SportBikes Inc Magazine March 2014

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . MOTO TECH

MARCH 2014 VOL 4 ISSUE 6

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

MARC MARQUEZ

EVOLVER

COREY ALEXANDER’S THE INSIDE TRACK | THE GAME PLAN | ON THE COME UP | LINES OF A LEGEND | TAKE IT TO THE TRACK | THE 25/75 BRAKING RULE | TRACK DAY GIRL

2 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 3

THE FEATURES MARC MARQUEZ: EVOLVER

40

THE GAME PLAN

54

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60

136

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=146

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=40

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54

THE 25/75 BRAKING RULE

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=136

4 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

THE INSIDE TRACK

50

ON THE COME UP: ROAD RACING EDITION

60

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=50

TRACK DAY GIRL

146

THE USUALS

MARCH 2014 - VOLUME 4, ISSUE 6

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14 14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18 18 THE INBOX http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - DIRECT MOTORSPORTS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=26 26 THE SHOW - THE 1984 YAMAHA RZ350RR http://issuu.com/action/page?page=32 32 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=50 50 THE INSIDE TRACK - By Corey Alexander http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 92 THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE - By Dystany Spurlock 96http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=104 104 VIOLET STARS & HAPPY STUNTING - By Leah Petersen http://issuu.com/action/page?page=114 114 FEATURED CLUB - C&C DIVAS SBC http://issuu.com/action/page?page=118 118 KNOW YOUR ROLE - By Kim “Lady Kim” Roper http://issuu.com/action/page?page=122 122 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James 126http://issuu.com/action/page?page=126 FEATURED RIDERS 134http://issuu.com/action/page?page=134 ASK THE PRO WRENCH - By Thomas Campion http://issuu.com/action/page?page=136 136 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=158 158 SPORTBIKES INK!!! http://issuu.com/action/page?page=160 160 THIS LIFE - By Tyson Beckford http://issuu.com/action/page?page=162 162 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=168 168 STAFF STUFF

INTERACTIVE CLICK ON NUMBERS TO JUMP TO A PAGE

FEATURED RIDER: AARON “SPYDAMAN” POINDEXTER

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=130 PAGE 130 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5

FEATURE STORY

6 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

MARCMARQUEZ

EVOLVER PAGE 40

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=40

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 7

8 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

License to thrill

New Hypermotard SP

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 9

Professional rider on a closed racetrack

Official Sponsor Developed with

Powered by

EDITOR’S LETTER I

am not a role model. I am a realist. I’ve been very vocal about that and most people would tend to agree with me after they’ve been around me for a bit of time. I make no qualms about it. I am what I am. However, I make it a point to remain in the company of role models. You know, people that exude positive and progressive points of existence.

himself like a young man with purpose. I was impressed.

As months went by, our friendship grew and I began to consider Corey a little brother. We hung out at the track over race weekends, he began writing a monthly column for SBI...

Then there were those times in Indy and New York... Look, I already said I’m not a role My job allows me to travel a great deal and model. But I digress. offers the opportunity to meet all types of people from all walks of life. Throughout my The point is that regardless of the situation, travels and the multitude of introductions that whether on the track or off the track, with I am privy to, once and again... I’ll meet fans or just kicking it with the fam, Corey someone that I know I can learn something remained consistently Cool Breeze. A couple from, be inspired and motivated by. When of years have passed and Corey is now the Richie Alexander introduced me to his Road Race editor of this fine publication nephew, Corey, a few years ago, such was and his contributions are invaluable. He is the case. also currently defending his AMA Pro Racing Supersport East Championship that he won The thing I remember about the first time that last fall in New Jersey. Most recently, I was I met Corey was that he was taller than me. honored to watch my Lil Bro capture the Worth mentioning only because I apparently double win in Daytona to start off the 2014 met him on the front end of a growth spurt. season.

It seemed that for the following year, Corey kept getting taller. For a moment, I thought When I think about the company that I keep that I might have been getting shorter. I just and the individuals that I am blessed to call wasn’t used to cracking my neck and tilting family, Corey is one of the people that I my head that far back to have a conversation consider a role model. Even though I call him with anyone. Impossible, I know... But I Lil Bro, I’m the one looking up to him... And swear Corey grew like six or seven inches the that’s not just because he’s taller than me. first year we met. Regardless of his towering height, what stood out to me about Corey I see you, Corey. Salute. the most, was that he was what what we old heads call “Cool Breeze”. I told Richie at one point that Corey had to be the most chill dude Best, in the AMA paddock. His demeanor was Allan several years beyond his age and he carried allan@sportbikesincmag.com

10 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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

EDITORIAL

Social Media Editor Lucky Yogi luckyyogi@sportbikesincmag.com

Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com

Staff Writers: Lisa Macknik lisa@sportbikesincmag.com Dystany Spurlock dystany@sportbikesincmag.com Michael Lawless lawless@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com

Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com

Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com

Road Racing Editor: Corey Alexander corey@sportbikesincmag.com

ART & DESIGN

Lifestyle Director: Tyson Beckford tyson@sportbikesincmag.com

Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Rev Limiter Editor: Leah Petersen leah@sportbikesincmag.com Bike Life Editor Lady Kim ladykim@sportbikesincmag.com International Correspondent Billy Morrison billy@sportbikesincmag.com

Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com Contributing Photographers: Brian J. Nelson Brandon Bones Andrea Strong Bryce Thompson Marcell C. Valentine Rick Hentz Andres Cuellar Cover: Photographer: Andrew Wheeler

SportBikes Inc Magazine - March 2014 Volume 4, Issue 6 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2014 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

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

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

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

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

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

12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13

THE PRESS ROOM HONDA RECALLS THE CBR500 AND CB500, MODEL YEAR 2013

Honda has issued a recall for the 2013 CBR500 and CB500 due to a retaining bolt in the rocker arm shaft. The bolt may be subject to faulty manufacturing and could loosen over time

THE 2015 NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE CONVENTION The first National Motorcycle Convention has been scheduled to take place April 24 through 26, 2015 in Las Vegas. The purpose of the NMC is to provide education and knowledge to the overall motorcycle club community. Founded to facilitate the growing need for understanding proper protocol, the NMC will offer educational sessions that will address every aspect of the bike community throughout the course of the weekend.

To get more information or to register for the convention, please visit http://themotorcycleconvention.com.

14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

with effects ranging from oil leaks to stalling.

The number of bikes affected by the recall is about 7,000. Honda dealers have been instructed to replace the bolt at no charge.

THE LOTUS C-01 Lotus’ new cafe esque superbike is street ready and ready to prowl. Producing approximately 200 hp from a brawny 2 cylinder 4 stroke 75° V twin engine, this beauty designed by Daniel Simon has a look like no other with integrating carbon fiber, titanium and aerospace quality steel. According to our closely guarded sources, then CEO of Lotus thought the C-01 was brilliant when approached with the concept by Kodewa’s Dr. Colin Kolles, earning Kodewa the esteemed privilege to badge their creation with the elite Lotus moniker.

“We set out to create a bike that isn’t just great to ride but also represents a piece of art in motion. Over the years I have seen my fair share of style over substance, what this bike brings to the market is a unique combination of both: state of the art technology with a truly jaw-dropping aesthetic,” says Dr. Colin Kolles.

Interested in owning one of the first ever Lotus motorcycles?

Act fast because this will be a limited production of only 100 units. For more info visit http://lotus-motorcycles.com.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15

THE PRESS ROOM CUSTOM CAFE RACERS ON DISPLAY AT THE AMA HALL OF FAME MUSEUM Tony Prust of Analog Motorcycles and Cliff Meyer of Meyerbuilt Metalworks are currently participating in an exhibit of custom motorcycles at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum in Ohio.

would encourage fans of custom motorcycles, art and two-wheeled goodness to come out to the museum and check out this unique exhibit celebrating two-wheeled art.” - Tony Prust, Analog Motorcycles.

“It is an honor to be selected to display a few of the custom motorcycles I have created. I

Visit http://motorcyclemuseum.org for more information.

16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

THE 2015 DUCATI DIAVEL Ducati North America has released images of the new 2015 Diavel. The Diavel hit the scene in 2011 and the road hasn’t been the same since.

The 2015 Diavel features an enhanced appearance with a new exhaust system and a full LED head light. The 11 degree dual spark Testastretta engine pushes out 162 horses and is paired with ABS, traction control and selectable riding modes to give the rider a more performance driven experience. Models are expected to hit showroom floors this April with three color options: Dark, Carbon White or Carbon Red. MSRP: $17,995 – $20,995

YAMAHA ISSUES A MAJOR RECALL FOR THE R1 AND THE SUPER TENERE

Yamaha has issued a recall for the R1, model years 2009-2013 and the Super Tenere, model years 2012-2013. Heat from the use of the headlights can cause the bulb connections to expand and possibly arc in the socket.

Yamaha has issued the recall for a total of 24,000 vehicles. The dealer network has been instructed to replace the headlight socket on affected models at no charge.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 17

THE INBOX BROUGHT TO YOU BY KRIEGA

Email SportBikes Inc Magazine at INBOX@SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM. Every month, we are giving away a R25 Back Pack from Kriega and an SBI T Shirt to the LETTER OF THE MONTH! Dear SBI, I would like to thank the SBI staff for the product you put together each month. I also thank you for bringing us a motorcycle publication that includes all races, colors, and genders of people. Once upon a time Rickey Gadson was the only rider who looked like me who appeared in any of the magazines I’ve flipped through.

To finally see people who look like me on pages of a motorcycle publication is refreshing! This culture is not for one group of people, and there are many around the world from many backgrounds who enjoy it! SBI is a Game Changer! Thanks for showing love to everyone who enjoys all things motorcycle related! I salute SBI for being leaders, and doing what many have failed to do before you. Great Job!In tires we trust.

- Kenneth Neely AKA Flash Pittsburgh, PA Flash, We cannot thank you enough for your support. Please keep reading as we continue to grow. We are committed to bringing the global bike community real and authentic moto edutainment. Keep riding with us!

