ROAD RACING • DRAG RACING • STUNT RIDING • CUSTOM BIKES • LIFESTYLE
JUNE 2018 VOL 8 ISSUE 9
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM
A MAJOR KEY
Ms. Keerati
THE LADIES ISSUE
LADIES, LISTEN UP! | WHAT TO WEAR | THE INSIDE LINE: CHANGING TIMES | WOMAN CRUSH 2018 | BRIDGESTONE BATTLAX RACING R11 TIRES | IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: THE ART OF THE KNEE SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 1
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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 2018 - VOLUME 8, ISSUE 9 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14
14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18 18 WHAT TO WEAR http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=26 26 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=38 38 THE NUMBERS - By Mikayla Moore http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54 54 THE INSIDE LINE - By Devonne Duerbaum http://issuu.com/action/page?page=62 62 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=68 68 THE SUM OF ALL PARTS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=74 74 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=140 140 THE NEW ISH REVIEW http://issuu.com/action/page?page=146 146 THE NEW ISH
FEATURED RIDER: TUTIE http://issuu.com/action/page?page=62 PAGE 62 4 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
ICON MOTOSPORTS
®
RIDEICON.COM
SPRING 18
KYLE SLIGER AIRFRAME PRO WARBIRD HELMET OVERLORD SB2 JACKET OVERLORD GLOVE
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5
FEATURES
JUNE 2018 - VOLUME 8, ISSUE 9
MOTOGP WITH B.T.: TRIPPING ACROSS THE POND
26
MS. KEERATI: A MAJOR KEY
82
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=26
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=82
GIRL CRUSH 2018
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THE INSIDE LINE: CHANGING TIMES
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http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54
LADIES, LISTEN UP!
106
BRIDGESTONE BATTLAX R11 RACING TIRES
140
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=106
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=140
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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: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Devonne Duerbaum devonne@sportbikesincmag.com Jasmin St. Claire jasmin@sportbikesincmag.com
Cover Photography: Raul Gaina Contributing Photographers: Raul Gaina Brian J. Nelson MotoGP.com Noiseless Productions Elizabeth Gore
Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com Contributors: Mikayla Moore
SportBikes Inc Magazine - June 2018 Volume 8, Issue 9 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2018 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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DEFIANT-X, 2018
ARAIAMERICAS.COM
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FEATURE STORY
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A MAJOR KEY
Ms. Keerati
PAGE 82
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FROM THE EDITOR
I
met Leticia Cline at a VIP event in Sturgis a few years back. She was jumping on the back of Roland Sands, shoving him around and tussling, all in good fun. I thought to myself of her… “Free spirit, incarnate.” The following March, we crossed paths in Daytona Beach, Florida at Bike Week. There she was, jumping around and tussling with some poor/lucky soul, all in good fun. This time, I thought to myself of her, “She enjoys life… How awesome is she?”
Not too long ago, Leticia made a run from Kentucky to New York State for the Babes Ride Out event. She told me that she would be stopping in Philadelphia for a day or two and wanted me to hang. Hang, we did. I don’t take too many days off, but when Momma is coming to town, you make time. We hit the streets or Philly, and I made my best impression of a two-wheeled tour guide. We rode. We ate. We libated. We chilled. We pontificated and waxed poetic.
The next time that I ran into her was in California. We were both participating in a Dainese event weekend that included the reopening of the Orange County D Store, a ride to Palm Springs and some track time at Chuckwalla Raceway. That weekend, we gelled. Because we both had obligations that required us to cut our time in Palm Springs short, we rode back together at a pretty quick pace. We looked out for and after one another on that ride. It’s amazing how riding with someone can you bring you closer together as human beings. Sometimes, it’s deeper than bikes. Sometimes it is about kindred spirits recognizing the family in one another. Whenever we see each other, it’s big hugs and nothing but love. She calls me “Moses” and I call her “Momma.”
The following day, Leticia, continued on her way to her destination. After her event weekend, she hauled ass, literally. Leticia rode 800 miles from New York to Kentucky in a single day, by herself simply because she was ready to be home.
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I don’t think of Leticia Cline as a “female biker” or a “lady rider.” She is the epitome, the essence, the very manifestation of a Rider. Nothing less, yet so much more. She inspires me, and I dedicate this issue to her. Love ya’ Momma. Ride on. Best, Allan allan@sportbikesincmag.com
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THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS DUCATI MARKS 25 YEARS OF THE MONSTER WITH THE MONSTER 1200 25° ANNIVERSARIO It’s been 25 years since the world was introduced to the iconic Ducati Monster, a bike that would change the scope of naked bikes and motorcycles, in general. To celebrate this anniversary, Ducati is releasing a limited edition version of their Monster 1200. The Monster 1200 25° Anniversario will be limited to only 500 pieces and will be released in a colorway that honors the manufacturer’s Italian heritage. To complement the flag of Italy color theme, the Anniversario will roll on gold colored Marchesini spoked wheels with a matching frame. Other features include an embroidered “25°” logo on the seat, Ohlins steering damper, selection of carbon fiber components and a 25° Anniversario bike cover.
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LIGHTECH RELEASES THREE REAR SET MODELS FOR THE NINJA 400
LighTech has manufactured and released three versions of their rear sets for the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400. Direct from Italy, their new set-up is fully adjustable, offering greater options for a custom rider experience, compared to the OEM footrests.
Made from 7075-T6 aluminum with highquality bearings for smooth movements, anodized, and magnesium heel guards. The LighTech N i n j a 4 0 0 re a r sets are available with fixed footpegs ($406.60), folding footpegs ($468.20) and the R Version ($659.10) that can function in both standard and reverse or GP shift patterns. All three versions utilize the LighTech Track System for fast and accurate adjustments up to a total of eight positions.
THE 38TH ANNUAL PROGRESSIVE INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHOWS 2018-2019 TOUR Dates have been announced for the 20182019 tour season for the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows. The tour includes stops in seven cities across the U.S. with ticket sales beginning on Thursday, September 6, 2018, via www.motorcycleshows.com. The 2018-2019 Progressive IMS Tour dates and cities: Long Beach, CA: November 16-18, 2018, Long Beach Convention Center New York, NY: November 30 - December 2, 2018, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center Dallas, TX: January 4-6, 2019, Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center NEW DATE Cleveland, OH: January 25-27, 2019, I-X Center Minneapolis, MN: February 1-3, 2019, Minneapolis Convention Center NEW DATE Washington D.C.: February 8-10, 2019, Walter E. Washington Convention Center NEW DATE Chicago, IL: February 15-17, 2019, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center NEW DATE SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15
THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS INDIAN’S FTR IS GOING INTO PRODUCTION AND YOU COULD WIN ONE OF THE FIRST ONES OFF OF THE LINE After the successful launch and continued dominance in the American Flat Track series of the Indian FTR 1200, demand for a street version of the bike rose. In response to that demand, Indian Motorcycle announced that they will be producing a street version of the FTR 1200 that will most likely hit the market in 2019. To celebrate the success of the FTR 1200 and it’s production plans, Indian Motorcycles has announced a sweepstakes for riders to win one of the first FTR 1200’s to come off of the production line. Visit www. indianmotorcycle.com/en-us/ ftr1200/ for your chance to win the highly anticipated new model.
DUCATI RECALLS THEIR SUPERSPORT FOR FAULTY HOSE LINES The hoses near the exhaust manifold on the 2017 Ducati Supersport could melt from the heat, resulting in a potential fuel leak. The fuel leak would increase the risk of a fire. Ducati has issued a recall for 1,462 units, model years 2017 and 2018. Ducati will notify the owners and have instructed the dealer network to inspect the hoses and reroute them, if necessary. 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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WHAT TO WEAR
WHAT TO WEAR WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOCHIC
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THE MOTOCHIC
LAUREN SPORT BAG PRICE: $295.00 COLORS: BLACK/GRAY WITH RED, ORANGE, YELLOW OR PINK ZIPPERS WWW.MOTOCHICGEAR.COM MotoChic combines innovative design with The interior and exterior of the bag have high-performance materials to create safe pockets of varied sizes to fit everything and stylish gear that's as fashionable as it you could need to carry from day to night is functional.
on and off the bike. Most notable is the soft, lined protective pocket that fits up to
Their Lauren Sport, a patented motorcycle a 15" laptop, 2L hydration pack, or back backpack for women riders, is available protector. The exterior has large reflective for the Spring/Summer riding season in panels for nighttime visibility and safety. lightweight, vegan materials with brightly Another innovative feature is a built-in LED colored zippers for a pop of color. This light with a switch for interior illumination. weatherproof backpack is unique in that YKK AquaGuard water-repellent zippers it converts to a tote bag for comfortable come in your choice of red, orange, yellow wearing when you're off the bike. If you or pink. just got dĂŠjĂ vu and felt like you've seen this bag worn by all the top professional All Lauren backpacks are available for female riders in the game at various events, purchase with a layaway plan, and there's it's because you have.
an option to have your bag monogrammed with your initials. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19
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THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS
END OF AN ERA: PEDROSA AND HONDA PART WAYS Dani Pedrosa will be released f ro m h i s l o n g - s t a n d i n g par tnership with Repsol Honda at the end of the 2018 season. Pedrosa and Repsol have been together since the Spaniard joined the premier class in 2006. In 18 years, the former 125cc and 250cc World Champion has earned a total of 31 race wins and finished in second place for the championship a total of three times.
MV AGUSTA AND FORWARD RACING GEAR UP FOR MOTO2 MV Agusta will be returning to the Moto2 grid in collaboration with Forward Racing. MV Agusta, founded in 1945 has earned 75 world titles since it lined up on the grid for the first race that became
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the MotoGP World Championship. Forward Racing was founded in 2009 and currently competes in the Moto2 World Championship. The team is set to make their track debut in July 2018.
NICKY HAYDEN MEMORIAL STATUE UNVEILED IN OWENSBORO, KY The Late Champion, Nicky Hayden has been memorialized in bronze with credit to sculptor George Lundeen. The statue of Hayden was unveiled in front of family, friends, and fans that all congregated on June 8, 2018, for a special dedication ceremony in the Owensboro, KY. The sculpture captured the iconic moment as Hayden took his victory lap with the American Flag embraced after he won the 2006 MotoGP World Championship. Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson stated Nicky Hayden “was not only a world-class motorcycle champion, he was a world-class person, and we are proud that he called Owensboro home. We know his legacy will live on forever.” To further the celebration, Mayor Watson declared June 9 (6/9) as Nicky Hayden Day.
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THE PRESS ROOM: GRID NEWS JONATHAN REA REMAINS WITH KAWASAKI Despite the talks that the three-time World SuperBike Champion Jonathan Rea was making a move to MotoGP, it was announced that Rea has signed a two contract extension with the Kawasaki Racing Team that will see him competing in WSBK through to 2020. The Irishman joined KRT in 2015 and has simply dominated the field, earning a total of 44 race wins, 80 podiums and a dozen pole positions. Rea also has a habit of breaking and setting new records, such as being the first World SuperBike Champion to win back to back to back titles. “I am more than happy to continue in these next two seasons with the Kawasaki Racing Team. Since the end of last season, we have already started to talk about continuing our partnership, so it’s nice to finalize everything now so that we can concentrate on the remaining races of 2018.“ - Jonathan Rea.
