JULY 2020 VOL 10 ISSUE 10
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
GT
Triumph's
ROCKET 3
TM
PODCAST 2 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
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CONTENTS
JULY 2020 - VOLUME 10, ISSUE 10 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14 14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=32 34 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=40 40 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=52 52 ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY - By
Brian and Julian Glascoe
66 THE INSIDE LINE - By Devonne Duerbaum http://issuu.com/action/page?page=72 72 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=78 78 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=86 86 THE NEW ISH
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=66
FEATURED RIDER: NINJABRAAP http://issuu.com/action/page?page=72 PAGE 72
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FEATURES
JULY 2020 - VOLUME 10, ISSUE 10
THE FIRST RIDE: TRIUMPH'S ROCKET 3 GT
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FROM NITROUS TO TURBO DRAG RACING
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: PRIORITIES
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MOTOGP’S HIGHWAY TO HELL IN JEREZ!
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P.M.S. IS GETTING THE BEST OF ME
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THE NEW ISH
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STAFF
Publisher//Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
ART & DESIGN
Staff Writers: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Devonne Duerbaum devonne@sportbikesincmag.com Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Copy Editor: Stacey Lane stacey@sportbikesincmag.com Contributors: Kevin Duke
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com Cover Photography: Stephen Gregory Contributing Photographers: Stephen Gregory Asphalt & Opportunity MotoGP.com WorldSBK.com The SB Image Vicki Smith
SportBikes Inc Magazine - July 2020 Volume 10, Issue 10 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2020 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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No helmet can protect the wearer against all foreseeable impacts. Nothing is a substitute for safe riding2020 practices. ©2020 Arai Helmet JULY | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM |9
FEATURE STORY
GT
Triumph's
ROCKET 3
PAGE 18
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FROM THE EDITOR
TAKE THE RIDE and adventure riding, will make you a betterrounded rider, with a greater perspective on That’s my reply when I am asked, which is your bike life or bike journey. often, “sportbike or cruiser?” Over the years, I’ve learned to appreciate and embrace the I always say, “If they give me the keys to elements and excitement of both riding styles. it… I’m gonna ride it.” Why wouldn’t I? I do own a cruiser and several sportbikes and Why would I dismiss the opportunity to ride what I ride on which day depends on my something new or at least new to me? Why mood and sometimes the weather. I’m just would I miss an opportunity to ride, period? as aggressive on my cruiser as I am on my sportbikes, experiencing the same level of So the next time you are given the opportunity exhilaration from kickstand up to kickstand to ride something that you normally would not down. and they offer you the keys… Take the ride. Both.
Motorcyclists shouldn’t limit themselves to one Best, style of bike or one style of riding. Being well Allan versed in all genres of riding, including dirt @mrblackmoses 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
USING A RACETRACK AS A LIVING LABORATORY
As a recognised long-standing major motorsport player, Motul benefits from the world’s best laboratory in the most extreme racing conditions. At the Isle of Man TT, you must fully trust your machine around bumpy and winding public roads at 330km/h. Honda has chosen Motul to lubricate their racing engines: a reward for our ingenuity and performances.
Recognised by many teams worldwide as the best racing engine oil, the 300V has inspired a wide range of engine motor oil tailored to meet the most demanding constraints of daily rides. Find the one you need on www.motul.com
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THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS
IN THE AGE OF COVID-19, THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN'S RIDE SHIFTS A GEAR IN 2020
Since 2012, the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride has brought together 316,000 riders from 104 countries across the globe and raised over 24 million dollars for men's health awareness. But how can a single-day fundraising event that relies heavily on groups of bespoke suited and booted riders riding en mass to brings attention and raise money for a noble cause occur while our world is stricken with a pandemic?
a solo event for this year, removing all large-scale events for the year to maintain the safety of our participants. Since there will be no physical event for 2020, there will be no guidelines to complete. This removes the pressure of asking for council approval and time associated with ride management. We will need your help to encourage riders to participate solo, so please follow your local social distancing restrictions and act accordingly."
Simple. You make it a solo riding event.
There are four steps to participating in this year's solo DGR. First, register on the DGR site. Secondly, raise funds and be eligible for some amazing prizes and awards. This year's prizes include motorcycles from Triumph (Thruxton RS, Scrambler 1200 and a Speed Twin are up for grabs). You can donate on behalf of yourself, another rider or collect donations on your behalf. Third, ride your solo ride on Sunday, September 28. DGR suggests a route no longer than 2 hours and be sure to grab some pics. Fourth, share your images via the DGR portal to connect the global moto-community.
"In deciding a clear path for DGR in 2020, we have considered a number of event contingencies, key factors, and significant feedback returned from hosts, participants and sponsors throughout recent years. We are determined to maintain the key values of DGR by focusing on: community connection, maintaining our integrity, and ensuring the safety of our participants. We feel that running a full-scale event would be perceived as insensitive after so much has been lost due to the impacts of COVID-19, so we must do all we can to reduce pressure on hosts and riders who are still affected by the impacts of the global pandemic," said DGR Founder Mark Hawwa. Hawwa continued, "Our decision has led us to running 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
Participants will receive a full of instructions upon completing their registration on the DGR site, where more details and information can be found.
VOODOO'S NEW BILLET ALUMINUM CLUTCH COVER FOR THE KAWASAKI ZX14 AND ZX14R Voodoo Moto's latest offering to the asphalt slayers comes by way of their new billet aluminum clutch cover for the Kawasaki ZX14 and ZX14R, model years 2006 through 2020. The clutch cover comes ready to install with a five-bolt removable inspection cover, a billet aluminum oil fill cap, and socket head mounting bolts as well as clear and visible oil sight glass. The clutch cover is anodized black with the legendary Voodoo logo engraved on the face. If you are a drag racer, Voodoo is now offering a clutch cover contingency. Check with your race association for qualifications and details. The Voodoo Moto Clutch Cover, with a retail price of $339.99, fits both stock and aftermarket clutches and does require fairing modification.
