SportBikes Inc Magazine June 2012 (Volume 2, Issue 9)

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . Moto tECH

june 2012 Vol 2 Issue 9

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

CAPO: DECODED

The Drag issue

Zero to hero: Angie Young | Rickey Gadson: The Teacher | Miller’s Big M Weekend | Atlantic Beach Bike Fest 2012

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The New Streetfighter 848:

Rule the Road The Streetfighter 848 delivers the power, precision handling and agility you would expect from a Ducati Superbike, perfectly balanced with an assertive riding position designed for maximum rider comfort on the street. The reign of the new Streetfighter 848 has begun. ducatiusa.com

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JUNE 2012 - VOLUME 2, ISSUE 9

THE FEATURES

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THE SHOW: http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16 GOLDIE

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CAPO: DECODED

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ANGIE YOUNG ZERO TO HERO

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MILLER MOTORSPORTS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=28 BIG “M” WEEKEND

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THE TEACHER

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ATLANTIC BEACH BIKE FEST 2012

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THE USUALS INTERACTIVE

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=10 10 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=20 22 DEALER SPOTLIGHT - REDLINE POWERSPORTS CLICK ON NUMBERS TO JUMP TO A PAGE http://issuu.com/action/page?page=26 26 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=44 44 THE INSIDE TRACK - By Corey Alexander http://issuu.com/action/page?page=48 48 LADIES OF THE PADDOCK - By Carrie Aquino 58http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58 The youngest in charge - By Dystany Spurlock http://issuu.com/action/page?page=62 62 CAPO’S CUT - By Ashon CAPO Dickerson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=64 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=48 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=74 92 VIOLET STARS & HAPPY STUNTING - By Leah Petersen http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102 102 FEATURED CLUB - GEAR BANGERZ M.C. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=106 106 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=114 114 MOTO TECH - ASK THE PRO WRENCH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=118 118 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - STABILIZING THE FRONT END http://issuu.com/action/page?page=144 144 SPORTBIKES INK!!! http://issuu.com/action/page?page=148 148 RANDOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=150 150 THIS LIFE - By Tyson Beckford http://issuu.com/action/page?page=152 152 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=158 158 STAFF STUFF

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June 2012

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=8 8 EDITOR’S LETTER

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EDITOR’S LETTER EDITORIAL

THETEAM

Not only is this our very first DRAG issue, but this is also our largest issue ever with over 150 pages packed with the content that only SportBikes Inc Magazine can bring you.

Sure it took it a little longer but I’m sure you’ll agree that it was worth the wait.

Shout out to our very own Capo who really opens up in his very first interview with incredible imagery by the one and only Elizabeth Raab.

Enjoy!

Best, Allan

ART & DESIGN

My homie, Ace and I... AKA “The Problem Solvers” shot by Robert Graves.

Editor in Chief: Allan Lane Lifestyle Editor: Tyson Beckford Moto-Tech Editor: Mark Rozema Technical Advisor: Thomas Campion Drag Race Editor: Ashon “Capo” Dickerson Riding Editor: Eric Wood Contributing Writers: Brittany Murrow Dystany Spurlock Corey Alexander Carrie Aquino Phil Baker Ben Bostrom Rickey Gadson Copy Editor: Angela Lane Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain Graphic Designer: Baz Staff Photographers: Meekail Shaheed Brian Nitto Cover: Elizabeth Raab

SportBikes Inc Magazine — June 2012 Volume 2, Issue 9 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2012 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

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

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.

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

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

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the press room

SUZUKI RECALLS GSXR 1000’s Suzuki has recalled about 5000 GSXR 1000’s from the 2009 to 2012 model years because a loose bolt on the side stand interlock switch.

The potential threat is if the bolt causes the switch to fail, the ignition circuit could terminate. If that happens, the bike’s engine could simply shut off… mid ride.

Dealers have been instructed to replace the bolts, free of charge.

DUCATI AFFECTED BY RECENT EARTHQUAKE IN ITALY The Bologna region of Italy was rocked by a vicious earthquake in May. This region is home to the Italian powerhouse Ducati and they have been affected by the quake that struck the Po Valley, just north of Ducati’s headquarters.

The Italian manufacturer is diligently working through the difficult times as many of their suppliers in the region have suffered devastating blows.

Ducati will most likely experience delays in fulfilling orders as the region pulls itself together.

Ducati continues to post record sales in the US. It remains unseen if and how the recent event will affect their sales.

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the press room

FATALITY RATE REMAINS UNCHANGED There has been a seemingly united front in the US to increase safety and awareness for motorcyclists.

Many states has jumpstarted programs that addressed several issues that included: lack of helmet use, alcohol impairment, speeding,

provisions for motorcycle education efforts, there has been no decrease and training and urging other forms in motorcycle fatalities. In 2011, of transportation to share the road. there were a reported estimate of 4,500 motorcycle deaths. The However, The Governors Highway same 4,500 was reported in Safety Association released a 2010. report that stated despite these

THE NHTSA PUTS THE KABOSH ON 5X5 AND SA-08 HELMET MODELS The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration strongly advises consumers not to purchase 5X5 or SA-08 helmets, imported and distributed by Tank Sports of California.

The helmet models failed to meet the standard safety requirements. The NHTSA requested that the company issue a recall but Tank Sports filed for bankruptcy shortly thereafter.

The 5X5 and SA-08 helmets failed to meet the standards of the penetration test. Both the inner and outer shells failed in the testing process.

If you’ve bought one, discard it. If you’re wearing it, don’t.

Ride safe.

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BELL GIVING AWAY A HELMET A DAY

Just in case you haven’t heard... Bell Powersports has been giving away a helmet a day for the month of June.

To get more information on and to enter the Bell Endless Summer Giveaway, hit up their FaceBook page by clicking on the image.

THE SPORTBIKES INC MAGAZINE ONLINE COMMUNITY HAS LAUNCHED Last month, we announced “hassle free” reading of SBI, a move to increase readership and make the magazine more accessible. On the heels of that upgrade, we are proud to announce the launch of the SportBikes Inc Magazine Online Community.

and readers of SBI could come together and share their experiences, participate in the lifestyle and hang out. The online forum is a great way for our readers to connect, not only with each other but with the magazine as well.” - Allan Lane, Publisher and Editor in Chief.

“We wanted a place were fans

To join the online community, visit

www.sportbikesincmag.com/forum and register. You must register on the forum even if you have already registered for the magazine.

The login process for the magazine is being completely phased out.

Click on the image and join the community today.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13

Letters

VictoryMotorcycles.com 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Victory® and Victory Motorcycles® are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing and obey the speed limit.

Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. ©2012 Polaris Industries Inc.

us.pirellimoto.com

SBK TECHNOLOGY FOR EVERYDAY ROADS. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15

Goldie Words: Allan Lane Images: Elizabeth Raab

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THE SHOW: Goldie

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shon Capo Dickerson and Arvail Biggavelli Jarrell transformed a 2008 Suzuki GSXR 1000 into a straight line slayer known as “Goldie.” Any racer will tell you how important it is be good. But to be better than good and look great at the same time takes it to the next level.

Capo and Biggavelli engineered Goldie to perform and the proof is in the numbers. Running on VP q16 race fuel and lubed with Motul’s 5w30 5100 oil, Goldie’s hit an elapsed time of 7.97 at 186mph. Her

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horsepower numbers are impressive as well with 215 on the motor and 325 on nitrous.

Aesthetically, Goldie possesses the style of a show bike capable of taking trophies on the straight line and the local bike night. A bike as cool breeze as her pilot, Goldie has transported Capo to multiple wins and championships.

The saying goes, “Behind every great man is a great woman...” In this case, Goldie holds Capo down in every sense of the phrase.

“GOLDIE” 2008 Suzuki GSXR 1000 Engine/Power Upgrades: Ported cylinder head, custom Megacycle Special Carpenter Grind cams, custom CP 2 mill overbore pistons, billet 4 mill crankshaft, titanium rods, Stage2 Performance and Perfection coated airbox with K&N race air filter. Carpenter Race undercut transmission, custom stock CAPO clutch mod with Barnett aftermarket clutches and springs, DME flat 1.5 inch oil pan, short Harvel Performance radiator.

ELECTRONICS: Bazzaz fuel management system, MSD SB6 ignition with LED shift light, custom air shifter system, extended ECU by Harvel Performance, custom NX 2 stage nitrous system, Schnitz 2 dial NOS controller with Schnitz TPS box, Daytona sensors WEGO3 data logger.

Exhaust: Vance and Hines Race Sidewinder, Performance and Perfection black thermal coating.

Tires: Pirelli Diablo Rosso 120/60 front. Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa 180/55 rear.

Suspension: JRI Short Cut front forks, Penske rear shock SWINGARM: Hardcore chromoly lightweight 10” over arm with 65” wheelbase and 2.5 pound bottle bracket.

Built By: Ashon Capo Dickerson, Arvail Biggavelli Jarrel and Carpenter Race Engines.

Paint By: NiceCycle.com.

Owner: Ashon Capo Dickerson, Arvail Biggavelli Jarrel.

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Goldie SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 21

dealer Spotlight: REDLINE POWERSPORTS

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of RedLine Powersports

Dealership name: RedLine Powersports | Address: 4663 Hwy 501 Myrtle Beach SC 29579 Hours: Monday thru Friday 9am - 7pm, Saturday 9am - 4pm Year established: 1987 | Brands serviced: Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Can-Am, Sea Doo

I

f you have ever attended Myrtle Beach or Atlantic Beach Bike Fest, you’ll understand why RedLine is a must visit dealership. A friendly and knowledgable staff are ready and willing to assist with everything from tire changing, lube jobs to new gloves or helmets.

RedLine not only serves the traveling motorcycle enthusiasts, but their commitment to their base community is amazing. They sponsor several local charity events and strive to strengthen their position in the powersports industry.

Their three step process for growth is simple and effective.

They understand their customers needs and wants. They are a team thats fun and easy to do business with. Most importantly, they ensure that their service, parts, sales department and go above what is expected of them.