ANDREA IANNONE JOINS THE APRILIA RACING TEAM GRESINI Suzuki has released Andrea Iannone from Team Suzuki Ecstar. Aprilia wasted no time in snatching up the 28-yearold Italian, signing him to a two-year contract for 2019 and 2020. Iannone joined the Suzuki team in 2016 after riding for both the satellite and factory Ducati teams a nd h as p er fo r me d consistently this season with two podium finishes. Next season, Iannone will join Aleix Espargaro at Aprilia Racing Team Gresini, piloting the RSGP. 24 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
LORENZO JOINS HIS COUNTRYMAN, MARC MARQUEZ AT REPSOL HONDA After his win at Mugello, three-time World Champion Jorge Lorenzo has announced that he has signed with Repsol Honda, joining four-time World Champion Marc Marquez and replacing the recently departed Dani Pedrosa. There was initial speculation that Repsol was going to sign the reigning World Superbike Champion, Jonathan Rea but this announcement puts that rumor to bed. The Spaniard will finish his two-year contract with the Ducati factory team that began in 2017. Lorenzo will join the Repsol Honda team, his third manufacturer in the premier class, in 2019 and remain under contract through 2020.
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THE GRID
MOTOGP WITH B.T. WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM 26 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
"TRIPPING ACROSS THE POND, ITS BUSINESS AS USUAL FOR THE BOY WONDER"
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 27
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
JOHANN ZARCO
T
he fortunes of a MotoGP rider are like the weather. It
The season has also seen penalties becoming strictly
can change in an instant. One minute, everything is
enforced for naughty behavior on the race track and the
sunshine and smoothies at the beach. The next, it’s dark
steady spiral of a World Champion that is becoming harder
and gloomy with misfortune lingering like a rain cloud
to watch with each passing race week. It almost reads like
ready to ruin a picnic. Such is the tale so far in the 2018
a cheesy romance novel you find at the checkout line in
season. A season that has seen two of the top riders in the
the grocery store.
last decade literally not speaking to each other over “race incidents” past and present. It has also seen a support team
When we last left you, Marc Marquez was fresh off a
or a satellite team outperform the factory team and in the
dismantling of the entire field at the Circuit of The Americas
process become “The People’s Champ of The Paddock!"
and second in the championship to Andreas “Desmo”
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MAVERICK VINALES Dovizioso. One Point separated the pair. What would
What makes this Marquez run so impressive is that other
happen over the course of the next two races, no one
than Austin, he has won on tracks that aren’t the Honda’s
could have seen coming. Not a psychic, commentators,
strong suit. And to further send a shiver down his opponent's
race experts, my momma... Nobody!
spine, was at the post-race press conference at LeMans, when Marquez said he and his bike are in a “sweet
It all started in Jerez, Spain, the track with the spaceship
relationship!” Scary!
sitting above it! Well, not an actual spaceship but a building that looks eerily like one and that no one to a man
Not that he will admit it, but you have to think that the
or woman knows what goes on in that building. In 2017
debacle in Argentina has given Marquez even more
at the post-race press conference in Austin, Valentino Rossi
motivation! Whereas he was the whipping boy for
said the championship doesn’t begin until the European
aggressive riding and the inspiration in the crackdown on
Rounds. Well if that’s the case, you may as well crown
rider penalties, it seems that Marquez is riding cleaner,
Marc Marquez with his seventh Championship, because
showing that he can ride bold and clean and still kick
no one has had a better start to a Championship run than
your ass, which is what he has been doing. He passed his
Marc Marquez, other than the same Marc Marquez that
teammate Dani Pedrosa in Jerez with a fair and aggressive
reeled off ten wins in the first ten races of 2014!
move that was so unexpected that Pedrosa had to be thinking “Did that just happen?” And although he stood SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 29
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
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DOVI, LORENZO, AND PEDROSA ALL GOT TANGLED UP AND ENDED UP WITH SAND IN THEIR LEATHERS FOR THEIR EFFORTS!
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T. Jorge Lorenzo up to pass him for the lead and eventual
second in Austin and Rossi taking two podiums, things seem
victory in LeMans, it was clean and damn near polite. This
to be bleak in the Yamaha paddock, with both riders not
“Marquez 2.0” is still the same old' Marc, just slightly and
being able to make the Yamaha M1 work on a hot track.
I do mean slightly more polite.
So frustrated was Vinales that after the LeMansGP he was quoted as saying “I was trying to crash at every corner, I
THE REST
do not want to finish away from the top!”
It seems like Marquez’s main competition for the season was Andreas Dovizioso as he outdueled Marc once
Although he garnered a podium, Valentino Rossi called
again at the season opener in Qatar but has since failed
out his team saying they need to spend the money on new
to capitalize on that momentum. While going for the
parts or else run the risk of being left behind as Marquez
lead in Jerez and LeMans “Desmo Dovi” crashed, which
is clearly faster making the Nine Times World Champion
is a rarity. Dovi crashes as often as Tom Brady throws an
more disappointed than a kid who realizes Santa Claus
interception which is rarely! In a bizarre incident in Jerez
is really his Dad with a drinking problem.
which claimed three of the grids cleanest riders, Dovi, Lorenzo, and Pedrosa all got tangled up and ended up
Yamaha needs help. Will they get it is the question?
with sand in their leathers for their efforts!
Hopefully, for us fans who want to see a closer championship, it will happen sooner rather than later.
In LeMans, Dovi had the pace to challenge for the win, and after passing his teammate, Lorenzo got slightly offline,
At this point in the season, it seems Marquez is in mid-
and that was all it took to rob Dovi of points. Two races
season form, and only Marquez can beat Marquez. The
in a row! Almost unheard of but it happens. Dovi now
dude is just dialed in and focused. At this point right now, I
finds himself in 9th in the standings and 49 points back of
see Dovisioso as being his main rival with the wily veteran
Marquez. He ain't over by any stretch, but this doesn’t help.
Valentino Rossi and his teammate Maverick Vinales to maybe pounce if Marquez has a spell of bad luck. I’ve
THE YAMAHA’S
been waiting on a Marquez and Vinales battle since last
Yamaha enters one of the longest dry spells in team history.
season. Perhaps this will be the season I see it happen.
Not since Assen 2017 has Yamaha won a GP and their
Vinales is every bit the talent of Marquez but can let things
Satellite rider Johann Zarco seems to be outperforming the
“get in his head” when it is not perfect. If the bike woes
factory squad of Rossi and Vinales, despite Vinales’ placing
get settled, watch for Vinales to make a run.
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MARC MARQUEZ
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
JORGE MARTIN & MARCO BEZZECCHI 34 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA
MOTO3 AND MOTO2
He seems like a "younger old Rossi.” Yeah, wrap yourself
Jorge Martin was supposed to be the Belle of the Ball in
around that statement. His main rivals will keep him honest.
Moto3 this year, but nobody told him about bad luck and
Watch for Joan Mir, Miguel Oliveria, and Alex Marquez
Marco Bezzecchi. Bad luck in the name of Aron Canet,
to challenge the young stud. This class is going to be fun
who bulldozed Martin in Jerez and an unavoidable crash
to watch for the rest of the season.
in LeMans with Bezzecchi. I still think Martin will regroup and take the Championship but seeing how he handles
The Championship is in full swing, and although not over
this adversity at such an early stage in the season will be
by any means, the rest of the competition had better corral
interesting.
Marquez before he and his bike get any sweeter in their love fest for each other. Stay tuned as the Championship
MOTO2
heads to Mugello. The iconic Italian circuit can easily
Francesco Bagnaia is the Belle of the Ball in Moto2. This
turn fortunes around as they did “Desmo Dovi.” Who will
kid is smoother than butter on a bagel. Having already
emerge from this circuit ready to show Marquez their hand?
gotten the nod to move to MotoGP next year, Bagnaia is
We all shall see very soon!
a pleasure to watch. He rides more mature than his years. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35
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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...
MIKAYLA MOORE
#003
"I was born in 2003. I raced three different classes with MINIGP. And I have three different motorcycles." 38 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
KAYLA YAAKOV
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Kayla Yaakov HOMETOWN: Gettysburg, PA AGE: 10 years old. SPONSORS: One-X Suits, All Motors, Trackday Winners, Moto-D, Spectro Oils, SBS Brakes, Bridgestone Tires, Shoei Helmets, D and D Cycles, MP13 Racing, Cad Cycles, Cad Realty COMPETITION SERIES: WERA, CCS/ASRA. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Over 220 race wins. Over 300 podium finishes. 2015 minigp national champion. 3 time 2017 National champion with WERA. Named 2017 AMA youth road racer of the year GOALS: My goal is to race at the world level, one day in either World Superbike or MotoGP. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion is two wheeled motorsports.
IMAGES COURTESY OF: KAYLA YAAKOV SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP
NICOLA ELS
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NAME: Nicola Els HOMETOWN: Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa AGE: 28 years old. SPONSORS: I am currently sponsored by Pirelli to use their drag tyres. COMPETITION SERIES: Competitor in DME Racing Real Street as part of the Xtreme Dragbike Association (XDA) series. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I started my drag racing career in 2009. I currently own 38 Trophies for Drag racing, which about 30 of them is 1st place trophies, Killarney Race Track in Cape Town, South Africa also awarded me with a best female driver trophy. In 2017 I started competing in the South African National Drag Racing Championship, after missing the first two rounds, I still ended up in 3rd place for the Championship of 2017. GOALS: This year I am again competing in the Nationals with the hopes of winning the championship, after the first two rounds in March 2018 I am already laying in 3rd place, so things are looking good. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: "We as woman are so powerful when we set our minds to anything. We never give up. Act like a lady, race like a boss.”
