ROAD RACING • DRAG RACING • STUNT RIDING • CUSTOM BIKES • LIFESTYLE
JUNE 2017 VOL 7 ISSUE 9
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM
NICHOLAS PAT R I C K H AY D E N
LEGEND NICKY HAYDEN VS WSBK | NICKY HAYDEN: AS REAL AS IT GETS | THE GRID LIFE: REMEMBERING A HERO | MOTOGP WITH B.T.: FAREWELL TO NICKY| IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: LESSONS FROM NICKY HAYDEN
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UNTIL NOW, WE HAVE BEEN ASKED TO TA K E S I D E S. T O C H O O S E B E T W E E N W I C K E D O R V I R T U O U S , B R U TA L O R S O P H I S T I C AT E D , R E F I N E D O R W I L D , G E N T L E M A N O R B A S TA R D . Y O U D E S E R V E B O T H.
© Ducati North America 2016
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CONTENTS
JUNE 2017 - VOLUME 7, ISSUE 9 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16
16 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54 54 THE GRID LIFE - By Patricia Fernandez http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58 58 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=66 66 THE NUMBERS - By Jaret Nassaney http://issuu.com/action/page?page=74 74 ASPHALT AND OPPORTUNITY - By Brian and Julian Glascoe http://issuu.com/action/page?page=80 88 THE LION'S DEN - By Lion James http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96 96 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102 102 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=108 108 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=114 114 STAFF STUFF http://issuu.com/action/page?page=124
FEATURED RIDER: BILL BRAILE http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98 PAGE 97 4 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5
FEATURES
JUNE 2017 - VOLUME 7, ISSUE 9
NICKY HAYDEN VS WORLD SUPERBIKE
28
THE GRID LIFE: REMEMBERING A HERO
54
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58
ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY: A FAN'S PERSPECTIVE
74
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=28
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=74
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NICKY HAYDEN: AS REAL AS IT GETS
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MOTOGP WITH B.T.: FAREWELL TO NICKY
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http://issuu.com/action/page?page=38
IYS: LESSONS FROM NICKY HAYDEN
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STAFF
Publisher//Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
ART & DESIGN
Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com
Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com
Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com
Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Patricia Fernanzdez pf@sportbikesincmag.com Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com Contributors: Jaret Nassaney
Cover Photography: Andrew Wheeler Contributing Photographers: Andrew Gosling Brian J. Nelson Asphalt & Opportunity Lion James Chris Bowman MotoGP.com Redbull Dainese Ducati
SportBikes Inc Magazine - June 2017 Volume 7, Issue 9 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2017 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.
In no way can any part of this magazine be reproduced in print, digital, broadcast or any other manner without the expressed written permission of the publisher.
SportBikes Inc Magazine (ISSN 2158-009X) is published monthly by Hard Knocks Motorcycle Entertainment.
SportBikes Inc Magazine is not responsible for any advertising claims made by its advertisers or partners.
Any and all items submitted to SportBikes Inc Magazine will become the sole property of SportBikes Inc Magazine and are subject to, but not limited to edits, comments and titles.
Sportbikes Inc Magazine, staff and partners are not responsible for injuries, loss or damage to their being, vehicle or property, including death that may result from contest submissions.
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TO THRILL
EXH I L A R ATI O N C O M E S STA N DA R D There’s nothing like it on the road. You’re nailed back in the seat when 175 Slingshot® horsepower kicks in and you scramble to keep up with the 5-speed transmission. It’s the closest thing to a sportbike on three-wheels.
Always wear helmets, seat belts, and don’t drink and drive. Drivers may need a valid motorcycle endorsement. Don’t drink and drive. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM |9 SLINGSHOT® is a registered trademark of Polaris Industries Inc. ©2017 Polaris Industries Inc.
TRIBUTE ISSUE
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NICHOLAS PAT R I C K H AY D E N
LEGEND
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10
C L CO
2THE
PENN’S LANDI 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
WWW.CLU
0 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
L U T C H ONTROL
0 1 7 ILLY IN PHILLY
ING•PHILADELPHIA, PA•SEPTEMBER 23, 2017
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FROM THE EDITOR
Bruh, We all miss you. Love you, man. Allan allan@sportbikesincmag.com
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ANYWHERE BUT MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. MAKE LIFE A RIDE. You’ve always blurred the lines between the possible and impossible. Now it’s time to ride it. With the power and performance of the 2017 BMW S 1000 RR, you can live life at the leading edge. Find out more at bmwmotorcycles.com
©2017 BMW Motorrad USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks.
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THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS HARLEY ENTER THEIR BID TO BUY DUCATI That’s right. You read that correct, Harley Davidson is entering the bid to purchase Ducati. Harley is lining up a $1.67 billion takeover bid and has hired Goldman Sachs to sort out the devil in the details. Harley is among several other groups that are vying for the top bid. Ducati, which is owned by Volkswagen and controlled by Audi was recently put up for sale. The sales process is being handled by the investment group, Evercore.
THE 2018 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
Kawasaki’s single cylinder, 4 stroke, 125cc little big bike, the Z125 PRO makes a return to their 2018 model line up. The 2018 Z125 PRO is highlighted by it’s 2 gallon tank, 31.7 inch seat height, performance suspension and it’s wet
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weight of only 224.8 pounds. For 2018, the Z125 PRO is available in 3 color ways: Metallic Courage Gray, “Special Edition” Candy Plasma Blue/Metallic Spark Black and KRT Edition Lime Green/Ebony. MSRP: $3,199 - 3,399
THE OFFICIAL EVEL KNIEVEL MUSEUM Fans of the legendary stunt rider, Robert “Evel” Knievel will be happy to learn that the official Evel Knievel Museum is scheduled to open in July of 2017. The museum is located within the newly renovated Historic Harley Davidson of Topeka in Kansas. The museum is a collaboration between Evel Knievel collector, Lathan McKay and dealership owner Mike Patterson. With investment of 5 million plus dollars, Patterson and McKay added an additional 16,000 square feet to the dealership to establish the museum.
The 2 story museum has a selection of exhibitions that include Evel’s bikes, leathers, helmets, personal memorabilia and Evel’s fully restored Mack Truck, “Big Red”. The second floor of the museum house several interactive exhibitions such as a virtual reality 4D Jump Experience, Plan Your Jump Challenge and a Broken Bones Interactive exhibit, among others. To plan your trip to the Official Evel Knievel Museum, please visit www.EvelKnievelMuseum.org. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 17
ROOM INDUSTRY NEWS THE PRESS ROOM: 2018 LIMITED CAN AM SPYDER ANNIVERSARY EDITIONS To celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the brand, Can Am is releasing limited edition 2018 Spyder F3-S, F3 Limited and RT Limited models. Available in a black with liquid gold satin trim and accents. Each model is built to order with a number of custom options to celebrate the 10 year anniversary. The sporty F3-S is priced at $23,599. The F3 Limited is priced at $29,849. The touring RT Limited has a price tag of $31,049. Orders are only being taken until October 24, 2017. Click HERE for more information.