Bike Fest or not, if you find yourself in Myrtle Beach, SC stop in and visit the good folks at RedLine Powersports and their 25,000 square foot showroom. The team there are definitely some of the nicest and most knowledgeable in the industry.

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Contact Info:

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THE GRID: NEWS CASEY STONER ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

File this under “I’ve been living under a rock for the last month...”

Casey Stoner announced his retirement. Stating that he has lost his passion for the sport, one can’t help but to ponder if the new addition to his family made an impact on his decision to retire at the end of the 2012 season.

“After a long time thinking, a lot of time talking with my family and my wife, this has been coming for a couple of years now but at the end of this 2012 season I will be not racing in the 2013 Championship. I will be finishing my career at the end of this season in MotoGP, and go forward in different things in my life. After so many years of doing

RUSSELL AND BOSTROM INDUCTED INTO THE WORLD SUPERBIKE HALL OF FAME

Congrats are in order for Scott “Mr. Daytona” Russell and SBI Contributor, Ben Bostrom. The pair were recently inducted into the World Superbike Hall of Fame at Miller Motorsports Park during the Big M Weekend this past May. 2012 is the 25th year of the World Superbike Series. The Hall of Fame inductees are part of the season long celebration.

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this sport which I love, and which myself and my family made so many sacrifices for, after so many years of trying to get to where we have gotten to at this point, this sport has changed a lot and it has changed to the point where I am not enjoying it. I don’t have the passion for it and so at this time it’s better if I retire now.” Casey Stoner.

YAMAHA AND JORGE LORENZO TOGETHER FOR 2013 AND 2014 In a press release, Yamaha confirmed that they have in fact renewed contracts with the 2010 MotoGP Champion, Jorge Lorenzo for 2013-2014.

the Rookie of the Year title. He was then second in 2009, went on to become MotoGP World Champion in 2010 and was second again in 2011.”

Yamaha stated via press release... “It is with great pleasure that Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd can confirm the extension of Jorge Lorenzo’s contract to ride for the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team for 2013 and 2014.

Lorenzo stated, “I am extremely happy to have signed with Yamaha for two more years.

They’ve made great efforts to retain me in the factory team so I want to thank all those involved at Yamaha for this. I’ve been treated like part of the Yamaha family since 2008 and I love working with them.”

Jorge Lorenzo joined Yamaha in 2008, achieving fourth place in his first season and claiming

VALENTINO ROSSI DISPELS RUMORS At a press conference prior to the Le Mans round in May, Valentino Rossi put to rests several rumors. Most notably, the rumors his retirement.

Rossi stated, “For me it’s very difficult to understand where the news starts because I never

speak about my retirement, and I want to race in MotoGP for the next two years for sure.”

Rossi went on that weekend to out on the podium. He finished second, behind Jorge Lorenzo, his highest finish this season.

MORE OPTIONS PROPOSED FOR MOTOGP ROOKIES IN 2013 A rule that was created in 2008 prevented any non MotoGP rider from going directly to a factory team.

Basically, if you were a rookie you had wait your turn and settle for a satellite team for your first year.

With the increasing popularity of the CRT teams, this rule has been brought up for deletion. This move is supported by Dorna, the FIM, IRTA and the MSMA but the final decision will be made the Grand Prix Commission.

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MILLER MOTORSPORTS

BIG “M” WEEKEND WORDS AND IMAGES: BRIAN NITTO

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THE GRID: miller’s bIG “M” Weekend

W

hen my editor gives me an assignment, especially when it comes to writing a column, my immediate reaction is, "Are you sure?” Having A.D.D, I can write about everything and anything. Giving me a pen, a platform to write my thoughts expression my opinion is liking giving a junkie one more fix.

I packed up and headed out to cover the AMA/WSBK round at Miller Motorsports in Utah. I wondered why the hell anyone would care about this area.

Why is it so special? Why is it in the middle of no where? Out of all the cool locations in the USA, Europe... Why would a race be held in Utah? Landing after my 4.5 hour flight, it became apparent why.

The landscape flying into the airport and the immediate area is unreal. Blue skies, mountains that provide unreal backdrops, salt lakes, hence the name of the city, are just breathtaking.

Then there is the racetrack. Let's just say, bottom line, I found a new home. A new escape.

Miller Motorsports is a must see, must ride kind of place. It's a bucket list request. It's one of those, “I am young and need to venture to new terrain” places.

The moment you arrive, you are greeted with warm smiles.

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THE GRID: miller’s bIG “M” Weekend

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you say Jersey, people stand back or say "I’m sorry". I hate having conversations about the Garden State or "the armpit of America" as I have been told by people from the South.

Miller Motorsports sets a benchmark on how tracks should run, look, feel, all of the above. Activities everywhere. Ziplines, go karts, food, beer...

Something for everyone. Just having a van to transport my goofy ass and other photographers around the track is just tits. Maybe it was because WSBK was there, maybe it was the “all or nothing” mentality for making it the "what to do" race of the year for the facility. Regardless, Miller Motorsports did it right.

Now, if they could just control the weather, that would be helpful.

Tooele Utah is smack dab in the middle of mountains.

Huge mountains. East coast doesn’t have mountains like this. They were something out of a Bob Ross painting.

It rained on Saturday and Sunday morning... Hard.

I never had my equipment nor myself get drenched like this. I shot the 2008 Indy MotoGP during a Hurricane and never had to deal with this much rain and wind.

Wind was a big factor. I watched riders battling the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33

THE GRID: miller’s bIG “M” Weekend wind and getting "removed" from the track at certain turns like ticks being flicked. Almost defying the laws of gravity, gust winds picking riders and bikes and pushing them into the gravel run offs.

Mind you, extreme conditions, sounds like the makings of a miserable experience. It was quite the opposite. I loved it. I felt like a fisherman battling a Great White. I felt like the old man and the sea but without the fish and the sea. Nonetheless, my camera and I fought the

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winds, rain, debris from the track, holding steady, waiting for an opportunity of catching Carlos Checa ripping around the last turn right before the straight away. Or Josh Hayes to be screaming by, sliding his bike and controlling the mechanical beast, forcing it to turn when it wants to slide. Traction control kicking in from all parts of the track. Hearing European and Japanese bikes growling and being tamed by simple electrodes telling it to behave. It was truly unbelievably to experience all of this.

Granted, I was soaked to the core, but smiling. Like going to a dominatrix, I wanted the abuse.

I wanted more. Yes please, I'll have another!

I find it interesting that extreme conditions can bring out the best or the worst in a man. Miller Motorsports brought out the best in me. I thought it might have brought out the worst in some Italian photographers who had their gear all drenched because they used garbage bags for camera water protection. I don't speak Italian but I’m reminded

of how my dad curses, often making up Italian curse words, when I hear these photographers unloading. I quickly got the picture that someone wasn’t having a good time like I was.

Later that night, warming up with a 40 minute shower dialed in to "blazing hot" mode and a glass of scotch, neat of course, helped warm the core and clear my head for the rest of the races that

Memorial Day weekend.

Sunday through Monday was racing at it's finest. Just bad ass sliding, flicking it over the Attitudes, slammin it from left to right and back to the left side of the rumble strips, from camber to off camber... Just intense I popped my cherry. I finally covered WSBK and it left me wanting more. Seeing Biaggi at

the airport started the tone of the trip. He sat 6 rows behind me.

I arrived in Salt Lake when all the riders arrived into. Carlos Checa, Chaz Davies, and a couple of riders, team and crews were all getting shuttled around the airport in little golf carts.

Bonus was when I shared a cart with Tom Skyes through the airport to baggage claim. I think he took pity on me because of SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35

THE GRID: miller’s bIG “M” Weekend

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THE GRID: miller’s bIG “M” Weekend the camera carry on bag and the Hobble Telescope lens bag I was carrying.

I have to admit, I need to look into finding a new way of transporting my camera gear. I look like a homeless man. Like I got evicted out of my place. Just big bags and nonsense. Throughout the years, I bullshit with riders, teams, managers but this is only in the AMA paddock. Being WSBK, I was thrown into the mix right from the get go. I bullshitted with Carlos Checa about the 1199, talked to Eugene Laverty about Aprilias. Hell, I even sat down at the wrong table and started bullshitting with Max Biaggi at a restaurant appropriately called, wait for it... Biaggi's. The look I got from him was priceless. The "and the who the fuck are you" kind of look , in the most polite pleasant Italian way possible. Kind of funny and harmless. I guess he thought I was some crazy fan. For the record, that really did happen. The Aprilia crew that was there at the restaurant/ incident kept pointing at me in the pit area, like "that's the crazy guy that..." Funny shit to tell my grandchildren one day, I guess.

Being in the presence of great people gave me that warm fuzzy feeling I get from a really old Scotch. Everyone was chill. Riders and crew smiling. One minute riders are talking with one another. The next minute, the game face is on and it is all business. Once track time was over, back to palling around with the different riders. It's cool to see professionals acting... well, professional. People never suggest riders as role models.

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Maybe people should.

Memorial Day weekend at Miller Motorsports is a must attend event. If you have not done so already, you should plan now for next year’s round.

past and present, that make these opportunities happen.

This race weekend treated me well. It never felt like work. It was more an a adventure. Uncharted waters for a lil' fish in a big sea.

Mixing it up with the locals.

Working hard and playing harder. Focusing on being creative and my palette was this vast racetrack.

Granted, Mormons don't drink, and bars close down early but I can deal with it. The best clubs and bars in Salt Lake don't hold a candle to anything in NYC or Philly. I asked for a shot of Jack and the bartender replied "Who? What? Never heard of it.” I thought she was kidding.

She wasn’t.

Memorial Day weekend made me think about sacrifice. Why this land, this country is so fucking good and why I am so grateful to be in the USA. It made me think about the men and women of the armed forces,

Only in America, can you experience a truly awesome time in one huge entertaining environment. Even in Utah.

Utah, we got a problem.

Really, no Jack Daniels to end the trip off with a bang? I did find something to substitute my problem. Tequila. You cruel bitch.

You made my flight back to the east coast a little rough but I appreciate our time together.