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Kori Stone HOMETOWN: Longview, TX AGE: 25 years old. AFFILIATION: East Texas Heat Stunt Team. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I have learned to not only to ride a bike but also to ride controlled wheelies within two years and have already been invited to perform a few local stunt shows. GOALS: My goals are to continue pursuing stunt riding and furthering my skill set within the sport. I have so many different tricks that I want to learn still, but out of all of them, I want circle wheelies the most. I hope to be able to perform in more local stunt shows so that I can help to build the sport up in our area in general but mostly help to grow the number of female riders. I want to show all the ladies that anything is possible and if I can do it then so can they. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion in riding and life is to always stay positive despite any pain, anxiety, or fear so that I can be my best self and enjoy all aspects of life- even the tough parts. IMAGES COURTESY OF: KORI STONE
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CobraHeat LLC 5621 Taylor Mill Rd. Taylor Mill, KY 41015
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801-663-7436 www.cobraheat.com sales@cobraheat.com
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THE LIFE
Changing
TIMES THE INSIDE LINE WORDS: DEVONNE DUERBAUM IMAGES: COURTESY OF DEVONNE DUERBAUM 54 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE LIFE : THE INSIDE LINE
B
eing a female rider this day in age is such an achievement for women. Unlike today,
female riders weren’t as accepted as men were. During the 1800’s motorcycles were practically bicycles with motors attached. In 1910, Clara Wagner achieved a perfect score in the FAM 360 mile race from Chicago to Indianapolis but was denied a trophy because she was a female. Being a female rider wasn’t as usual as it is today and it’s only growing. Ana Carrasco is only 21 and was one out of two female competitors in MotoGP, racing in Moto3. She was born in Spain and started racing motorcycles when she was three. Her motto is “A woman in a man’s world.” Not for long, girl! Maria Herrera is another young rider, age 21 competing in Moto3. She was born in Spain and started racing motorcycles when she was very young as well. Elena Myers may not race anymore, but she is still part of our community. She is 24 and has accomplished a lot. In 2010, Myers was the first female to win an AMA Pro Racing Sprint. She was
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MARIA H
ELENA MYERS
HERRERA SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57
THE LIFE : THE INSIDE LINE
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ANA CARRASCO also the first woman to win any race at Daytona, which she did so in 2012. When she was 13, she was the youngest female in AMA. The percentages of female riders are higher among younger generations. 17% are Gen X, 17.6% are Millenials, 9% are Baby Boomers. Motorcycle companies are making more and more models that cater to women. Ducati was one of the first, producing the 800 Scrambler. Their vision was to reach the younger, millennial demographic and more so the women. They wanted to create something you could rip around town with, powerful, yet easy to maneuver and lower to the ground. Many other companies are following in their footsteps catering to women. We’re changing the industry. Keep on riding ladies!
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CORNERING LEARN THE SKILLS DISCOVER THE ART
Would you like to improve your riding skills? The California Superbike School trains riders at tracks worldwide in 14 countries. Its 38 year history has produced 140,000 graduates. Most riders have no clear idea of how good they really can be. Sign up for the California Superbike School and find out. www.superbikeschool.com 60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
www.adeyemi.co
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Tutie LOCATION: Long Island, NY. OCCUPATION: Embroidery, digital arts, and vinyl cutting. YEARS RIDING: 8 years. RIDING STYLE: Street, but love watching track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2017 Kawasaki ZX10R. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: It is still fairly new, so I don’t have any mods or extra accessories on it, yet. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: I must say it is my Sena. That headset makes a world of difference when riding. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: So far, has been Lake George's Americade. I recommend everyone try it at least once. It was a great experience for me. I enjoy meeting and riding with diverse riders who have the same passion for riding as I do
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Maryann Nash LOCATION: Maryville, TN OCCUPATION: Penn Foster Vet Tech student. YEARS RIDING: 9 years riding. RIDING STYLE: Street rider. Only been on Summit Point Raceway in West Virginia once. Very much need more track time! BIKE/S OWNED: 2012 Honda CBR600RR. Bought with 1233 miles on it. Well cared for with some bling and love. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: What a friend called my "carbon fiber g-string.” It's a carbon fiber tail cover with a brighter LED light system that flashes the brake light when in use and shows bright yellow turn signals. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Life-saving Shoei helmets: RF-1100, RF-1200, GT-Air. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Following a former British bike racing buddy, Matt on Cherohala Skyway, Mile High Legend between Robbinsville, NC & Tellico Plains, TN. I had just gotten a new set of tires put on that day. I had them on the bike about 3 hours before riding Cherohala. I kept up with Matt's race speed and leaned farther than I ever had before! When our two other buddies caught up at the end of the Skyway, they pointed out my brand new tires did not have any chicken strips left at all front and rear! One if the fastest, most intense and memorable rides of my life!
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Pink Barbie On2’s LOCATION: Bethlehem, PA OCCUPATION: Account Manager. YEARS RIDING: 10 years. RIDING STYLE: Street and track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2008’ GSXR600. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My Pink “On2’s” logo and pink butterflies with my children’s names on the sides of my tank. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Shoei Helmet. It doesn’t only keep the noggin safe, but I jam to the tunes on my Sena. It’s always a party in the Pink Barbie helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My most memorable ride was in 2014. I was invited by John LaSure from the CSBA to do recon for one of the event rides to RT125. I was just a straight up and down the highways girl that thought I knew how to ride. I showed up with a riding jacket, jeans and a pair of sneakers. Off we went on the route. Just pulling into the first turn, I white flagged! That day I was humbled down and learned to never judge a book by its cover. I nicknamed them the "knee draggers" after that day. Never again did I try to ride at their pace. I chose what I nicknamed the s"cenic group" pace. I’d never felt so stiff in my life on my bike nor had so many “Oh Shit” moments. Since then I’ve been a lover of twisties and back roads, got some real damn gear to prepare for the slide, not the ride and developed some interest in the track. I’m forever grateful how the CSBA received me with open arms and made me feel at home and never judged me as I judged them.
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Nikki AKA Bounty LOCATION: Long Beach, CA OCCUPATION: Bounty Hunter. YEARS RIDING: I started when I was 18 in 1988. I went down right after my birthday in May of that year. Didn't get back on until 2015 at 45 years of age. RIDING STYLE: Street, mos’ def! But we have a beautiful red track bike, so I am looking into the track. BIKE/S OWNED: Kawasaki KZ650, Kawasaki KZ900, 1971 Triumph, Kawasaki ZX1400, Kawasaki KZ1300 and a few more. I am totally into the 70's bike scene. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: The original paint job by Mnick is what I love most. But, I have to say my favorite mod is the rack and sissy bar my old man made for me, by hand, so I could go to Babes Ride Out 5. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Helmet because it says it all. It expresses me and how I feel about judgmental people. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: South Dakota, Sturgis 2015. I had only practiced on a bike 4 hours a few days before heading to Sturgis. We hit the freeway exploring and 10 miles away from our camp, a thunderstorm blew in super quick. I could not see. I was panicking, scared and freaking out. My old man held his breath the whole way. But, the next day he said he was proud of me, that he was nervous, but I kept pushing and didn't give up.
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THE SUM OF ALL PARTS
THE SUM OF ALL PARTS WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: COURTESY OF RK EXCEL 68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
EVERY MONTH, WE CHAT WITH THE INDUSTRY'S LEADING AFTERMARKET APPAREL & ACCESSORIES MANUFACTURERS TO GIVE YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN A LITTLE MORE ABOUT WHO MAKES THE STUFF THAT YOU BUY AND USE.
RK EXCEL
WWW.RKEXCELAMERICA.COM FARRAH BAUER, USA MARKETING MANAGER
SBI: What is the process for product track becomes the chain technology used development?
in all of RK Chain products.
FB: RK Chain supports racers worldwide, and this allows RK to communicate directly SBI: How does RK remain relevant in with the racers and receive feedback on today’s market? how the product is being used and how it FB: RK Chain is constantly striving to performs during racing conditions. Racing is exceed the needs of today’s high powered one of the most severe ways to test products. sportbikes. As bike technology improves RK’s technology development is a repetition every day so too does the need to adapt of overcoming a variety of racing’s extreme and improve chain development. Chain conditions. What RK learns on the race size overall is downsizing from the larger SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 69
THE SUM OF ALL PARTS: RK EXCEL
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pitch sizes of the past. However, the FB: RK will continue to keep supplying chain strength still needs to perform as riders with products that improve the biking required even at the small pitch sizes. RK lifestyle. Four-wheeled vehicles are moving strives to produce chain with the maximum to the next step of automatic drive. We think transferability of engine power to the that motorcycles allow riders to experience ground, all while having the best balance excitement, joy, and freedom and we will of being light and strong and with the continue to develop high-quality products longest durability.
to make the riders’ experience more enjoyable.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: STOCK 74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
THE ART OF THE KNEE
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: THE ART OF THE KNEE JARNO SAARINEN, a Finnish Grand Prix is always accelerating towards the center of the motorcycle racer who won the world 250 GP Title circle. This centrifugal force of this acceleration is in 1972, is the rider on the world stage credited determined by the equation MV2/R, where M first using the “knee out” riding style. “King” Kenny is mass, V is Roberts Sr.’s famous tuner Kel Carruthers brought velocity and R is the radius. On a motorcycle, this this technique to the attention of his rider, which force is always acting to make motorcycle stand Kenny developed and soon popularized in the up. In order to balance this force, the motorcycle United States. The art of dragging a knee has must lean in order to use the force of gravity evolved, and as tire and motorcycle technology (weight) to balance this acceleration. has progressed over the past 40 years, riders like Marc Marquez have brought the concept to an (See Diagram A). The greater the speed, the entirely new level.
more the motorcycle has to lean to counteract this centrifugal force. From a physics standpoint, all of
While many riders will never be able to drag their these forces act through the center of gravity (CG) elbow like Marquez, dragging a knee (or the of the object traveling the circle. For a motorcycle, “knee out style”) is a technique that virtually every this is the composite CG of the motorcycle and experienced track rider can utilize. Getting a knee rider together (shown as the orange dots in down is not only a popular goal for track riders Diagram B). Since in most cases the rider makes but also an important one for achieving proper up about 1/3 of the overall weight of the riding technique. In this article, we will touch on package, the rider has a significant effect on the some of the reasons why riders want to hang off location of the CG. When comparing of the motorcycle, and then explore in further detail the red rider to the green rider, you can see that the importance of the proper use of the knee in when a rider gets off the seat and moves to the this process. Motorcycles must lean to turn with inside of the motorcycle, the CG that rider and any amount of speed. As bikes (or any vehicle the moves to the inside as well. The advantage for that matter) travel in a circular path, there is a of this technique becomes quickly apparent as centrifugal force that always works in the opposite we can see that when the rider moves to the direction of the radius of the circle. An object inside, the resulting CG (again, in orange) as if traveling in a circular path at a constant velocity the motorcycle increased in lean angle while the 76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
tire itself remains upright (the yellow dot does not increased front end motion. After teaching riders move). This provides quicker turning with less risk, on the track with the Penguin School for nearly faster lap times, and many significant handling 20 years, I feel that this is the number one cause advantages we have discussed in past articles.
for rider issues on the race track. The importance
The main challenge that riders find with this of eliminating this practice cannot be overstated. technique comes because they are no longer sitting directly in the seat and must find a way With this in mind, where does the knee come into to support their body weight. The most common play? There are all kinds of advantages to using mistake that riders make is to use
your inside knee while riding, including advanced
their inside arm for this extra support. The techniques that allow riders to utilize the knee as drawbacks to supporting your weight with your a lean angle gauge and to help save front end inside hand are well documented and include
slides. However, the most basic advantage is one
reduced traction, decreased feedback and that applies to riders of all skill levels – to act as SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 77
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: THE ART OF THE KNEE a support for your body weight to allow riders on a sturdy rear stand in the paddock and have to hang off the motorcycle and leave their arms a friend support the bike. Next, get off the tank relaxed.
as far as you reasonably can (slightly more than you do on the track) while making sure your hips
When riders start to hang off the bike, the most are square, knee is to the inside and chin is over important step to give yourself the ability to use the inside fork tube. Your spine should be parallel the inside knee is to leave your hips square to the to the axis of the motorcycle. motorcycle. When riders rotate their hips around the tank, the inside knee tends to point forward Finally, take your hands off of the bars and then as opposed to the inside of the corner. In order slowly point your knee towards the front of the to truly understand how much this affects you, get motorcycle until you start falling off the inside of on your motorcycle while
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the bike (and you will). Of course, if you point your
knee forward (against the motorcycle) on the track you have achieved this first step, the final piece you will not immediately fall off the bike. However, of the puzzle is to firmly secure your outside leg you will be forced to transfer force into the bars to the tank, firmly locking your body into place to support your body weight and deal with the and allowing your hands to fully relax. With this reduced traction and feedback that comes
important baseline, you will start riding faster with
along with it. When you point your inside knee more confidence and before you know it you’ll into the turn, you are putting yourself in the best be ordering a spare set of knee pucks! possible position to support your body weight with your legs and to relax your arms. Once Until next time... Ride fast, ride safe. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 79
NEW! Michelin ® Road 5 Tire
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History. Family. Dedication. It doesn’t matter what you ride or where you ride it, protection is our priority in every helmet we create. That is Arai’s unshakeable foundation which you can rely on. Even if you never use an Arai helmet for its intended purpose, the handcrafted comfort which only Arai can deliver will let you enjoy every ride even more. And look darn good while doing it too!