THE HJC RPHA 11 PRO JOKER! HELMET HJC GIVES GOTHAM'S CLOWN PRINCE OF CRIME HIS OWN LID HJC continues its lineup of DC character replica with an aerodynamic shell structure composed helmets with the new RPHA 11 Pro that features of HJC’s Premium Integrated Matrix (P.I.M. Plus) the Joker in stunning and bold graphics. shell material for enhanced shock-resistance in a lightweight helmet. The Joker, sized XXS through With the HJC Helmet RPHA 11 Pro, HJC’s XXL, ships with both a Smoke shield and an antipremium sport helmet, as the platform, the Joker is fog lens included. With an MSRP of $599.99, going to turn more than a few heads as you ride the Joker ships with a five-year warranty. by. The RPHA 11 is designed for the racetrack
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THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS HARLEY-DAVIDSON'S 2151CC SCREAMIN' EAGLE 131 CRATE ENGINE
Now available for a selection of H-D Softail models, the Screamin' Eagle 131 cubic (2151cc) inch V-Twin engine is the most powerful street engine that the brand has ever created. Select 2018 or later year Softail models are eligible for a massive upgrade and boost in power and performance with this bolt-in replacement engine. The Screamin Eagle 131 combines the 4.5-inch stroke of the MilwaukeeEight 114 with new 4.31-inch bore cylinders. The 114's extreme ported four-valve cylinder heads are CNCported and fitted with valves that are 1mm larger in diameter to improve air/fuel flow and velocity in the 131. The finishing components include a high-lift SE8-517 camshaft and highperformance cam bearing, 10.7:1 compression forged pistons, a 64mm throttle body and intake manifold, and 5.5-grams per second high-flow fuel injectors. When paired with H-D's Screamin' Eagle Street Cannon mufflers, the Screamin’ Eagle 131 packs a whopping 135 foot-pounds of torque and 124 HP at the rear wheel. Have your engine installed at an authorized H-D dealer and receive a 12-month factory limited warranty. 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
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GT
Triumph's
ROCKET 3
GO BIG OR GO HOME! 18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
WORDS: KEVIN DUKE IMAGES: STEPHEN GREGORY JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19
THE FIRST RIDE: TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 GT
THE ROCKET 3 brings into relief the sharp distinctions between the cultures of America and Great Britain. For monster-motored motorcycles, the USA offers the Boss Hoss with giant V-8 car engines. From across the pond arrives the latest version of Triumph’s Rocket, now with a new 2.5-liter three-cylinder motor and beautiful finish detailing. The big Trumpet eschews the crudeness of the Boss in exchange for a cohesive design that results in a level of panache that surprises from such a freakish machine. When seen in person, the Rocket is almost guaranteed to bring smiles to gearhead’s faces, whether by its beauty or its sheer outlandishness. The Rocket has been transformed from almost agricultural to something near suave. Its rich finishes draw eyes closer and make them linger. Brushed aluminum fuel and oil tank caps look lovely and expensive, as does the brushed stainless steel tank strap. A single-sided swingarm proudly displays a gorgeous machined rear wheel. The Rocket’s centerpiece is its engine, a monstrous and wonderful three-cylinder displacing a ridiculous 2453cc. With its lovely aluminum airbox cover on the left and alluring hydroformed exhaust headers on the right, it’s perhaps the prettiest new engine on the road. And the handsome motor is backed up by massive might, punching out more torque (163 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm) than anything on two wheels, aside from the truly ridiculous V-8 Boss Hosses. Triumph boasts that it makes 70% more torque than its closest rival, and there’s no less than 147 lb-ft in a broad zone from 2500 to 5500rpm.
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THE FIRST RIDE: TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 GT
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The Rocket 3’s all-new Euro 5-compliant motor is actually a short-stroke design measuring 110.2mm x 85.9mm, versus the 101.6 x 94.3mm format of the outgoing 2294cc engine. This allows shorter conrods to reduce the height of the motor, as well as bumping up the rev limit to 7000rpm. More to the point, though, is that the larger-capacity engine weighs a massive 39.6 pounds less than the smaller old one. Yes, the Rocket is big, but Triumph has re-engineered everything from the previous Rocket III to shed weight. A key ingredient is its new aluminum frame claimed to be half the weight of the previous steel frame, helping shave a massive 88 pounds overall despite having a larger engine. Claimed dry weight is 648 pounds, so it’s probably close to 700 pounds in operating condition. The Rocket 3 is available in two versions: a roadster-styled R model retails for $20,900, while the GT tested here costs $700 extra and adds a larger windscreen, passenger backrest, and heated grips, along with a more cruiser-y riding position with feet placed further forward, bars a little rearward, and a seat slightly lower. The GT’s seat, at 29.5 inches, is overall on the low side, which can be beneficial to those with short legs, and it proves to be wide and supportive, enabling 150-mile stints between tank-fulls. Kudos to Triumph for equipping the GT with footpegs adjustable to three positions over a two-inch span. The internally wired handlebar forces a forward scrunch that I found mostly comfortable, but, depending on arm length, your mileage may vary. The Rocket’s heft is most apparent when it’s not rolling, but the mass seems to dissipate once underway. Taking off from a stop couldn’t be easier, as there’s so much engine torque that throttle application isn’t even necessary. But you’ll want to use it, as the motor has a diesel-like bottom end that pulls cleanly from even 1500rpm and all the way to its newly inflated 7000rpm redline. Clutch pull is amazingly light for a machine pumping out boatloads of torque, and the transmission shifts with uncanny JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 23
THE FIRST RIDE: TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 GT SELDOM DOES THE DESIGN OF PASSENGER FOOTPEGS EVER WARRANT MENTIONING, BUT HERE ARE THE COOLEST ONES WE’VE SEEN. IT’S DELIGHTFUL TO ASK OBSERVERS TO FIGURE OUT WHERE THEY ARE HIDDEN. THEY SPROUT FROM THE SILVER ANGLED PIECE SEEN ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THIS PHOTO, FOLDING OUT TWICE FROM WHAT LOOKS LIKE NOTHING. KUDOS TO TRIUMPH FOR SPENDING DESIGN AND ENGINEERING DOLLARS ON COMPONENTS THAT COULD EASILY HAVE BEEN MADE CHEAPLY AND WITHOUT MUCH THOUGHT.