18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

LETTER OF THE MONTH Dear SBI, My name is Jenny Vu. I’m 21 currently and I started riding when I was 18. I am Vietnamese and when I was younger I got to travel back to Vietnam a lot and I loved their “motorcycles.” I turned 16 and decided to take a motorcycle course. I wasn’t aware how to drive a manual at the time either, the school was not a good one and needless to say I failed. When I was 18 I finally was able to convince my parents to let me have a bike, a 2009 Ninja 250.

I’m a self taught rider. There were many learning curves for me.

Mainly staying on balance when stopping. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve dropped my bike... at busy intersections, stop signs, lights, you name it. It got to the point where if I dropped my bike I just stood by and waited till a bystander came to help me pick it up. I’m not a big person mind you, 5’2 and 100lbs. I strived and somehow did manage to teach myself and got my license.

I was able to keep up to the 600’s and 750’s on my 250 (not straightaways, but during curves). Later that year, I went back to Vietnam and I realized that those “motorcycles” that were the primary reason I started riding were, in fact, not motorcycles but scooters. Too late though, I was hooked.

I loved my 250 to bits and pieces. My boyfriend at the time and I had a falling out. He got drunk and trashed the bike. It was red stock Kawasaki color and after getting a beat down, I was not discouraged. I bought red duck tape and taped the fairings together for the time being, just so I could continue to ride.

Shortly thereafter is when I got into modding my bike. I replaced the fairings, exhaust, got flush mount signals, an integrated taillight and a few other mods. This is where my journey began. It was a blessing in disguise.

Topping out my bike during a highway cruise I realized I needed an upgrade. In September, I found a 2007 GSXR 750 for a great price, it was perfect.

During the long grueling winters of Calgary, I took it apart and changed almost everything since then. Thus, duke was born. The designs on the side were a little touch from myself. Purchasing vinyl sheets, I cut and designed it on my own. The only part of the bike that went into an actual shop was for the installation of the PCIII and the rearsets. I’m mechanically inclined and try to do everything on my own, where I can’t, I have a trustworthy friend to help out.

He may not be the most expensive and probably not the nicest bike out there, but he’s mine and I put hard work, blood, sweat and tears into making him what he is today (yes, I refer to my bike as a he). If you have a passion as great as this, don’t let it go. Doubt your doubts before you doubt yourself.

Jenny, What a great letter and a great expression of your love for motorcycles and riding... Your passion. It’s inspiring to see how bikes have touched so many different lives in so many different ways. Your GSXR looks awesome! Well done on the paint job and the components you selected for your ride. It goes to show what can be accomplished when one individual is dedicated and driven. Thank you for sharing your journey.

- Jenny Vu Calgary, Alberta, Canada

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19

20 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

True Champion

Marc Marquez Repsol Honda Team

THE ULTIMATE HIGH SPEED PERFORMANCE CHAIN The specifically designed XW Ring has three contact lips and two convex stabilizers. This means three lubrication pools to protect against high speed abrasion, extreme heat build up, torsional flex and the loss of lubricant.

www.RKExcelAmerica.com Tel: 760.732.3161 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 21

SHOP SPOTLIGHT: DIRECT MOTORSPORTS

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Direct Motorsports

CONTACT:

22 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Shop name: Direct Motorsports - DMS Racing Location: 8650 NW 58th Street Miami, FL 33166/5413 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819 Hours: Miami M - F 9AM - 6PM, Sat 9am - 1pm/Orlando M - F 9AM - 7PM, Sat 9AM - 7PM Year established: 1991 Brands serviced: All

T

here is always a sense of confidence when dealing with a shop that also has its own race team. Between their two locations, Direct Motorsports is indeed a full on, one stop, all service shop and they have the team to prove it.

The Florida based Direct Motorsports, established in 1991, has a shop in Miami and another in Orlando. The Miami store features service for race machines as well as street rides. It also serves as the DMS Race Team headquarters. Direct Motorsports Orlando opened in 2013 and showcases an amazing showroom where all of the latest and highest quality parts, apparel and accessories can be found.

Direct Motorsports launched Direct Motorsports Racing in 2012 and has successfully competed in CCS with multiple wins. More recently, DMS Racing has competed in the AMA Pro Racing Series. They take that on track experience and pass it on to their community via track day events, track course lessons and they host the local Hooters’ Bike Night every Wednesday.

Direct Motorsports’ mission is to provide excellent service, parts, accessories, and apparel at affordable prices for racers and street riders.

They don’t talk the talk... They ride the ride.

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

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 23

24 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25

THE SHOW

THE 1984 YAMAHA RZ350RR 26 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

WORDS AND IMAGES: LUCKY YOGI SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 27

THE SHOW: THE 1984 YAMAHA RZ350RR

T

he boy carefully pushed against the parched, cracked barn door and the hinges shrieked in protest of being woken up after years of slumber.

After tiptoeing across the hay littered floor, the boy stopped in his tracks and tilted his head in thought.

Slowly, he walked toward the far left corner of the barn. Streaks of sunlight peaked through the rafters and laid kisses on a dusty, forgotten motorcycle.

The boy’s mind raced with excitement upon his ultimate barn find. He no longer was here nor there, but trapped in a hard stare coming from a 1984 RZ350RR directly from Japan…

two stroke, liquid cooled RZ350RR that was only in production for one year, and is an authentic race bike with medals to vouch for it.

The RZ did come with almost a full set of Canadian fairings with the trademark blue design, however the VIN tells a different story. 29xxxxxx. The number starting at 29, identifies this bike as a Japanese model. When Mr. Zanutto was rebuilding the forks, he found Racetech gold cartridges installed. This just leads to an ever continuous series of questions.

Unfortunately, there is no back story as to how it came to the United States or when it was previously registered. Mr. Zanutto’s worst part of the build was Did I go overboard with a fictitious story in the registration process. “It took me 2 months to get introducing this rebuild? Maybe, maybe not. Jan the registration complete due to the DMV sending Zanutto, an aviation maintenance instructor in his me over to the CHP for a VIN number verification, 50’s, an enthusiast for two-strokes, is brought back then over to a licensed inspection station for just to being a young kid at heart when he came a brake and light inspection. The DMV also kept across a true barn find in May 2013. Seriously.

The RZ was tucked away in a barn in Squaw Valley pointing out that the VIN was too short and I had to keep explaining that it is that way for older bikes,” for 10 years. The RZ’s last run was some time in 2004 when it had won the 500cc class at Willow Mr. Zanutto states clearly annoyed over the process.

Springs with its previous owner, Tom Nichols. Now No engine work was necessary, yet plenty of work went to upgrading and refining the original that is jaw dropping epic. Knowing you own a

28 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

parts. He powder coated the frame, swing arm and rims. The stock shock was replaced with an Ohlins unit with a remote reservoir. For the tires, he replaced the old set with New Avon tires using stock size. “There is a tendency for people to try to put oversized tires on these older cafe bikes just because they like the way it looks. However, the tire performance goes down as you try to excessively pinch a big tire into a narrow rim.

Kenny Roberts, Eddie Lawson, and Giacomo Agostini won a lot of races on narrow tires,” Mr. Zanutto explains. The original Bassani pipes were swapped for the Jim Lomas Stainless Steel GP pipes and were dynode at 62HP. It’s hard not to drool over the site of clean welds on those sweet expansion chambers.

The YPVS gave the motor a wider powerband.

YPVS is a variable exhaust port controlled by a servo that moved a cylindrical valve which was fitted horizontally in the exhaust port. The valve was rotated to change to the correct height of the exhaust port. At lower revs the engine will run better with a smaller exit hole and at higher revs the engine will produce more power with a larger exit hole.

The biggest job however, was repairing the fiberglass body. Mr. Zanutto discussed the process as I snapped photos of his work.

“There was a lot of broken areas, oil soaked areas, pin holes in the gel coat, cracks. These all had to be repaired and filled, and then I could proceed to paint. I wanted something that was Yamaha, and I looked at several vintage paint schemes before copying the old FZR1000 “Captain America” paint scheme.” Fine job indeed if I may say so myself.

Mr. Zanutto would like to thank his barn find to, “Tom Nichols in agreeing with me to trade the bike for flight lessons in gliders. I also want to thank the guys on the RD/RZ forum for giving me some good links for information.”

The motorcycle community thanks you, Mr. Zanutto, for allowing past motorcycles to relive their destiny once more.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 29

30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31

THE GRID: NEWS MOTOGP: YAMAHA AND MOVISTAR INK A FIVE YEAR DEAL Yamaha and Movistar’s parent company Telefonica De Espana ink a five year deal as the title sponsor of the Yamaha Factory Racing Team.

The team will officially be renamed “Movistar Yamaha MotoGP”.

The Movistar logo and branding will be displayed prominently on team leathers, uniforms, trailers, garage, hospitality areas, etc.

32 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

AMA: TOMMY AQUINO SPIRIT AWARD The Tommy Aquino Spirit Award will be awarded to the AMA Pro rider that best embodies the spirit of the paddock during the 2014 season. This is a great way to remember and honor the late Tommy Aquino who was so much an example of what it means to be an ambassador of the sport, on and off the track. Members of the paddock will vote and the winner be selected at the end of the 2014 season, presented on behalf of Cortech and SHOEI.

AMA: LAGUNA ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE AMA Pro Racing will return to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca over the weekend of July 11 through 13, increasing the number of rounds to 6 for the 2014 season.

The AMA will be joining the WSBK US round that weekend with races for Superbike, Daytona Sportbike and Vance and Hines Harley Davidson.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33

THE GRID: NEWS AMA: SBI’S COREY ALEXANDER STARTS THE SEASON OFF WITH THE DOUBLE With a stunning display of dominance, Corey Alexander jumpstarted the 2014 AMA Supersport season with a brilliant double win at Daytona International Speedway.

Alexander and new teammate, Wyatt Farris owned the podium for both races. Both Alexander and Farris led the field for both races on their Celtic/HVMC Suzuki GSX-R 600’s, setting the tone for the season.

