// 2007 Honda CBR 600RR TATTOO ARTIST// Various

RIDER// Jay Stuntz BIKE// 2003 Kawasaki ZX636 TATTOO ARTIST// Shaun Washburn SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 165

THIS LIFE

IT’S TIME FOR MOTOGP!

WORDS: TYSON BECKFORD IMAGE: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM Preseason testing has started in Malaysia and the results from the first round of tests are in. The top five standings placed current Champion Marc Marquez in the number one spot. The order followed with Valentino Rossi, Jorge Lorenzo, Aleix Espargaro, Stephen Bradl then Dani Pedrosa.

Let’s note a few of the changes in the MotoGP paddock. Fellow American, Nicky Hayden has gone back to Honda under team Drive M7 Aspar. Colin Edwards gets a new Yamaha backed motor for his NGM Forward Racing team. The homie Scott Redding steps up to the premier class with Go&Fun Honda Gresini Team. Cal Crutchlow moves to the factory

Ducati team, filling the spot left vacant by Hayden’s departure. Dizzy yet? There’s always movement and activity in MotoGP that’s why you must pay close attention and stay up on it.

For 2014, two new circuits have been added to the schedule, Argentina and Brazil. These two South American rounds are sure to add excitement to the MotoGP season and are on my personal list of races to attend... in addition to the Austin and Indy events.

It’s so exciting and the season hasn’t even really began yet. But it’s coming. It’s time. It’s going to be an exciting season ahead and we wish all the riders a safe one.

GO&FUN Honda Gresini Team Rider, Scott Redding.

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LIGHTECH The most famous teams rely on LighTech in order to be the best. All LighTech products are designed and manufactured in Italy using the highest quality CNC engineering techniques and most advanced technology. Adjustable rear sets, chain adjusters, adjustable and folding magnesium levers, front and rear stands, fuel gas caps, ergal screws kit, carbon parts, frame protections, mirrors, led indicators and more‌

info@lightech.it

Follow us on Lightech racing

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THE NEW ISH ALPINESTARS • ATEM LEATHER JACKET The Atem Leather Jacket is made for the street with the technology and performance features derived from the track. Along CE certified armor in the shoulders and elbows, the level of protection offered is upgraded with compartments in the chest area where Alpinestars Bionic Armor can be inserted. Further, the Atem features Alpinestars’ external Dynamic Friction Shield technology.

Sizes: Euro 48 - 60 Colors:White/Black/Yellow, Black, Black/White, Black/White/Red, Red/Black Price:$699.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com

MOTION PRO • REVOLVER VARIABLE RATE THROTTLE KIT With the Revolver Kit, you can customize your throttle response specifically to your riding needs. The kit replaces your stock throttle hand assembly with your choice of four reel sizes ranging from 35mm to 50mm, slower to faster, respectively. The Revolver Kit includes throttle assembly, black vinyl cables and grips.

Price: $154.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com

NEW RAGE CYCLES • NRC MIRROR BLOCK OFF LED TURN SIGNALS Give your Kawasaki ZX10R a sleek looking front end by removing your stock mirrors and install these flush LED turn signals from NRC. They offer great visibility in the day or night thanks to their one millimieter LED signals.

Available in a simulated carbon fiber or flat black finish.

Price: $119.95 Contact: http://newragecycles.com 168 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

GPR STABILIZERS • GPRV4 KIT FOR THE HONDA GROM Increase your stability while minimizing head shakes on your Honda Grom with the GPRV4 steering damper kit. Easily adjusted via the center mounted knob, the GPRV4 makes setting selection very simple. Available in eight anodized colors.

Colors: Black, Blue, Red, Titanium, Gold, Green, Orange, Purple Price: $495.00 Contact: http://gprstabilzers.com

JOE ROCKET • R1000X LITHIUM HELMET With captivating graphics, Joe Rocket’s new R1000X offers 18 vents for optimum air circulation via their Quadport 2.0 ventilation system. The R1000X features a dual density, lightweight EPS impact absorbing liner that is fully removable and washable. The helmet is equipped with a rear integrated spoiler that severely reduces drag and head shake while traveling at speed. It ships with two shield: an anti fog 3D shield and a hard coated, dark smoke shield.

Sizes: S - XXL Colors: Red/Yellow, Blue/Silver, Green/Charcoal, Purple/Pink/ Black, White, Charcoal/Red Price: $169.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com SEATS BY TOMMY • CUSTOM SEATS

One of the most definitive methods of customization for your bike is the addition of a custom seat. Seats by Tommy offers a full customization service with a multitude of fabrics and material to select from as well as the ability to transfer any logo or image and incorporate it into the seat design. If you can envision it, they can create it.

Price: Contact for Pricing Contact: http://www.seats-by-tommy.com

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THE NEW ISH FACTORY EFFEX • EVX KAWASAKI ZX10R PRE CUT GRAPHIC WRAP KIT The EVX Wrap Kit is a great way to give your ZX10R a visual makeover at a fraction of the price and also protects the bike’s fairings from minor dings and scratches. The kit is made from a scratch resistant Ultracurve vinyl and is precision cut specifically for the your bike’s make and model. Included in the kit are pre cut graphics for the upper, lower, tank, nose, front and rear fenders, forks and swingarm. Available in several colors for the 2011 through 2013 Kawasaki ZX10R. Colors: Red, Green, Blue, Grey Price: $249.95 Contact: http://factoryeffex.com

ROARING TOYZ • CHROME PLATED HAYABUSA STATOR COVER Add a little style to your Busa with the cleverly designed “RT Kanji” engraved on this stator cover from Roaring Toyz.