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THE FIRST RIDE: TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 GT precision for such a monstrous powerplant. A tall sixth cog helps reduce vibes at highway speeds. Triumph Shift Assist, enabling clutchless gear changes, is optional. The exhaust note sounds like half of a Jaguar inline-6, with a growl and a whoosh that begs for an aftermarket pipe. Horsepower peaks with a rowdy 165 ponies at 6,000rpm. The Rocket’s fat tires are quite influential on its dynamics, with a front tire as wide as some bike’s rears and a back tire wider than some cars. The chunky rubber looks appropriate for a contraption this size, but the resulting rolling stock is very heavy and contributes to the jolts felt when hitting sharpedged bumps. It also makes the bike awkward to handle when crossing uneven surfaces and slows steering responses at high speeds. Handling, otherwise, is remarkably adept for a 700-pound two-wheeler. Responsible for getting all that weight slowed down is an impressive set of top-shelf Brembo brake hardware (topshelf Stylemas upfront) combined with a five-axis inertial measurement unit and cornering ABS. It’s a combined brake system in which the ECU determines - depending on speed, lean angle, and weight transfer - if adding a little rear brake activation to go along with front lever pressure would help steady the bike. It works so seamlessly that I didn’t realize it had such a system until I read about it after testing. The rear brake operates independently. Hill-hold control keeps the beast from rolling unexpectedly on an incline, and cruise control keeps the beast rolling at steady speeds until the 4.8-gallon tank runs dry. To find out how far the Rocket has progressed from its previous edition, we invited a longtime Rocket owner who has probably filled your ears with music at some time in your life. Daniel Ash is a founding member of proto-goth band Bauhaus and the driving force in the rock group Love and Rockets. “The first thing I noticed with the new Rocket 3 is how light it is,” Ash commented. “The overall balance of the bike is a big improvement on the original. It’s as easy to throw around the bends as a sportbike. I have to say that’s not the case with the older Rocket. I noticed as the day went on how I was riding 26 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
ROCKER DANIEL ASH, EX-BAUHAUS AND LOVE AND ROCKETS, CUTS A DASHING FIGURE ON THE ROCKET 3 GT.
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THE FIRST RIDE: TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 GT
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THE FIRST RIDE: TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 GT
DANIEL ASH’S BLACKED-OUT ROCKET III LOOKS DULL AND AWKWARD NEXT TO THE HANDSOME NEW ROCKET 3 GT.
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faster and faster because it handles so damn well.” The TFT instrumentation is an average piece for such a special machine. The 4.5-inch display is smaller than many contemporary TFT screens, so some of the type is small and difficult to read by dull eyes. Logically arranged switchgear is easy to use and has a quality tactile feel. Rider mode is nicely customizable to choose particular throttle-response and traction control parameters. Keyless ignition is convenient, as are the finely tuned self-canceling turn signals. Attractive bar-end mirrors offer reasonable views of all vehicles you’ll leave behind. Powerful engines create a furnace of heat, but the Rocket does an admirable job of hiding its effects from a rider. Still, you’ll feel it on warm days, mostly on the right leg next to those delectable exhaust headers and especially when stopped with a foot down. A small price to pay for one of the most epic moto engines on the road in one of the most special production motorcycles ever. No, it’s certainly not for everyone, but the Rocket 3 offers a motorbike experience like no other and the attention to detail that will make its owners proud wherever they ride. JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31
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R-RACER SCREENS Right off the track
*Sticker set not included
2020 KRT Tech Sponsor – Jonathan Rea | World SBK Champion
puigusa.com JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33
THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS
ESTORIL REPLACES MISANO AS THE 2020 WORLDSBK SEASON FINALE
The FIM and Dorna released a revised schedule that lists Circuito do Estoril, just outside of Lisbon, Portugal as the final race for the 2020 season. For the last few years, the season finale has been hosted by Misano. This calendar revision and finale replacement, this is the first time that Portugal will host two WorldSBK rounds in a single season, with the first taking place at the beginning of August. Estoril is not just a replacement, but also an additional round for 2020. The circuit's inclusion in the 2020 season marks its return to the WorldSBK calendar since 1993. From 2000 through 2012, the circuit hosted the Portuguese rounds of MotoGP and in 2020, hosted the FIM CEV Repsol Junior World Championship. Scheduled for the weekend of October 16 through 18 and will include the WorldSBK Championship, the FIM Supersport Championship and the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship.
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MOTOGP 2020 GETS AN ADDITIONAL ROUND AND A NEW VENUE FOR THE SEASON FINALE
Dorna, IRTA and FIM have announced the addition of a fifteenth round to the 2020 season. Scheduled for the weekend of November 20-22, the final round will commence at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão, Portugal. Autodromo has been on the reserve list for the GP calendar since 2017 and will now welcome GP back to Portugal for the first time since 2012.
in 2017 with Portimao to be the reserve circuit for any kinds of cancellations, and we’ve been in contact with them all this time. We’ve been to Portimão with Superbike and we think it’s an amazing possibility for us, and also in the agreement is that the track will be resurfaced after the Superbike round. When we explained this to the riders they were excited because they’ve seen the track on TV, but we’ve never been there." “It’s big news for us, we signed an agreement Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports CEO.