Alexander, the current Supersport East Champion has his heart set on the National Championship for 2014. With opening weekends like Daytona, Alexander has made his intentions clear.

WSBK: MV AGUSTA WINS OPENING ROUND AT PHILLIP ISLAND

In the opening round of the 2014 WSBK season, Jules Cluzel piloted his MV Agusta Reparto Corse/Yakhnich Motorsport team’s F3 675 to a first place Supersport finish.

The accomplishment proves that the F3 is a competitive machine and can win races.

This is the first time that MV has taken victory in 38 years when Giacomo Agostini claimed victory on his 4 cylinder 500cc.

34 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

AMA: FANSCHOICE.TV BRINGS YOU THE ACTION The 2014 AMA Pro Racing Season will be broadcast via the digital network FansChoice.tv, the new digital channel that will live stream races across a number of devices including smart phones,

tablets and laptops. The digital network offers fans an opportunity to watch races with multiple camera views and on demand features.

AMA: DANNY ESLICK AND TRIUMPH WIN THE DAYTONA 200 Danny Eslick won the 73rd Daytona 200 on his #69 Riders Discount Triumph 675R. Backed by his Riders Discount Team, Eslick led 44 of the the 57 laps, complete with two pit stops.

Triumph hasn’t won the Daytona 200 since 1967 with the late Gary Nixon.

“It’s awesome. I’ve gotten the pole before and, my very first 200, I got fourth. So there’s been a lot of hard work and a lot of years passed by to get this victory. It really means a lot.

There’s been a lot going on at home, losing people close to me. This one is for Tommy Aquino and some good friends from home. So it means a lot.” - Danny Eslick, 2014 Daytona 200 Winner, #69 Riders Discount Triumph.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35

THE GRID

Images: Courtesy of Nickey Hayden

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

36 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NICKY HAYDEN

#69

“I

t was my dad’s number. Nothing more... nothing less! Everybody asks me that and thinks I’m gonna have a good story for them but nope! I’m just keeping the tradition going!”

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37

38 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39

MARC MARQUEZ

EVOLVER

WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: RED BULL 40 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 41

THE GRID: EVOLVER

E

volution is a fascinating notion. The theory gives rhyme and reason to how we have progressed from single cell organisms to the multi complex creatures that we exist as today.

It is often fleeting. It goes under the radar and takes time to fully advance to its designated next level. It can take years, decades, centuries... a millennia to notice the subtlest change.

42 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

However, every once and a while, if you can take the cues from your surroundings... you can witness evolution happening right before your eyes. You can catch it in the act.

Marc Marquez pushes the bounds of what we thought was capable on a motorcycle.

His 2013 season in the premier class speaks for itself while his career building up to his graduation to the top tier class leaves nothing

to question in regards to his pedigree. Marquez is the youngest MotoGP champion in the history of the series and is a member of the elite club of riders that have captured a championship in three GP classes. He won the 125cc World Championship in 2010. In 2012, Marquez captured the Moto2 Championship. He started in the pole position a total of 14 times in each respective class before moving up to the premier class where he poled a total of 9 times, took 16 podiums and won 6 of the races to claim the 2013 MotoGP Championship.

Still not impressed?

perfectly balanced all the while focusing on the business at hand. It was quite inspiring to take notice of the control that he had over his sensibilities. He went on to win the race that weekend, as well. That is when it hit me.

Marc Marquez was nature’s cue. Things were changing. Something wonderful was about to happen...

SportBikes Inc Magazine: Are you the best?

Marc Marquez: No. I still have a lot to learn.

This is only my second season in MotoGP and we must not forget this.

SBI: There appears to be no limits to your Marc Marquez accomplished all of this before potential. You represent a new breed of fearless pilots that exist and compete on a higher level he turned 21. of human ability. How do you describe your level of talent?

I kept his youth in mind the first time we met in MM: It’s something very difficult to put into Texas for the Austin MotoGP round. He was words as it’s so natural to me. When I’m on the smiling with eyes wide open just soaking it all bike I feel so comfortable and I’ve always felt in. While we talked, I could see in his eyes what was really going on. He was multitasking. this way. It’s like when you learn to walk, you don’t remember how it felt not being able to or Authentically social, giving great energy as he how it was to learn. It’s like a natural instinct. interacted with fans and moved about space and time. But his eyes, his eyes revealed that he That’s how I feel on the bike. I have my own riding style that I tried to adapt to suit MotoGP was hard at work, focused on the task before when I first arrived last year. But I realized this him. He went on to win that race making him the youngest rider to ever win a MotoGP race. was my style so I made it work on the bigger bikes.

A few rounds later in Indianapolis, Marquez had the same vibe. Social and friendly, SBI: Define the word “speed”?

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43

THE GRID: EVOLVER

MM: I guess I’d say it means to be very fast whilst in complete control. Perfect harmony with the bike.

SBI: Racing is the Marquez Family Business.

Your mother and father are both highly active in your career. How important is your family?

What does their support and love mean to you?

MM: It means everything. We are a very close family as you say and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love and support. They have a good understanding of how involved they need to be, they don’t smother me and have a respect that this is my job, even if I’m young. I really appreciate this.

SBI: You have a younger brother, Alex. How do you find that balance of being a role model to him and maintaining your focus on riding at 44 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

your level?

MM: Again, this is something that is natural to me and I try to treat him like my parents treat me. I don’t smother him or tell him “this is the wrong way” or “this is the right way”. We train together and if I see something I think can help, I’ll tell him. But I respect that he is learning and it’s also his job, so I try not to be too involved unless he asks.

SBI: How important is your crew? What is your relationship like with them?

MM: This is very important. They are like my family, they are my family! I spend so much time with them that it feels strange when I’m away from the track and not with them! In fact, I feel so at home when I’m in the box with them, it’s what seems normal to me. The crew I had in 2013 was great and very professional but in the end I always wanted to have ‘my boys’ with

me. So I asked Honda and I’m really pleased they understood my position and allowed me to have them in 2014!

SBI: What is your relationship like with Dani Pedrosa? Have you learned anything from him?

Do you think that you have you taught him anything?

MM: Of course I’ve learned a lot from Dani, as I have Jorge and Valentino. Riding on track with these guys was an incredible learning curve for me! Dani and I have a good relationship. We don’t see each other away from the track but it’s good to discuss the bike and development.

However, they always say the first man to beat is the one next to you in the garage so we’re also very competitive with each other.

SBI: What is your observation of the sport of racing in America?

MM: I love to come to America! The fans, the atmosphere... It’s incredible! It’s true that MotoGP is not so popular there and I hope that this will change in the future as I’m sure they would like the show!

SBI: What are your top three circuits?

MM: For me, Aragon and Phillip Island as they are fast and technical with lots of ups and downs. I also love the Indianapolis track, even though many riders do not. It has some great corners where you can slide the bike and demands a lot of concentration. Also, Austin is very special for me. I really enjoy the track and it’s where I took my first MotoGP win.

SBI: Why are you so passionate, compelled to be the best? What’s driving you?

MM: I think any sportsman or woman wants to be the best at what they do. It’s normal! I am SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 45

THE GRID: EVOLVER

“W

hen I’m on the bike I feel so comfortable and I’ve always felt this way. It’s like when you learn to walk, you don’t remember how it felt not being able to or how it was to learn. It’s like a natural instinct. That’s how I feel on the bike.”

46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 47

THE GRID: EVOLVER

48 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

driven to improve and constantly learn and get better. After watching Valentino for so many years, he’s my hero and an inspiration. It’s really a great honor to race alongside him.

SBI: Can you go faster?

MM: Of course…

SBI: What is in store for the 2014 MotoGP season?

MM: We will have to wait and see. For me and my crew we will concentrate on our own routine and goals, as we always do.

SBI: What are the last things that you do before you go to sleep at night?

MM: Clean my teeth, again. Get undressed.

Talk with my family and turn out the light.

I have often referred to MotoGP riders as aliens or mutants for their fearlessness, skills and talents that they possess.

I was wrong. Marquez has helped me to see that.

The truth is, that MotoGP riders are very much human. In fact they are even more human than human. They represent the next phase in the evolution of man, a new breed of humanity, if you will. We are in a privileged position to witness this leap in evolution. As long as we note the cue from nature...

Marc Marquez is the tipping point and he just got here.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 49

THE GRID

THE INSIDE TRACK

WORDS AND IMAGES: COREY ALEXANDER

50 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

E

ven when times are tough there are still things happening. Many riders switched teams, new series have started to come to life, discussions of possible buyouts of the AMA series have been rumored, riders going overseas showing a lot of potential, and so forth. Now that I start to think about it, there are quite a few very cool things going on in America, so much so that I can’t decide which to name the “biggest thing to keep an eye on.” It’s a toss up!

I’ll start here in the states. If you haven’t heard of Cameron Beaubier then you’ve been living under a rock. Cameron is not much older than me, 21?

He reaffirmed last year that he is America’s biggest current talent. Race after race he set record after record and win after win. Ultimately Cam came home with the Daytona Sportbike Championship that he realistically earned the year prior only to be plagued with injury. His championship was much more than that, though. It was the door to the next stage of his career via the American Superbike Class on a Graves Yamaha R1 alongside the veteran Josh Hayes. So, with that said in 2014 Cameron will be breathing down the neck of Josh Hayes. To add fuel to the fire, after Jordan Suzuki closed shop Roger Lee Hayden found himself aboard a Yoshimura Suzuki for 2014. So now Rog is aboard what was previously named the best bike in the serious till as of late. Between those three guys, as well as Rog’s teammate Martin, I think Superbike will be very interesting this year!

As for the Daytona Sportbike Class, I also think that will be very good racing. You have too very opposite ends of the spectrum in regards to talent.

You have some of the fastest up and coming talent in America really taking over the class with some of the best old talent coming back to try and show the world they’ve still got it. Jake Zemke will be back aboard a Honda 600, Blake Young will be back aboard a 600, and fan favorite Danny Eslick will also be back on a Triumph 675. So mixing some of those “household” names in among riders like Jake Gagne, JD Beach, Jake Lewis, Garrett Gerloff and the list continues on; there will be good racing.