N O H E L M E T C A N P R O T E C T T H E W E A R E R A G A I N S T A L L F O R E S E E A B L E I M PA C T S.
N O T H I N SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM G IS A SUBSTITUTE FOR SAFE RIDING | P R 81 ACTICES.
A MAJOR A MAJOR KEYKEY
Ms. Ms.Keerati Keerati
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WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: RAUL GAINA SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 83
FRICTION ZONE: MS. KEERATI
One
of the many lessons passion in a manner unrealized before. Inspired that I have learned in by the love and support that surrounds her, Ms. the motorcycle world Keerati is now using her experience to encourage
is that one should never judge a book by their others to live their best lives, the fastest and safest cover. In today’s social media climate, the way possible. sentiment remains the same: never judge a rider by their social feed.
SBI: How did you get into motorcycles? KJ: I started learning how to ride on a small bike
Keerati Julsophon is an amalgam of elements. in Thailand when I was around 12 years old. The She’s a rider. A racer. A free spirit. The list goes kid who lived close by showed me how to ride it on. She’s one-third of the Redline Ravens, a female and how to shift gears. The bike was somewhat riding group based out Southern California. easy to learn on, so I decided to take my friend as The Redline Ravens and the global motorcycle a passenger around the neighborhood. I ended community recently suffered a severe blow with up dropping the bike while trying to turn. My tiny the tragic loss of Annette Carrion. From the embers legs couldn’t hold the weight of two people and of that tragedy, Keerati has refocused her life and the bike, but luckily we weren’t going fast, so we 84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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FRICTION ZONE: MS. KEERATI just picked up it up from the floor and kept on to everyone because they genuinely care about riding. I was wearing shorts and flip flops. Talk other people. They both inspire me to be more about being a real squid.
patient and to be more giving. I love them both and the rest of their team.
SBI: Who inspires you? KJ: In life, my grandma has been the one who SBI: What was your first bike? inspires me. She was such a badass! She was KJ: I picked up my first sportbike, a 2009 Suzuki an athlete and used to box and play basketball. GSXR back in 2010. It took me a few months to She raised two of my half sisters and me since get used to riding a bigger bike but having more my parents separated when I was little. I look seat time helped a lot. up to her because she was such a hard working person and did anything she could to provide for SBI: What bikes do you own now? her family.
KJ: I traded the GSXR in for a 2014 Ducati Panigale which I have used on the streets and the
In riding, my coaches Jason Pridmore and tracks. I also picked up a used 2008 Yamaha R6 Caroline Olsen inspire me. Even though I started last year which I have been using strictly for the riding the track back in 2012, I didn’t know track. I used the R6 for my first race with CVMA what I was doing out there. I struggled with it for back in March 2018. I retired the Ducati from a few years. Because I kept hitting a wall and the track. It just got too expensive to maintain and kept crashing, I thought it was probably a good fix. R6 is the best way to go. idea to seek professional help. A few people recommended me to go with JP43 Training, so I SBI: What are your feelings regarding street versus got with their program back in late 2016. Jason track? and Caroline have such a significant impact on KJ: My heart has been at the track for the past few my riding because they helped get over whatever years. Although I started riding on the streets back mental issues I had that was holding me back for in 2010, I used to do a lot of unsafe things like years. They helped me get rid of my bad habits riding without gear and going fast in the canyons. that led me to crash in the past. Both of them are After seeing a lot of severely injured riders and selfless individuals who always give their hands losing a few close friends in the streets, I have 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
been focusing more on riding at the track for the from going fast on the public road, but I’ve tried last two years. That’s where I have improved my my best to encourage more riders to ride at the riding skills the most. I feel it’s a lot safer there track. I wrote a blog on redlineravens.com talking and you can learn so much more there if going about things to prepare for your first track day and fast is what you like to do. I can’t stop people which tracks they can check out. I’ve helped a
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FRICTION ZONE: MS. KEERATI few riders get the professional training they need life, you need to work very hard, and you need with my coaches so that they can be safer and to have a coach or a mentor. Having the right more efficient riders in the streets and at the track. support system can cut down your learning curve Accidents can happen anywhere and anytime, tremendously. Although it took me a few one but I do believe most accidents can be prevented. on one training sessions with my coaches Jason Once we all throw our legs over that bike, it Pridmore and Caroline Olsen for me to have a instantly becomes our responsibility to ride within breakthrough, I’m very proud of how far I have our means or limits so that we all come home to come. After I saw that I was progressing and cut our loved ones. I feel that a lot of times when riders down my lap time by 10 seconds, I decided it was get on a bike, they forget that responsibility and a good time for me to give racing a try. I did the they ride over their heads which often lead them new racers school with Trackdaz in March 2018, to injure themselves and others around them. So if got my license and raced that same weekend at I can get some a message out, please be mindful Chuckwalla Valley Raceway which is my favorite when you’re on two wheels and ride safely at all track in So Cal. I have been riding there plenty times especially when you’re on public roads that of times, and I call it my second home. I ended are full of hazard.
up cutting down 18 seconds overall around that track and placed second in my first Femmewalla
SBI: Tell me about your racing career and future CVMA race on my R6 against a few experts and aspirations?
other amateur racers. I set an average lap time
KJ: Back in the days when I first started riding goal for me to reach by the end of 2019 but I was the track, racing was not something I considered able to achieve it in my first race early this year. I doing, mainly because I felt I was extremely couldn’t believe it. I also placed first in the 50cc slow and just was not that good of a rider. But I class with M1GP a few months prior to racing wanted to improve and to be able to keep up with the big bikes. None of these accomplishments my friends at the track. I used to beat myself up would ever be possible without my coaches. I’ve because regardless of how hard I tried, I couldn’t tried getting advice from friends, watching videos, get faster. Getting professional help changed everything and nothing worked for me. There is my life and everything about how I ride. I truly absolutely nothing like having professional racers believe for anyone to progress in anything in dedicate their whole day to ride with you, giving 88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
you undivided attention to help fix everything companies that have worked with me so far: you’re doing wrong so that you get to the next Motoclub Santa Monica, JP43 Training, Dainese, level as a rider and racer. My goal is to continue AGV helmets, Dunlop, Eagle Rider San Francisco to race CVMA part-time and head over to AFM - BMW - Ducati - Honda, Energica, Speedcell, next year so that I can race other tracks such as Y2 Wheels, Zero Motorcycles, Arai, and last but Buttonwillow and Thunderhill. I want to become not least, Sena Bluetooth. good enough to be an expert racer eventually. I don’t want to have the title just to have it, but I SBI: What is your riding philosophy? would like to be a solid expert racer with good lap KJ: Do it if that’s what indeed makes you happy. times and finishes to back it up. I will never stop Do it if that’s what you love to do. Keep doing it getting the professional training or stop working even if you think you suck at it and even if others hard toward my riding goals. I do believe this think you suck at it. Do it even if many people don’t is the only way for me to keep progressing as a believe you should be doing it. Make friends. rider. I would like to thank my coaches for helping Meet lots of awesome people. Seek professional me get this far, all my other sponsors and all the help. Take riding very seriously because at any SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 89
FRICTION ZONE: MS. KEERATI
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"I
often see the negativity from both genders towards women who wear sexy clothes underneath their gear or simply posting pictures with their bikes on their pages. It’s all fun and games to see women walk on the runway in Victoria Secret’s lingerie but when they see a girl pose next to their bikes, everyone losses their mind." SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91
FRICTION ZONE: MS. KEERATI moment it can take your life or other people’s lives are. Don’t make assumptions about why other away. We only have one body so take great care people want to get into riding. Be kind and be of it by continually improving your skills to reduce supportive towards everyone. The only way for us crashing and accidents. Don’t judge others on to get ahead with anything in life is to support one what they ride and how big or small their bikes another instead of tearing each other down. And
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this is not about saying one thing and do another. someone, not because you expect something We all need to live by that and not just preaching back in return. Get rid of all your ego and stay it or posting it on social media. Give hands to humble. Last is “Love More. Ride More.” That’s others and do it because it makes you feel good Redline Raven’s slogan. and because you’re learning something about
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FRICTION ZONE: MS. KEERATI SBI: Why is gear essential?
feel safer when I ride.