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THE PRESS ROOM: THE GRID NEWS THE OFFICIAL PETRONAS YAMAHA SEPANG RACING TEAM REPLICA 2020 YZF-R1 To commemorate the 46th anniversary of the high-performance Ă–hlins race suspension set team's title sponsor PETRONAS, 46 Limited up (FGRT 2 road & track front forks, and a Edition replicas will be made. TTX rear shock), a race-spec steering damper and a factory kit exhaust system. The PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing MotoGP Team teamed up with Yamaha Motor Among the bells and whistles of the replica, Europe and the Yamaha Austria Racing Team a few more gems are spotlighted: a rear tire to produce an official, limited edition replica quick-change system, racing rearsets, race of the YZR-M1 piloted by team riders, Franco ECU, and a quick action throttle. The brake set Morbidelli and Fabio Quartararo. up is composed of Brembo GP4-RX calipers and T-Drive discs while the bike is rolling on The replica includes upgrades and components seven-spoke aluminum Marchesini wheels, to make it as close to the PETRONAS' team fitted with Michelin race slicks. MotoGP bike as possible, down to the livery which is completed by the same paint shop And, as if the deal needed to be sweetened responsible for the GP bike. The replica is even further, each customer will receive an highlighted by a selection of factors such as impressive care package: a KYT Helmet, a the carbon fairing kit, MotoGP winglets, a PETRONAS Yamaha SRT polo shirt, and the
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opportunity to attend an upcoming round of identification number, engraved on the CNC MotoGP as a VIP. You can register online machined top yoke. HERE. For the specification of everything you get for Each replica bike, limited to a production run the price tag of â‚Ź46,000.00 or $54,420.30 of 46 to commemorate the 46th anniversary (at the time of posting), click HERE. of PETRONAS, will be built with its unique JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37
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THE GRID
N
O STOP SIGN, NO SPEED LIMIT – MOTOGP’S HIGHWAY TO HELL IN JEREZ!
MOTOGP WITH B.T.
WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM 40 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
NO STOP SIGN, NO SPEED LIMIT!
MOTOGP’S H I G H WAY
TO HELL IN JEREZ!
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
ONE OF THE greatest things about Summer for me is the Summer Blockbuster! You’d seen all the trailers for the movie since forever and now the big night is here. You’d get your popcorn and Icee (all flavors mixed… That’s how ya’ boy does it), then you’d get that perfect seat and its movie time! The only thing you’re thinking is, “Please be good. Please be good!” And when it was good! You were so pumped! You wanted to scream from the rooftop, “Yo! You gotta see (insert name of movie here)! It was that shit!”
down like an old K-Mart! Yeah, this is going to be different, to say the least. But… GP is back! It didn’t take long for things to get back to close to normal with Moto3. These kids did the usual business of giving me a heart attack! Every lap, it seemed, was a scrap to just survive. You couldn’t call this race until it ended but I will say, I had a feeling about John McPhee and Albert Arenas. Turns out, I was right and wrong.
That’s exactly how the opening round for the MotoGP premier class was in Jerez, Spain on I was wrong with McPhee crashing in the final turn and spot on with Arenas! Arenas showed July 19th. his maturity and made it two for two and with Moto3 and Moto2 had already turned their wheels now just twelve races remaining, Two wins and in anger earlier in March before COVID-19 put a twelve-point lead over his nearest competitor, an abrupt pause in proceedings, preventing the Arenas looks ready to assert himself as the man big boys from racing and forcing GP Freaks like to beat in this street fight class. yours truly into a state of depression that can only be cured by watching our boys working it out on In Moto2, Luca Marini was smooth as his brother a race track at over 200mph! Valentino Rossi as he coasted to an easy victory. Marini made it look effortless on Sunday and Our depression was lifted the third week of July pulled to within twenty points of championship when MotoGP got the green flag to go racing. leader, Tetsuta Nagashima. Nagashima, despite This championship is going to be stranger than a runner-up finish, looks every bit of a champion most years, as you all know. as he did the night he claimed his maiden victory in Qatar, which seems like eons ago. Moto2 Scheduled for thirteen rounds (fingers crossed), should come down to the wire and its gonna be with no fans, back to Back weekends at some fun to watch. It’s not the street fight that Moto3 is tracks, with the threat of the virus shutting things but its still a fight. Should be fun. 42 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
ALBERT ARENAS JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
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THE TRACK TEMPERATURE AT RACE TIME WAS 125 DEGREES WITH AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 89 DEGREES. THROW IN THE LEATHERS THE RIDERS WERE WEARING… IF THEY WERE IN MID-PACK, THEY WERE BAKING!
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
LUCA MARINI
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As is usual, it was the premier class we were waiting for. This would be their first weekend out and the anticipation was about as high as the Super Bowl. Could Marquez do it again? Would Fabio get his first? What about Rossi? Dovi broke his collarbone a week before the opener. How could he possibly be ready for the fight? Well let me tell you, all these questions were answered and a few more were to be asked afterward! First and foremost, the first question was the weather! This is not to be understated. In May when MotoGP is usually in Jerez, it is hot. But it is July… in Southern Spain… and it was Muy Caliente. It was actually one of the few times where you actually felt the heat without being there.
pit until he was able to rejoin the circuit, albeit in 16th place! And this, this is where he cemented his legend, tenfold! While the rest of the field were dealing with the heat and jockeying for positions, Marquez proceeded to hunt down the field like they owed him money. And he needed that money! What Marquez did to a field of World-Class Riders was astonishing, to say the least. He ran through them like coffee first thing in the morning. But like the song said, “It was all going fine, until…” While dismantling the field and settling in behind Maverick Vinales (you read that right, Maverick Vinales), Marquez approached turn 4 but this time there would be no miraculous save. Instead, Marquez was violently flicked off his bike in a high side of 500cc proportions. Race over, maybe even season. But more on that later.