Supersport will also be a talented field,

unfortunately but fortunately at the same time I will be returning to the class to try and add a national championship to my previous regional. Oddly enough some riders such as Dustin Dominguez will be back in supersport after a few years out of the class riding superbikes and sportbikes.

My teammate Wyatt Farris is also looking to improve on some really strong results. My biggest competition will be who I battled for the championship with down to the last turn; Hayden Gillim.

All in all I think that though times may be tough and the series really seems to be on its last leg, it’s important to not be blinded by all of the negatives.

If you only set something up for failure than it ultimately will fail. There are many opinions and various fingers being pointed for why the series is “doing” so poorly. Though, nobody is really doing much to try to fix it. Nobody is putting it past the series and saying “well, the fields are as talented as they’ve ever been America, what can we do to make things better?” “How can we get more fans to the track?” “How can we turn this ship around before it hits a giant ice berg and sinks forever?”

Granted a new potential three race series has just been announced but, it’s not a solution. It’s a mere addition to a regional club racing championship offering some more track time to those whom can afford it. Obviously, more races are better than no races, so it certainly isn’t a negative. I know unless our team finds a way to be able to actually budget in a trip out west, we will not be in attendance as I’d imagine will be the same for a lot of the riders on the east coast. Maybe I’m wrong, maybe this is the start of something way more and roadracing in America is on the brink of tremendous success.

All of that aside, there are a few fortunate riders who have made the leap across to Europe in hopes of getting closer to “the dream”. My ex teammate and dear friend James Rispoli has signed on to race with a Monster Energy backed Suzuki 600 team in the British Superbike series. The BSB series is doing very well in regards to its following and talent level as well as the amount of teams. They have many tracks near each other making the series overall very easy to follow both in person and not.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 51

THE GRID: THE INSIDE TRACK

PJ Jacobsen after a few years of great success in England has started the next step in his career joining a top World Supersport teams aboard a Kawasaki. He has already impressed many and fought for the lead in the first round prior to having a mechanical issue. Josh Herrin is probably the most fortunate among the Americans crossing over the pond. Josh has signed on to race Moto2 with the extremely resourceful Caterham Race team. Josh 52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

has also shown signs of large potential in just a few times aboard his new bike so that will be exciting to see. Across the world and across the country there are many good things happening amidst all of what seems so negative. Follow the good stuff and hopefully only more good things will come. I’m just a 19 year old trying to make it, what do I know?

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 53

THE GRID

THE GAME PLAN WORDS: ALLAN LANE

P

rofessional racers work and train extremely hard to prepare for the physical onslaught that they will endure over the next several months during the race season. As much as physical training is important, the mental preparation is equally necessary. Planning is elemental to any type of success in any field.

SportBikes Inc took the opportunity to catch up with a few riders from the paddock to see how they plan to dominate the grid this season and to get their thoughts on what they considered factors for a successful 2014 season.

We asked them one simple question: What’s the game plan?

54 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

ALLAN LANE

Jason DiSalvo AMA Pro Racing #40 Castrol/Triumph/Sportbike Track Time Triumph Rules Package...

This year the AMA has revamped a vast majority of their rules regarding electronics in the DSB class. My feeling is that this will play a key role in how all the bikes stack up this year. I think the new rules will reward teams with good chassis and engine setups, not the ones with the best software. This should play to the strengths of the Triumph 675R. Races (or lack thereof)...

With only 6 weekends on the schedule, races are at a premium and so are points scoring opportunities. Wins will be important but so will staying on the bike. One DNF can put a

rider in a hole that they might not have time to dig out of.

Competition...

This year's DSB field will be as stacked as ever on talent. I think it's exciting for the fans, and super competitive for the racers. As both a racer and a fan of the sport I too am hoping for close racing. This year should bode more parity for the class, and I think that's something a lot of people want to see. Being the veteran in the class, I'm banking on some old-dog wisdom and prowess to score some wins and be a contender for the title.

BRIAN J. NELSON

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55

THE GRID: THE GAME PLAN

COURTESY OF NICKY HAYDEN

Nicky Hayden MotoGP #69 Drive M7 Aspar Honda Power...

I need some more power from the engine. I really like the handling and everything about the chassis but we need some help from HRC for some more horsepower to be closer to the factory bikes because at the moment the gap is to big and my friends at Honda are going to have to help.

night! Most of the guys are spanish with good experience but there english is not good and with my slang we trying to work through it because it so important to be getting the right information back and forth. We can do it just have to work at it.

Health...

Stay healthy and twist the throttle I know in me Communication... heart with the right bike and situation I can still I need to work hard to improve communications run with the best in the world so I gotta have some help from Honda and go out and prove with the new team. I like the guys there all solid but that chemistry doesn’t happen over it!

56 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

PJ Jacobsen World SuperBike #99 Intermoto PonyExpres Kawasaki You know going into this season, I knew it was going to be very hard.

There are a lot of things you need to take in to have a successful year. I think consistency, maturity, taking chances in races and a strong setup going into every race weekend will give me a great 2014 season. It will be very difficult. I’m in the World Championship now, so it’s a whole different level.

COURTESY OF PJ JACOBSEN

Patricia Fernandez AMA Pro Racing #804 ADR Motorsports Team Support...

I have been fortunate enough to race with ADR Motorsports this year, and I love the positive energy and team support they provide. I feel extremely confident knowing I’m on a well built bike with an experienced team to learn from.

Focus...

Working with my coach, Jason Pridmore, we constantly set goals and evaluate every session. I am learning new things about myself and maintain focus every time I get on the bike.

MEEKAIL SHAHEED

Dedication...

There is a lot of time and effort that goes in to the preparation required before the actual race. With my team support and focus on my next ride, I challenge myself consistently off the track.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57

THE GRID: THE GAME PLAN Melissa Paris AMA Pro Racing #13 MPH Racing God...

First things first is to remember that it’s all for His Glory. God has given me an incredible opportunity and it will be important to keep Him first and remember that I am here for His purposes, not mine.

Support...

The support of my friends and family especially my husband is going to be key. It will be a challenging year and I’ll need my support system.

COURTESY OF MELISSA PARIS

Roger Hayden AMA Pro Racing #95 Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Strong start...

What’s important is starting the season strong and not wait until mid season to get going.

Speed...

Getting up to speed quick on the race weekends.

Focus...

Keeping my eye on the prize. Meaning my preparation for the the races with my training and diet so I show up feeling my best mentally and physically.

58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

BRIAN J. NELSON

Pride...

Finally, to remember where I come from and keep smiling with each new challenge.

Corey Alexander AMA Pro Racing #5 Celtic Racing, Hudson Valley Motorcycle Suzuki Preparation...

I think preparation is the key to being successful this 2014 season. Being both mentally prepared and physically prepared before you get on the track or even to the races is almost a win.

above you will not put the pieces together; you can’t be successful.

Support...

You can’t do anything alone. I mean, maybe you can but, most of the time you can’t.

Especially in racing. It takes the support of some amazing minds, the support of your family, and Confidence...

“They” whomever they are, say that confidence the support of your crew. If you are trying to is commonly known as the key to success. fix your problems, convince yourself you can pick back up after a big crash, and fixing the Unfortunately I’m going to have to join the bandwagon. Talent can bring you so far, fitness bike while you’re at it... You’re not going to be can bring you so far, machinery can bring you successful. so far but, without confidence in any of the

MEEKAIL SHAHEED

It’s important to note that those who are riding at the top level are riding there for a reason. They have trained, planned and prepared for the lives as athletes in the most electrifying and entertaining sport in the world. The success that they experience is by their own design.

As we delve into the season, we wish all of the riders in all of the series and classes a healthy and successful 2014.

Go get’ em!

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 59

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Sabrina Paiuta

SABRINA PAIUTA

60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Sabrina Paiuta HOMETOWN: Sao Bernardo do Campo, Brazil AGE: 19 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: CBM (Confederação Brasileira de Motociclismo), AMA Pro Racing GOALS: For this year my ambition is to be on top 3 in Brazilian championship (Superbike Series) riding a ZX 10R. In 2015 I would like to ride out of Brazil, maybe in Europe or USA, it depents on my sponsors and kind of negotiations, but this is my dream.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

Runner up 2009 Sao Paulo Supermoto (230cc) Champion 2010 Paulista Supermoto (230cc) Runner up 2011 Brazilian Supermoto (250cc) Runner up 2011 Sao Paulo Supermoto (450cc) Champion Ninja Cup 2012, light category (250cc) During the 2013 season, the Brazilian took part in the European Junior Cup, alongside with the World Superbike, finishing twenty first in the overall standings, with a sixth place achieved at Magny Cours circuit, France.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: When I see my bike my heart starts to beat fast, when I put my helmet on the world stops around me and there’s nothing more important anymore.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 61

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Brian J. Nelson

CHRIS ULRICH

62 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Chris Ulrich HOMETOWN: Lake Elsinore, CA AGE: 34 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing Superbike GOALS: Top ten in every race.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Two AMA Pro Race Wins, Nine AMA Pro Podium Finishes, 4-time National Endurance Champion, Two-Time Daytona 8-Hours Champion, MotoJournalist, Team Owner, Father of two wonderful kids.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I love going fast and racing motorcycles.

CONTACT: HTTP://TEAMHAMMER.COM HTTP://GEICOHONDA.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 63

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Zone Photo, Team Kozik

KOLLIN KOZIK

64 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Kollin Kozik HOMETOWN: Sussex, WI AGE: 20 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Supersport Licensed Racer CCS Expert Licensed Racer - Middleweight Classes WERA Expert Licensed Racer GOALS: As 2014 is my inaugural AMA Pro Roadracing year, my goals include successful showings at one or two AMA Pro Supersport races, and to finish in the top 3 in the CCS Midwest and WERA Expert Championships. My plans also include the 2014 Daytona Race of Champions. For 2015 and beyond, my plans will include additional AMA Pro races.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2013 CCS Expert Middleweight Supersport Championship – 2nd place overall.