KJ: Gear is extremely important because it can and will protect your body in case of accidents. I SBI: What are your perceptions and observations used to ride around a lot without much gear on the about females in today’s motorcycle culture? street but I’m glad I smartened up by wearing gear KJ: I do feel that more women are learning how and riding the track more. But one thing I want to to ride and getting their own bikes now. More say is that more people do need to realize that women want to own two wheels because they’re having the best gear alone won’t always save your not happy with being just a “backpack” anymore. life. I’ve lost a few close friends who always wore Having your bike to ride anytime you want is gear from head to toe, but sadly they still didn’t so empowering. Social media also has been a walk away from their accidents alive. I would like significant influence on many people especially people always to be mindful of their surroundings women to start riding. Plenty of women all around and always ride within their limits even if you the world have expressed to me that they got into have on all of your gear. And if you’re the type riding because the pictures and videos they see on to push your limits, the best place to do it is at the social media. Many also let me know they started track, not in the streets or canyons. I do strongly riding because they see pictures of my group, the recommend everyone to get gear with airbag Redline Ravens. system to help reduce the impact when you crash. Whether it’s airbag that you can wear outside of Although It’s so awesome for me to see more your suit or jacket, gear that has airbag built in or ladies ride in the past few years, I also see all gear that has a removable airbag, they all are a the negativity that comes along with it. I often good investment. I’ve been lucky enough to crash hear people say most women get into riding a few times and walk away with minimal injuries because they just want attention. That is something thanks to my gear from Dainese, AGV helmets, negative, and I don’t support having that type of and Motoclub Santa Monica. I have been riding mentality towards anyone. It’s just wrong to create with a Dainese D-Air suit with the airbag system stereotype towards other people. Many women, and have a backup suit Laguna Seca 4 that I use including me, have been labeled as posers and for track days. I genuinely love my gear not just many other names that I can’t mention here mainly because it looks cool but because it makes me because we pose on or next to the bikes. Some 94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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say posting pictures of you standing next to the gear or merely posting pictures with their bikes on bike makes you less of a rider because you’re their pages. It’s all fun and games to see women not actually riding. I can’t speak for others, but I walk on the runway in Victoria Secret’s lingerie can say that many people that you see on social but when they see a girl pose next to their bikes, media such as Mizziel and Annette who pose everyone losses their mind. I know that many of next to the bikes actually ride a lot and put tons of us women work hard to feel healthy, beautiful, miles on their bikes on a daily basis. I don’t really powerful, and independent. We all express commute much, so my miles are mainly from track ourselves in different ways, and I do wish more riding. But between three of us, we have done all people would be open-minded towards women kinds of riding such as long distance, commuting, who ride in general instead of putting negative riding at the track, drag racing, road racing, etc. I labels on us. I can’t speak for everyone, but for often see the negativity from both genders towards me, I love seeing women pose on bikes, pose women who wear sexy clothes underneath their in their bikinis, pose in their gym clothes, and 96 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
showing off the bodies that they work hard for. I have gone through so much together and have don’t feel threatened by anyone. We were born so many amazing memories together. The biggest naked, and we all are the same underneath. I challenge was managing our crazy schedule don’t care what people choose to wear as long while trying to get things done. On top of that, as they’re happy and love themselves, that’s all we all have different types of personality. Mizziel it matters. I genuinely believe it’s very important is a social butterfly. She can talk to and get along to lift each other up. I enjoy seeing more women with anyone at any time and anyplace. Annette get into riding and all of them, regardless of was more of an introvert. She used to have anxiety what they choose to show on social media, have dealing with other people, but she had come a my support. I have friends who only ride streets, long way. I’m just in the middle of Annette and friends who only stunt, friends who only race, Mizziel where I’m not afraid to socialize but I only and friends who only ride as passengers. Is there do it when I feel like it. We all have bumped something wrong with any of them? Not at all. If heads so many times, but someway somehow you’re a good person and are doing what you we managed to stay together and made things love, to me, that’s what matters. No one makes work. I, for sure, have become a better and wiser it out of this earth alive. Why not be more kind person by working with these ladies. I learned and understanding towards one other?
how to compromise and to take other people’s feelings and opinions into consideration before
SBI: Who are the Redline Ravens?
saying things. I also learned that you could get
KJ: The group was started by Mizziel and Annette things done a lot faster if we focus on everyone’s initially, and they both wanted a third member strengths. We all have weaknesses and realize because they felt three was a good number. The that sometimes we can’t always be great at goal was to inspire everyone to get out, have fun, everything. For example, Annette and Mizziel are and ride. At first, I hesitated on getting involved excellent writers and are extremely smart. Annette with other women at this level because I know in was the most organized person. Mizziel was the general we all are very emotional and it would best at making connections and meeting people. be challenging to be on the same page with I think I’m good with numbers and negotiating everyone all the time. But I decided to be part since I have a degree in Finance and Marketing. of the group, and I have no regrets so far. We We all balance each other out so well. Starting SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 97
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FRICTION ZONE: MS. KEERATI the group was easy, but maintaining it despite all It’s hard for us even to accept the reality today the negativity we received was definitely not easy. but we just tried to turn a sad event into something Many people didn’t take us seriously, and some more positive. Since Annette’s accident was on still don’t. We would hear things like, “they don’t the street, we wanted to raise awareness about ride, they just pose, they don’t do anything for the safe riding and get more people to hone their riding community, they only use sexy images to get skills at the track. So I had an idea of reaching ahead,” etc. Although it can get very tiring and out to a few track organizations to donate some discouraging to hear all of this negativity (it almost track days to help other riders out. We had 21 made me want to quit), we kept moving forward. track days total donated from SoCal Track days, We didn’t want to focus on the people who don’t FasTrack Riders, Keigwins at the track, Trackdaz, like us solely but wanted to shift our focus more on and Moto Corsa. Hustle Hard Racing, Motorsport those who wish to support us and believe in what Exotica, Feel like a Pro, and @619Kneedragrz we do. However, we didn’t completely ignore our donated awesome prizes such as gloves, dyno haters. We wanted to learn and grow from the session, track bike rentals, and tow service. 3 of criticism, so we started taking classes to help us my friends: Raffy, Bo, and Francesca donated become better riders, started doing more charity training sessions, track bike rental and dinner related type work where we donated our time and service. My coach, Jason Pridmore donated two money to help other people inside and outside of days of 1-on-1 training with him and the team. riding community. We have a page dedicated Superbike School donated one day of training. entirely to charity work we were involved in on We were so blown away by how much support our Redline Ravens website. We don’t want to we received. We had $8000+ worth of services be known as women who just pose next to our and prizes donated to us, and we gave them all bikes. We want to have a positive impact on our away for free to get more people to ride at the community.
track. We decided to raise money other ways by selling Annette’s sticker and were able to raise a
SBI: How has the memory of Annette empowered few thousand dollars after covering all the costs. you?
We donated the majority of the cash to Annette’s
KJ: Annette’s passing was a real tragedy and a family for her funeral and the rest of the money huge shock for a lot of people all over the world. we split it equally to help young racers: Argee 100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Cardenas, Jamie Astudillo, and Mikayla Moore. SBI: Describe your perfect day of riding? Michael Yamaguchi from Moto Crew USA saw KJ: The perfect day would be about 80 degrees, what we were doing for the kids so he matched sunny, with no wind. It’s the day I will be at the our donation so that we could help out more track, working on braking, entry speed, exit kids: Alex Dumas, Kristian Daniel Jr, and Kensei speed, my lines, and throttle control. It would be Matsudaira. It was so amazing to see so many the day I hit all my marks with zero mistakes, and people come together to honor Annette and to I stay as smooth as much as possible. I would not help each other out. We are so thankful for all have any fear, any worries, or any doubts. My the support.
primary focus would be just to ride, enjoy the day, and progress throughout the day. I would have all
SBI: Do you feel that the motorcycle industry is still my friends who like to improve their riding there a male-dominated industry?
with me, and we all just ride, get better, laugh,
KJ: It still is male dominated but for sure more and have a good time. women have entered this industry and I believe that’s a good thing. Some women don’t mind SBI: Where do you ride to for lunch in Sunny that it’s male-dominated at all and they don’t get Southern California? intimidated by it. A young female racer, Jamie KJ: One of my favorite motorcycle meet-up spots Astudillo, made history by being the first female is Newcomb's Ranch. The ride up there is just to podium MotoAmerica race with her Ninja 400 gorgeous, and their food is delicious. The staff this year. Caroline Olsen, my coach, is racing in and the owner are always so welcoming. I usually MotoAmerica again this year with her R6 while head up there with a bunch of my friends, and still recovering from a serious crash. She’s one of we would watch MotoGP races there. A few the fastest females in America. Melissa Paris also times a year they would host charity events to is racing in MotoAmerica with her Yamaha R1 help injured and fallen riders, animal shelters, after having a baby recently, and she’s doing and non-profits organization that are dedicated extremely well. All of these ladies are just killing to cancer research. it out there by showing what women are capable of and prove to the world that you can do more SBI: If you could ride any bike, on any road, than what you think you can.
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with who would you take that ride?
fun. I want the global riding community to know
KJ: I would want to take my R6 to Phillip Island that I’m very thankful for the support I’ve received. Grand Prix Circuit in Australia. I’d like to take my When I was selling my stickers for the heck of it, coaches Jason Pridmore and Caroline Olsen, and I was blown away that so many people from all all my friends who ride the track with me on a over the world wanted to buy them. I had to order regular basis. The reason why I pick this place is more a few times because I sold out so quickly. I that Jason raced there last year and everyone who want to let everyone know that I will continue to went with him loved the track so much. I believe do what I love and I’m hoping that will inspire Jason will be racing there again early next year them to do what they love as well. so I am trying my best to make it this time around. This vast world is getting tiny thanks to social SBI: What do you want the global riding media. Keerati is using her platform to bring the community to know about you?
motorcycle world even closer together. Using her
KJ: I want them to know that I’m just a regular presence and network, she is positioning herself person who loves to ride and have fun with the to help others achieve their motorcycle goals. people I care about just like everyone else. My She has transitioned into the role of a leader, priority is happiness and health. I’m just living and that is not always a natural transformation. my life, riding, and traveling at different places There will be haters and naysayers. But it is how because that’s what I set myself to do before I die. she preservers and triumphs that will dictate her If social media didn’t exist, I would still be riding ultimate victories. There’s a lot of negativity out and doing what I enjoy as long as I can afford it. there, but there is even more love and positivity. I’m not here because I feel that I’m special or that Ms. Keerati is gravitating to that love and positivity I’m better than any other female riders out there. and drawing others toward it, as well. Never If I compete, I want to do well, but that’s the only judge a rider by their social feed. You could be time where I feel the need to do better. The rest missing an opportunity to go on one hell of a of the times, I just want to laugh a lot and have ride. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 103
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LISTEN UP, LADIES!
WORDS: JASMIN ST CLAIRE IMAGES: ELIZABETH GORE
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T
he main reason I moved to California was to while being mauled by this knight in beat-up leather. fulfill the romantic dream of riding a motorcycle. It After this lovely man had dropped me home, I had
was very inviting when a mysterious adventure seeker decided it was a good idea to get my own bike to had invited me riding. I had thought he would have
enjoy these moments safely and alone instead of the
been a safe bet as a lot of people knew him. I had
back of someone's bike. I consider myself very lucky as
been on the back of a bike many many times but not over the years, I had never been on such a dangerous quite like this. The mystery man, who we will refer to
ride, and I never had quite experienced someone so
as “acid boy ” from here on in had picked me up in
selfish with other peoples' lives let alone his own. He
front of my dwelling in Studio City. He had a stick on
can do his death wish by himself.