The track temperature at race time was 125 degrees with an air temperature of 89 degrees. Throw in the leathers the riders were wearing… If they were in mid-pack, they were baking! With those track temps and two prior races, the track was as greasy as a Waffle House on a It was a cruel ending to an otherwise miraculous Saturday night! How would the Yamaha’s do? run. They struggled in years past on this track when it was hot and today was Hell hot! But there was still more race to run. While Marquez was doing his best Criss Angel and Well, the question was answered the day before making the field disappear, Fabio Quartararo as Fabio Quartararo grabbed pole followed by was handling his business. On the same track Maverick Vinales and Marc “8X” Marquez! that had so cruelly robbed him of a victory the It was Vinales that shot off the line like his moniker, previous year, Top Gun, followed closely by Marquez. Fabio got his vengeance and nabbed his first Vinales had gambled with a soft front tyre, with victory at the Angel Nieto Circuit, followed by everybody and I mean everybody else choosing Vinales who somehow managed to garner second a hard front tyre, except his teammate Valentino place despite his front tire being softer than a Rossi. That choice was a Titanic error because rich kid in a public school. Somehow Andrea both were sunk before the race even heated up. Dovizioso managed to get his first podium on a track that never agreed with him, which bodes Marquez pounced on Vinales like Jeffrey Epstein at well for his championship aspirations. Jack Miller a high school prom and quickly started to gap him let a podium slip away because of numbness in until lap 4, turn 4. Marquez produced the save of his hands. And to show what a crazy Sunday it all saves (which is really saying something), and was, Valentino Rossi did not finish due to technical ended up flat tracking his way through the gravel problems with the bike. It seems no one even JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 47
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
FABIO QUARTARARO to be from another planet, but at the same time, there’s only so much the body can take. High The big story was Fabio’s first and Marc’s injury. sides take a toll on the body. Ask Jorge Lorenzo. With Fabio set to be the next big star in MotoGP, everybody wanted to see him and Marquez If it were me, I’d shut Marquez down for his own go toe to toe for the title. For now, that hope is good, have him take his time to rehab his body, fight another day. This season is not like the others. dashed. 2021 will be yours, shut it down Champ! But I As of the writing of this piece, Marquez is out am not Marquez, nor do I work for HRC. of a successful surgery with no suspected nerve damage. His status to return is unknown. Thirteen To watch it all unfold will be interesting but at the races now down to twelve make you wonder if same time, we will witness the molding of a new it is even worth it for the Champ to come back. MotoGP Champion. And, we will witness the Even if he rushes back and makes the third race, mental strength of a Champion who’s not ready he’ll be down at least 50 points maybe even to relinquish that title without a fight! more. Can he catch the leaders without risk of In either case, MotoGP is back and for GP Freaks reinjuring himself? everywhere, that’s all that matters! Seems foolish to even attempt it. We all know Marc is the quintessential alien, he seriously seems Stay tuned Freaks, it is about to get even better! bothered to ask until later.
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY WORDS//IMAGES: BRIAN & JULIAN GLASCOE 52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
F R O M NITROUS TO TURBO
NO TIMES GRUDGE RACING
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
A WISE MAN once told me that grudge turbos were going to change the game. You could kind of see it roughly 3 years ago with the explosion of Williford Racing debuting "Dahli Lhama" at the Kings of Grudge. You could really see it in the consistency once Chris Moore made the change featuring “Cash Is King� in 2018. In 2020, you can see the domination of turbos in grudge with "Billy Mays" and "Avatar" both leading the pack in Big 8 competition. Two turbo grudge bikes running nitrous coming off the starting line and both are fighting for the 2020 Kings of Grudge Big 8 Points lead. It's tough to ask these nitrous grudge bikes to run with the turbos, but its anyone's race in the 1/8 mile. In 2019, the very last grudge event of the season, 54 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
WILLIFORD RACING’S TURBO GRUDGE DRAG RACING BIKE, “DAHLI LHAMA.” JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55
THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
WILLIFORD RACING’S TURBO DRAG RACING BIKE, “PICKIN POCKETS." 56 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
“KOOL AID” PILOTED BY JEREMY TEASLEY.
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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we got to see the return of "Billy Mays" piloted by Billy Ammons in turbo form. This was one of the fastest GSX-R 1000 nitrous grudge machines in racing and has always gone head to head with the best competition from Saw, Eddie Cane and Cobra Commander, back in the day. Over the years, "Billy Mays" has always been a well-respected machine in grudge racing. Its claim to fame is that it won the very first Big 8 Championship in the Kings of Grudge series debut. During the short grudge bike series due to COVID restrictions and the weather, these turbo grudge machines are proving that they are ahead of the pack and very consistent. To anyone that lines up next to them in competition, they know that they have their hands full and this is only the beginning. The competition isn’t going to get any easier. JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 63
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THE LIFE
THE INSIDE LINE
WORDS: DEVONNE DUERBAUM IMAGES: VICKI SMITH 66 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
P A R K E D MOTORCYCLE SYNDROME IS GETTING THE BEST OF ME IT WAS MINUTES away from midnight on December 31st when I was counting down the minutes with friends and colleagues in South Beach, Miami at a New Year's Eve party. I had even tweeted “Whose ready for 2020?!” which ended up being on all the screens at the concert. Everyone was smiling and ready to take on the new year. Little did we know that it was going not going to be as great as a year as we thought. 2020 has hit people differently in many ways. From Covid-19 deaths, losing JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 67
THE LIFE: THE INSIDE LINE jobs, and the more materialistic things like traveling. For me, I’ve luckily only been affected in the travel and riding departments. It bothers me, all the same. I used to travel every few months, sometimes even weeks to races, events, and rides. Then, it all completely stopped. I’m surprised I’m still sane. In March, I would have been at the supercross and flat track races in Daytona. April, I would have been in Austin for MotoGP. I usually fly to a few overseas races throughout the year. I usually attend EICMA in Milan, which is in November and it’s already been canceled. It’s a very weird feeling to not live and breathe motorcycles like I normally do. Normally, I don’t ride as much in Florida because of the heat. The past few months, there's been nothing but constant rain and thunderstorms. If not that, blazing sun. Blazing sun to the point that it’s not even enjoyable to ride. Most of the time you end up getting caught in a thunderstorm after getting a sunburn through your leathers. Even if I wanted to ride, it’s not as fun as it used to be. People are selling their bikes to pay bills and the ones who aren’t are either busy working more, scared to leave their home, or just don’t have it in them after being quarantined. There are no group rides, meet up’s or local events. It’s really now just riding to ride, which is great if you live anywhere besides South Florida. The right place to be right now is in North Carolina with 68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
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THE GRID: MOTOGP LIFE: THE INSIDEWITH LINE B.T.