KAWASAKI NAMED AS TITLE SPONSOR FOR THE 2017 AMA MOTORCYCLE VINTAGE DAYS Kawasaki has joined the 2017 AMA Motorcycle Vintage Days in the Title Sponsor role. Kawasaki has scheduled several events over the event weekend, spotlighted by appearances by former Kawasaki racers, bike displays of historic and new Kawasaki models and the chance for a lucky attendee to win a new Kawasaki Z125 PRO. The AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days takes place July 7 - 9, 2017 at the Mid Ohio Sport Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. 18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
NAKED ADRENALINE
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Patriarch of the supernaked category, the Tuono V4 RR delivers serious street-worthy performance. From its 175HP 1100cc V4 to the latest in Aprilia electronics to a stance that’s worthy of only the best in Italian style, the Tuono V4 RR reigns in the world of naked motorcycles. Schedule a test ride with your local Aprilia dealer today! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19
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THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS THE NICKY HAYDEN MEMORIAL FUND
To honor the Legend Nicky Hayden, a memorial fund has been set up in his name. The Nicky Hayden Memorial Fund will help children in association with the Green River Area Community Foundation. The fund benefits the children in the community of Louisville, Kentucky and surrounding region. To learn more about the fund or to make a donation, please click HERE.
INDIAN’S FLAT TRACK TEAM IS HEADING TO THE X GAMES
Indian’s “Wrecking Crew” is heading to Minneapolis for the 2017 X Games for the first time. Since returning to flat track racing this year after 63 years, Indian’s Flat Track Racing Team of Bryan Smith, Jared Mees and Brad Baker have dominated
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the season, piloting the Indiana Scout FTR750. Joining the Wrecking Crew for the X Games will be veteran road racer Larry Pegram. The X Games will run July 13 through the 16 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
MARCO "LUCKY" LUCCHINELLI BECOMES A MOTOGP LEGEND At the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley, CEO of Dorna Sports, Carmelo Ezpeleta inducted Marco “Lucky” Lucchinelli into the World Championship Hall of Fame. Lucchinelli won the 500 World Championship in 1981. Piloting his Suzuki, he won five races and earned seven podiums, not to mention, setting five fastest laps and earning seven pole positions that season, winning the title by 11 points.
CAL CRUTCHLOW SIGNS A TWO YEAR DEAL WITH HRC AND LCR HRC and Cal Crutchlow have signed an agreement that will have the British rider continue his partnership with LCR Honda for the next two years. Crutchlow has been piloting the Honda RC213V since 2015, earning two MotoGP wins, two second and two third place finishes.
for HRC with the LCR Team again for two more seasons. We have worked extremely hard over the last three seasons together and I am positive that we will enjoy more great results together. I would like to thank HRC for the great support they offer me and our team, and I look forward to giving my hundred percent to this project as "I am very happy to confirm that I will be riding always.” - Cal Crutchlow.
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THE PRESS ROOM: GRID NEWS AMA HORIZON AWARD RENAMED IN HONOR OF NICKY HAYDEN
Nicky Hayden received the inaugural American Motorcyclist Association’s Horizon Award in 1997, an annual award presented to the top amateur racers in dirt track, motocross and road racing. In honor of Nicky Hayden, the award has been renamed and will now be presented as the Nicky Hayden AMA Horizon Awards. Hayden went on
to win the 1999 AMA Supersport Championship, the 2002 AMA Superbike Championship and the 2006 MotoGP World Championship. The Nicky Hayden AMA Horizon Award recipients will be recognized at the 2017 AMA Championship Banquet on January 20, 2018.
DUNLOP’S NEW KR451 RACING SLICK FOR SUPERSPORT MACHINES
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D u n l o p Ti r e s h a s released a new, super sport specific tire size that engineered to fit any middleweight sportbike with a 5.5 inch wide rear wheel. The Dunlop KR451 is racing slick made in one size,180/60R-17 and is available in both soft and medium compounds.
april 21 - 23
Circuit of the Americas
april 28 - 30 road atlanta
May 12 - 14
virginia international raceway
june 2 - 4
august 25 - 27
june 23 - 25
utah motorsports campus
pittsburgh international race complex
july 7 - 9
september 8 - 10
mazda raceway laguna seca
august 11 -13 sonoma raceway
new jersey motorsports park
september 15 - 17
barber motorsports park
road america * schedule subject to change
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JANUARY 28 ARIZONA MOTORSPORTS PARK
FEBRUARY 20-21 INDE MOTOSPORTS RANCH
MARCH 6 BUTTONWILLOW
MARCH 7-8 BUTTONWILLOW
MARCH 20-21 INDE MOTOSPORTS RANCH
APRIL 17-18
STREET OR TRACK
INDE MOTOSPORTS RANCH
MAY 8-9 INDE MOTOSPORTS RANCH
MAY 22 NEW JERSEY MOTORSPORTS PARK
MAY 23-24 NEW JERSEY MOTORSPORTS PARK
JUNE 8-9 NEW YORK SAFETY TRACK
JUNE 20 NEW JERSEY MOTORSPORTS PARK
JUNE 21-22 NEW JERSEY MOTORSPORTS PARK
JULY 11-12 NEW JERSEY MOTORSPORTS PARK
AUG 3-4 NEW YORK SAFETY TRACK
SEPT 11-12
CHAMPSCHOOL.COM
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NEW JERSEY MOTORSPORTS PARK
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 27
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NICKY HAYDEN VS. WORLD SUPERBIKE WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: ANDREW GOSLING ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: 3.2016 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 29
THE GRID: NICKY HAYDEN VS. WSBK
N
icky Hayden was proclaimed a MotoGP Legend in the Fall of 2015 just before the final round of the 2015 MotoGP season in Valencia, Spain. This final round for the 2015 season was the final round of Hayden’s MotoGP career that began in 2003. In 2006, he won the championship and added on to his many accolades that he’s collected along the way, including both an AMA Superbike and a 600 Supersport championship. Towards the end of the 2015 MotoGP when it became clear that Hayden would be continuing with the Drive M7 Aspar Team, the talk... or speculation of what his next moves would be began to circulate. It was shortly thereafter revealed that Hayden would be making the move to World Superbike, joining the Honda World Superbike team. His fans were delighted with the news. Even his critics, not that he has many, thought that this was a logical and sensible move. 30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID: NICKY HAYDEN VS. WSBK
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Ever the hard worker and someone that believes that you get out whatever you put in... Testing for the 2016 WSBK season began immediately for Hayden, just after the close of the final round of the 2016 GP series. Lap times were impressive. But more impressive than his lap times, was Hayden’s attitude. World Superbike was going to be a challenge for him. He knew that and he embraced it. AL: What does this first season in WSBK mean to you? NH: It means I get to keep playing the game that I love! its a good opportunity for me to learn all the tracks of SBK and really get prepared for next year. AL: What are some of the challenges that you are facing transitioning to WSBK? Do you feel that coming from GP has any advantages or hinderances? NH: For sure, my days in GP have some advantages and the experiences I’ve learned should help me at times. But for sure there is a lot to learn to this new championship and to adjust to. Here, there are two races in the weekend, new tracks, different tires, different competition and a different style to going fast and riding production based bikes... But I think I am up to the job and looking forward to it. AL: What is on your “Get ‘er done” list for 2016? NH: Well of course I want to be competitive and have fun. But above all, I want to get the results I believe that I am capable of. Also, it’s very important to learn as much as possible about the championship and my team to really try and make some noise in 2017. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33
THE GRID: NICKY HAYDEN VS. WSBK