"bitch seat" for me, and I had my own helmet. We headed down Topanga Canyon towards Pacific Coast
So ladies, It's not such a bad idea to start riding your
Highway. For those of you who are unfamiliar with
own bikes instead of putting your trust in someone
this popular road, it's a very windy and steep road.
else's hands to be safe. You never know if you will
We brisked through traffic and at one point when we have that one time where someone decides to be a came to a stop, I saw him pull out a pipe and smoke
jackass and you have to suffer the injuries of it. Many
it. I had never seen anyone do that before and silly
times, when there is someone else controlling the bike,
me thought it could have been fresh tobacco, but boy
especially if they are under the influence of something,
was I wrong.
you will pay for it. Take responsibility for your own life and ride your own. A motorcycle is an independent
We had finally pulled into Dukes of Malibu parking
thing. It seems scary riding a bike. I was scared at
lot when my gentleman friend had made the juicy
first when I moved out here, but I chose to pick a bike
offer of dropping acid. He had asked me if I wanted that was suitable for me and the rides I wanted to a hit of acid so that I could “catch up to him”! What
do. Instead of trying to look cool and have the “in
a lucky gal I was! So not only was the driver getting
bike” or what people may think is “in” pick what's
high while he had my life pressed against him, but right for your body frame and most of all, what feels he was continuing to get even more messed up. I hit comfortable. Believe me, if you end up on something the jackpot! I politely declined his once in a lifetime
that just looks cool, you will regret it if it falls and it's too
offer. I had gone through the excruciating task of heavy to pick up let alone manage. When shopping sitting through a few drinks and a meal with him for the bike, do try and balance it between the legs 108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
as in rise off the seat with both feet on the ground
brake correctly, try and get the ABS brakes as that is
and see if you can pass the motorcycle between the
always safer and due to how unpredictable drivers
thighs side to side confidently. Flat foot it again when
are all around the world, you never know when you
you are still, can your feet touch the ground fully and
need to brake at the last second.
flat? Does the weight feel right? Well, then this could be the bike for you.
Drive within your skill range. No, you don't have to drive fast to make a point or be cool. I know that
Kawasaki has some great starter bikes and of course
plenty of people like to “keep up “ with the crowd or
such as the Ninja 200 or the new 400 with the ABS demonstrate that they can do it. But how cool would brakes. There's always a Honda Rebel 300 if you'd
you look with once you crash because you were trying
like a cruiser style. Although you should learn how to to show off or keep up with others in a more advanced SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 109
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skill? More skilled riders will adjust to the novice rider attention to the road. Always watch those parked cars when riding together. Lane splitting looks cool and all, for which way the wheels are turning. If they're pointed but please don't do it unless you are comfortable. I
towards you, chances are they might be pulling out
tend to do it when cars are stopped as they are not
into the road. Make sure you are noticed even if that
going anywhere. I have seen drivers open a door or means honking the horn. I tend to keep my high beam start driving and sway into the where we lane split.
on, even during the day.
As much as we want to stay cool in warm weather, Pull over and have a snack and hydrate. The wind that does not translate to wear sandals and shorts!
does make you tired especially on long rides. I like
It means that there are comfortable things to wear to stretch when I ride so I always try and pull over. that are feminine looking that will protect you. When Never panic. People expect women to panic but I started buying gear, the pants were not that great! there's no need to. You control the bike, not the other Now Pando Moto makes some really cool stuff that has
way around. When stopping or slowing down, I tend
protective armor and all. Their jeans for women are to flash my stop lights so the drivers behind me pay priced around the same pair as some fancy European
attention. People tend to notice flashy things.
designers but better looking, and they do protect you! There are more female riders out there these days, so
At first, try to ride in a group with responsible people.
I find that more companies are finally getting with I know these sound like truly very boring things but the times and making stuff for us. ICON is another they will save your life and you will eventually gain excellent company for jackets. Alpinestars is making confidence slowly. At first, the traffic in LA scared the some great boots these days for women. So, no matter crap out of me riding because people tend to go how uncomfortable you may feel, it's best to protect faster than usual. your face and body. The clothes should not be too loose as you want to feel comfortable.Pay attention. Yeah, I know that we hate to wear those full-face I know that some places can be beautiful and taking helmets cause it messes up our make up, but I'd rather out a phone to snap photos may be tempting, so
have messed up makeup than a face. I know that it
just pullover instead of risking an accident. There are
seems scary at first riding as there is so much to be
enough terrible drivers out there especially those who aware of, but it's no different than crossing a busy love to snap their damn selfies and are not paying street or even driving. Gear up and ride safe! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111
Fi nd yo ur favori te loca l d ea ler on w w w. t a w p e r f o r m a n c e . c o m / d e a l e r s 112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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GIRL CRUSH
2018 114 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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e all know I love my bikes. Every little bit about we care about too. I almost learned that the hard way these past motorcycles and riding peaks my curiosity and passion. I couple weeks... It’s definitely something you can’t stay blind to.
can’t classify myself as one type of rider... because I’m not. I’m We all know the possible consequences of this lifestyle. But we a commuter, a leisure rider. A canyon carver and a track day still do it, because we love it even with that risk. It runs through junkie. I love every bit of every type of riding I’ve encountered. our veins and makes us who we are. All in all, the biker lifestyle Riding is as second nature to me as breathing is. I’ve learned has both risks and rewards. And I still wouldn’t trade my moto how it pulls communities together and makes lifelong friends. I memories and this life for anything. It’s brought me the best met my best friend by selling my Ninja 250 to her on craigslist. I memories and the most important people in my life. This is my also met the man of my dreams from motorcycles. But with this life. All the easy and hard parts included. - @mrs_cbr sport, there’s always a danger that can take away the people
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M
y story started five years ago in 2012 when I bought amazing thing that I gained from riding motorcycles besides my very own bike. Now around 100,000 miles later and some of the best friends in the world was learning not to spend
owning three very different bikes currently I realized this is just so much time reminiscing about my past or worrying about the the beginning. My Moto journey has been a great addition to future because I would miss the best that was right in front of my life and one I chose to put my heart and soul into. The most me. - @robbiee_b
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S
o many people represent the lifestyle, but this is how I feel I represent the
#SBINATION lifestyle. I purchased my first sportbike when I was 18, and I had no idea how to ride, so I learned off of YouTube. I can remember being so short (5 feet) that I always had a problem coming to a stop or doing U-turns, and I would drop my bike in the middle of traffic pretty often lol so I definitely didn't see myself ever being able to do stunts of any kind on a sportbike, but it's been such a great life lesson. Riding has taught me always to have confidence, not to let fear control me and never to give up. I know this isn't the coolest photo, but I wanted to post this one because of the meaning behind it for me. This track is where I first saw formula drift in Orlando. I was sitting in the bleachers saying that one day I was going to drift a motorcycle down there. Mind you I didn't even know how to skid on my back tire yet lol. But four months later I was down there drifting circles! That always showed me that you could achieve anything it all comes down to how bad you want it. - @kianamarquez
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ell, my bestie tagged me in a wicked contest showcasing raced competitively In 2014. It was a huge goal for me. Single female riders. Needless to say, bikes have been a big part mom, no money and I did it for myself. Met some amazing
of my life. I got my first dirtbike at 5 and have loved two wheel people that I will love for life. Met my bestie @jenginja who life ever since. I really got Into motorcycles in 2012 and even rocks bike life with me. - @missashee86
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B
ikes are a huge part of my life, and I am lucky enough to other people I adore and of course my boyfriend @killer.k.taylor. have been brought up in a family of bikers, riding bikes My life certainly wouldn’t be the same without my bikes or my
since I was six years old. I met my best friend @missashee86 biking friends and family. - @jenginja through the biking community in my city along with a tonne of
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I
n a male dominating sport, I absolutely love to see women rider comes from all that I'm able to pour into it. My happy embrace living free-spirited. Pushing the envelope! Doing what times, my stressful times, my desire to constantly push myself,
is considered outside of the norm. Riding is a part of me that never becoming complacent. So all of that to say ladies keep allows me to challenge myself over and over again. Constantly loving you and pushing to be a better you no matter what area working on techniques and application. My drive for being a of life it is. - @lyric_rides
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I
had always dreamed of riding a motorcycle but at age to me! Then I got a miracle phone call from a Doctor that seven is when I first started noticing signs of what turned changed my life! A new diagnosis and the first glimmer of
into a life of chronic illness that created a lot of struggles, hope that I could be cured! I had been suffering from a self-doubt, and fear. I never in a million years could have spontaneous Cerebral Spinal Fluid Leak! After three blood thought I would get to where I am today. I hope to inspire patch surgeries, for the very first time in my life... I FELT and give some hope and strength to the girls out there with NO PAIN! The idea of riding a motorcycle was out of the health issues to keep fighting! After years of misdiagnosis question before, but I bought my 1st bike just months after and struggle to figure out what was wrong with me. I I got better. My Yamaha R3 was the perfect first bike for me, finally was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia and after a year, I upgraded to my Ducati Panigale 959!! I Syndrome. I accepted that I wasn’t able to walk, stand for love riding and carving through the mountains... I did one periods of time, or would ever be an active person. I was track day last summer, and I can’t wait to see where track fainting up to 10 times a day and thought my condition riding takes me this year! Nothing can stop me now, but would put me in a wheelchair... but I FOUGHT! 2 years ago, I will always appreciate my health and never forget what I landed in the ER after one of my fainting episodes and I went through to get here! I still have some symptoms I wound up bed-bound for about six months and couldn’t that I have to manage, and I know it’s a possibility for it even remember how to speak some days. The pain was so all to come back, so I am enjoying every moment while I intense, and the doctors didn’t know what was happening can! - @miss_959
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y life has revolved around motorcycles since I can first track day when I was 18 and fell in love with the sport! remember. My parents got me my first motorcycle I decide after I graduated high school I wanted to go to the
at 6 years old for my birthday and in a years time I wore Motorcycle Mechanic Institute in Phoenix and I got a full ride the little electric motor out of that thing! I wanted to ride scholarship! While I was out in Phoenix I got in a motorcycle with my dad on his motorcycle but my feet had to touch accident on my 600, right before my 19th birthday. I broke the pegs. A year later they touched and we took our first my leg in 2 places and had a terrible concussion. Totaled my motorcycle trip about 3 hours away from home at 7 years baby. But that didn't hold me back, 3 months later I bought old. Then a couple years later we rode 8 hours from home, a new bike.. a CBR1000rr. My dream bike! I graduated MMI up Pikes Peak and through the mountains. I then got into as a Yamaha certified tech in January 2018! And I recently dirtbikes when I was around 10! I started on a crf100 and just opened my own Motorcycle shop, Allen Motorsports fell in love with dirt and sand riding! I then started moving And as some of you have seen I just got a BMW S1000RR up to bigger bikes, a crf150r, then a 250r! In the meantime and omg that bike! It's not just the feeling I get when I'm of dirt riding I wanted a sportbike and I begged and begged on my bike, it's the confidence and happiness it gives me. for my parents to let me get one when I turned 16... they But I'm also extremely grateful for the memories I've made said no. I had to wait till I was 18 and I had to do it all on with my best friend, my dad. He's what started this crazy my own. So I worked 3 jobs while I was 17 saved up money motorcycle journey and I wouldn't be who I am without and bought a 2015 CBR300r! I loved it but I outgrew it In him! I love sharing my passion and inspiring young girls like 3 months. So I got a CBR600rr and I rode and rode that to follow something out of the ordinary! - @mrs_1000rr bike! I wanted to expand my riding to the track! So I did my
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I
couldn’t even tell you what got me into riding. Honestly it Especially this past October when I broke 6 bones, punctured was just on a whim 6 years ago. I thought well maybe I could my lung, and still managed to go back to riding 6 weeks later.