2013 CCS Expert Middleweight GP Championship – 2nd place overall.

2013 CCS Expert Middleweight Superbike 2nd place overall.

2013 CCS 6th Place Expert Overall.

2012 CCS Amateur Middleweight Supersport Champion.

2012 CCS Amateur Middleweight GTU Champion.

2012 CCS Amateur Middleweight GP Champion.

2012 Blackhawk Farms Track Champion.

2012 Daytona Race of Champions.

3rd place - AMA Grand National Amateur Roadrace.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion is to go fast and have fun in the process, learning from each and every experience along the way on and off the track; living the life of a racer.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Brian J. Nelson

JAKE ZEMKE

66 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Jake Zemke HOMETOWN: Paso Robles, CA AGE: 38 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing Daytona Sportbike GOALS: Race wins and championship.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2008 AMA Formula Xtreme Champion, 2006 Daytona 200 winner, over 100 podiums in AMA and BSB, 12 top 3 finishes in AMA Championships.

CONTACT: HTTP://GEICOHONDA.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 67

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Felipe MacLean

FELIPE MACLEAN

68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Felipe MacLean HOMETOWN: Key Biscayne, FL AGE: 30 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing Supersport GOALS: A Top 5 Finish... Podium, why not?

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: CCS Unlimited Supersport National Champion 2012 DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Road Racing is my passion, a way of life, a dream come true and a constant personal challenge.

CONTACT: WWW.MACLEAN-RACING.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 69

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Zone Photo, Gron4 Photography, Carl Soltisz

“SUPER” CARL SOLTISZ

70 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: “Super” Carl Soltisz HOMETOWN: White Lake, MI AGE: 23 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Supersport, ASRA Pro Sportbike, ASRA Pro Team Challenge GTU, CCS Midwest, and WERA North Central GOALS: Place top 10 in every AMA Pro Supersport race entered and win or podium every other race entered.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2013 CCS Midwest Expert GTU Class Champion, 2013 CCS Midwest Expert HW SS Class Champion, 2012 CCS Amateur GTU National Champion, 2012 CCS Midwest Amateur MW SB Class Champion DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: You only know your limits once you break them.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 71

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Corey Coulter

CAMERON GISH

72 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Cameron Gish HOMETOWN: Salt Lake City, Utah AGE: 19 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro racing Supersport GOALS: Win the 2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Championship.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2013 AFM Class Champion 600 Superbike, 750 Production and 750 Superbike DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I live to be in control of a high performance motorcycle, on the fine line of victory and disaster.

CONTACT: HTTP://CAMERONGISH.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 73

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Brian J. Nelson

JOE ROBERTS

74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Joe Roberts HOMETOWN: Glendale, CA AGE: 17 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing Daytona Sportbike GOALS: To win the DSB championship this year.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 5 wins in AMA Pro Supersport in 2013 (Barber (2), Laguna Seca (1), Miller (2)). One win and a second at Brno, Red Bull Rookies cup.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Motorcyles, Music.

CONTACT: HTTP://TEAMHAMMER.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 75

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Brandon Bones

JAMES CAMACHO, JR.

76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: James Camacho, Jr. HOMETOWN: Deer Park, TX AGE: 22 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Supersport, CMRA, WERA GOALS: To continue to progress as an up and coming racer while also pushing the love for the sport.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2010 CMRA Rookie Expert of the Year, 2010 WERA Pirelli Sportsman 125GP National Champion, 2011 WERA Pirelli Sportsman 125GP National Champion, 2011 CMRA 125GP Champion, 2013 CMRA 2nd Place Overall 600cc Superstock & Superbike, CMRA 750cc Superstock & Superbike 3rd Place Overall DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Life on the edge.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 77

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Rick Hentz/Andres Cuellar

JONATHAN LANDWER, JR.

78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Jonathan Landwer, Jr. HOMETOWN: Lawrenceville, GA AGE: 44 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Championship Cup Series SE GOALS: To be an example for the potential younger generation racer.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I took first place SE Regional SuperBike Unlimited. Second place SE Regional GTO (20 min race), Second place SE Regional Rookies Cup GTO, Second place SE Regional SuperSport Unlimited.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: To glorify my Father in Heaven with racing motorcycles.

CONTACT: HTTP://RACINGFORTHESON.ORG

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 79

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Brian J. Nelson, Michael Aron

MATHEW “GAGE” MCALLISTER

80 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Mathew “Gage” McAllister HOMETOWN: Lincoln, California AGE: 18 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Road Racing Vance and Hines XR1200 Harley Davidson, AFM, WERA, Supermoto USA, USA Pro Supermoto GOALS: To race for the win in whatever I am competing in.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2013 - Road Racing 9th Daytona (very first pro road race), 4th Miller Motorsports, 9th & 8th Indy, 6th Laguna Seca.

2013 - Supermoto USA Pro. Supermoto Sturgis - 1st.

Superbiker Mettet, Belgium - 2nd finishing American in the final USA Pro Final Las Vegas - 1st and Dash for Cash winner.

2011 and 2012 SupermotoUSA Pro/ AM Championship Unlimited/Pro – 1st.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Racing is my life.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 81

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Brian J. Nelson, Highside Photography

REESE WACKER

82 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Reese Wacker HOMETOWN: Orange Park, FL AGE: 24 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing Superbike, WERA, CCS GOALS: Top 10 in AMA Superbike.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 3 National Championships including WERA National Challenge Open Superstock and A Superbike, WERA Sportsman Series and CCS National Championships.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Live to race. Race to live.

CONTACT: HTTP://REESEWACKER.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 83

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Mike Porter

TIM WILSON

84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Tim Wilson HOMETOWN: Fawn Grove, PA AGE: 53 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing Supersport, CCS, WERA GOALS: To compete at the top level of pro racing.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2010 Northeast/Mid-Atl Senior Superbike Expert Champion.

2009 Northeast “A” Superstock Championship.

2009 Senior Superbike Championships (Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, North Central) DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: To inspire the younger generation that you can achieve anything you set out to do.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 85

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Rick Hentz

CHRISTIAN “SIN” ALVARADO

86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Christian “Sin” Alvarado HOMETOWN: St. Louis Park, MN AGE: 34 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: CRA, CCS, ASRA, AMA GOALS: I would love to be successful in a premier class of racing, and use that as a vessel to help inspire and motivate children to be successful in their own lives.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2013 Amateur HW SUpersport National Champion 2013 Overall #5 Amateur in ASRA Sportbike points nationally 2013 Overall #7 in Amateur CCS MW region points.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: If I am not racing, I’m not alive, I am just existing and waiting to feel alive again.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Brain J. Nelson

DANNY ESLICK

88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Danny Eslick HOMETOWN: Broken Arrow, Oklahoma AGE: 28 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: AMA Pro Racing Daytona Sportbike GOALS: Win the 2014 DSB championship for a third time on a Triumph.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Two time AMA Pro Daytona Sportbike Champion and XR1200 Champion and 2014 Daytona 200 Winner.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Racing motorcycles and living life.

CONTACT: HTTP://ESLICK69.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 89

90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91

THE STRAIGHT LINE

THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE WORDS: DYSTANY SPURLOCK IMAGES: ANDREA STRONG

S

o you’re at the line, your head is tucked, your right hand is holding the throttle steady, and your eyes are glued to the colors on the tree. You can feel it in your blood! Your heart is already racing, sweat is already building inside your leathers, but your adrenaline is ready to take you through the entire race. Only this race is not going straight down a track. It will include an array of turns!

Yes, circuit racing! Also known as road racing is the theme of this month’s Sportbikes Inc Magazine. I am extremely excited about this twist and turn of an article. So you’re probably wondering what makes road racing so much different from drag racing?

How hard can turns really be? Well first let’s take a look at what it takes to become a motorcycle racer in general.

The first thing each and every racer must have is a passion for the style of racing that they are taking part in. A racer must have a passion for the sport simply because without it, it will show tremendously in their performance. Secondly, a racer must have the drive to do whatever it takes to become the champion that they are capable of being. Even if that means they have to fail at times to learn from their mistakes to become the best in the sport. Remember the road to success will never be easy. You will always

92 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

be faced with trials and tribulations that you must overcome to get to the next level.

Never give up, show the naysayers that you are possible. Third, but definitely not least you must have confidence in yourself.

If you do not believe in yourself how will others believe in you? You hold the key to your destiny. Hold your head high even if you mess up. Mistakes will happen but you have to know in your heart that you are fully equipped and capable of being on the podium once you have crossed the finish line.

While there may not be much difference in the individual, there is a huge difference in the motorcycles. Of course everyone knows that in drag racing the motorcycles generally have extended swing arms, wheelie bars, built motors, nitrous, flat tires, turbo, etc. but in road racing it is completely the opposite.

Road racing motorcycles have built motors, stock wheel base, adjustable rear sets, and reverse shifting. The two are quite different with a few similarities.

Both sports require the racer to be in shape.

I would have to say circuit racing requires a little more stamina to do the lengthy races due to the constant leaning and weight shifting involved in road racing. Although the two types of racing are different, if you come from drag racing it can definitely

help you in road racing. You are probably wondering how that is possible. When you start your race in drag racing, you must launch as hard and fast as you can once the green light comes on, just like in drag racing. Each racer must leave from a stand still as fast as they can without wheeling if any at all just to get ahead of the pack and stay there. Drag racing can definitely prepare you for that. The only difference in launching on a drag strip compared to the

circuit track is the surface.

No matter what type of racing you are pursuing just remember to give it your all.

Whether it is drag racing or circuit racing you must have respect for your motorcycle and the sport. Never let anyone deter you from accomplishing your dreams. Keep it on twos. I wish all of my fellow circuit racers and drag racers a phenomenal fun filled season and blessings to you all!

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 93

“Most Specialized

Dealer in the Americas” - since 2002

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

Over the past 10 years we have sold thousands of Arai helmets to thousands of customers!

Plus almost 40 years of experience in TSP’s Service department. Get here!