AL: Round one, Phillip Island. You were in the front of the pack so the pace doesn’t seem to be an issue... Will we see you on the podium often this season? NH: At Phillip Island, I had some things in my favor. It was a track that I knew from GP and a two day test leading up to the race. I am looking forward to the race in Thailand to really understand what I am up against when it will all be new and just one day of practice then the race to see what my real potential is. But to answer the question... Yes. I hope this season will see me knocking out podiums for me and all my fans! Hayden, throughout his career has always been able to capture the heart of his fans. Never complaining when things don’t go right nor passing the buck, Hayden takes the weight on his shoulders. At the same time, Hayden is the consummate team player, spreading the credit to his entire team when things go well. As he attacks this new challenge of WSBK, it will be that attitude that helps him persevere whatever humps and hurdles that may be set before him. A champion is a champion regardless of the platform. Nicky Hayden versus World Superbike... advantage, Hayden. 34 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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36 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM F i n d your favorit e loc al de ale r on w ww.t a wp er f or man ce.com/d ealer s
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WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: COURTESY OF DUCATI & DAINESE
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Nicky Hayden ...as real as it gets
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THE GRID: HAYDEN... AS REAL AS IT GETS
T
he real have the uncanny ability to recognize the real. The refreshing familiarity of the company of a person that breathes just like you do. That person dreams like you do. They strive to enjoy the life that they have created for themselves just like you do... And when you understand that this individual has achieved what so many strive for and has accomplished what so many reach for on so many different levels, the real becomes something more. Beyond recognizing real, the real recognizes true inspiration. Nicky Hayden fits the bill of inspiration in every sense of the word. One of the most personable individuals in the MotoGP paddock, Hayden is approachable, likable and exudes a coolness minus any conceivable notion of airs. Let’s talk about the coolness for a moment... as it’s not your average cool. Regardless of the setting, Hayden is level across the board. His demeanor in the paddock is the same as in any social setting... Easy. If there is a balance of power, ability and self awareness... Hayden has found it. To refer to him as anything less than an ambassador is a disservice. Allow him to reintroduce himself... SBI: What is the first thing you do when you wake up? NH: Smile. Everyday is a holiday! SBI: There are a select few riders in the paddock that can ignite and inspire a crowd. You definitely are at the top of the list. I’ve personally witnessed that connection that you have with your fans. How do you feel about your fans? NH: I feel close to my fans and I realize that without them, we have no show. They are the ones who let us do what we do. I appreciate them and they appreciate us.
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THE GRID: HAYDEN... AS REAL AS IT GETS
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SBI: How important is that relationship? NH: Very. It’s exciting to go back to the same countries year after year and see some of the same people and share that relationship. SBI: You were the youngest AMA SuperBike Champion. When you look back on that time of your life, how do you think that prepared you for your life now? NH: It was a box that needed ticked off. There were steps and goals along the way I needed to accomplish. I think the AMA Championship is strong. It taught me a lot. SBI: What would you say to a young racer or anyone that has aspirations to encourage them? NH: Track time is very important. Try to get as much experience as possible, is the first thing. The way to learn is by doing it. You can only learn so much watching videos and thinking about it. You have to push yourself. Always try to ride and learn from people faster then you. SBI: Do you consider yourself a role model? NH: Yea... I would say so. SBI: Being fast is part of the equation. There’s so much more involved to ride at the level that you do before you even throw a leg over the bike... NH: You’re so right. Many people don’t see that. Especially now with electronics being so much more advanced, you really have to be on your game and prepared with your technicians to know your options and to dial it all in for you and that track. SBI: On the grid, waiting for the sighting lap to commence, surrounded by umbrella girls, press, officials... Where are your thoughts? NH: I love that feeling when you’re on the line. You’re nervous but you know you are right where you belong. You know hell is about to break loose because races never go as planned. That’s why we love it! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43
THE GRID: HAYDEN... AS REAL AS IT GETS
Greeting fans with teammate Valentino Rossi With crew members (L to R) Roberto Bonazzi and Juan Martinez
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“I
really am the person you see. No show. Just a guy that loves his family and riding bikes!” SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 45
THE GRID: HAYDEN... AS REAL AS IT GETS
SBI: The paddock can be a hot box for drama. You’ve done a tremendous job of not being involved in any nonsense, at least not in the public eye. Is that really the case, that you just aren’t involved or is there a secret to remaining “sucker free”? How do you avoid getting caught up in the soap opera? NH: I really have no time for the drama. I’m trying to win races. It won’t help me do that so I leave all the drama behind. I always try to be a professional. I want no regrets when I hang it up. SBI: Can you list your injuries? Broken bones, concussions? NH: I could tell you the big stuff. But all the little ones along the way that haven’t caused me to miss a race... Most of those I have forgotten. I have no time to bleed! SBI: With the risk factor so high, is it worth it? NH: Yea, it really is. This is the life I chose. I know the consequences. For me, personally, it’s worth it. SBI: What is it inside of you that drives you to achievement? NH: To be the best. SBI: Who inspires you? NH: My family and fans. SBI: What does the word “legacy” mean to you? NH: To want to be remembered and never forgotten. SBI: What legacy do you hope to leave? NH: That I was an all around guy that could ride anything, anywhere. A professional on and off the track with a lot of heart. SBI: How has the relationship with Ducati grown over the last few years? NH: A lot. I really love my team and spend more time than ever in Italy at the company. It’s a great brand and I’m proud to be on their payroll! I love my guys! It took some time, initially, to learn how they do things. Now I really feel at home with these guys. I’m lucky to have them in my corner. SBI: Can you shed some light on how vital the Rider/Crew relationship is? 46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID: HAYDEN... AS REAL AS IT GETS NH: It’s huge! When you have a 45 minute session and only get to come into the pits two or three times, you don’t have time to sit down and go through every little detail and ask questions. They need to know how to read you and pick up what you trying to say with a few words before they can do something about it. That relationship takes time. It takes trust to make a good one. Kinda’ like with a chick... If you can’t trust, it won’t work! SBI: Racing as a sport and a way of life is massive, globally. As huge as Laguna Seca and the Indy rounds are, in terms of spectator attendance... they seem dwarfed by attendance at rounds in other parts of the world. What are your thoughts on why racing is not as prominent here in the states as it is in other parts of the world? NH: I really don’t have the answer. It’s true MotoGP just hasn’t caught on in this part of the world like some of the other spots we stop in. It’s a shame. But I really can’t answer it. If I could, I would try to fix it. But now with another U.S. race here next year, it’s gotta help. We really need to have better TV exposure to attract new fans, as well. SBI: Who do you think is responsible for promoting the sport? NH: Everybody. Everybody involved has to do their part. No one person can carry it. Start at the top with Dorna and work down from there to the teams and riders. SBI: What would you like to see happen in the U.S. in order to get these events on the same level if not greater than the events in the rest of the world? NH: I wish I had the answer. It’s not easy. The American fans love their stick and ball sport and the traditional stuff so it’s hard to convert them. But I do see it growing here. I hope to do my part to help and give back to the sport I love and the sport that’s giving me a great life!