learn how to ride a bike. So I learned to ride in a parking lot, It was a struggle, but I push through it. To be totally honest, I and then I thought well why not learn to ride on the street. So don’t really consider myself the front cover type. I prefer to be I learned how to ride on the street. So then I thought, well I got a wallflower and not draw attention to myself. but since I’m this far, I’ll learn how to ride on the track. Then when I got to eligible I might as well submit. And also cause @redspade told the track I thought, well I got this far, maybe I’ll learn how to me too. I represent #SBINation cause most of the time it’s more race. So I just kept riding (if Forrest Gump didn’t pop into your fun cheering others on and helping them achieve their goals, head while reading this then this has been a complete misfire) rather than my own. And what’s more beautiful than people motorcycles have taught me so much over the years. They’ve bonding over machines, am I right? Well, That’s all I have to helped me learn a lot about myself, and what I’m capable of. say about that. - @moto_lisa67
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I
f there is something I’ve learned over the years, it’s one never Summer that I’ve been riding, and with some 30,000 miles knows how ones life might change. I would have never seen later, I will say it’s has changed my life. Riding has brought
myself riding motorcycles. It was never on my radar at all, even about places I would have never dreamed I would have seen, with having a husband who has had and ridden bikes since States I would have never have gone to visit and explore. It has he was in his early twenties. It wasn’t until I was forty six did also given me over the years, wonderful friendships. Whether I decide to give this two wheel life a try. After taking an MSF it’s a small group of friends getting together for weekend rides course just a mile away from our home, I earned my motorcycle or with a couple of great friends within our own mountainous license. Just after earning my license, it was a bit of struggle at playground, riding for me encompasses all of these and so much first trying to learn what bike would best suit my likes, needs more! My life has been completely and profoundly changed by and my lifestyle. Almost hard to believe It will be six years this my life on two’s. - @rensride
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ere’s a little about me for those who are interested and purpose in life and I knew how to make myself happy, I knew let me apologize in advance, I’m not the greatest with the immediately who I was supposed to be. When I’m on my bike
words... I’ve always been a very shy, socially awkward person everything goes away, I'm happy, I’m confident, and I’m free. and for the longest time, I didn’t know how to connect or talk One of my favorite things about motorcycles is the community to people. I discovered motorcycles through my dad who had a without a doubt. For the first time in my life, I’ve met people who GSXR 1100 when I was a kid and I knew then I wanted to ride I could truly connect with and be myself around. A second family my own bike. I got my first bike 2 years ago when I was 20 if you will. I can say that if it wasn’t for motorcycles, I wouldn’t years old and it changed my life drastically. I went from being have met these amazing people and I wouldn’t be where I’m at someone who barely had any friends, no confidence, and severe today. Motorcycles have honestly changed my life for the better social anxiety. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. and I don’t plan on ending this two-wheeled journey of mine I discovered two wheels and all of that changed. I found a new anytime soon. - @yzf_maggie
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nyone who knows me, knows that my bike, Mav, is my life. ask me what I do when it rains...get wet. People ask me if I’ve When I bought him in 2012 I had already been riding for been hit...yeah and I got back on. People ask what my parents
about 5 years but he’s easily the best bike I’ve ridden. I have an think about it (unless they’ve met my dad)....he encouraged unparalleled love of all things motorcycle. I commute Monday to my love of bikes from birth. I would like to think I’m a good Friday and still spend my weekends going for leisure rides. The representation of #sbination and women who ride. I’ve shared last year we logged about 15,000 miles together and I’m looking my passion with friends, family, and basically anyone who will forward to the next 15. Being a rider isn’t about getting from listen. I feel the most confident and the most like myself when point A to point B for us. It’s about a feeling you get when you’re I’m out riding Mav. - @em_rodemsky riding. Nothing else matters when it’s just us on the road. People
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y passion for motorcycles all started with a crazy whim.A was no better place to share my experiences with other riders. debate between husband and wife.. truck or motorcycle.He Then I picked up a mini and besides being fun as hell! It helped
wasn’t convinced so I had no choice but to force him haha. I got me practice fundamentals. I met Martin with 2WTD we talked my permit and bike all in secrecy and when my ninja 250 was about racing and my passion for it along with needed pointers. delivered surprised was an understatement.Now looking back at Martin and my amazing husband encouraged me to pursue it I can't help but laugh because I thought a 250 was all I would it when so many others told me I was not fast enough or not EVER NEED! Boy i was wrong! I got a Cbr600 a few months later ready. Martin saw my passion and potential and asked me to be and I fell in love with everything the #bikelife had to offer! I met a control rider for 2WTD. I was so EXCITED! I love being a control so many cool people and i loved how everyone appreciated the rider because i can share this passion and teach new track riders fact that you rode and it didn’t matter what. I started going on safety and progression in track riding! I am so blessed to have every group ride or social event, my life became life. My next experienced all that I have and I feel I live that sportbike life! I adventure came when I won a free track day from Cycle Gear ride street, track/race, mini motos. I work two jobs to support and I forced my husband to go with me. We took our bikes to the my expensive habit and I am a control rider. I can not say I track for the first time ever! It was pure BLISS! I knew nothing deserve this because doing something your passionate about about the track but I was eager to learn! I did track days and is reward enough but I do love sharing and inspiring others to a school with @pridmore43 to help better my riding! I became get on two. Let’s prove those wrong who say we can’t because very serious about the track and getting other riders into track we are women. - @moto_mindy riding and safety. I got a job at cycle gear because to me there
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trong natured and a little shy, I gravitated towards own, so I bought one and learned to ride with a friend who could motorcycles when I was in my early 20's because they ride the hell out of his Honda Goldwing and kicked my ass all
offered freedom and independence. Growing up a tomboy over the place. Today, the tables have turned, and now he can't and always being outside doing "boy stuff", whether that was keep up :) 25 years later, motorcycles have taught me to have digging in the dirt, driving tractors, riding 3 wheelers, racing faith in myself, trust that I can do anything I set my mind to and MotoX or just riding and showing my horses, I inevitably drew to be fearless in the face of the storms that life throws at me. criticism and disdain from my mother because I didn't fit the Many a friendship has spawned from being on two wheels and I mold she thought I should fit into and I sought my escape... That cherish every single one of those moments! I've laughed, cried, escape came in the form of a Kawasaki Ninja 250... After riding screamed, yelled and have had some of the best moments of my pillion with some of the local guys, I decided that I needed my life looking out through the visor of my helmet! - @rcktgrl85
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ave you ever wanted something so badly in life but were beginning—the joy and the struggle. There was no goal at first, but absolutely terrified to go after it? Well, that was my story
later I realized others really empathize with my journey and it gave
and how it all started in 2012. My moto journey isn’t long, but it’s
them inspiration or comfort in their own goals. There is absolutely
become all life encompassing ever since I swung my leg over my
nothing special about what I do, I don’t know any amazing secrets or
1st motorcycle five years ago. If you would have met me back, then
possess an immense knowledge of the sport, nor am I greatly skilled.
you wouldn’t recognize me. Riding literally opened up my life to
But what I do do is listen and take everything in with an open heart and
amazing opportunities, dreams, experiences, and people that I would mind. I’m here to tell you that if I can do this so can you. I’ve learned have never let into my life before. And many don’t know that when to find what works for myself and in turn, share the knowledge. I take I finally decided to get on 2s, I was barely walking and in constant
this sport seriously because I’ve seen how it’s opened up my mind and
chronic nerve pain in my legs. My journey was rough and hard with heart. I’ve also seen how it’s taken away friends and made hearts me having to adapt to my inability to shift normally and constantly break. And even though the risk is increasingly higher every year, I deal with debilitating pain. But all the physical pain aside, something can’t help but push myself to be faster and stronger with my machine. in me wanted this more than anything, and I believe that it was this I can’t help but cheer on my loved ones on at their races. I can’t help pain and fear of never being able to try riding that finally pushed me but smile when a new rider has that "AHA!" moment. - @redspade over the edge. So I’ve been sharing my story with you all since the
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've been riding motorcycles on and off since 2003. Naturally, the joy that riding gives me, I love helping people, I love to see I've experienced the good and bad. The one constant thing the joy in their eyes and their endless smiles as they get off their
that I love about motorcycles is the people I come into contact bikes completely immersed in stoke for their new experience. with and the stories they share with me. I'm sure there are other This exemplifies our "motorcycle culture", we share, we give, we hobbies out there that have people as passionate, kind and respect, we celebrate. We are family. I'm not good with words... creative as motorcyclists but I'm just glad I get to help riders new forgive me. That is literally THE BEST part of riding(for me) and and experienced find another way to enjoy riding and that I get my role at @socalsupermoto as rider coach, instructor and well to be a part of their experience, their story. Bottom line, beyond everything else there. - @kerryanndelaboost
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o most, I’m just another girl who rides a motorcycle and takes for every person who told me I shouldn’t. For everyone who said pictures. But what they don’t see under that helmet, behind I’m stupid for doing it. For those who say I’m “too small” or
that visor, and under those clothes is the dedication, the passion, “too cowardly.” For those who think that I’m not strong enough the intense amount of love, the grease, the scratches and bruises, to fall and pick myself (and a 300lb bike) up and keep going. the depleting bank account (because this passion isn’t cheap) I ride with those who have been told the same thing, who have and every bit of hard work that has been and is continuing to been through the physical and verbal torment, and those who be put in to get me where I aim to be. I don’t stunt, drag race, are respectful and understanding of other riders. We are a nation street race, ride track (yet) or race on the track (yet). I ride until full of riders. We are a world full of riders. I get lost and need to use GPS to find my way back home. I ride - @miss.pearl_n_ink until the gas light comes on, fill up and continue riding. I ride
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f you’re not doing something you love, it’s time to start. People used to tell
me all the time “Amanda, you do too much. You spread yourself so thin.” The thing is, I am happiest when I am busy. When I am actively working towards something. When I am engulfed in my passions. Those are the moments I live for, the good stress in life. If you’re not pushing yourself, challenging yourself, or struggling at times, then are you really getting better? I couldn’t imagine my life without riding, and I may not be an expert, I have so much to learn. I know that. But I also know the impact it has had on my life. The ways it has developed me as a person. Everyone should have something that makes them dig deep inside, at some point makes them feel a fear they thought wasn’t possible, and that makes you feel ALIVE. - @aamanda__rose
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THE NEW ISH REVIEW
BRIDGESTONE
BATTLAX RACING R11 TIRE
THE NEW ISH REVIEW WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: BRIAN J. NELSON//ALLAN LANE 140 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE NEW ISH REVIEW: BATTLAX R11
T
he average street rider may not give much deeper understanding and appreciation for all thought to the technology that goes into the things tire. Or, you can simply fit a new pair of
manufacturing process of today’s sportbike tire. shoes on your machine and put in some laps to Of course, the name of the game is traction. With achieve the desired level of enlightenment. That is only two tires connecting you to mother Earth, exactly what Bridgestone had us do at the launch the ability of your rubber to keep you grounded event for their new Battlax Racing R11 tire. is a major concern… and rightfully so. Following closely behind in the grip department are the By fate’s hand, I found myself turning in laps on durability and handling factors. Giving thought to the R11’s fitted to the 2018 Yamaha R World these elements and the process under which they Lineup at the Utah Motorsports Campus, formerly are manifested into a road tire, one can gain a known as Miller Motorsport Park. I am a firm
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believer that confidence in your equipment boosts most while cornering. Upon exiting the corner and overall performance. If you are capable and your dropping the hammer, there is an even spread of equipment is capable, then your output will be tire surface in contact with the asphalt, allowing maximum.