beautiful riding weather and absolutely who have as much a huge passion for amazing roads. motorsports, as I do. I am grateful for the things I still have and the people I still have. Just like any other person, there are small things lost and are missed, and I miss that life. I miss seeing all my friends all over the world, ripping around towns in Italy, or whatever country I ended up in, and bonding with people 70 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
One day, it will go back to normal. We will have places to ride, travel to different states and countries to all be together on two wheels. I cannot wait for that day. I’m sure you feel the same. Until then, stay sane my friends.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Tom Hunt AKA NinjaBraap LOCATION: Long Beach, CA OCCUPATION: Motorcycle Mechanic, Owner of Imperial Bikes LLC. YEARS RIDING: 8 years. RIDING STYLE: Street and track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2016 Yamaha YZF-R3 and a 2006 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R (636). FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: I’d have to say that when it comes to modding and upgrading, suspension is the most important thing I focus on. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: First, my custom leather track suit from Comet Racing Leathers is the best suit I’ve owned to date. The second thing that I value the most is my HJC RPHA 11 Pro. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Being able to ride on track and corner work for an entire week with California Superbike School up at The Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, WA. As payment for being corner marshals for CSBK School, we had the opportunity to ride between sessions, every day. To top it off I rode a full track day at the very end with MotoFit Group, the track org I did my first track day with, making it a full week of riding on track. 72 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
Eazy22 LOCATION: Nassau County, New York OCCUPATION: Top Flight Security Guard. YEARS RIDING: Since the age of 4, so 27 years now. RIDING STYLE: Street and track. BIKE/S OWNED: “AlienHead” - 2017 S1000RR SuperBike build and “LandShark” - 2019 S1000RR in full track trim. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: On the street bike, my favorite mod would be the carbon fiber one piece Ilmberger nose. On the track bike, it would have to be the shark teeth graphics by 22 MotoWerks. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My custom kangaroo race suit made by the great Salem of HistoricGP Racing Suits. A short second would be my Motegi3 Shoei X-14 sourced from Teddy over at CrashMotoGear. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Too many to have a “most” memorable but most recently, had to be getting my knee down consistently at pace. My "puck touch" was a right hander at NYST in turn 3 which is said to be more difficult considering it’s your throttle hand but with the right speed and lean angle, things get interesting!
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Cristian LOCATION: Glasgow, Scotland OCCUPATION: Head Chef. YEARS RIDING: 15 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2017 Suzuki GSXR 600. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My SC Exhaust and my quick shifter. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My jacket, boots and headset. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Through Fort Williams in the Scottish Highlands. 74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
Kara Thompson LOCATION: Springfield, Missouri OCCUPATION: Registered Nurse. YEARS RIDING: 8 years. RIDING STYLE: Track, street, and dirt (woods). BIKE/S OWNED: 2013 Kawasaki ZX6R, 2014 Triumph Tiger 800, 2016 KTM 250 XCF. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: I love the Dynojet Quickshifter on my track bike. There's nothing comparable to holding throttle wide open and shifting. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Custom Bison leather suit. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: In 2017, I rode Barber Motorsports Park with Sportbike Track Time. Living in Southwest Missouri, you don't have that quality of track nearby. It's by far my favorite track thus far. I can't wait to go again! Â
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Real speed. Unreal results. The roar of the crowd has nothing on the roar of nitro thunder. Harley-DavidsonÂŽ continues its assault on the quarter mile with two-wheeled rockets designed to raise hairs and what's expected.
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©2020 H-D or its affiliates. HARLEY-DAVIDSON, HARLEY, H-D, and the Bar and Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
PRIORITIES IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: THE SB IMAGE 78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: PRIORITIES
THE ART OF riding a motorcycle quickly around a racetrack is a process that includes processing a large quantity of information. One of the beauties of our sport is that there is seemingly no end to the areas in which we can improve. For example, just for starters, riders can work on entrance speed, mid-corner roll speed, or acceleration each corner. At a racetrack that has 12 corners, that’s 36 things to consider before we have even considered anything else (body position, braking technique, etc...). While riders can take in an incredible amount of information on the track, experience has shown that riders can only effectively make changes in one to two areas at a time. Any attempt to do more than this tends to be more change than the average person can implement with any degree of effectiveness. With this in mind, one of the first jobs of a rider who wants to lower lap times is to establish priorities that allow for improvement in the most important areas first.
corner that is both long and bumpy and riders tend to feel slow there. Understandably, they want to get rid of this "slow" feeling (racers always do). While riders can certainly benefit from dialing in this corner, the difference in speed between the fastest and slowest riders at the apex is pretty minimal in terms of outright mph. This poses the important question, "Is this where we should spend our effort?".