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SBI: Tell me about your support group and the role that each member plays. NH: Well, apart form my team it starts with my mom and dad, the same ones that have been there since the drop. I really got great parents and they are the first ones I talk to when I need some real advice. I know they are going to give it to me straight. And the rest of my family. My older brother Tommy has really been a big part of my career and looking out for me. I also have the same crew of friends in Kentucky that I came up with so that’s very important to me. You know how the saying goes, “Dance with the girl you brought!” I got a lot of the same people in my crew that I started out with! SBI: 20 years from now, Nicky Hayden is doing what? NH: Ha! I’m not sure what Nicky Hayden is going to be doing in 20 minutes! You’re really trying to put me on the spot! I hope I’m somewhere happy. Still involved with bikes and still living the dream! SBI: What was the last movie that you watched? NH: “Hit and Run” with my buddy and fellow Ducati rider Dax Shepard. SBI: I know how much of a hip hop fan you are... Give me your top three current hip hop songs... NH: “I Wish You Would”, DJ Khaled and Kanye West. It’s a perfect song for before the race on the grid. “New Day”, 50 Cent because when I’m in a slump I gotta stay up and stay positive and know that everyday is a new day. “Work Hard... Play Hard”, Wiz Khalifa. I love the beat and the motto! SBI: Tupac or Biggie? NH: Pac all day! I know I’m probably going against you being from the East Coast but Pac is the guy all rappers are measured against in my eyes.
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THE GRID: NICKY HAYDEN VS. WSBK
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SBI: If you could take a ride with anyone, alive or deceased... anywhere in the world... Who would it be with and where? NH: Anyone in the world? Wow, that’s a lot to choose from. Maybe I like to take a ride with Jesus to see if he can ride! SBI: What is the last thing you do before you go to sleep? NH: Say a prayer and set my alarm. SBI: At the end of the day, what should the
world know about Nicky Hayden? NH: Just know it’s real. And that I really am the person you see. No show. Just a guy that loves his family and riding bikes! If the grid was composed of riders on bikes, all in a uniformed single color scheme, visually identical to one another... Hayden would still stand out. He would stand out because he is believable. Real recognizes real and this dude, looks familiar.
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THE GRID
THE GRID LIFE
WORDS: PATRICIA FERNANDEZ IMAGES: REDBULL 54 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
REMEMBERING A HERO I
could not remember a time where I was more glued to my phone than Wednesday, May 17 until Monday May 22. Reading the first press release stating Nicky Hayden had been struck by a car while cycling was devastating. I know myself, as well as many others were praying for his recovery. Nicky was a fighter, we all expected him to just wake up and everything would be ok. The constant release of information and phony articles was difficult to bear. I remember exactly where I was sitting in my kitchen, glued to my phone, when the official statement was made. "Nicholas Patrick Hayden had passed away due to injuries sustained while cycling..." My mouth dropped. I was frozen in disbelief and a whirlwind of emotions. Then the tears rolled out. I could not claim Nicky as a close friend but I did have the privilege of meeting him and working alongside him over the last few years I had been racing. Of course, I was star struck when I first met him. I mean he was Nicky Hayden the World SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55
THE GRID: THE GRID LIFE
Champion! Yet he was so kind and humble. Always giving you his attention when he spoke and never making anyone feel less important than himself. And if there was an opportunity to crack a joke he was usually the quickest to seize the moment. Nicky was the type of guy that every racer aspired to be and every fan wanted to meet. He worked so hard, on and off the motorcycle training, and throughout his many successes and victories he still remained modest.
felt such a personal connection to Nicky, we all could relate to him. Nicky’s spirit will forever live on through us. All our memories of watching him race or our personal encounters with him will be told for generations to come. Nicky will always be one of the Greatest of our time, and we can continually try to improve ourselves to be better and work hard like he did. He won the Moto GP World Championship, and woke up the next day to continue training. I want to be more like him. I will use that story to inspire myself and others. All the fans were lined up to get a moment to Ride on Kentucky kid. Nicholas Patrick Hayden speak to the Champ and snap a picture. It was July 30, 1981- May 22, 2017. so easy to cheer him on. That’s why I feel we all 56 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID
MOTOGP WITH B.T.
WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: B.T.//REDBULL 58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
FAREWELL TO NICKY
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T. I LOVE ALL THE RIDERS... I ROOT FOR THEM ALL AND SAY A SILENT PRAYER TO KEEP THEM SAFE EVERY RACE. AND NO MATTER WHO I WAS WATCHING, I WAS ALWAYS AWARE OF WHERE NICKY WAS.