Utah, who would of thought, would be the "it" place. The place were great racing can happen and has happened year after year. I hope Miller Motorsports keeps up the good work. Please, if anything, go around to other tracks and show them how it's done. Be the ambassador for all tracks, lead by example. Miller, I shall return.

I’m not sure where my next assignment will take me but I like to stay on my toes. Send me overseas. Send me to Ohio.

Send me to the extremes. Time will tell. Where ever it is, I will be sure to have my camera, locked and loaded.

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THE GRID: miller’s bIG “M” Weekend

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AMA PRO RACING returns to New Jersey MotorSports park

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September 7 - 9, 2012

TICKETS AVAILABLE

NOW w w w. njmp. com

IMAGE: BRIAN NITTO/55 Productions SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43

THE GRID

The INSIDE TRACK Words: Corey Alexander images: Brian Nitto

T

hroughout racing, in various instances of motorsports the most well known individuals are typically the drivers, riders, etc.

What most fans and enthusiasts don’t take into account are the collective teams and crews. Often it is a misconception that a racer is the one who has the hardest job and is the one responsible for results good or bad.

The ones truly responsible for those results are actually the people behind the scenes, the crew and the team as a whole.

My team is Celtic Racing and it is divided into two different crews. My crew is backed by the National Guard and the Fairhills Group. I have two mechanics Mike and Tim and a crew chief named Barry. The other crew is made up of James Rispoli, his two mechanics, and a crew chief backed by Celtic Racing and Orient Express. Then we have a team manager and owner who actually founded “Celtic Racing” named Barry Gilsenan who oversees and helps out both sides of the team. On top of that we have two K-Tech Suspension Technicians who are always around and work out of our truck.

After coming off of two consecutive race weekends I felt it was important to talk about how

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crucial a racers team really is. Last weekend we were racing at Miller in Utah, where I had a not so good weekend, in case you were wondering. As soon as we were finished with in Utah, the truck with all of our bikes went straight to Road America in Wisconsin for another race weekend. This meant that the crew had to load all of our bikes and our Design Star 3 wall systems at Miller, then team owner Barry Gilsenan, who also drives the truck, had to transport it all straight to Wisconsin. The rest of the team either flew directly to Wisconsin or home for a few days, as I did, before heading to Wisconsin... All within a week’s time.

With all of this in mind, as a fan or an enthusiast of racing, try to take in the other aspects that might make up a racer other than just the rider himself. In more cases or not, the team either does everything or nothing to give a rider an opportunity to do well.

Those who succeed are typically the ones who can be found with the support of a group of just as, if not more, determined individuals behind the scenes.

All in all, I know I have an amazing team. When I have a bad result, I have nobody else but myself to point the finger on.

Connect with Corey...

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THE GRID

LAdies of the PaddocK Words and IMAGES: Carrie aquino

L

eigh Anna Svitlik, AKA Miss Hunt is a untapped treasure in the paddock. Having only recently met her at Daytona this year, she is a breath of fresh air.

Miss Hunt find a way to make you like her without even trying. She comes across as a strong, caring, helpful woman with a sense of style, humor and respect for this sport. I personally sought her out to learn what I could about why this happy, vivacious woman loves being at the races.

SBI: What is your connection to road racing?

HUNT: At the track I wear so many hats but mostly Partner and Owner of Apex Motorcycles and Race Services. We have started a privateer team. We are now supporting racers in WERA and AMA. SBI: How long have you been doing this?

HUNT: First motorcycle race was Road Atlanta, two years ago SBI: As a racer or team owner?

HUNT: I was there simply as an umbrella girl for a friend. I had never been to a race before or even seen one on TV. SBI: And from there you became a co-owner of a team?

HUNT: It has been a very exciting 2 years, but yes!

SBI: Did you seek this job out or

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Tim and Miss Hunt

did it fall in your lap?

HUNT: I actually saw Tim (Hunt) at Road Atlanta and he was there racing with Aussie Dave. He found me on Facebook and a couple months later we started dating, fell in love and decided to follow our dreams. Together we could build anything.

SBI: A Racing Love Story! So has this become a passion or is it just a job now?

HUNT: It is a deep passion. I was put on a motorcycle when I was 3 and ever since then it has been a part of me.

environment?

HUNT: The strengths needed depends on the role taken. I look at you, Kat (Zimpel) and other women at the track and really admire all of you. Being a mom myself I cannot imagine the strength it takes for you to be there and help your son chase his dreams. I think am still figuring that out.

SBI: That is so sweet, but this is supposed to be about you! How

does all the traveling affect you in your personal life?

HUNT: The traveling is my personal life. I enjoy it. It is easier in the summer when the kids can travel with me. It’s a “catch 22”. Its hard to be away from the kids when I am at the track and hard to be away from Tim when I must be at home.

SBI: What do you friends and family think of your involvement in road racing?

SBI: What is the one thing you would like to share that people would be surprised to know about you?

HUNT: Iam very afraid to fly. I still freak out and have to take my medication to fly but I do it because I love motorcycles, Tim and our team that much!

SBI: Do you find it hard being a women surrounded by probably 98% of men in this industry?

HUNT: I would say no. If I was a woman racer or a single female team owner, I am sure it would be a difficult task. But since I find that all of my best work is in helping others it is easy for me.

Plus, I have never really played well with other women. I prefer to be around men.

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THE GRID: Ladies of the paddock HUNT: My family and friends thought I was crazy. Needless to say I don’t really have the same friends as I used to. If they don’t race, they don’t understand. And when you race there is no time for anything other than racing.

SBI: How would you describe “the paddock” to someone who has never been?

HUNT: The paddock? Electric.

It is so much fun for so many reasons. The people, the bikes, from the racers that put their lives on the line every time they go out to the machines which are mechanically genius. To the people who work so hard on them and all the cool people in between. There is no place like it.

SBI: What is the one word or sentence that would sum up your feelings of the life you have in the paddock?

HUNT: It is addictive!

Miss Hunt is not only the “hot” partner of Apex Motorcycles but she is a mother of 3 boys: Skender (16), Allten (13) and Balin (8) and soon a 22 year old stepson.

She wears many hats at the track and is not afraid to get her hands dirty. From hospitality to umbrella girl, to travel agent to consoling a racer, to retrieving tires to looking fantastic in heels. She will do what ever is needed for the team.

She is the total package. A smart, sexy, beautiful woman inside and out. I look forward to going to the paddock just to see her. She is a social creature and very “flitting” (as Tim calls it) as she says hi to 50 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

everyone that passes by.

She is engaged to be married July 17 to Tim Hunt her partner at the track and in life. Their racing number is #717. It must have been fate, when you see the two together at the track its amazing and just puts a smile on your

face. The paddock is a business with ups and downs, but when a couple like this can actually work together, travel and play together one has to admit it is Paddock Love #717.

All the best from SBI.

Great service, fast shipping. Call or email our knowledgable staff today!

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Trent Gerard

NAME: Trent Gerard AGE: 20 Association/Affiliations/Series: Assfaultjunkies.com. 2012 WERA National Challenge Series.

Goals: To Win the 600 superstock and superbike novice championships this season, and in years to come, race Pro in the AMA. Accomplishments: 2011 was my first racing season and I ended the year with two third place finishes.

Define your passion in one sentence: Road Racing is my life, its the one thing I love most in this world, and will do anything to continue to do so. Contact:

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

The youngest in charge Words: Dystany Spurlock images: ROBIN SPURLOCK

T

here is a saying that goes “children are our future.” I believe this as truth.

This is my third year as a rider and a racer. When I started I was only 17 years old, getting

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ready to graduate high school and “get a taste of the real world.” I had no idea that I would be where I am today.

I have noticed about the kids that I meet are intrigued

by my racing. Most children immediately think that girls only do what they consider girly things such as cheer, ballet, or play with dolls. And while we may do those things, some of us like to get our hands dirty.

A majority of the questions that young boys are variants of, “You’re a girl and you race motorcycles?” Adorable.

Young girls jump straight to the

color of my bike. “Oh my God! Its pink!” The boys don’t even mind taking a picture on my hot pink bike.I it’s amazing and only goes to prove that pink isn’t just a girl color.

I let the kids know that even though I am in a male dominated sport does not mean that I am any different from the men when it comes to competing. I tell them that even if something is generally considered to be a “male sport” that does not mean that girls can not be successful at it.

I love kids! I love the fact that you get to see them grow and progress in all that they do. I strive to be a positive role model for them all. I want them to say, “Dystany can do it... So can I!” I want every child that looks up to me to be inspired to achieve there goals and to be successful in whatever they decide to do.

After all, they are our future.

Connect with Dystany...

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

Capo’s cut

Words: ASHON “CAPO” DICKERSON IMAGES: stefanie dickerson

I

t is gonna be one hot summer!

I just got back from sunny Las Vegas for the Kawasaki Zero To Hero Contest finals. The competition was filmed and will air on the Speed channel by the end of the year.

3500 plus contestants submitted essays entitled, “Why Am I Qualified to Race 9-time World Champ Rickey Gadson?” At stake was a chance to win a brand new 2012 Kawasaki ZX14R. Out of all the contestants, four were picked with one alternate.

Kawasaki flew us all to Las Vegas where I was enlisted as Rickey’s Assistant Coach for his Drag Racing school. Over the next three days, we put them through boot camp to prepare them for the show down with Rickey for a chance to win one bad green machine. The riders also received their National Hot Rod Association Competition License, once we gave our signed approval.

It all went down at the famous Las Vegas Dragstrip and will look amazing on television. I don’t want to leave you guys hanging but

I also don’t want to ruin the show’s surprise.

The 2012 Kawasaki ZX14R goes fast and can take a 62 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

and Kiana Gadson, my wife and manager Stefanie Dickerson, and of course Kawasaki & Rickey Gadson’s Drag Racing School for rolling out the red carpet and letting me be a part in this epic event.

Loyalty is Everything!

Connect with Capo...

beating. I had the opportunity to make some passes on the bike during testing and demonstrations along with Rickey. It is the real deal!

families were all great people and I wish everyone the best.