In order to establish the importance of the entrance, mid-corner, or exit of a given corner, the acid test is actually very simple. Riders simply need to make their best assessment of where the biggest differential in mph exists between the fast riders and the slow riders. In general, these differences are the highest where the outright speed is the greatest. The faster the section of the racetrack, the more important it tends to be. Entrances matter most on corners that have the longest braking zones. Mid corner speed is the most important in the fastest sweepers. Acceleration makes the Riders often tend to focus on the corners in which biggest difference in those corners that lead to they feel least comfortable. Many times, these the longest straights. "uncomfortable" corners are tight or oddly shaped corners that present challenges in picking a good In the study of GPS data that shows precise speed line or carrying mid-corner speed. In teaching all the way around the track, the largest differences the Penguin School for many years at Loudon, a in mph often show up at the point of peak speed common problem spot that riders complain about in the fastest sweeping corners. Since carrying is the middle of Turn 3. This is a slow (35-40mph) speed in fast sweepers requires an exceptionally 80 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: PRIORITIES
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high degree of precision and focus, this is typically where I encourage riders to start. The relief of stress that comes when these fast corners are mastered often frees up room in your mind to conquer other important areas of the track. Most tracks have at least one or two fast sweeping sections (as a baseline, turns taken in 4th gear or higher) and these corners are critical to not only good lap times but also to overall confidence. Riders need to not only establish a sharp, precise turn point but also need to assess their throttle re-application point when working to maximize speed in these areas. Perhaps the most important areas of focus when it comes to lowering lap times are drives that lead to long straights. The primary reason that a strong drive is so critical is that extra speed generated from early acceleration will last all the way down the ensuing straight. If you compare the benefits in terms of "duration of advantage", then it is pretty easy to see why long drives can rank in importance above big braking zones or high roll speed corners. The sections of track that precede long straights are typically drive-focused, meaning that riders will often sacrifice a little entrance speed in order to make a sharper turn input that allows the bike to get back on the center of the tire to allow earlier throttle application. The keys in these areas are to minimize the downtime between turning and acceleration and to "steer with the throttle" as opposed to the bars in using all the exit pavement.
zones tend to be much shorter than acceleration zones, we should make them a #3 on our priority list after we have mastered the fast sweepers and the longest drives. Developing proper braking technique and evaluating entrance speed velocity are the important focal points when working in this area. In the end, clarity of focus is key to improvement. When riders focus on carrying speed in the fastest sweepers, sustaining entrance speed in the longest braking zone, and creating optimum drives onto the longest straights, they are able to take the original list of 36 things to consider and identify the 6-8 segments that are the most important. Once this list is compiled, riders can then attack the racetrack and work on the areas that will provide the biggest benefits first. After these riders conquer the critical areas of the track, they will be faster than a large majority of their peers at any event they attend. This philosophy even applies to the highest levels of racing. When the field is full of talented riders, the competitors who end up winning are the ones who excel in the fastest areas of the track. It only stands to reason that there is much more to gain in the sections where the differential in speed is the greatest. Since we can only effectively focus on making changes in a couple of areas at once, the time taken to evaluate where you are dedicating your efforts is always time well spent. With this clarity of focus, riders start by making sure that they have placed the major turn effort (the slowest point in each corner) in the proper place to align with each of these priorities, developing their techniques in accordance with the goals they have set, and making progress in the most important areas first. The cycle of improvement continues, feeding the addiction that many of us find to be the most fulfilling sport on the planet.
Once the major drives and fastest turns have been conquered, the next order of priority is to maximize entrance speed in the longest braking zones. Since we have established that it is most important to focus on the fast areas of the track, it only stands to reason that sustaining peak velocity at the end of a straightaway is critical to fast lap times. The study of GPS data has shown speed differentials in these areas that are four to five times greater than those previously discussed in the Until next time... Ride fast. Ride safe. Loudon Turn 3 example. However, since braking
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THE NEW ISH REV'IT! • MANTIS JACKET A sportive jacket at first glance, the Mantis offers waterproofing thanks to the incorporated yet detachable hydratex liner. This liner then doubles as a wind blocker on colder morning rides, so you can stay comfortable even when it’s chilly outside. In terms of looks, its racing-inspired appearance is backed up by the incorporation of our SEEFLEX CE-level 2 impact protectors at the shoulders and elbows. On top of the shoulders, you’ll also find TPU protectors amplifying the Mantis’s armor, and giving it just the right amount of MotoGP flavor that will have people swooning. Take out the detachable hydratex liner and the Mantis offers significant airflow to the upper body thanks to the included mesh panels. Sizes: S - XXL Colors: Black, Black/Neon Yellow, Black/White, Black/ Neon Red Price: $459.99 Contact: www.revitsport.com
DRIVEN RACING • BILLET ALLOY VALVE STEMS
CORBIN SEATS • TRIUMPH ROCKET 3 UNDERTAIL KIT
Constructed of durable ABS with a steel mounting bracket, the Corbin undertail kit provides a very clean appearance and tightens things up under the fender. It comes pre-painted in OEM colors to keep the look clean. Corbin's undertail fender works with your stock turn signals and a license plate light built into the frame. Mounts up without any chassis or bodywork modifications. The kit includes a chrome license plate frame with LED lighting built-in for your plate. Complete instructions are included. Price: $433.00 Contact: www.corbin.com 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