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
I
don't do death well. Never have. Never will. full of emotion that he wasn't afraid of showing! I It is part of life as my Dad says, "You live. You liked this Nicky Hayden guy! I was hooked! Could die... That's life, son!" not wait to see him and the traveling motorcycle circus that is MOTOGP. Nicky didn't win that race Still, I can't deal. I prefer to live in my own fantasy in Indy but he did briefly take the lead and the world where it doesn't happen or I refuse to crowd went crazy including me. believe it will happen. But I know it happens Such is life! No one told me to write this... Not my boss, What was it about Nicky Hayden that I liked? not this magazine, not even the wonderful readers That question is backward. It should be, what's who read and laugh at my column on MotoGP. not to like? He was a young, good looking guy I wrote this out of my own accord, something I who talked like he was from the country and feel I had to do. Why? I can't answer that, but... he rode motorcycles and he repped the United Such is life! States! To a man who grew up in Oklahoma riding motorcycles,I related to him on almost every I can't remember the first MotoGP race I watched, level. As much as I loved Rossi, I always rooted but I know I was hooked as soon as I saw it on for Nicky! "C'mon Nicky Baby..." I would shout SpeedTV's "Two Wheel Tuesday". I always loved at my computer or IPad! motorcycles and motorcycle racing. This happened to be in 2006, the year Nicky Hayden and Over the years, my passion for this sport has Valentino Rossi would fight down to the last race grown to near fanatical levels. It still amazes me for the most prestigous trophy in motorcycle racing! that MotoGP hasn't issued a restraining order This was also before I got the internet package on against me. Now I love all the riders, obviously, MotoGP.com, which meant I watched the races some more than others but I root for them all and on delay on SpeedTV and before I got Twitter. It say a silent prayer to keep them safe every race. was a different world back then. And no matter who I was watching, I was always aware of where Nicky was. I remember watching the week before as Dani Pedrosa took out Nicky Hayden in Portugal and In the paddock of races or the after party I would Hayden looking like he wanted to literally kill see Nicky but for some strange reason, I never Pedrosa. It looked like his Championship was got a picture with him or tried to bother him. But over but that is why they "play the game" or in he was my American Hero. I loved Ben Spies too this case "line 'em up!" and rooted for him as well, but Nicky was first and for some strange reason that made a bit of I couldn't wait to watch the last race of the season. a difference. I always felt he got disrespected as I was at a friend's house. While everyone was a Champion. But you never heard it from him. He watching the hometown Indianapolis Colts play raced hard, flashed that million dollar smile and football, I literally closed myself off in a separate did his job. Such is life! room to watch the last race. Everybody thought I was crazy, "Motorcycle racing over Football?!" As the years passed, I got a Twitter account A man's gotta have his priorities straight, right? and dove head first into my motorcycle racing Imagine my surprise when I tuned in late only addiction. Fast forward to 2015! Nicky was now to see that this Rossi guy had crashed and the racing in World Superbike. Although I probably American Nicky Hayden was going to win The would've done it anyway. I got the Internet MotoGP Championship! I'm not gonna lie, I was package because I wanted to see Nicky be the a Rossi fan but this guy was American, young and first rider to win an AMA, MotoGP and WSBK
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Championship.
shape for his season in World Superbike!
I screamed like a kid at Christmas when Nicky won his first and only WSBK race in the wet in Thailand. I was elated! Then later that year Nicky "retweeted" one of my tweets and I was smiling like a cat in a hen house! "Yes! Nicky knows who I am... Finally!"
The news hit hard. Everyone seemed devastated. How? Why? But as you mature, you know you can't question life or death. When it's your time, it's your time! I loved Nicky Hayden as I'm sure everyone did, in their own way. He was the first Champion I knew when I first started watching MotoGP.
It was at Phillip Island when I decided, "I'm gonna get my picture with Hayden!" I literally waited outside his garage and knew he had to pass through me to get out. He was as gracious as could be as we took a photo together and again, I was smiling from ear to ear! Nicky was back on a MotoGP bike albeit just for one race until Dani Pedrosa healed up but it felt good to see him back in GP, on a Repsol Honda again. Life is truly a circle and such is life! Everyone knows the world of motorcycle racing is dangerous. We've lost heros to this sport we love and maybe that's why Nicky's death hit so hard. He wasn't racing. He was bicycling. Staying in
I tried watching his funeral on FaceBook but broke down two minutes in and had to shut it down. I don't do death well. I feel melancholy as I write about Nicky. It wasn't supposed to end this way, not for a Champion. He was my American Champion. His family was the First Family in Motorcycle Racing. I planned on seeing him somewhere overseas, maybe strike up a conversation and make him laugh. I won't get that chance now,but my only solace is seeing the outpouring of love on social media for the Champ and know he's not suffering anymore. It wasn't supposed to end this way but, such is life! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 63
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THE GRID
THE NUMBERS EVERY MONTH, WE ASK PROS AND AMATEURS WHY THEY CHOSE THE NUMBERS THAT IDENTIFY THEM ON THE GRID...
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JARET NASSANEY
#59
"I've always been a fan of the #5 growing up. Baseball and football jerseys had a 5 in the number every year. When I got my first KX85 the number on it was 259. I wanted it shorter so I chose 59. When I started racing street bikes in the CMRA, I couldn't have a two digit number so 359 was available. I carried that into the KTM cup with MotoAmerica. Now that I am racing Superstock 600 I am happy to be back to 59!"
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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
JC CAMACHO
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: JC Camacho HOMETOWN: Deer Park, TX AGE: 25 years old. SPONSORS: Altus Motorsports,Scorpion Exo Vesrah, Moto - D, RS Taichi, HT Moto, Vortex, Motion Pro, BD Racing, Moto Liberty, M4 Exhaust, MotoMummy, Southern Adrenaline, Dunlop, SIDI Boots SERIES: MotoAmerica Superstock 600, CMRA National Endurance Series ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2016 Moto America Superstock 600 5th Overall, 2014 AMA Supersport 7th Overall GOALS: To keep learning and progressing, everyday. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Life on the edge, it's what keeps me living!