Congratulations to the winner of the Zero to Hero Contest, Angie Young.

The contestants/students and their

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CAPO: DECODED

WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: ELIZABETH RAAB

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: CAPO... DECODED

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

O

n a blistering summer afternoon in 2003, the greater Northeast region of the USA fell victim to what some would consider to be the greatest, most widespread electrical power blackout in all of American history and only the second in all of world history.

An estimated forty five million people in eight states were without electricity.

As night fell, Ashon Capo Dickerson lay in a hospital bed.

Clinging to life only by the grace of life support. In a coma, Capo was unaware that his wife and mother were escorted from the premises for their own safety as an uneasy darkness fell upon the city of Newark, New Jersey.

There was a moment when Capo’s life support unit ceased operation in the time that it took for the back up generators to kick in. There was a moment and in that moment, the soul of a man was redefined.

A dominant force to face in the illegal street racing scene, Capo had made a name and serious reputation. He was not the guy that you wanted to line up against. Plain and simple.

There were no trophies to win on the streets. That was no concern to him. Sure, there was cash but I believe Capo was hunting for something else. Capo was hunting for and taking hearts.

It was that hunt for hearts that landed Capo in the hospital in the summer of 2003. That ended

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with Capo in a coma and an extensive list of injuries.

Ashon Capo Dickerson woke nine days later and opened his eyes.

SBI: Where did the name capo come from?

ACD: The name "CAPO" in mafia terms and my words means captain of a crew, a high ranking member that grew from a soldier to Capo status. A boss within the family, Capo status signifies relevance and importance and a power position, a pack leader that has a certain level of respect wherever he goes or what he does. I think people realize that the title officially suits me. And the name was actually first given to me by my pops.

SBI: What is the allure of street racing?

ACD: The attraction that people get from street racing is the fast money, the “off the record” underground aspect of it, the outlaw atmosphere and the respect that you gain from it.

SBI: Do you recall what your record was from those days?

How many wins did you rack up?

ACD: I don’t recall my record because it was so many years ago, but I do know for a fact that I had a 90% success rate. I don’t condone street racing and advise any racer to bring it to the racetrack so it can be done in a controlled environment. But I must say that coming from a street racing background, has helped

me tremendously with me doing it on the racetrack. I learned how to deal with intense pressure from street racing. Which I feel gives me a mental advantage over my competitors now.

SBI: There was a horrible accident that not only almost ended your race career, but also almost ended your life?

ACD: Back in 2003 I was in a bad street racing accident where I almost lost my life. I ended up in a coma for 9 days, multiple broken bones and facial fractures, punctured and bruised lungs, paralyzed on the right side of my body and the list goes on.

Since that day, I haven’t and wont ever street race again. I thank God that I am here to do this interview.

SBI: Tell me about what you remember or what you were told about the night when you were on life support and the power went out?

ACD: I was still in a coma and on 100% life support, when the East Coast had the biggest black out, ever. I was told that they had to escort my wife and mother out of the building for security purposes. Thank God for back up generators because if not I think it would have been a riot by my peoples.

SBI: What was it like getting back on the bike the first time after the recovery?

ACD: My recovery process was long and hard because I had to totally dedicate and commit to it.

I had to learn how to walk again and regain use of my right arm,

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: CAPO... DECODED

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which was paralyzed from nerve damage. I made a promise to my family that I would never street race again but I would return on the racetrack. I made myself a promise that I would return back to riding as a different man with a different drive... The Ghost Rider.

The first time back on the bike I felt right back at home mentally and within my heart but physically had to readjust my riding style from my disabilities.

SBI: Was the accident and the recovery what made you decide to go professional?

ACD: I think the accident was one of the best things that could ever happen to me. It gave me a drive and a hunger that is unexplainable and made me more of a humble person. I would say that it was in God's plan to lead to where I am today, and where I am going in the future.

SBI: What was that transition like, from the street to the track?

ACD: The Capo from street could never beat the Capo now. So that transition from the street to the track was a major learning experience. Because a street race or a grudge race is about winning one round, which is easy when, compared to at the racetrack winning rounds against the top riders in the country.

SBI: Is the rush the same?

ACD: A street race or a money race is like a final round in professional competition in that aspect the rush is the same.

But it is all mental, so when you compete as much as I do,

pressure situations to me feels more normal than sitting on my couch watching TV. SBI: Walk me through a pass... from the burnout, to watching the tree, releasing the clutch to traveling down that the straight line.

ACD: As I start my burnout by popping the clutch and holding the break to get my tire hot and sticky, my hunger pains start! I line up and watch the lights come down. Its no opponent in my mind at this point because I’m in such a deep level of concentration that time stops and things seem to move in slow motion. As I aggressively engage the clutch, I feel the G forces of the launch and the motor is screaming as my front wheel is hovering until mid second gear. I’m fully tucked hitting my shift points pulling away as I cross the finish line and shut down and sit up and feel that well over 100 mph plus winds hit my chess. Time returns to normal and I can tell right away if that was a good run or not. The rush is incredible and never gets old. Takes a lot of skill in trying to perfect a craft like this. It’s a whole lot harder than I make it look.

SBI: How many championships have you won?

ACD: I have a National Wally Championship and have won countless major events in different classes such as bracket and heads up. I made history by winning the Pinks Arm Drop Bike race where I won a 20k Custom Harley. I won the largest Crazy 8 field in the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 71

THE STRAIGHT LINE: CAPO... DECODED

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

Mirock Superbike Series history. I have held the mph record in the Pro Real Street class with a Suzuki Hayabusa and finished Top10 in that Class 3 years and running and Top 10 in 2 classes last year.

I put in my work, dog! we can talk about stats all day. I got ‘em!

SBI: Some might be surprised by the amount of drama that exist in the drag racing world. How do you deal with it?

ACD: I don’t deal with it. There are alot of imposters and swagga jackers in this sport that don’t pose a threat, we never see them in the winners circle, claiming they this and claiming they that but can’t bust a grape. So the way I deal with the drama... I don’t talk, I let my work do the talking. You know, dog, I bring a breathe of fresh air to this game. Cuz when the see Cap and his crew, they know its real. Wait, hold up.. Right now I’m calling out all imposters! Don’t talk about it, be about it!

SBI: You were recently part of the Rickey Gadson, Kawasaki Zero to Hero Challenge... How was that experience?

ACD: It is always great to work side by side with the big bruh and good friend Rickey Gadson. He is a legend in the sport and has helped me deal with a lot things during the course of my career.

That experience was great and I thank Kawasaki USA and the Gadson's for letting me be a part of this event. It is going to be big and bring a lot of exposure to the sport when it appears on Speed TV.

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SBI: How important is family?

ACD: Family is very important to me, but sometimes, certain things can put a stain on relationships in your family. Motorsports is a rough grind. You have to learn how to keep everything balanced. Close friends and the brotherhood I have with my crew is also something I hold sacred. The help and support that I get from my peoples is another reason why I go so hard.

I love to see the proud look on my wife, kids, mom and family faces when I succeed. And I love the haters as well!

SBI: I know Stefanie, your wife and manager is your backbone.

What makes you two such a great team?

ACD: Yes, Stef is my backbone. I think we make such a great team because she works just as hard as I do if not harder off the track as I do on it. She is a major part of my success and definitely a team player. My support system is very strong and I’m very lucky and extremely grateful for that. I love my wife and all that we do for each other to reach that one common goal.

SBI: Are you a role model?

ACD: I think I have grown as a person to be a positive role model, but it all depends on who is viewing and judging me.

SBI: Who do you look up to?

ACD: My mother and grandmother always have been heros in my eyes.

SBI: If you could take a ride with two historical figures, who would

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: CAPO... DECODED

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

they be and why?

ACD: Muhammad Ali just to talk about mental preparation and the drive he had and the hardship he had to overcome in his life. But he stood his ground and now he is a legend. Another would be Bruce Lee, because he made a great impact before his time was cut short.

In the company of Capo, you’re in the company of “cool”. His words, like his actions are strategic.

When he speaks, he speaks truth.

Life is too short for the bullshit and he has no tolerance for it. Forever the hunter of the hearts of men, the only thing that differs now is where Capo hunt’s his prey.

On a blistering summer afternoon in 2003, Capo lay in a coma at the University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey. The uncertainty of a life unfulfilled as an illegal street racing king ended and so began the transformation into a legitimate champion... In the blink of an eye.

Rather, the flip of a switch.

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26th Annual Series

• Wild Pro Mod Class • 200mph Pro Street Class • Short Wheelbase Real Street Class • Sportsman Motorcycle ET Classes • Smack Talkin’ Grudge Class • WPGC On-Air Live Broadcast • Custom Bike Show • Motorcycle Club Hot Spot • $1,200 Bikini Contest • Huge Streetbike Corral • Thousands in Attendance • Huge Vendor Midway • Live Band “Black Alley” • XDL Stuntbike Competition • Beer Garden • Motorcycle Dyno • Great Food See XDL Stars Bikini Bartenders!

July 21-22, 2012 at Maryland International Raceway Custom Bike Show!

All bikini contestants must send photos to bikinicontest@mirdrag.com for casting

like Bill Dixon, Aaron Colton, & many more...

Huge Vendor Midway!

Come See 9-Time AMA World Champion Rickey Gadson In Action!

ADMISSION

1-Day $20 • 2-Day $35 • Kids 6-11 $5

SCHEDULE

Saturday: Open 9am - Elim 3pm Sunday: Open 8am - Elim 12noon

MIROCKracing.com

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

The Teacher

Words: Rickey Gadson images: Courtesy of KAWASAKI

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A

bout 12 years ago,I started to get concerned with the current"lack of" criteria it took to get a motorcycle liscense in the US. In other countries, like Japan, you can only get a Tier License which indicates the type or size of motorcycle you were allowed to ride legally. That means I'd you had a Tier 1 License, all you can operate is a scooter. Tier 2, a 250cc and so on. But here in the states all one has to do is have good enough credit to purchase whatever your heart desires and if that's a Busa or something equivalent, then I pray for your safe return.