for consistent definitive and powerful drives. On the front tire, the V-MSB provides stability when
Straight away, I was informed that the R11’s are entering the corner. The new tread pattern of R11 1.5 seconds faster than their predecessors (fastest is engineered to follow the direction of stress at lap time), the R10’s. Yes, some tires can be faster various lean angles to maximize the handling than others. That increase in speed is attributed property of the tire. Tread rigidity is not just for to a new variable mono spiral belt (V-MSB) dispersing water. construction process with a GP belt on the rear. What is achieved is proper distribution of the These elements of the R11 make it reliable and contact patch throughout the ride, but appreciated predictable, experienced best at speed. The SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 143
THE NEW ISH REVIEW: BATTLAX R11
daunting challenge of learning a new road course, as I had never ridden Utah Motorsports Campus, was eased as the performance of the R11’s eliminated at least one concern. After the initial scrub in and a session in, the R11’s gave amazing feedback, stability, and control. They were hot after only a lap or two, providing impressive grip. Actually, the amount of grip caught me off guard… I just didn’t expect them to get that sticky, that fast. Feeling properly grounded, I was at liberty to explore the edges and the tire and most importantly, have fun. The presence of V-MSB and GP belt components are significant and felt when diving into the corner. Driving out of the corner, with confidence, opening the throttle and getting on it… Simply amazing. In the right hands, I would expect ruts in the road from where the asphalt was ripped from the track! Bridgestone maintains their position in the leader group with the Battlax Racing R11 tire. The R11 is designed to be a tool for the racer that is looking for that edge so they can earn that valued number one spot on the podium, yet has qualities that make it just as home on the streets and back roads as it is on track. 144 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
TAKE YOUR RIDE TO THE TRACK!
OVER 60 EVENTS! New Jersey Motorsports Park Lighting Millville, NJ NC Bike Garysburg, NC
Dominion Raceway Spotsylvania, VA
Pittrace North and Full Wampum, PA New Jersey Motorsports Park Thunderbolt Millville, NJ Roebling Road Bloomingdale, GA
Talladega Munford, AL
Barber Motorsports Park Leeds, AL Road Atlanta Braselton, GA
Pocono Raceway East Blakeslee, PA Summit Point Raceway Main / Jefferson Summit Point, WV Summit Point Motorsports Park Shenandoah Circuit Summit Point, WV
www.N2TD.org
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You may have heard about track days, heard the myths, heard the hype... now it’s time to ride on many world-class, closed course racetracks with our expertly trained instructors showing you the way. Whether you’ve just purchased your first sport bike, have been riding the streets for years, or have experience on a race track, track days are all about improving your skills and learning to ride your motorcycle to the fullest.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 145 N2 Track Days, LLC. P.O. Box 27326 Philadelphia, PA 19118 | e: info@n2td.org | p: +1 (855) 263-0200
THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • MESH AF LADIES JACKET Constructed of a durable textile chassis comprised of large mesh front and rear panels which house a full suite of D3O impact protectors. It is designed with pre-curved arms to be tighter to the body and form fitting, making it aerodynamic and comfortable at speed. The Mesh AF jacket offers strategic ventilation with maximum air flow and breathability for hot to mild riding conditions. Sizes: XS - XXXL Prices: $180.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com
REV'IT! • ORLANDO H2O LADIES JEANS The Orlando H2O ladies jeans enables you to ride in protective motorcycle jeans regardless of the weather. The laminated 100% waterproof jeans are cleverly disguised as a regular cut, fashionable pair of five pocket ladies' jeans. The combination of polycotton stretch denim 3L and strategically positioned PWR | shield creates a stylish and abrasion resistant combination, with a mesh liner for additional comfort. The Orlando H2O Ladies comes standard equipped with CE-rated SEESMART knee protectors and they are prepared for CE-rated Tryonic hip protectors. Sizes: 24 - 34 (standard) 24 - 34 (long) Price: $299.99 Contact: http://www.revitsport.com 146 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
WOODCRAFT - CFM • KAWASAKI NINJA 400 STREET FRAME SLIDER KIT Woodcraft frame sliders stand out in a market crowded with lookalike options. Their patented design features a slider puck that can be replaced with one bolt. What makes the Woodcraft design unique is the perpendicular attachment bolt for the puck. Because the center of the puck is not hollowed out, the surface of the puck is solid. This provides 48% more plastic to slide on, dramatically improving puck life. The side mount also eliminates the hassle of trying to dig out a puck replacement bolt through a distorted hole. No bodywork modification is required for installation. Price: $119.99 Contact: http:///woodcraft-cfm.com
MOTO D RACING • MOTO-D "PRO-SERIES" S/T PITBIKE 12" MOTORCYCLE TIRE WARMERS Handcrafted by MOTO-D Racing, the MiniGP Tire Warmers feature Carbon Wire Technology, which heat faster than brittle copper wire warmers found in lesser units. Unlike copper wiring, which becomes soft and brittle when hot, MOTO-D’s carbon wiring can be twisted and crushed without failure. MOTO-D uses 750 - 800 watts per pair and includes a spandex side skirt which blocks wind keeping all scooter, pitbike, and minibike tires hot. Price: $299.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com
JOE ROCKET • BIG BANG 2.1 LADIES GLOVES With a backhand built on a fusion of FreeAir mesh and neoprene, the Big Bang 2.1 glove delivers the ultimate combination of breathability, mobility, and comfort. Key features include conductive leather at the finger tip for instant touchscreen access, perforated leather palms and available in two color ways. Colors: Black, Pink Sizes: XS - XL Price: $39.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com
ALPINESTARS • STELLA KAIRA GORE TEX BOOT A versatile mid-length touring boot specially engineered for a fully optimized women's fit, the Stella Kaira incorporates a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining into its supple and elegant premium leather chassis. The multipanel Stella Kaira offers excellent flexibility while the newly developed rubber sole give excellent grip and stability on and off the bike. Sizes: 36-43 Price: $299.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com
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THE NEW ISH BELL HELMETS • RS2 HI VIZ YELLOW NAVY RED EMPIRE HELMET The Legacy of the RS-1 is enhanced and strengthened with the new RS-2. A lightweight fiberglass shell provides protection, while a comfortable, washable, anti-microbial X-Static XT2 Silver liner ensures cooler heads will prevail. Whether searching for grip at full lean or chewing up highway miles by the hundred, the RS-2 is ready for whatever the road has in store. The RS-2 includes an integrated flip down sun shield, for versatile on-the-fly adaptability to changing light conditions. Sizes: XS-XXL Price: $299.95 Contact: http://bellhelmets.com
DRIVEN RACING • KAWASAKI Z900 AXLE BLOCK SLIDER
MOTOCHIC • LADIES COOLING BASE LAYER TOP MotoChic’s Special Edition Cooling Base Layer Top’s eamless, slimming design creates a flattering hourglass fit for women. Ingenious construction cools your body and reduces muscle fatigue while riding, biking, hiking, or doing any high performance sport or exercise. A proprietary “honey comb” woven Italian fabric feels like air conditioning on the skin as it cools your body by drying 8x faster than cotton and 4 – 6 times faster than other base layers. Soft mesh paneling under the arms and down the back improves maneuverability and comfort. Colors: Red, Blue, Green, Orange Sizes: XS - L Price: $135.00 Contact: http://motochicgear.com 148 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
High-performance parts for high-performance machines, these axle blocks sliders are made of the best quality aluminum, coupled with our strong UHMW sliders for the best match of strength and sliding ability. Made for the extreme riding put on today's motorcycles whether its country road, race tracks, or the daily commute... these Axle block sliders will exceed your expectations. They are available in anodized black, blue, and red, gold and so you can match your bikes styling. Constructed from aerospace grade 6061 T-6 billet aluminum, designed to protect your bikes rear end and looks good too. Colors: Black, Red, Blue, Gold Price: $109.99 Contact: http://drivenracing.com
GILLES TOOLING • SCRAMBLER REAR AXLE SLIDER KIT
These rear sliders fit all models of the Ducati Scrambler lineup. A 2 in 1 kit, it provides axle protection and has a rotary body for easy lifting into a paddock stand. Price: $82.00 Contact: http://shift-tech-carbon.com
MOTUL • C1 CHAIN CLEAN
C1 Chain Clean’s Chlorine-free formula cleans all types of motorcycle (road and off road), quad and kart chains. Removes all encrusted deposits: sand, dirt, oil, grease. Price: $9.37 Contact: http://motul.com HOTBODIES RACING • YZF-R1 2015-18 MGP REARSETS All MGP rear sets are CNC machined from aircraft grade T6 6061 Billet aluminum and electroplated with a durable finish. They come pre-assembled and use bearings to eliminate friction on the foot lever. They feature a springloaded rear brake lever return and include a bracket for the brake light switch so they can be used for the track and for the street. The rear sets feature adjustable foot peg placement, with selections to move them forward or back, or higher or lower. The rear set kit consists of the rear set plates, foot pegs, heel guards and all of the needed hardware (shift rods, etc) to install. Available in gold or black with red accents. Colors: Black, Gold Price: $339.95 Contact: http://hotbodiesracing.com
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THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ICON MOTOSPORTS • DREADNAUGHT BACK PACK The Dreadnaught™ backpack features a water-resistant rolltop design along with a PU-coated poly chassis. Its 20-liter capacity is sufficiently large when fully expanded, yet it can drop to a slim backpack if the extra volume isn’t required. A riding-specific chest harness with FIDLOCK® chest closure makes it easy on/ off. Constructed with a PU coated poly chassis and equipped with a waterproof roll top. Colors: Black, Red Price: $135.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com
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520 Steel Q/A Kit OEM Replacement Kit Driven Steel Sprockets 520/525/530 RK Chain
Driven Steel Sprockets 520 RK Premium Chain
520 Aluminum Race
Driven Aluminum Rear Sprocket 520 RK Premium Chain
Live chat with us at RKExcelAmerica.com Tel: 760.732.3161 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 151