Available for the the Suzuki Hayabusa but also fits the Suzuki B King.

Price: $174.99 Contact: http://roaringtoyz.com

SPORTBIKE LITES • SBL UNIVERSAL BILLET GRIPS

If you are looking to add some detailed style to your ride, pick up a pair of the SBL Universal Grips that feature a black anodized outer sleeve with a rounded contrast cut. The colorful inner sleeve shows through the grips cut away design, giving your bike a stylish and detailed bit of customization. The grips are open ended and work with a large variety of bar ends.

Coors: (Inner Sleeves) Red, Green, Blue, Black, Chrome Price: $129.99 Contact: http://sportbikelites.com 170 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

VOODOO EXHAUST • SHORTY SLIP ON EXHAUST FOR THE KAWASAKI ZX14R Shave some weight off of your ZX14R and free some trapped horses with the Shorty Slip On Exhaust from Voodoo. The system is composed of dual CNC stainless steel mufflers that include rebuildable baffles and laser etched Voodoo Exhaust logos. These slip ons are engineered to install easily with your stock headers as well as painless applications for bikes with wide tire kits and stretched swingarms.

Colors: Black, Polished Price: $589.99 Contact: http://voodoomoto.com

ICON MOTOSPORTS • LADIES CITADEL MESH JACKET Part of the ICON Citadel collection, the Citadel Ladies Mesh Jacket is designed for a woman’s frame in a sport fit. The jacket is engineered with a nylon and mesh outer shell that houses a removable insulated vest liner that provides warmth in cooler riding conditions. Safety features include D30 armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back as well as light reflective welds for visibility.

Sizes: XS - XXXL Price: $300.00 - $330.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

PRO SERIES • UNIVERSAL WHEEL SYSTEM SET The Pro Series Universal Wheel System offers you the convenience of sharing your wheel set up with several bikes with the use model specific carrier adapters, with no modifications.

This system is an investment that actually saves you money because it eliminates the need to buy another set of wheels when or if you buy another bike. You simply buy the appropriate adapter and aftermarket sprocket for your new bike and you’re good to go. The wheels are machined from forged aerospace aluminum and finished in a Magnum Grey. The set ships with front and rear wheels and specified carrier adaptor. Applications for most late model Japanese bikes.

Price: $1,895.90 - $1,945.70 Contact: http://rkexcelamerica.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 171

THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM C AND S CUSTOM • SINGLE SIDE SWINGARM WIDE TIRE KIT The team at C and S Custom have put all the necessary components for converting your bike into a single sided swingarm, wide tire machine. The kit includes your selection of rear wheel or set of wheels, rear tire, chain, sprocket, rear brake line and rear brake caliber assembly. The kit is available in lengths 6 to 20 inches over stock. The tire width selection ranges from 240 to 360. Each kit is specific to your make and model of bike so contact C and S for options and prices.

Price: Contact for Pricing

Contact: http://candscustom.com

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Be Fast or Be Last.

GT-R leather jacket

We’ve taken all the crucial safety necessities and added a clean, sport-inspired look to create the GT-R jacket.

The style is alluring, and the fact it’s fully equipped with safety features makes it irresistible. Prolife® CE protection found at the shoulders and elbows, plus the carbon shoulder protectors and safety stitching at critical seams all help keep you safe at speed, while ventilation features and stretch panels will keep you comfortable and in control when you are giving everything you have.

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

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STAFF STUFF DP BRAKES AND CLUTCHES • DPSK HIGH PERFORMANCE STREET CLUTCH KIT Allan Lane

I’ve used DP Clutches for a number of years on my everyday ride, a 2005 Ducati 749. I also use it on one of my track bikes, a 2001 Ducati 748s. In the era of dry clutches, the likelihood of burning through a set of clutch plates runs high and they can be a bit pricey.

I’ve tried to run other clutch kits, from the heavy duty race kits to the OEM to the average aftermarket kits. I could never find the right balance. Either the kit was too expensive and didn’t offer the grab that I was looking for or the kits were priced decently but the quality was less than desired.

systems.

I was initially attracted to the DP kit because of the price and at the time, it was what could be delivered the next day as I had burned out my clutch a few days before I was set to leave on a road trip. The kit arrived with everything needed to install: friction plates, steel plates and clutch springs. The grab when I pulled in and released the clutch lever while shifting was on point. The transition was smooth as the engine engaged. Keep in mind that the 749 is ridden hard and year round. What I noticed and what impressed me most was the length The deal with dry clutch systems is that they are absent of time before I felt any type of slippage in the clutch of fluids lubricating them. The alternating friction and and needed to replace the plates again. steel plates are in direct contact with one another inside the clutch basket, spinning and sliding as you shift through the gears. Obviously, the wear and tear http://dp-brakes.com on dry clutch set ups are much higher than on hydraulic Rating: 6 (out of 6)

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Ryo Kaneta Location: Tokyo, Japan

I

n memory of my friend, Carlos Navarro... Ride in peace. -Kimihiko Tsuzuki