In 2000, I started the Rickey Gadson Drag Racing School to teach the average rider how to handle that new 1400cc missile.

The challenge is to blend my first time racers with students who are already familiar with the strip.

I realize that everyone wants “one on one� time with me and that's why we limit the size of our classes to ten.

On day one, we go over all the fundamentals of dragracing and spend an enormous amount of time on the starting line working on launching the bike which is where your ET is made.

By the end of day two, students are in full race mode and reeling off their best time ever.

We take time to work on self confidence which is the key ingredient to improving riding ability!

The hardest thing to do is erase "old or bad" habits. Everybody has a different interpretation of how to go fast but how many championships do they have?

And if they can't duplicate their

runs down to the hundredth then its going to be hard to expect you to listen to them.

The most gratifying feeling comes on day three when each student starts to get in a groove and not only produce there fastest times ever but is able run consistently fast and back it up.

Occasionally, Kiana and I scratch our heads in disbelief after feeling like a student has bitten off more than they can chew and maybe we should pull the plug on their day. But then that same student listens to my instructions and let's it sink in and winds up impressing the whole class.

This year we have added classes in Texas and hope to come to a town near you.

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ANGIE YOUNG

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ZERO to HERO words: Allan lane images: courtesy of kawasaki SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 81

THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINE zero to hero

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

I

n the first competition of its kind, the brain child of Rickey Gadson, Kawasaki’s Zero to Hero Challenge gave unknown talent a shot at fame and a brand new, 2012 ZX14R. Angie Young, an up and coming drag racer from Anderson, South Carolina was interested in the contest because she “needed a new drag bike”. What she won, was not only the bike of her dreams but a once in a lifetime experience to receive one on one training from Rickey Gadson.

That’s right. She won and became the very first Zero to Hero Champion.

However, to call this southern lady a zero at any point of her life or career, even before the competition would be classified as a fail. Angie Young has been putting in work since day one.

Nine years ago, Angie founded “Slick Wicked”, an all female race team.

SBI: Define speed?

AY: The force of me against the world, in my eyes.

SBI: What is the difference between quick and fast?

AY: You don’t drag race quickly.

Drag racing is a very focused sport that you take your time and mentally prepare until the third yellow light turns on. Then it’s time to go fast!

SBI: Where are you from?

AY: Born in North Carolina and moved to Anderson, South Carolina when I was two years 82 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

old. Anderson is my home and all I have ever known.

SBI: What influenced you to pursue motorsports and how so?

AY: The first time I went to the track and saw the first car make a pass I was hooked. I can’t tell you who it was but that moment was so impacting that I knew that I had to achieve this.

SBI: What is your history with motorcycles?

AY: My mom and dad bought me my first dirt bike at 5 years old. My daddy chased me around the back yard for hours on that Yamaha 50. Riding motorcycles with my brother and boys in the neighborhood and a local construction company after hours to learn dirt jumps was my adventure. As an adult I owned a Buell Lightening and now my current street bike is an Iron Horse Bandera. The Iron Horse was actually the first motorcycle I ever raced on the drag strip, bless my heart, not knowing or having anything different to run. I was happy just to get my start on a track on a motorcycle.

SBI: What bikes are in the stable now?

AY: My street bike is still the Bandera and just added to the family is the new 2012 Kawasaki ZX14R, affectionately known as “Dragula.” Also Team Slick Wicked has 2003 Suzuki GXSR 1000 sponsored by Timothy Moyer.

SBI: Describe your support system... How vital are they in

your success?

AY: You cannot put into words my appreciation for my family and friends. I have had more support than any girl deserves. People believe in me and have done everything within their power to see me to the point I’m at now.

SBI: How long have you been racing?

AY: Started 4 years ago in the Slick Wicked Drag Truck “Nasty Bitch” and this is my second season racing motorcycles.

SBI: What’s your most interesting race tale?

AY: Probably the most interesting race tale is that starting out motorcycle racing, we had so very little sponsorship dollars

to work with. As a result, my teammate Reah and I would have to share racing leathers because we could not afford two sets.

Keep in mind in South Carolina, it not only gets very hot but also very humid. During a charity motorcycle race, Reah and I had to quickly change out sweaty leathers in the pit behind one of the trailers that a Top Fuel class team had set up. It was pretty hilarious to see us both hopping around with one boot on, one arm out of the jacket and two other Slick Wicked girls tugging with all their might to get the leather pants off!

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINE zero to hero

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

up with others when there is a need?

AY: In our experience, honestly, everyone we meet has been very supportive, friendly, and helpful at our local tracks.

to further my career in the drag racing world. I also needed the training that Rickey provided as everything I knew was self-taught or contradictory lessons from local enthusiasts at the tracks.

SBI: What was it about the Zero to Hero Challenge that was so appealing to you?

AY: I needed a new drag bike

SBI: There was an essay that had to be written in order to become a finalist. What was it about your words that won over Rickey to

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include you in the finals?

AY: It was sincere and I meant every word. I knew this was my chance at a once in a lifetime opportunity.

SBI: Walk me through that entire experience in Las Vegas. You get off the plane and...

AY: Wednesday, my teammate Reah and I landed in Vegas

and were taken to the Aria Resort to unload and had 30 minutes to get to a meet and greet dinner with Rickey and the other contestants. When we arrived at dinner filming began for the Speed Network about the challenge. I met each contestant as well as Rickey, Kiana Gadson, and Ashon “Capo” and Stefanie Dickerson. The Kawasaki crews were all present and very helpful in getting us settled into the challenge.

Day 2 was the first track day and classroom session. I learned the fundamentals of drag racing and the capabilities of the ZX14R while keeping in mind that this was the most power I have ever experienced on a track or in life. I was trying to get adjusted to the hottest dry heat I have ever experienced paired with the high altitudes. Track temperatures were 140 degrees and the stress level was beyond words.

Day 3, again I attended class with Rickey and had time to apply my classroom skills. Later that evening I had the chance to qualify for my NHRA Motorcycle License. I was struggling being the only contestant that could not make the pass under the NHRA required 10.00 seconds. Finally in my last attempt I was able to achieve the goal with a pass of 9.91. I was so relieved and overwhelmed with emotion from my hard work. It was definitely a defining a moment in the experience.

Day 4 was the big day: the bracket race. I awoke with a level head, convinced I would compete for only myself and do the best that I was able. My first

pass of the day during test and tune was a 9.76 which I was thrilled about after having a hard day the day before. When it was time to begin the bracket race I was paired with the strongest rider of the finalists. I had made my mind up that I would not go home in shame and that I had done my best and I expected defeat in the first pass. When I came back to the pit I could see from Reah’s face and body language that I had won. Robert, my opponent, had redlighted.

Ever the sportsman, Robert joined me in the pit with his mother and helped me to choose a dial in against my next competitor, Jim. Something inside of me changed after the first eliminations. I knew the bike was mine in my mind and heart and just needed to beat Jim to get it. I lined up at the start line and knew I could not red light. We both dialed in at 9.75 so it was almost as even a race as you could get. After making the pass I came down the return road once again and saw Reah. Her hands were raised in victory and I knew at that moment I had won. Rickey came and congratulated me. I could not get my bike stopped fast enough as I laid my head on my tank and let the stress of the competition flow in tears. Rickey says “there’s no crying in drag racing...” But I beg to differ.

At that point Rickey presented me with the key to my brand new 2012 Kawasaki ZX14R. SBI: Is Rickey a good teacher?

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINE zero to hero

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

in me when I was at my most frustrated as I was definitely the underdog.

SBI: What does winning this competition mean for you?

AY: I have worked harder in 9 years on Slick Wicked than anyone can imagine. I knew at that moment I had finally earned the respect I had fought for, for many years.

SBI: If you had to rate this entire experience on a scale of 1 to 6 gears, 6 being the best... How would you rate it?

AY: On your scale it would be 163 gears! There are just not words to describe what this experience means to me.

SBI: Your team, Slick Wicked is composed of all females. Do you all play nice with one another or is there a healthy sense of competition?

AY: We are all very supportive of one another’s goals and successes but the bottom line is you have to be a competitor to be on the team. You have to want to win and when one wins, it brings overall success for the team, just like with the Zero to Hero Challenge.

SBI: Are they proud of you for what you’ve just accomplished?

AY: They definitely are. This win means so much to the team because it provides an opportunity to go further than we have ever gone before. Each

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girl diligently voted for me and encouraged their social media contacts to vote as well so it was definitely a team effort to just get to Vegas.

SBI: Are you proud of yourself?

AY: Well hell yea! I worked hard, set a goal and achieved it!

That’s what the American dream is all about.

SBI: What’s next for Angie Young?

AY: Right now I’m working on Team Slick Wicked to have the respect they deserve nationwide.

I am seeking sponsorship for the entire team and all our vehicles. We have a sizzle reel for a reality TV show that we are currently seeking sponsorship to get our first season on air.

SBI: Are all challenges being accepted?

AY: Yes, all challenges are welcomed. Have bike, will travel, need sponsorship to get there.

SBI: Describe your perfect tomorrow...

AY: My perfect tomorrow includes full sponsorship for myself, my team mates, the reality TV show, and my vehicles. Life just couldn’t get any sweeter, I have worked my ass off for it!

Seems to me that Angie Young has always been a hero. The only difference these days is that now... the world knows it.

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Reah Brice Lloyd Smith

NAME: Reah Smith AGE: 27 Association/Affiliations/Series: Team Slick Wicked, Amateur Motorcycle Drag Racing

Goals: Earn my NHRA Motorcycle Drag License. Secure a full sponsorship for my season and nail my first victory.

Accomplishments: This is my second year testing. I will be entering races further into the 2012 season.

Define your passion in one sentence: Racing is my passion because it fulfills my mission to prove to the world that women have a place in motorsports beyond waving the checkered flag.

CONTACT:

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SPORTBIKE IPHONE GPS CAMERA MOUNT

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The Rev LIMITER

Violet Stars & Happy Stunting Words and images: leah petersen T

his past Mother’s and Father’s Day I have had some time to reflect on how lucky I am.