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
A FAN'S PERSEPECTIVE ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
WORDS: BRIAN AND JULIAN GLASCOE IMAGES: BRIAN AND JULIAN GLASCOE//DUCATI 74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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F
rom the perspective of a fan of sportbike racing, I realize that it’s once in a lifetime that you get to witness an American MotoGP racer as good as Nicky Hayden. His accomplishments and the things that he did for racing will always be remembered and never forgotten. I grew up a fan of dirt bike racing back in the 80’s, just as many others and I idolized David Bailey, Jeff Ward and Bob Hannah. I started riding dirt bikes at an extremely young age, but I was 27 before I got a motorcycle license and that opened up a whole new world on two wheels. As a U.S. Army Service member in 2005 stationed at Fort Knox, KY, I began riding sportbikes and I quickly learned the name Nicky “The Kentucky Kid” Hayden. He was in every motorcycle magazine and on the cover of Men’s Health so he was one of the first racers that I truly identified with. I learned that Nicky Hayden was racing and he was an inspiration to so many young riders in America. At this point. I was assigned to Germany in 2006. I watched his championship run that season on the way to a MotoGP Championship. Being in Europe during his championship run made it even more interesting simply because sportbike racing in Europe is like watching football on Sundays to Americans. Finally, at the Indy MotoGP in 2015, I was able to see Hayden walking through the pits. The crowd surrounded him for a selfie or an autograph. It was insane as they followed him. I quickly learned that he had an appreciation for the fans and he signed every autograph and took every picture for as long as it took. From a fan of the sport of motorcycle racing, I want to thank you for everything that you’ve done to influence me personally as an everyday novice sport bike rider. Thanks for the memories, the laughs and the tears… You Sir are the true definition of a Motorcycle Racer! Nicholas Patrick Hayden, "The Kentucky Kid". SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 77
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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
LUKE JOHNSON
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Luke Johnson HOMETOWN: Mitchell, SD AGE: 27 years old. SERIES: Pro Bike, Grudge Racing. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Tied for third for this season of racing, two second place trophies and three first place trophies. Best reaction time: .0017. Fastest all motor pass: 8.7141. Fastest MPH was 154 on all motor, also. Mike Farnell at Jap Action Performance built my new motor and is helping me reach my new personal best of a 7.7 run. GOALS: To eventually get a sponsor and reach a Semi Professional level. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I love to race and love the thrill of racing on two wheels.
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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP
PATRICK MCGLINCHY
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Patrick McGlinchy HOMETOWN: Beaverton, OR AGE: 36 years old. SPONSORS: Perfect Stranger Designs, Tactical Mindz Stunt Shop, Carter Powersports, OTB Prototypes, Farmers Market Hawaii, Defiant Works, Kevtek, So Def Films, Composimo, Scooter Guru, Zeus Armor, Go Grom, RSC, Impaktech ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Starting Perfect Stranger Designs with my business partner, Brian wood. Happy that we provide great quality stunt and motorcycle parts and awesome customer service to help change the face of stunt and motorcycle parts industry. GOALS: To continue my stunt riding in both worlds, on the sport bike and the Harley. They are both crazy fun in their own way. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion is for motorcycles and automobiles and everything to do with them. It is anxious and exciting. I will be involved in the industry and riding til I die!
IMAGES: COURTESY OF PATRICK MCGLINCHY
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THE LIFE
THE LION'S DEN
WORDS: LION JAMES IMAGES: LION JAMES//CHRIS BOWMAN 88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
NICKY'S
INFLUENCE F
ew people from my humble two wheel beginnings on a 1980 Suzuki GN400e and even fewer from my recent two wheel development atop a 2007 Triumph Daytona 675 Speed Triple know this about me, but I was initially inspired to start riding motorcycles by Nicky Hayden. Okay, the motorcycle scene in the film Top Gun had something to do with it also but mostly Nicky Hayden. I started riding in 2004 but wanted a motorcycle and wanted to ride for years prior to actually throwing a leg over.
I thought I knew what bike I wanted. I thought I knew what style of riding I was gonna enjoy. I thought I knew what being a biker was going to be like. Then in 2002 when Nicky Hayden won the Daytona 200, it made me rethink everything. Not being a follower of MotoGP and long before I attended The Devil’s Showdown round of the AMA/MotoAmerica Races at NJMP every year, the Daytona 200 and the Isle of Mann TT used to be the biggest races of the year for me to watch. Before Nicky Hayden won the Daytona 200 on SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 89
THE LIFE: THE LION'S DEN his factory Honda I was convinced that I was going to be a cruiser rider. I was gonna wear a beanie style helmet and aviator sunglasses, a sleeveless denim jacket with crazy embroidered morale patches all over while making a lot of noise on some big Blacked out V-twin. The images of bikers that I was drawn to and that motivated my love of motorcycles were often from movies and TV shows but my two wheeled heroes in those days were Mat Mladin, Ben Spies, Jake Zemke, Ben and Eric Bostrom, Scott “Mr. Daytona” Russell and Nicky Hayden. Despite following these guys on TV, on the Internet and in the pages of motorcycle publications (I wish SBI was around back then) I still wanted to ride a cruiser instead of a sportbike. There was just something about Nicky Hayden winning in 2002 that sparked in me a desire for a sportbike instead. At that point I decided that I wanted not only a sportbike but a Honda sportbike to be exact. A little bit of searching the internet, visiting dealerships and talking to motorcyclists around town and the Honda CBR F4i became the bike for me. I had a plan. I had a motorcycling idol who’s poster could be hung on the wall and a clear idea of what bike I wanted to ride. I later would discover the Repsol Replica Honda CBR1000RR which I fell in love with after only a glimpse. After having ridden my first bike, not a sportbike, for several years and when it was time for me to finally get my first sportbike, I chose a 2006 Honda CBR600RR in pearl orange and black, letting go of my crush on that beautiful Repsol Replica CBR1000RR. Being my first sportbike, the difference in not only the purchase price of the bike but also the cost to insure it and because conveniently Honda released the orange and black tribal paint scheme for the middle weight CBR the same year of my purchase I got to channel my inner Kentucky Kid without having to sell a kidney to afford it. 90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE LIFE: THE LION'S DEN
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I followed Nicky’s career for a while after that and even after he made the transition to MotoGP I still kept an eye on him. Excited for his MotoGP World Championship in 2006 and even surer I made the right decision to get a Honda I proudly waved the Honda flag and rode my orange and black Nicky Hayden inspired CBR600RR. The more I became interested in professional motorcycle racing, the racers and circuits of MotoAmerica (formerly AMA Pro Series Racing) the less I focused on Nicky’s progress and career. My attention was more on his brother Roger Lee and his peers visiting NJMP each year. I even had the fortune to meet, talk to and even ride through the streets of Philadelphia, PA with Roger Lee and several of his competitors recently as a joint venture between SportBikes Inc Magazine and MotoAmerica. Never forgetting that Nicky and his two wheel victories motivated me to ride sportbikes in the first place it struck me hard when I had heard of his injuries and passing. I never had the pleasure of meeting him or seeing him race in person but as a fan and supporter of him and those like him it’s hard to not feel a major loss for the motorcycling community and the motorcycle entertainment industry. I wish I had gotten the opportunity to thank him for lighting that spark in me that has kept me on a sportbike for well over a decade. I wish I had the opportunity to learn from him. I wish he knew his influence on my motorcycle genesis, education, entertainment and inspiration. 69. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 93
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Matt Mitrani LOCATION: Minneola, FL OCCUPATION: Sales Manager. YEARS RIDING: 11 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2005 Yamaha R6 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Jordan Fairings, StompGrips and Yoshimura exhaust. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Shoei X14 Helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Ride to Sugarloaf Mountain and the Epic 2K17.