Just a few of the New 2014 Arai helmet designs!

The Service Pavilion - 44 South Kinzer Ave - New Holland, PA - 17557 Phone : 717-354-3434 E-mail : robert@theservicepavilion.com www.THESERVICEPAVILION.com

94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 95

THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

GIFTED, BUT I RESPECT IT!

WORDS: RICKEY GADSON IMAGES: COURTESY OF RICKEY GADSON

96 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

I

f you live up north like me, you will agree that it’s been a long winter and like me you’re so happy that it’s almost over. By the time you read this article Daytona Bike Week 2014 will already be in the books. Bike week in Daytona is the only week that centers around motorcycle racing and with all the media and fan attention that it generates, I sometimes wish that I grew up road racing. But a plus to my sport of choice is that when you’re a road racer your career is usually over at 35 years old! People who meet me and hear my title seem to always confuse “drag” racing with road racing because they see the riders “dragging” their knee so they think that’s what I do.

One thing that people don’t realize about Rickey Gadson is that I am not one-dimensional in my sport. I’m pretty good at a lot of other forms of motorcycle riding. Like when I got invited by Monster Energy out to California Mini Moto race with fans. These were fans who won the chance to team up with their favorite racer in a mini motocross tag team race. Everyone was surprised when I got the whole shot and was leading the first Mini Moto lap when I pulled into the pits to tag team my teammate. One never expects the guy that goes straight to be able to take a curve.

During the AMA Superbike race in Sonoma California, one Saturday night Kawi used to host a Mini Motocross race that became very popular with all the riders who attended the race, and even more popular with the media. The first year I road in the race I started out in 3rd place but as the race continued, I kept dropping back and finished the race in 6th place.

In another situation, I once again surprised a lot of people when they called on me for a photo shoot and one of the photos was in an increased radius turn on a circuit track. The photographers and the producers were in awe to see how comfortable I was with scrapping the foot pegs and occasionally scraping the lower side panels with the big ZX14 in those tight turns. Even Eric Bostrom, test rider for ZX10R during shoots, gets a thrill out of seeing “how low I can go.”

One year I invited Roy Jones Jr., Kadeem Hardison, and Tyson Beckford out to Sonoma, CA with me.

By then I had already ridden in Mini Moto 1 the previous year and felt like I had gotten the hang of the little 110cc Kawasaki KLX and grabbed the whole shot, a big surprise, and battled the entire race with friend and fellow celebrity Jason Britton.

I eventually jumped my way to the winners’ circle which surprised everyone, including me! So when the MC of the event, Greg White, who said I couldn’t do it, interviewed me in the winner’s circle I had lots to say.

The Monday following the AMA Superbike road race in Sonoma, Kawasaki hosted a track day.

Since I had never road raced before that day I signed myself up to ride with the C group, aka the beginners group. I was kind of intimidated after hearing how difficult this track was to ride on especially for a first timer. After riding in the “C” group for the first 10 minute session , the instructors suggested that I move to the “B” group for the next session, but by the time lunch had concluded the instructors pushed me to ride with the “A” group because of how fast I was getting around the track.

In my head I’m thinking “Oh shit, why did they do that?” Why? First I’m always up for any kind of race! Second I had been doing great, so maybe this “having a gift” thing is working out for me. So now I’m out there with the fast guys for real. At first I was following my good friend and former Kawasaki MX Champ Jeff Emig on our little 600’s around for several laps learning the lines on the track but of course that competitive gene in me kicked in convincing me to show Jeff that my talent is not just in a straight line and it’s time to show it by getting in front of him. So when the opportunity came, I did just that and the battle was on! Next thing you know, we were passing everybody.

Swapping leads back and forth especially on the straight aways, until the dreaded turn “nine” came up. Everybody who knows anything about Sonoma will tell you that it is one of the trickiest courses because of the layout of the track. I, not knowing, and thinking I’m “invincible” at this point, made the not so strategic pass on Emig who knew about the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 97

THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

dangers of turn 9. That over confidence cost me big time!

I made a rookie mistake of accelerating my little stock ZX6R too hard on the exit of the turn to make my pass stick and lost the rear end which resulted in me “high siding” my little 600 which any real, not first day veteran like me, Road racer will tell you is the worst kind a crash. I learned a lesson I already knew before that day. And that was to respect all forms of racing and most importantly like my father taught me when I was a kid to respect the motorcycle!

Needless to say I ended up at the hospital and for the first time in my life with a broken a bone.

I broke a bone in my right hand, a boxer’s fracture. The worst part is that I was supposed to teach the media how to drag race the new 2006 ZX14 immediately following the track day.

My class was to start at 3 pm, but I was still at the hospital getting a cast put on my hand so I didn’t 98 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

reach the waiting media until 4:15. But if you know me, you also know the “show must go on”. That night I had a 7pm flight leaving California to return to Philadelphia by 9:10, only to turn right around and leave at midnight. My schedule was so tight I grabbed the wife with bikes in tow to head to Myrtle Beach for bike week.

But now the problem was that I had broken my throttle hand and I had planned to ride my new custom ZX14 during bike week and I had Kawasaki obligations that week, as well.

My wife teased that I would have to ride bitch on the back of her ZX10R for one day. But you already know that wasn’t happenin’! I spent one afternoon watching her ride without me before I went in the trailer, pulled out the hacksaw and next thing you know I was pulled up next to her at a light.

And speaking of Myrtle Beach Bike Week 2014, stay tuned for details of my Third Annual Pediatric Diabetes Charity ride!

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 99

THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Andy Brice Lloyd Leslie

ANDY LESLIE

100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Andy Leslie HOMETOWN: Caledonia, MI AGE: 33 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: I race NHDRO Series, Manufacturers Cup Series. Hope to make it to a few MiRock races this year too.

GOALS: My biggest goal for 2014 is to be the fastest and quickest No-Bar bike on earth!

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I feel I have accomplished building one of the most unique drag race motorcycles out there today. I set out to develop a viable power adder option to the turbo and nitrous.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I live outside of the “Box” and my work shows that.

CONTACT:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 101

102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 103

THE REV LIMITER

VIOLET STARS AND HAPPY STUNTING WORDS AND IMAGES: LEAH PETERSEN

stunt spot etiquette...

104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

S

tunt spots are a hot topic for stunt riders everywhere. Due to the underground nature of stunt riding, the stunt spot is shrouded with unspoken rules, understandings, disagreements and sometimes mystery. Stunt spots can be very precious, with few reliable ones existing in each city, so stunters with an interest in keeping those stunt spots are not quick to spread the word about their locations. Clearly this can be a challenge for a newbie rider to try and get some practice time in with skilled riders. If you're looking to receive an invitation to your local stunt spot and feel welcome to come back, here is an etiquette lesson.

Lesson one, be respectful; realize each stunt spot has a recognized "owner". This person might have old historical ties to the spot, they might know the owner of the property or they might just be the person who found it. Additionally professional riders might use the spot for practice before shows and competitions. People like this have a very serious motivation to preserve the stunt spot or make sure it doesn't get "burned" (when spots get burnt it refers to people no longer being able to ride there due to police pressure, new gates or other issues related to riders acting irresponsibly). Make sure you know who these riders are and show them some respect.

After paying respect to the top dogs at the spot your next task is to not be a nuisance by following these guidelines when riding. First and foremost, don't show off. I promise you, you are not going to impress people. Everyone at the stunt spot has seen every trick in the book and probably from professional riders who have been doing this for years. So calm down and ride for yourself. Don't be a camera hog, if a

photographer wants images or footage of you, they will ask.

When arriving at the stunt spot, park with the other vehicles, normally there is a reason for parking where they park. Take into consideration bikes will be flying everywhere and you are parking at your own risk. Before launching into your practice session at a new spot, sit back and watch the flow. There should be reoccurring patterns. People will probably be doing circles in one area that is separate from, say, the endo and straight-line area. A good way to get on everyone's' bad side is to be the moron who keeps plowing endos through the circle area! It's both dangerous and annoying, so fall into pattern. Also if you're just learning and the spot is a bit small for you, don't wheelie on the street near the spot. This attracts unwanted attention from the police and could result in everyone getting the boot.

You will also notice riders lining up at either end of the lot. They are waiting their turn and believe me, they will notice if you cut in front!

Take your time in line to watch other riders - it will improve your skills in the long run. If the spot is busy and you have to wait in line for a long time, take advantage of the other riders' skills. Ask questions about their tricks, learning methods and bike setup. All too often new riders come out to the spot thinking they know everything only to crash and burn and never be heard of again. You can learn a lot from other riders and also prove you're not a crazy egomaniac.

If you get an invite to a spot and come out to practice, make sure you understand the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 105

THE REV LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

106 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

"conditions of the spot" before you try to come back by yourself. Many spots have parameters on when you can ride there, if you can do loud tricks like drifts and endos and also if you can leave burnout marks. It usually depends on how close residential houses are to the spot and who works inside the building. Not knowing these rules is the fastest way to piss people off and get the spot burned. Also check your exhaust, loud bikes can be fun, but you will start getting the stink eye, if the cops habitually show up 30 minutes after you start riding because your bike wakes up the whole county!

At the end of the day stunt spots can't be controlled by any of us (until we get our legal parks) but making an effort to respect the spot strengthens our community. What we all want is a safe location to ride with our friends and progress our stunt skills and everyone being a team player helps this happen. If you're looking to get into the stunt scene, its more than just learning some wheelies, you're getting a whole new family - so make sure you take care of them, so they will take care of you.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 107

108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 109

THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Lav X Lavinia

LAV X LAVINIA

110 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NAME: Lav X Lavinia HOMETOWN: Larnaca, Cyprus, Europe AGE: 25 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Motorex lubricants, Dunlop Tyres, Ttomys Motorparts and NPNG Veho MUVi HD cams.