When people find out I ride motorcycles for a living one of the first questions I get asked is, “How do your parents feel about that?” This is always a puzzling question for me. My parents have rarely so much as batted an eye at my decisions regarding motorcycles. Two wheels, one wheel, foreign countries, it’s all good to them.

My mother has actually wheelied on my bike with me a few times.

Although there was one time, I had just started riding street bikes and decided to do something that made my mom… thoughtful, we will say.

I was wrapping up university in Manhattan and preparing for a move to Florence, Italy. I needed to sell my GSXR before I moved, but decided to get in one last hoorah before I let her go. The plan was a coast to coast ride from New York City to Washington State, the first week in August. I don’t know where the idea came from, but once it arrived in my brain, it wasn’t going anywhere.

I announced the news to my mother at the beginning of summer. She said “Okay…” And that was about it. But a few days later I got that “She hadn’t quite moved on yet...” phone call.

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it wasn’t to say I shouldn’t do it. It was to volunteer my father to come with me! I was more than happy to accept and it was decided my dad would fly out to New York, I would find him a bike and we would hit the open road together. Very “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenanceish”.

I had to find a bike, on the

quick and on a budget. I trolled craigslist for a few weeks and finally found a beast I thought could make the trip. I took the train into the city, ended up deep in Brooklyn where the owner ripped a tarp off the bike that would take my father across the country over Rocky Mountains and aptly earn the nickname “Mad Max.” It was a rhino-lined, 90’s era cruiser complete with

metal studs on the fender and tail section. I snickered at her appearance, but had to admit I felt like a hellion riding home that night on the Long Island Express.

Bike purchased, summer semester grinding to a halt, I decided to change my oil before Dad flew in. Things were going smooth and I was pretty proud SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 93

The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

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of myself for changing my own oil, then I made that classic squid mistake, over tightening the oil pan plug and cracking the pan. Two days before we were supposed to leave, I was freaking out and did what most young girls would do. I called my Dad. He tried to find an oil pan in time, but it wasn’t happening, so he flew to NY armed with a farmer’s determination and JB weld, of course. In true “myfather fashion” Dad fixed my oil pan and restored my hope in our journey.

The morning we were set to leave the New York summer air was heavy and sweet, like you were receiving an endless hug from the atmosphere. I was showing my father around the dressage barn I had been interning at and as we were exiting the pristine stable corridor Steppenwolf surreptitiously came on the radio and “Born to the Wild” kicked off our trip.

People always say, “That only happens in the movies,” but seriously, I felt like I was in a movie, walking out of the dark barn into the blinding light.

Towards our bikes packed down for the journey, Steppenwolf blaring from the dusty stable radio nailed to the wall.

The trip is a whole other story, but we traversed the Northern states, through Niagara Falls, Chicago, the Black Hills, Sturgis and finally the Rocky Mountains.

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The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

After spending an entire week alone inside my helmet, descending the Rockies into the dry region of Washington State was a bit like the final portion of a marathon. Things became clear, with a giant goal achieved: everything ahead of me in life seemed possible.

Crouched behind the windscreen of my gixxer, thin mountain air turning to dry desert heat, trailing my father through the winding mountain roads, I couldn’t help but be grateful. Grateful for my life, the parents who gave me life and supported me with the belief that we were indeed, born to be wild.

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The Rev LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Kim Pace

NAME: Ed “1000” Murowski AGE: 34 Association/Affiliations/Series: TOCC, Racing 905

Goals: To be in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Accomplishments: Traveling the country doing shows. Taking first place in a show judged by the O.G. stunt man himself, Mr. Evel Knievel.

Define your passion in one sentence: I love riding and hate the politics behind it.

Passion, dedication, professionalism and talent should be all that matters.

Contact:

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SS-Shirt

Brotherhood

XXR

Reaper

Shop Online - www.LegendaryUSA.com/SBI 100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE LIFE Featured Club

Gear Bangerz M.C.

Chapter: Philadelphia | Founded: 2000 | Members: 14 Elected Officials: President - Green Bottle | Vice President - Bad Karma | Sergeant at Arms - Demo Dollaz | P.R.O./Secretary - T Gunna | Road Captain - J Roll

History/Origin of Club: The Gear Bangerz M.C. was formed in Philadelphia during the summer of 2000.

This close knit band of friends came together to not only learn about the motorcycle club culture and lifestyle, but to be advocates for it as well.

Club Milestones/Memorable Moments:Â The Midnight Run for Peace is a well known awareness

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event/ride that happens once a month during the riding season in Philadelphia.

The ride is heavily attended by members of the bike community and strongly supported by city officials. The Gear Bangerz were personally invited by Mayor Michael Nutter to participate in very first Midnight Run for Peace.

Future of the club: The club is very involved in

actions to curb violence and stand to display a positive light on the often murky outlook that bike clubs are subject to.

They are looking to expand their family and are constantly on the look for positive and dedicated members of the bike community to join their ranks.

Their immediate goals include charity and community outreach as well as launching chapters in other states.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

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THE LIFE: FEatured riderS Jerzey Devil

Atlanta, GA

Truck Driver

STATS Years Riding: 8 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

Jerzey Devil

bike(s) Owned: 2006 Kawasaki ZX636R

FAVORITE BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: Muzzy exhaust.

Favorite piece of riding gear: My New Jersey Devils Helmet

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most memorable ride: Blood Mountain, GA.

Sarah Schilke

Aliso Viejo, CA

MKTG/PR. MGR for Schuberth

Sarah SCHILKE

STATS Years Riding: 18 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street, track and dirt. bike(s) Owned: Ducati 750 Sport, Honda Superhawk, Yamaha WR450 FAVORITE BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: Heated handgrips, yes, even in SoCal! Favorite piece of riding gear: My Schuberth S2 helmet. most memorable ride: My first track day at Laguna Seca. I was having a blast, feeling great, getting faster until all of a sudden I was off the track in turn 4 trying to control full on tankslappers across the curbs and into the dirt. I remember everything in slow motion. But then I realized I was still on top of the bike and and focused hard on the H in the distant Bosch sign over the track. Somehow, I rode it out. Once I was back on the track I was pretty shaken up but didn’t quite know what to do so I just kept riding until one of the instructors pulled me off the track. He screamed at me “I can’t believe you saved that!” Which of course made me finally get freaked out.

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FEatured THE LIFE: LIFE rider FEatured FEaturedriderS riderS Alicia Bell

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Personal Trainer

STATS Years Riding: 42 years.

Alicia Bell

RIDING STYLE: Street but huge fan of track and stunt! bike(s) Owned: 2004 Kawasaki 636 in Pearl Blazing Orange.

FAVORITE BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: My FMF pipe!

Favorite piece of riding gear: My Icon Kitty Jacket. Â most memorable ride: My most memorable ride was a 6 hour drive from New Brunswick Canada to Halifax Nova Scotia Canada. It was in the rain and I had full gear in a bookbag, rainsuit and I had just got done running at a track meet. I was sore, tired and cranky and I rode as hard as I could in the rain just to get home. It was fun, challenging and cold! I met a random rider who played with me on the highway in the rain for a little while which was nice of him and made the ride that much more fun! Riding alone for that long in the rain was probably my most challenging ride ever.

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John Khodov AKA John K

Brooklyn ,NY

Co-Founder & CEO of B4MOTO

STATS RIDING STYLE: Street, stunt and track. bike(s) Owned: 2009 Suzuki GSXR 1000, 1995 HD 1200 Chopper Favorite BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: Exhaust, Power Commander and custom paint work.

Favorite piece of gear: Armadillo Helmet.

John Khodov

Years Riding: 12 years.

most memorable ride: Dragons Tail, Deals Gap, N.C.

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MOTO TECH: The war ROOM

Words: Allan Mark Lane Rozemo Image: Courtesy of Motion Pro

2012 S BMW S1000RR

ince it’s debut, the BMW S1000RR has quickly become a weapon of choice on the straight line circuit. A healthy dose of electrical goodies and solid engineering off the assembly line makes this bike a formidable foe. Here are a few items to assist in the domination.

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ZERO GRAVITY RACING | SR WINDSCREEN Give the S1000RR some shade with the dark tint windscreen from Zero Gravity. $439.98 - $579.98

BST CARBON FIBER WHEELS | 5 SPOKE SLANTED Shave 40 to 60 pounds off of stock when you upgrade to BST wheels. $1,650.00 - 2,495.00 112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

LEO VINCE | Carbon Fiber ALTERNATOR COVER Save some weight and protect your engine casing with the stylish new carbon fiber alternator cover from Leo Vince. $TBA

SARGENT | CUSTOM SEAT For the streets or competition, a comfortable ride is just that... a comfortable ride. $319.95

BROCK’S PERFORMANCE | CT SINGLE FULL SYSTEM A full system with the performance and that highly sought after bark... all weighing under 8.5 pounds. $1,845.00

ROARING TOYZ | Swingarm Extensions These extensions are the highest quality and safest extensions available. Simple to bolt on and come complete with a billet brake caliper hanger support that bolts to the right side extension. $399.99 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 113

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

ASK THE PRO WRENCH Words: Thomas Campion IMAGES: Norman garrett the best way to change my rear sprocket?

Q:What’s Changing a rear sprocket is pretty simple. Before I A: start I always also check the front

sprocket, which a lot of people forget about, and the chain. The front sprocket usually has a cover over it, but if you grab a flashlight you can look in from the back of the cover or just remove it. The chain, I look for tight spots.

Now to change the rear sprocket you need to remove the rear wheel. Before doing this you will need the rear of the bike off the ground, usually done with a rear stand but I’ve seen people get pretty creative if they don’t have a rear stand. Just use common sense so you don’t hurt yourself or others. Start off by loosening the axle nut. Depending on your motorcycle, it is usually between a 27mm, 30mm, or 32mm socket you will need. After that pull you axle out. Now you can lift the chain off the sprocket and I usually hang the chain on the swingarm.

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Now your rear wheel is able to be removed, watch your rear brake doesn’t scratch your rim.