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Bill Braile LOCATION: Riverton, NJ OCCUPATION: I sell moist towelettes. YEARS RIDING: 7 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2016 Triumph Bonneville T-120 Black. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Gotta be those throwback tank badges. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Shoei RF-1200 Matte Black. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: 2012 Ride to Bull City Rumble in Durham, NC. All back roads fun with Scott Seiber and Ranger Novrit.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Dae-Hon Cheung LOCATION: Coatesville, PA OCCUPATION: High School Running Back Coach. YEARS RIDING: 18 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. Â BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Suzuki GSXR 600 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Fairings and USB charger. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Me and my father riding to Philly.
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Michael Potter LOCATION: Manchester, England OCCUPATION: Factory Engineer. YEARS RIDING: 3 years of riding. RIDING STYLE: Street and track rider. BIKE/S OWNED: Honda CBR 600RR, Yamaha R6. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Online steering damper is my favorite mod. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My custom Shoei helmet is my best piece of gear. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My favourite ride was either my first trackday at Oulton Park in the rain! Or, Anglesey when I got my best lean angle.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
LESSONS FROM NICKY
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: REDBULL//DUCATI 102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
HAYDEN
T
his month, I would like to touch on a topic that has been on the minds of many motorcyclists, the passing of Nicky Hayden. Rarely does an athlete come along who is so universally admired and respected as Nicky. The Hayden family represents all that is good in racing, and as an ambassador for the United States to the rest of the world I was always proud to claim Nicky Hayden as one of “our guys”. I had the pleasure to get to personally know Nicky when he first showed up on the AMA Superbike scene as a teenager and ran into him from time to time after he left for the world stage. Nicky left an indelible mark on the world of motorcycling and in the spirit of this column I’d to remember some of the lessons that he taught us along the way. Nicky Hayden was never afraid of hard work. His life was to racing motorcycles, and in spite of years of hard work filled with ups and downs he never lost his passion for what he loved to do. Nicky’s road to confidence was to simply get out there and put in the hours that earn you the right to expect to succeed, and this is a lesson that we all can learn from. The Hayden clan had logged their “10,000 hours” by their midteens, yet Nicky always remembered how to keep “fun” in the equation. I remember the first time I watched him race as a 16 year old riding on the Hyper Cycle Suzuki Team. He was just a talented young kid learning to race street bikes who had to learn a new racetrack at every event. He would always start the weekend a little behind his veteran competitors. There wasn’t much practice time those days, and Nicky usually only get a couple sessions to learn the track. It amazed me how weekend after weekend he would be 8th or 10th fastest after a couple practices and then could roll out for qualifying and put SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 103
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: LESSONS it on the front row every weekend. When we’d ask him about it he’d just simply talk about how he knew he could do the times, he just needed to put the whole track together for a lap. We knew then that we were watching a special kind of talent.
lead engineer at HRC, an avid fan, or a stranger on the street Nicky would always look you in the eye, listen to what you were saying and treat you with respect. As a national and world Champion, Nicky was always willing to hold a door or lend a hand to anyone and would often address those One of the things the world found most endearing he met with the affable “Yes, ma’am” from his about Nicky was that he was always a gentleman. Kentucky upbringing. His unilateral respect and It didn’t matter if he was talking to his parents, the courtesy for all people, regardless of their station
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in life, is certainly worth emulation. Finally, Nicky Hayden earned the respect of every team, manufacturer and sponsor that he worked with by not only consistently performing on the track but also by understanding the how to handle tough situations when things were not going his way. He wisely subscribed to the philosophy of not saying anything if there was nothing good to say. When he won, he always was quick to thank his team, praise his motorcycle and credit his sponsors. When he lost, he looked to himself for ways to make it better. These attributes are the marks of a true champion... One who was tested many times over the years. Perhaps the best illustration of his class was in 2006 when he was fighting for the world championship and was taken out from behind by his team mate Dani Pedrosa. At the time, this
move was thought to have cost Hayden his world championship. When asked about the incident post race, Nicky replied, “I told him there's a way to make it up to me and that's if we run one two in Valencia, then the championship's still possible. It's racing." The combination of Nicky’s character and on track accomplishments later landed him in the MotoGP Hall of Fame. While Nicky will be sorely missed, his spirit will certainly carry on in the scores of riders and fans he inspired throughout his career. There are countless racers inspired by Nicky who carry his number and even some who even carry his name. Nicky Hayden was an incredible motorcyclist who left the world as a better place then he found it. The way he conducted himself throughout his life will serve as an example of what a racer and a human being should be for many generations to come. God speed, my friend.
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THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • ICON 1000 LUCKYTIME GLOVES The Luckytimes gloves are great for summer time riding. The back hand of the glove is composed of a breathable poly material while the palm is made from strong, durable yet comfortable goatskin. The D3O armor in the knuckles provide protection while the neoprene cuff and hook and loop closure makes for a secure fit. Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $40.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com
LIGHTECH RACING • R VERSION REARSETS FOR THE HONDA CBR1000RR The R Version Rearsets feature Track System technology that allows for fast and accurate adjustments of the foot pegs with 8 possible positions. Made from 7075-T6 billet aluminum, the R Versions features two sliding tracks on the foot rest support and by unscrewing a single bolt, the foot peg can be adjusted or removed. This is a complete rears kit that includes heel guards, supports, levers, pegs and hardware for installation. Available for the Honda CBR 1000RR, model years 2008 through 2017. Price: $811.00 Contact: http://tawperformance.com
MOTOCHIC GEAR • PERFORMANCE SOCKS The MotoChic Performance Socks use compression technology to help with blood flow and overall comfort while riding. Made from polyamide fabrics with 200 needle count woven pattern for comfort and flexibility. Available in both male and female sizes. Price: $18.00 Contact: http://motochicgear.com 108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
WOODCRAFT CFM • FRAME SLIDER KIT FOR THE YAMAHA FZ07 Now available for the 2015 through 2017 Yamaha FZ07, this frame slider kit from Woodcraft mounts to directly to the frame with no need for modifications. The pucks or sliders feature a unique patented design that has the attachment bolt at a perpendicular angle so that the puck doesn't have to be hollowed out. That means that there is 48% more plastic to protect your bike in the event of a tipper or worse. Price: $69.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com RAPID TRANSIT • RECON 19 TANK BAG Tank bags are often an underrated piece of kit. The Recon 19 looks to remedy that by offering plenty of accommodations for today’s rider. Equipped with a rubberized scratch guard magnetic mounting system, the Recon 19 features a belt buckle guard, a quick view smart phone pocket, map pocket, built in audio port, removable shoulder strap, a rain cover and lat but not least, can convert into a back pack. Price: $94.99 Contact: http://rapid-transit.com BROCK’S PERFORMANCE • PREDATOR FULL TITANIUM SYSTEM FOR THE 2017 GSXR 1000
Enhance the sound and performance of your 2017 Suzuki GSXR 1000, while lightening the load with the full titanium Predator system from Brock’s. The system features a 2.25 inch outlet permanent baffle and a q8mm bung for wideband O2 sensor. The system comes with all necessary hardware for a painless, no mod install. Price: $1,695.00 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com
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THE NEW ISH GABI TOY • NICKY HAYDEN TEDDY BEAR
This limited edition teddy bear was designed and approved by the Legend Nicky Hayden. 12 inches tall, dressed in the stars and strips including the Nicky’s number 69 and moniker “The Kentucky Kid” across the lower back, the bear is a great way to remember Nicky’s legacy. All net proceeds from the sales of the bears will be donated to the Hayden Family. Price: $24.99 Contact: http://gabitoy.com
HOTBODIES RACING • CARBON FIBER FENDER FOR THE SUZUKI 600/750 Upgrade your GSXR 600/750 with a carbon fiber rear hugger with chain guard. Constructed via a pre preg, vacuumed bagged, autoclave process, this hugger is finished in high gloss with no pits or bubbles. Light weight and durable, this hugger has applications for the Suzuki GSXR 600 and 750, model years 2011 through 2017. Comes pre drilled for easy installation and is backed by a two year “no fade” guarantee.