Driven Racing's 90-degree valve stems are machined out of 60 series alloy and using the best materials and Schrader valve cores available. The 90-degree valve angle offers superior access to the valve stems for bikes with large diameter rotors, allowing quick and easy access when adjusting or measuring tire pressure. The valve stems are sold individually, not as a pair. Valve stems come in 2 sizes: 8.5mm and 11.5mm in a black anodized finish with Driven logo etching. Price: $16.99 Contact: www.drivenracing.com
ACCOSSATO • 19X18 RADIAL BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER Add power and style with the Accossato 19x18 painted Red color radial brake master cylinder for sportbikes. Includes an anodized black folding, standard length RST lever with an anti-drug inlet hole. The forged aluminum cylinder is stronger and lighter than stock cast units for maximum reliability. The 19mm piston is a perfect option for motorcycles with a double-disc brake rotor setup which is loved by racers worldwide. Price: $334.99 Contact: www.motodracing.com HJC HELMETS • RPHA 70 ST ISLE OF MAN HELMET A supreme sport-touring helmet designed for any ride from quick commutes to cross-country cruises. The RPHA 70 ST is exceptionally compact and lightweight as a result of the Premium Integrated Matrix (P.I.M. Plus) shell that provides enhanced shock-resistance with reinforcement materials that include carbon and carbon-glass hybrid fabric. Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $477.99 Contact: www.hjchelmets.com COMPETITION WERKES • DUCATI PANIGALE V4 SLIP-ON EXHAUST
Made exclusively for the Ducati Panigale V4, model years 2018 to current, the Werkes Slip-On system is hand made in the USA. This slip-on system provides an impressive bump of 4.81 horsepower and an improved aggressive sound. The OEM system weighs in at 14.54 pounds while the Werkes set up shaves over nine pounds, weighing in at 4.67 pounds. Price: $2,799.95 Contact: www.competitionwerkes.com
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THE NEW ISH ALPINESTARS • STELLA T-JAWS WATERPROOF JACKET A textile jacket specifically designed and constructed for an optimized female fit, the Stella T-Jaws Waterproof incorporates a membrane ensuring a 100% waterproof performance and removable thermal liner, making it highly versatile for all weather conditions. Class-leading protection and comfort features offer ideal coverage for the sport or street rider who wants more performance Sizes: XS - XXL Colors: Black/White, Black/White/Pink, Black/White/Red Price: $289.95 Contact: www.alpinestars.com
RK EXCEL • CHAIN TOOL
CARDO SYSTEMS • PACKTALK BLACK
The Packtalk Black picks up where the Packtalk Bold left off. The Black lists several features that owners of the Bold will be familiar with but there are a few highlights that stand out, including 45mm JBL speakers and automatic volume adjustments and the ability to connect up to 15 riders via Cardo’s Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) or Bluetooth even if other riders are using another brand of comm with a range of almost one mile in real-life conditions. The Packtalk Black is fully waterproof with other features that include 13 hours of talk time, audio sharing with your passenger; handsfree natural voice operations, and telephone functionality. Price: $99.95 Contact: www.cardosystems.com 88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
Featuring a redesigned sure-grip handle and a new press-fit holder plate that has a reversible post to switch between clip plate and rivet plate, and flare guard on the rivet flare pin that prevents over riveting, the new and improved RK Chain Tool is a must-have for every rider's tool kit. The new design allows components to lock into the tool body and a larger pressure bolt offers easier use without dropping tool components. Now you can quickly and easily break 40 and 50 pitch chains. The tool easily press-fits tight tolerance chain sideplates to the correct depth for both clip and rivet link installation. Price: $97.56 Contact: www.rkexcelamerica.com
JOE ROCKET • SUPER MOTO GLOVE The goatskin leather and textile hybrid Joe Rocket Super Moto gloves feature a drum dyed goatskin leather palm with synthetic leather overlays on the palm with silicone printed grip. Conductive materials at the fingertips and thumbs provide instant touchscreen access. In the palms, you find integrated TPU protection and hard PVC protection at the knuckles. Colors: Black, Red/Black, Blue/Black, Hi-Viz/Black, Orange Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $54.99 Contact: www.joerocket.com TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES • BECK 2 BLACK JACKET The Beck 2 Black is a 100% waxed cotton jacket in black, with removable CE certified protectors, six pockets, removable quilted vest liner, and an action back design for comfort while riding. The Beck 2 Black is spotlighted by a full suite of D3o LP1 armor in the shoulders and elbows, and a D3o BP3 back protector. Sizes: S - XXL Price: 450.00 Contact: www.triumphmotorcycles.com
TERMIGNONI • YAMAHA R6 STAINLESS STEEL SLIP ON EXHAUST
Available for the Yamaha YZF-R6, model years 2006 through 2019, this slip-on exhaust is characterized by the main structure and rear cap in stainless steel with a honeycomb styled exhaust protection screen. Retains the OEM catalytic converter with no mapping required. The performance enhancement and weight savings offer a more powerful riding experience, for under $400.00. Price: $399.00 Contact: www.brocksperformance.com
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THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ICON MOTOSPORTS • AIRFLITE CROSSLINK HELMET
The Airflite has not one, but two shields. A unique quick-change fog-free shield and an internal interchangeable drop shield eliminating the need to swap shields. The helmet’s ventilation system consists of strategically placed air vents, intakes, air channels and exhaust ports. The oversized chinbar intake enhances airflow, keeping you cool by routing air where you need it most. A decrease of both drag and weight was achieved by sculpting the traditional neckline of the Airflite to avoid jacket or suit interference. Sizes: XS - XXXL Price: $295.00 Contact: www.rideicon.com 90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | JULY 2020
CORNERING LEARN THE SKILLS DISCOVER THE ART
Would you like to improve your riding skills? The California Superbike School trains riders at tracks worldwide in 14 countries. Its 38 year history has produced 140,000 graduates. Most riders have no clear idea of how good they really can be. Sign up for the California Superbike School and find out. www.superbikeschool.com JULY 2020 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91