Once the rear caliper clears the rotor you can twist the wheel so it passes by your caliper without hitting. Now that the “hard” part is done, its as simple as removing the five or six nuts holding the sprocket on, swap the old sprocket with the new one and your sprocket nuts in a crisscross pattern. Please refer to a manual for all specific torque values.

Sprocket bolts are usually around 14 to 18ft lbs.

Now your ready to install your rear wheel which is the same as taking it off. Start on an angle and after you clear the caliper straighten the wheel, put the chain around your new sprocket and slide you rotor into the caliper.

This sometimes can get a little tricky because you have to hold the rear tire off the ground while making sure your wheel spacers don’t fall out and fitting the rotor into the caliper. But just have

some patience and you’ll get it.

It’s easier if you have your buddy slide the axle in while you are holding the tire.

After you get your axle in, double check all your spacers are in correctly and everything is where it should be. Before you tighten your axle nut you must make sure

the wheel is against your axle blocks and chain adjusters. To do this I put a shop rag between the chain and sprocket and roll the wheel back so it tightens the chain and pulls the wheel tight.

Then I’ll tighten my axle nut, roll the wheel forward and remove the rag. After this, I double check chain adjustment and you just

chained your rear sprocket!

Go have a victory ride :)go ahead and put some oil back in, bolt up you fairings and get out there and ride!

Got a question for the Pro Wrench?

Send him an email!

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improve your skills

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Stabilizing the front end

words: Eric wood images: Brian Nitto

H

ave you ever hit a false neutral on the way into a corner? I can think of a few words that I can use to describe the feelings that I experience when this happens, and many of them are not suitable for a family magazine. Descriptors fitting for this audience would perhaps include unsettling, vague, loose and unpredictable. Although it is obvious that we want to be in gear on the way into a corner, the real education begins with understanding why we do what we do. This months article will look at why a lack of input from the rider causes problems with corner entry and will suggest a solution to this issue.

The handlebars are the primary means of control for any motorcycle. When we consider the manner that we give inputs to the motorcycle, there are only four places that riders make contact with the motorcycle: the grips, the seat, the tank and the pegs. Of course, many of us have made contact with of other parts of the

motorcycle, like the front fender, but we’ll save those stories for another day. The main focus here is that all turns need to be initiated with the bars. In order to turn effectively, riders need to both assess how much input the handlebars need to make the next turn and estimate how much grip there is available to turn with.

front end geometry and weight distribution to become unstable, making it very difficult to judge how much bar input to use to initiate the turn. One of our goals on corner entrance is to keep the front end be as stable as possible, making it easier to predict exactly how much bar input the motorcycle needs to make the apex.

This brings us back to our original question that considers why the motorcycle is difficult to turn when it is in neutral. The biggest problem that this mistake causes is that the unloading of the chassis causes the motorcycle to react with greater amplitude to any input. The engine braking that occurs during deceleration acts to load the front end, causing it to ride lower in the stroke. As forks compress they become stiffer and react with smaller movements to inputs both from the rider and the racetrack.

Since traction is directly proportional to the amount of downward force on the contact patch, it is important to have a consistent load on the tire.

In your mind, run through the entrance of one of the faster turns at your favorite racetrack.

Imagine, midway between the initiation of the turn and full lean, pulling in the clutch and unloading the front tire... What would happen? WARNING: DO NOT TRY THIS! If you are riding anywhere close to the limit, the bars will get heavy in your hands and the bike will begin to push wide and you will probably not make the apex, unless you

When the front is unloaded, the extra motion causes both the

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improve your skills: Stabilizing the front continue to twist on the bars, in which case you might crash.

Why is this? One factor is that when the clutch is pulled in the engine braking ceases to transfer weight to the front tire, causing an instant reduction in grip.

This load transfer to the front tire is one reason why on most motorcycles a certain amount of engine braking is good. There are certainly cases where riders have been successful on a bike with little or no engine braking. A 250GP bike is a great example, but these motorcycles require a

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different chassis balance to work properly. In addition, riders on these bikes will often use the rear brake as a substitute for engine braking, but this is an advanced technique that is not easily mastered and perhaps a discussion saved for a future article. With this said, I think it is a fair statement that riders should not try to turn the motorcycle either in neutral or with the clutch in.

Conversely, too much engine braking is also a bad thing as it can cause a loss of rear traction

much like applying too much rear brake. In addition, it can also cause unwanted deceleration late in the corner and even premature engine wear. Riders must find a balance that suits their style.

It is for these reasons that many bikes now are fitted with slipper clutches that allow the rider to set exactly the amount of engine braking desired on the way into a corner. Regardless of whether you like a lot of engine braking or just a little, the important concept here is that we want the load on the front tire to be consistent and predictable.

Another important factor that changes as the forks move through the travel is the front end geometry of the motorcycle.

When we consider what really makes one motorcycle different from another, one of the primary characteristics is simply the amount of effort that it takes to make them turn at different speeds. One of the major factors in getting used to a particular bike is establishing what this effort needs to be in each corner.

If someone were to change the front ride height of your

motorcycle by moving the forks up 10mm in the clamps, the bike would feel substantially different on the track. The bike would have less precise feedback as a result of reduced trail, would turn in with much less effort and have less straight line stability.

The main point to be made here is that most motorcycles have at least 120mm of front travel in the forks. If a bike is moving up and down in the travel 5mm each way, which is not a stretch by any means, then the rake and trail are constantly changing and it is impossible to predict how

much bar effort the bike requires to turn.

The case for chassis stability and consistent weight distribution is clear. The question that we need to answer is what can be done to maximize this stability?

It is obvious that we do not want to roll into a corner in neutral or with the clutch pulled in. However, many riders are guilty of a lesser crime: coasting into a corner. They will brake straight up and down, release the brakes, and then roll into the corner. Although this is not the same as rolling into the corner in neutral, it is perhaps a halfway as bad. The rider is not precisely controlling the load on the front end and the motorcycle moves around more than it should.

The best riders in the world load the front tire very close to the limit throughout the entire turn.

The segment of the corner where most riders get furthest away from this target is during the transition from braking to turning. As we turn the motorcycle, the front tire begins to require traction to first initiate the turn and then to absorb an ever increasing cornering load that finally peaks at full lean. If the goal is to ride near the limit, it only makes sense that we should only release the amount of braking load that the front tire requires for turning during this process.

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improve your skills: Stabilizing the front

released until the rider makes the major turn input for the corner, which happens just before the apex in a drive focused corner.

In an ideal world, by the time the final release of lever pressure happens the braking effort has already diminished down to only a few percentage points of maximum effort, making the transition virtually seamless.

Most riders do not live right on the edge of traction, but we all can aim to get as close as our current skill set will bring

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us. Finding the edge requires a relaxed grip on the bars and a sensitivity for bar effort, which is why we focus so much at the Penguin School on body position that allows riders feel this feedback. The most important point here is that by overlapping braking and turning inputs as the motorcycle enters a corner allows the load on the front tire to remain as steady as possible.

There are numerous other benefits, including predictable line adjustment and extension of

the braking zone, that we will discuss in a future article.

The first step to working on this skill is simply to eliminate all coasting. Riders can start by leaving a small amount of brake lever pressure, perhaps 5%, in the space between your major braking zone and your major turn zone. Eliminating this coasting will allow your bike to have better grip, more stability, and is the starting point for both braking deeper and executing more precise turns. Until next time, ride fast-ride safe!

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FRICTION ZONE

THE HIT

LIST

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

Arrick Maurice! What’s on your hit list?

“J

ay Z’s “Run This Town”. I was living in Brooklyn when this album dropped over two years ago and this song in particular brings me back and inspires in the same way being in New York City does.

The Roots’ “The Seed (2.0)”. This one recently creeped its way back up to the top. One of those songs you can listen to over and over and never get tired of.

Jay Z & Linkin Park’s “Numb/Encore”. A smashup of two songs that were already at the top of the list = winner.”

Arrick Maurice,

Advertising & Brand Manager, Ducati North America

Join the SBI ONLINE COMMUNITY today!

VISIT THE SPORTBIKES INC FORUM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM/FORUM

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ATLANTIC B E A C H BIKE FEST

2012

Words and images: Allan Lane SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 129

FRICTION ZONE: ATlantic beach bike fest 2012

T

hink back to six or seven years ago... Before the drama and nonsense that befell the city of Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach. In it’s hey day, Black Bike Week was a nonstop block party and custom bike/ fashion show that canvassed ever square foot of both cities.

In the wake of the political and economical shakedowns that the annual event has been subject to, Atlantic Beach, where the true origins of Black Bike Week reside, struggles to persevere. Vendors and sponsors are subject to above average, borderline ridiculous, rates as well as other fees for permits.

The authorities are perched on every corner with a keen watchful eye. The atmosphere is one of unease and its reflected in the attendance numbers. The foot traffic is lighter than its ever been. Things have changed.

Despite the woes, it’s still a party. In concentrated doses, the gas stations are the venues for parking lot pimping. The show bikes are on parade on the highway and boulevard.

The music vibrates off the ocean water providing the perfect soundtrack for the clubs, the riders... the life. In the face of politics and economics, Bike Fest still exists.

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and where it shall always be. The heart of Black Bike Week will continue to persevere and endure any hardships that any political agenda can fire at it.

If 2012’s event was a lull in the rally’s history, I’ll take it. If this is a rebuilding or restructuring of this historical gathering so that future generations can embrace it’s legacy, I’ll take it. If you are one of the many that recalls the hey day of Atlantic Beach, you know the strength of the people and the culture. Atlantic Beach Bike Fest has it’s best days ahead of it.

You can’t stop the bum rush.

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FRICTION ZONE: ATlantic beach bike fest 2012

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FRICTION ZONE: ATlantic beach bike fest 2012

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FRICTION ZONE: ATlantic beach bike fest 2012

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FRICTION ZONE: ATlantic beach bike fest 2012

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FRICTION ZONE: ATlantic beach bike fest 2012

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FRICTION ZONE: SPORTBIKES INK!!!