ALPINESTARS • RIDE TECH LONG SLEEVE TOP
Ride Tech is designed to not only keep you cool, but also aid in getting in and out of your suit. Made from lycra stretch spandex with moisture wicking fibers in the chest and back areas, the top has open mesh inserts in key locations for proper ventilation. Other features include muscle supporting compression and pre curved sleeves as well as ergonomic flat lock seams. Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $89.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com
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Price: $199.95 Contact: http://hotbodiesracing.com
DRIVEN RACING • MIRROR ELIMINATORS FOR THE YAMAHA R6 Get ready for your next track day or simply change the look of your R6 with these 3D machined mirror eliminators from Driven Racing. Available in 5 anodized colors and made in the USA. Colors: Silver, Gold, Blue, Red, Black Price: $68.99 Contact: http://drivenracing.com SCORPION EXO • DRAFTER II MESH JACKET The Drafter II Mesh Jacket offers proper ventilation while riding in warmer temperatures. Equipped with ventilated armor at the elbows and shoulders, with a pocket for an optional back protector, the Drafter is composed of a 600 denier polyester outer shell and a perforated, lightweight moisture wicking liner. The Drafter is enhanced by a reflective trim that increases your visibility at night. Also included is a removable windproof liner that can utilized while riding in cooler temps. Colors: Black, Red, Hi-Viz Neon, Silver Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $139.95 - $154.95 Contact: http://scorpionusa.com MOTION PRO • SLACKSETTER
Need to check the slack of your chain quickly and accurately? The Motion Pro Slacksetter makes it simple to check and increase the life of your chain while maximizing it’s performance. Made from nylon with an anodized laser etched aluminum scale. Applicable for most street bikes for up to 2 inches of chain slack. Price: $14.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com
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THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM SCHUBERTH • R2 FULL FACE HELMET
Schuberth Helmet has launched their helmet model, the R2. The full face helmet is bluetooth and radio communication ready, equipped with an integral antenna, two preinstalled loudspeakers and a boom less mic. The R2 also has a slot for the optional SC1 system. Developed in Schuberth’s Air and Acoustics Lab, the R2 offers an optimum level of aerodynamics and noise buffering. The antibacterial liner is both removable and washable. The cheeks pads are quick release and can be removed safely and swiftly in the event the 112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
helmet needs to be removed in an emergency. Air ventilation via a multi channel system provides proper air circulation, keeping the R2 cool for the ride. The R2 is available in a selection of solid colors and patterned styles. Colors: Black, White, Anthracite, Nemesis, Enforcer, Renegade Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $479.00 - $569.00 Contact: http://schuberth.com
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STAFF STUFF SIDI • ROARR BOOTS B.T.
M
y expertise is MotoGP! I review the races, I go to the races and even as a grown ass man, I pretend I'm a MotoGP racer. Up to the point when I get off my bike I actually walk around to the back of my bike to inspect it for rear tire wear! No joke! I'm a real wannabe. So imagine my surprise when my boss, the Editor of this great magazine sent me a pair of Sidi Roarr Boots and told me to review them. "Well... Hells yes!" is what I told him. The Roarr is a great track boot, provided you get the right size. Sizes range from 38-50, European. They come in Black, red Fluorescent and White. Their main purpose is a track boot but I used them in urban street mode. The heel and rubber sole fit nice and snug and were so comfortable that I literally forgot I was wearing a track boot. 114 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
The Air Teflon Mesh provided a fit so comfortable that it felt like a mattress for your feet. My feet were snug but soft and comfortable. It comes with the usual track boot attire, but what I loved is it came with a side air ventilation system! Yeah, to give your tootsies a little cool down if they got to hot! The tricky part for me was the Techno 3- Iron Mechanism that adjusted the leg circumference. I'm not the most tech saavy person on the planet but once I learned, without looking at the owners manual, mind you, it was a breeze! You could literally make this boot fit as snug or as loose as you wanted around your shin. I tried loose and tight. I
literally wore these boots all day, much to the shagrin of my toes and these boots felt better than some dress shoes I've worn. As a track boot,I highly recommend. Its got a replaceable slider, velcro and a easy to use zipper which makes getting in and out of this boot a breeze. The anti twist ankle support braces make you feel confident if you have weak ankles like myself. I didn't like these boots. I loved these boots! They looked nice with my jeans when I went out and also sporty enough if I were to take them to a track day. Personally, the rubber sole on the heel did it for me. I like to stand on my foot pegs a lot when I ride because of discomfort from my hip and the soles of these boots made this a breeze. They gripped the pegs perfectly and I could still feel the shifter without feeling discomfort.Â
I would definately put these boots as a "must buy" provided you get the right size. Trust me, get the right size, that half size made all the difference. I personally would think a 13 would've nailed it, over the 12.5 that I tested. So, if you shop for these and wear a 13, get a 13! http://motonation.com Rating: 6 (out of 6)
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