GOALS: To learn the most challenging tricks, and be able to compete in Championships against men.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 5 years ago I was not able to even change gears on a big bike (lol, as a matter of fact I didn’t know how to ride at all). Now I am the only female Stunt Rider in my country, being a part of almost all major motorcycle events in Cyprus.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Stunt Riding is a sport that always demands the best of you and because of that, it brings out the best in you every time a goal is acheived. I always expect more of myself, and I see every riding session as a challenge; a matter of continously pushing my limits further and further. It’s an addiction.

CONTACT: HTTP://LAVXSTUNTS.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111

ADVERTISE WITH

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

HTTP://SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 113

THE LIFE: FEATURED CLUB

Images: Courtesy of C&C Divas SBC

Rocker Interpretation: The C and C in C&C Divas stands for Classy and Confident... two elemental factors when referring to a group of ladies that strive to exemplify quality, taste and class regardless of whether they are on their bikes or not. The club’s logo is a clear representation of that defining thought. These ladies are on point and it shows.

History/Origin of Club: The club was founded in 2004 by President Mz Coco.

Selectively, team members were added to the ranks as Mz Coco advanced her agenda of creating a positive and safe environment for talented females to participate in the bike community. Since its inception, the C&C Divas have been very active in the bike community with

C&C DIVAS SBC REGION: NJ, PA, NOLA FOUNDED: 2004 MEMBERS: 15 ELECTED OFFICIALS:

PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER: Mz Coco JUNIOR DIVA PRESIDENT: Lyriks PRO/SERGEANT AT ARMS: Entice TREASURER/SERGEANT AT ARMS: Viktuhree CHAPLAIN: Mystikal EVENTS COORDINATOR: Cheeks LINE LEADER: Flawless

114 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

activities that range from volunteering, sponsorship and event hosting. Their support for other clubs must not be overlooked. They can always be seen at other clubs’ anniversary parties and charity events showing love and offering assistance.

Future of the club: With their new chapter being established in New

Orleans, the C&C Divas are even more committed to remaining true to their core values while expanding their message of positivity. Their growth as a club will not be measured by the number of members. It will be measured by the spreading their goodwill beyond the borders of the club community.

Classy and confident, these Divas look to tomorrow with favor and optimism.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 115

116 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 117

THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE

TAKE IT TO THE TRACK!

WORDS: LADY KIM IMAGES: COURTESY OF LADY KIM

T

rack season is here and I can’t wait to watch MotoGP and team Honda! I am always amazed at how they push a motorcycle to its limits. I can’t wait to get down on one knee and hug those curves at a track day! Baby Stoner in the making I am… You noticed I said track day and not riding the twisties on a back road. It is dangerous enough riding 2 wheels on any given day but high speed riding on roads with intersections, gravel and animals to

118 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

jump in your riding path…No Thank You! I was riding with friends on a Sunday through the back woods of Pennsylvania when a deer jumped over the road in front of me. I couldn’t even put on brakes it happened so fast! I slowed down and 5 deer crossed behind us. I haven’t been back since but it didn’t stop my need for speed. I think the best twisty road I have been on so far was Deals Gap in NC where I slayed the dragon doing 318 curves in 11 miles and

the back roads of Maryland! One day I would like to watch the Isle of Man TT Race in person. It is the most dangerous motorcycle race through village streets with curves, bumps, STONE walls, jumps, bends, narrow streets for 37 miles at speeds of 200mph. Now that is some road racing!

I prefer to go to the track for some SAFE, competitive, free from obstacles speed riding.

days. What an awesome experience! You will never want to ride your bike on the highway after a day at the track. You will have a dangerous addiction to speed! I have had many riders ask me about going to a track day. A typical track day may cost anywhere from $100 to $200. Anyone can attend a track day from a beginner rider to experienced rider. Riding the track is not the same as riding in the streets. They will teach you proper body position, proper I had the opportunity to ride at several tracks gear, bike setup and how to ride the race TRACK DAY PREP: - Register a head of time.

- You must wear a full face helmet, motorcycle race boots, back or spine protector is highly suggested, leather pants and jacket that zip together with protection built-in (one piece is preferred) and leather gloves over the wrist.

- Bring your video gear such as a GoPro camera so you can video your ride sessions.

- There is normally a photographer on site to take pics of the riders for sale.

- Make sure you have supplies and tools.

- If you do not have a dedicated race bike with a race setup, then you must use blue painters tape to cover all your lights and turn signals. This will keep debris off the track if you should have an accident. You don’t have to remove your mirrors until you progress out of the beginners group.

- You must have tires in good condition with the proper tire pressure and tread. The wheels should be properly balanced from front to back.

- Your fork and swing arm suspension setup should be for your body weight.

- Trailer your bike. You will be too tired to ride your bike from the track.

- Bring food and stay hydrated.

- Pay attention to the track coaches. They can tell if you’re street riding or track riding.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 119

THE LIFE: KNOW YOUR ROLE line which is the shortest path and fastest way around the track.

I have been to track days at New Jersey Motorsports Park on Lightning and Thunderbolt racetracks. The curves at 8, 9 and 10 on Thunderbolt are the most challenging. This year my goal is to ride with the Track Day Girl group for a women only track group and to travel to other tracks out of town.

I would like to go to Summit Point, West Virginia, Virginia International Raceway and North Carolina track days! There is always something to learn about your riding technique! Don’t learn bad habits from other riders...take it to the track! Ride safe and keep the throttle twisted!

A TYPICAL TRACK DAY: - Arrive early morning to setup your bike. Fuel is available trackside. The sessions are from about 8 am to 5 pm.

- Go to registration where they will put you in the proper riding group.

- Go to tech inspection where they will check your bike and riding gear.

- Attend the riders meetings in the pit area where the coaches go over the rules of the day, flag types, and rules on the track.

- The riders are divided into 4 groups white, yellow, red and blue. If it is your first time, then you must attend the riding school classroom sessions for the white group.

- Each group has about 15-20 minute riding sessions per hour for a total of 7-9 sessions.

It sounds short but it is actually long when you are leaning left and right all day.

- The first time you go out on the track, everyone is following the coaches on the race line.

Then they divide the group up by riding skill and the coaches follow you and critique your riding session. Ride at your comfort level!

- They break 1 hour for lunch. During lunch they have “Try The Track” for free. Anyone can try the track. They ride around the track 3 times to give the rider a feel for the track.

You don’t have to do anything to your bike but come out and ride.

120 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

A typical track day may cost anywhere from $100 to $200. Anyone can attend a track day, from a beginner rider to experienced rider.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 121

THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN

HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITIONS WORDS: LION JAMES IMAGES: LION JAMES

122 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

F

ew things are as predictable, as dreaded and as stifling to a motorcyclist as a harsh winter.

Fewer things still frustrate a motorcyclist more than cabin fever, Parked Motorcycle Syndrome (P.M.S.) or the winter blues. We two wheel enthusiasts who happen to ride and reside in the northeast United States have had to endure one whopper of a winter in 2013/2014. Winter storm after winter storm has kept the majority of us garaged and starring out the window like a child with a new kite on a rainy day. I myself, who prides myself on my year ‘round riding, have spent more time behind the steering wheel as of late than I have at the controls of my motorcycles. As if the seemingly never-ending series of polar vortex powered winter storms wasn’t enough to drive a biker crazy, for days even weeks after the last snowflake has fallen there are salt covered roads all around, patches of compacted ice and snow almost strategically placed at intersections and under over passes and not to mention those land mines of the right and left lane known as potholes.

Ah yes, the potholes. Perhaps substantially more dangerous to a motorcyclist than loss of traction due to snow and ice or even the cold temperatures

that rob us of comfort while battling all the other opponents we encounter when riding are the inherent and potential dangers of potholes, deteriorating asphalt, cracks in the road and sinkholes. While many of these “back holes of death and destruction” are easily seen in advance and may be avoided (as if we need another reason to flick the bike from one side to the other) it’s the other motorists doing the same that scares me most. The unpredictable behavior on the roads of motorists in cars, trucks, vans and SUVs is no big secret or even news to us but these risky maneuvers are even more hazardous when you add potholes into the mix. Many metropolitan centers and rural areas alike will have unaddressed potholes lingering in their streets long after the spring like temperatures start to coax the fair weather riders out from their garages and storage units. Roads that were in disrepair before the harsh winter’s effects will be even worse off than before and it will take every drop from the proverbial April showers to wash away that ugly and corrosive salt residue that chalks up the streets so severely. We northern and northeast motorcyclists have endured and persevered thru a full on assault from “Old Man Winter.” Jack Frost is pissed and Mother Nature is SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 123

THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN on her period because the winter weather, polar vortices and the overzealous response by the areas’ respective Departments of Transportation has been fierce and on-going. With no end in sight for the foreseeable future some of my 2wheeled brothers and sisters have ventured out on two during some of the nicer days and have been met with threats of all sorts on the street. We could be well into April and May before we see the mercury poke its head above the comfort level and plows or salt trucks get parked for the season. With that in mind folks please be careful as these hazardous road conditions we’ve seen this winter shall continue to plague our rides long after the snow melts. Be mindful and vigilant when venturing out from under the blanket of cold and 1st quarter weather. Watch out for not only potholes but also for those motorists who do not expect to see you out on the road. Prepare yourself for the motorists who are concerned more with avoiding wear and tear on their tires than they are with your safety as they swerve to avoid potholes only to invade your personal space.

I imagine that some of you, both those who dare to come out from motorcycle hibernation into the streets early and those who never stopped, will experience near misses, replace wheels and tires, touch ass to asphalt and worse before the weather warms and motorcyclists take to the streets en masse. In the areas of these wonderful United States of America that recognizes an end and beginning to the “riding season,” we usually see the first few motorcycle fatalities around the end of March and beginning of April and it breaks my heart to know that the calendar is bringing me closer to the inevitable bad news phone calls and text messages. Be careful bikers, stay frosty and mind the road. The roads are still cold, there are potholes and patches of ice everywhere and the ride can be unforgiving when hazardous road & weather conditions exist. As the weather starts to turn I encourage you all to be mindful that motorists are no more acclimated to our presence than we are to the spring temperatures outside. It may not be a road or weather condition but just as hazardous is cabin fever or more specifically the 124 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

desire to get out and ride after a long winter of motorcycleless days and nights.