Words: Baz

K

eep sending the pics of your ink and remember to watch this space every month for more awesome tattoos!

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

RIDER// Wesley Nicholls BIKE// 1982 Yamaha Maxim XJ650 TATTOO ARTIST// Danny Fantuzzi

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RIDER// Chris Schmeltzer BIKE// 2005 Kawasaki ZX10R TATTOO ARTIST// Kyle Behr

RIDER// Eric Hoenshell BIKE// 2012 Kawasaki ZX6R TATTOO ARTIST// Luis Bridges

RIDER// Lea Martinez BIKE// Suzuki Hayabusa TATTOO ARTIST// John John Kural

RIDER// Shannon Autrey BIKE// 2003 Yamaha R6 TATTOO ARTIST// South Florida Tattoo

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D3O® EQUIPPED

CE CERTIFIED BACK ARMOR Covert Green

STRYKER BATTLESCAR VEST ™

CE Approved STRYKER™ Back Armor // D30® Breathable Back Insert with Custom Molded Icon Geometry // Vented BioFoam and AirMesh Chassis // Injection Molded Chest Plate with Integrated Air Vents // HydraDry™Moisture Wicking Liner // Highly Adjustable Waist and Shoulder Straps // Low-Profile Design Fits Under Most Jackets // Available in Covert Green // $150

Dark Earth

Covert Green

VARIANT BATTLESCAR HELMET ™

Fiberglass/Dyneema/Carbon Fiber Shell // Exclusive Battlescar™ Raw Finish // Wind Tunnel Tested & Refined // Multiple Oversized Intake and Exhaust Ports // Fully Removable/Washable HydraDry™ Interior // Shown with included Dark Smoke Shield // Available in Covert Green or Dark Earth // $400

» ALL WORLD STANDARD, MEETS OR EXCEEDS THE FOLLOWING: DOT FMVSS 218 (US), ECE 22-05 (EUROPE), SAI AS1698 (AUSTRALIA) & SG (JAPAN) SAFETY AND TESTING STANDARDS. DOES NOT SHIP WITH SAI OR SG CERTIFICATION STICKERS UNLESS PURCHASED FROM AN AUTHORIZED DEALER IN THAT COUNTRY.

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WWW.RIDEICON.COM

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FRICTION ZONE: random

Images: Brian Nitto

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this life: FAST SUMMER Words: Tyson Beckford

A

“fast summer” has approached us and we now are in some of the best riding weather of the year. What’s the plan for you and the crew? My squad and I will be riding around with no real destination, just cruising. Like clockwork, I bet you we’ll get harassed by the cops just because... But hey, that’s an element of the life. It’s a small part of riding and feeling the wind around you.

With somewhat high fuel prices it still makes sense to do things on a bike: travel, commute, etc. I’m a freak for a bike I hardly drive my car. I sometimes ask myself

Connect with Tyson...

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why do I even need a car?

Then it rains and I am quickly reminded why I have a car, real quick!

I know summer blows by so fast and I can’t seem to get enough rides in with my crew. It’s a such a short season on the east coast.

I stress to you if you can ride, do it because summer only comes once a year so... instead of boring you with a long article I say to you fellow riders get your gear on and get out and ride until your ass cheeks and throttle hand are numb.

Remember, it’s a fast summer.

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THE NEW ISH MOPHIE • JUICE PACK PRO Users of the iPhone 4 and 4s rejoice! The Juice Pack Pro from Mophie not only extends your phone’s life, but it offers a much better level of protection over their previous models. It features protection from: water, dust, impact and shock or vibration protection. Seems like they had the biker in mind when designing this case.

The Juice Pack Pro gives users a bit of confidence when on that extended ride and the normal battery life of your phone just won’t cut it.

Price: $129.95 Contact: http://mophie.com

STREET FX • INTEGRATED LED LICENSE PLATE FRAME The new StreetFX Integrated LED License Plate Frame incorporates rear turn signals, the brake light and the license plate light. The streamlining features aside, the frame features 40 ultra-bright LED lights that give higher visibility than the stock plate light.

Price: $74.99 Contact: http://streetfxseries.com

SPEEDYMOTO • FRAME SLIDER KIT FOR THE TRIUMPH 675 AND SPEED TRIPLE Engineered for the Daytona 675/R and Speed Triple/R models, this kit protects the frame, engine cases and radiator with machined slider pucks and aircraft grade aluminum.

Price: $199.95 Contact: http://speedymoto.com

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DRIVEN • BIKE ARMOR Known for their sprockets and hard parts, Driven is expanding their brand with this very necessary, to every bike owner, product. It’s not always the weather that is an issue for the well being of your ride. Theft is a major issue but can often be deterred if the object is removed from plain sight. Add that theory to a cover that is 100% water proof, features fastening buckles to hold it in place and reinforced eyelets as well as air vents to prevent moisture build up... and you’ve got yourself one hell of a bike cover.

Size:S - L Price: $65.97 - $69.97 Contact: http://sudco.com BITUBO • XXF 31 DUAL BODY REAR SHOCK Lightweight, high performance, and awesome adjustability, are just a few words about how fantastic the XXF shock truly is. With Innovations like dual body monoshock body and lightweight titanium components and swappable damping adjusters makes this shock one of the best on the market.

Bonus feature: The XXF 31 includes a Remote Hydraulic Preload Adjuster. Not too shabby.

Price: $1534.95 Contact: http://bellissimoto.com

ALPINESTARS • FASTBACK WATERPROOF SHOE Another great offering from the good folks at Alpinestars. The Fastback Waterproof shoes are constructed with a suede, textile and microfiber uppers combo. Protection in the ankle and toe area as well as a metal shank integrated in the sole to assist the foot during impacts. Comfort, convenience and function all in one.

Size: 6 - 14 US Colors: Black/Anthracite, Black/Yellow Price: $199.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 153

THE NEW ISH CATALYST RACING COMPOSITES • SUPERSPORT RACE PLASTICS FOR THE DUCATI 1199 PANIGALE Catalyst Racing Composites were quick on the trigger with the release of their aftermarket race fairings the Panigale. Made of fabric fiberglass and finished in grey urethane acrylic primer... ready for paint.

Price: $869.40 Contact: http://catalystracingcomposites.com

CYCLE SHOE • MEN’s SHOE PROTECTORS Possibly the most thorough design in slip over shoe protective wear, these shoe protectors are equipped with non skid soles, shifter pad and made of 4 way stretch water proof neoprene fabric. If you are a rider that prefers to ride in street footwear, pick up a Shoe Protector from Cycle Shoe and keep your kicks fresh!

Size: 7 - 12 Colors: Royal Blue, Lime Green, Red, Black, Silver, Yellow Price: $18.95

MOTION PRO • STAINLESS STEEL MAGNETIC PARTS TRAY Stay organized and save yourself from wasted time looking for fasteners and bolts that seem to sprout legs and wander off with this parts tray from Motion Pro. It’s magnetic backing allows to easily mount to any metal work bench or tool box.

Measures 9.5 x 5.5 inches.

Price: $17.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com

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ICON MOTOSPORTS • COMPOUND JACKET ICON continues to lead the way in the street riding safety apparel. The Compound Jacket is the perfect blend of leather and textile with a high level of protection in ICON’s sport fit. The Compound is fully equipped with ICON’s field armor in the elbows and shoulders and includes a dual density foam back pad.

Looking for back protection? The foam back pad is removable so that you can upgrade your protection with an ICON Stryker CE Back Protector.

Size: S - XXL Colors: Stealth, Blue, Green, Grey, Orange, Red Price: $320.00 - $350.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

BREMBO • LED BODY RADIAL MASTER CYLINDER Combining safety with design and style, the “LED-body” is a revolutionary upgrade product that features LED direction indicators on Brembo’s high-performance radial brake master cylinders. This is the first time that the world of brake systems has been combined with the world of luminous warning devices.

Price: TBA Contact: http://tawperformance.com

WHEELIE TEACH • ADVANCE LEVEL BAR You’re ready to take your wheelie game to the next level. Now what? Check out the Advance Level Bar that attaches to the original Wheelie Teach. This add on allows you to Twelve O’Clock your bike without looping it when used with the Wheelie Teach device.

This device is not for beginners and should be used by experienced Wheelie Teach users.

Price: $45.00 Contact: http://wheelieteach.com

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THE NEW ISH: Featured Item PIT BULL • HYBRID FRONT STAND Pit Bull has produced a front stand to shame other front stands. The Hybrid Front Stand easily converts from a front fork lift stand to a lower triple tree lift stand. The Hybrid is adjustable to 7 settings and come with a removable handle. A must have in the paddock or the shop.

Price: $149.95 - $169.95 Contact: http://pit-bull.com

Join the SBI ONLINE COMMUNITY today!

VISIT THE SPORTBIKES INC FORUM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM/FORUM

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staff stuff FAST BY FERRACCI •

Quick Release Fuel Cap

Mike Lawless The Fast By Ferracci Quick Release Fuel Cap is one of my favorite modifications on to my bike. When I first got my bike, every time I refueled her I felt like the stock fuel cap was a little flimsy. Frankly, it did’t have the well thought out quality the rest of the bike had.

I first saw this style of fuel caps on the Ferracci race bikes and was pleasantly surprised I could purchase one. Just holding it in my hands, I could not help but feel the quality of its design and construction. This fuel cap is just trick, one of those simple little details that makes the bike that much cooler. http://ferracci.com Rating: 6 (out of 6) KRIEGA • R25 BackPACK Allan Lane It took me a minute to really appreciate what a great back pack this is. The comfort level alone is an upgrade to any ruck sack that you may sling over your shoulders. The R25 is designed to be supported across the chest, relieving stress from your lower back. Short or long rides can quickly turn into nightmare situations if you experience lower back stress. However, the lack of compartments, pockets and other features that I been spoiled by leaves me wanting more.

Beyond that, the R25 is arguable the most comfortable pack pack that I have ever worn and remains my go to bag when hoping on the bike. http://kriega.us Rating: 5 (out of 6)

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Meekail Shaheed Location: Valdosta, GA