Overly anxious motorcyclists eager to feel the wind in their hair have placed themselves in harm’s way because they simply couldn’t or didn’t wait just a little while longer before getting out on two.

Let the road warm up, make sure your machines are in proper operating condition and give those we share the roads with a chance to expect motorcycles out in the streets once again. The ride isn’t going anywhere and neither are the roads.

Give your local municipality the opportunity to fill and patch those afore mentioned “Black holes of death and destruction” and give Mother Nature a chance to calm her crazy ass down and wash away the salt. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not a race and there are no trophies or contingency points to be gained by being the first among your peers to throw a leg over this year. With that said, spring weather may not be a prerequisite to ride right now but it sure helps.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 125

126 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 127

FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Insana Collins LOCATION: Washington, D.C. OCCUPATION: Writer and Photographer.

YEARS RIDING: 15 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2008 Suzuki GSXR 750 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Absolutely bone stock. What more could you want?

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

Safety first.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My Sidi boots because they make me feel like a super hero.

128 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Daniel Ramey AKA “Doc” LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA

OCCUPATION: Prison Psychologist

YEARS RIDING: 7 years. The first 14 don’t count.

RIDING STYLE: Street. All day. Every day.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Honda CBR600RR FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: HID lights.

See and be seen.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My lid. It keeps my money maker safe and my wife happy.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Dipping in and out of the NYC

underground on my first solo ride to Boston. Seeing and then being a part of the skyline of the “city that never sleeps”, while ripping on my CBR at 3am will be a memory I will always cherish.

The feeling of being able to take it from the streets of Philly to NYC and then to Boston is unreal and unforgettable.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 129

FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Aaron Poindexter AKA Spydaman

LOCATION: Washington, D.C.

OCCUPATION: Federal Police Officer and Model YEARS RIDING: 10 plus years.

RIDING STYLE: I keep it chill and I keep it sexy.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2012 Kawasaki ZX14R FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: That would be all the lights I have placed on my bike. I love looking at people mesmerized by the lights.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My gloves and my helmet because I don’t wear too much more.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Any ride that I take by myself on Sunday mornings. There’s a calm that surrounds me.

130 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Joshua Correa LOCATION: Ruskin, FL OCCUPATION: Animal Surgery Tech, Father and Husband.

YEARS RIDING: 5 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2008 Suzuki GSXR 1000 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My wheels and motor.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My helmet.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The first time I had a chance to ride with my wife, Jenni AKA JB Amore, side by side.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 131

132 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 133

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

ASK THE PRO WRENCH WORDS: THOMAS CAMPION

Q

: What is the point of wrapping the exhaust? Are there any benefits or is it something strictly for the looks?

A

: I have a feeling that some people wrap their exhaust strictly because they like the way it looks. Gives it that “race bike” look, but it does actually have a purpose. Wrapping the exhaust insulates it. So it doesn’t disparate the heat. Which means keeps everything around it cooler and keeps the exhaust gas at a higher temp while traveling through the head pipes and out the muffler.

Headers are usually pretty close to the radiator, imagine the bonus you will get if your coolant can maintain a lower temp during operation.

Colder coolant means, lower engine temp, which equals horsepower. For example: two

134 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

identical bikes one running at 90° Celsius and one running at 100°c, 10° doesn’t seem that much of a difference but the cooler bike will have close to 5 horsepower more!

Basic science teaches us the gas expands the hotter it gets, so the hotter you can keep the exhaust gas the faster it will flow. Wrapping the exhaust keeps the heat in, actually making it easier for your engine to get the exhaust gas out. The more exhaust you can get out, the more oxygen/fuel you can fit in. And we all know the more oxygen/fuel you can fit in the cylinder, the more horsepower you make.

BRAKE WINNING ELEMENTS Monster Energy Graves Yamaha

Josh Hayes

Josh Herrin

2013 AMA Superbike Champion

We All Choose Braking!

Yamaha Extended Service / Monster Energy / Graves / Yamaha Racing

SK2 Onroad and Racing Disk BATFLY® Strada Onroad Racing Disk

Front and rear pads

Garrett Gerloff

Cameron Beaubier

US distributors:

www.braking.com

RS-B1 - Brake master cylinder (available in clutch master cylinder version)

LE1 - Multi adjustable clutch lever (available black or silver)

MOTORCYCLE HELMET CASE ● Keep your lid dry and protected ● Includes an exterior mesh pocket for carrying an extra visor and a vented interior keeping your helmet fresh ● Universal design fits most street helmets

49.99/ea

$ $

www.MOTOdRACIng.COM

Performance riding motorcycle aPParel and accessories

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 135

MOTOdRACIng/

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

THE 25/75 BRAKING RULE

WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: MEEKAIL SHAHEED

136 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

F

or as long as I have been watching races, motorcycle fans have always marveled at the skill of “smooth” riders. The best way that I can describe a smooth rider is they are the ones who make speed appear effortless. Passes on the brakes look easy, transitions from side to side are nearly instant and bike seems to rocket out of every corner. The key to the “smooth” riders is that they accomplish all of this while never putting a wheel wrong. These riders are not only fast, but also rarely fall down. This month we will focus on a critical piece of the groundwork for being smooth on the brakes, the 25/75 rule.

The 25/75 rule is based on two easy principles. First, riders must recognize that tires react very well to gradual loads and very poorly to shock loads. Second, riders must apply the principle of load replacement, which dictates that as the bike leans over that grip allocated for acceleration or braking must be allocated to cornering forces. The two most easily controlled sources of stress to the tires (the throttle for the rear tire and the brake lever for the front) are the primary areas that we will look to apply this rule.

The first place that rider will employ the 25/75

rule is in the application of the brakes. At the Penguin School, the most effective way we have found to communicate the 25/75 rule to students is by noting that it should take three times as long (75% of total braking time) to release the brake lever as it does to apply it (25% of total braking time). Of course, in true application these ratios will vary from corner to corner, but the 25/75 rule is a good place to start.

One common mistake the riders make when they try to be smooth on the brakes is that they simply brake with less force. This will certainly keep the motorcycle more settled, but it will not help braking efficiency or produce effortless looking passes. This is where the principle of shock loads comes into play. The most common reason that riders get out of control on the entrance is not that the brakes are applied too hard; it is instead that the brakes are applied too quickly.

If too much brake lever force is applied before the weight of the motorcycle has transferred to the front tire, the front tire can lock up. Tires must be allowed the time to let the rubber push into the crevices of the pavement before full load is applied. Similarly, if a rider brakes SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 137

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: THE 25/75 RULE too hard while the forks are still high in the travel, giving them a big running start on their final level under load, the forks will blow right through the stroke. When the forks overshoot their natural bottom level under braking, they will oscillate up and down the through the travel, often several times, before they finally settle. This reduces maximum brake pressure and slows down the entrance dramatically.

In the ideal world, the time for lever application is as quick as it can be without causing the tire to lock up or the forks to overshoot their target.

It’s a balance that riders will play with for every major braking zone they encounter. Once the application is complete riders can then ramp lever pressure up incrementally higher until the rear tire starts to unload. This allows for braking that is both efficient and controlled.

The moment that peak lever pressure is achieved, the “25” portion of the braking is complete.

While the “25” portion of the braking is completed as quickly as possible, the “75” portion continues all the way to the slowest part of the corner. On most corner entrances, the maximum lever pressure achieved at the end of the application cannot be maintained for very long. The faster the bike is traveling, the more brake pressure it takes to lift the rear tire off the ground. While the bike is still upright, the brakes are ideally trailed off at exactly the rate the keeps the rear tire weighted enough to remain under control.

As the motorcycle gets deeper into the corner and the bike begins to arc in towards the apex, the bike is forced to lean. Smooth riders keep bike motion to an absolute minimum, and this ensures that the chassis geometry is predictable, breeding confidence, and that the tire load do not fluctuate, making approaching the limit much safer. Lean angle demands 138 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

cornering load from the tires, and the goal is to keep the loads on the motorcycle constant by releasing exactly the amount of brake lever force that is replaced by the cornering load.

The braking force is progressively released through the entire trance of the turn until it has decreased down to small fraction of the initial effort.

As the rider approaches the slowest part of the corner where the major bar input is given, riders will complete the “75” portion of the rule by releasing last portion of lever pressure simultaneously with the major bar input. Since the load replacement model has left the rider with only very light brake pressure at this point, there is no real tendency for the forks to extend.

This release instead simply allows the tires to be used exclusively for turning and maximizes the available grip needed for direction change, all while keeping the chassis under control and “smooth”.

Putting these principles in place is a sure fire way to increase both confidence and speed on the racetrack on the brakes, and will make your entire trip through the corner more comfortable.

Until next time, ride fast, ride safe.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 139

Exclusive benefit program for students who join Member Benefits * Sponsorship Package Deals from top companies * FREE Insurance - Mechanical or Crash (event fees) * Discounted access to nearby racetracks with Partner Share * Post Registration Deals * Riding Credits for referrals

Experience the Penguin difference!!

Pro Instruction

Track Guidance

1 on 1 Attention

Unlimited FUN!

Track Secrets

Great Racetracks to Choose From

New Hampshire For information or reservations go to 140 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

NEW! Thompson, CT

www.penguinracing.com

New Jersey or call

978-400-8204

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

New for 2014!

Patented

Tire Warmers

Slider

Protection

Same great warmers NOW Made in USA!!

Fast Removal

with our patented mount

Industry leading features:

Safety-Disconnect

Unbeatable Wear

Side Curtains

Race Proven

with the solid sliding surface

eliminate accidental burnout retaining heat /warming rims

for over 15 years

Dual Temperature

Frame Sliders

for easy use

the #1 rated slider for the racetrack

Bar Sliders

Light, Heavy and with Guard mount

Race Bodies Ranked #1

by Roadracing World

Alexander

Hayden

Rispoli

5 Second Axle Sliders

Revolutionary design for fast wheel changes

Eslick

Durable, Flexible & KevlarReinforced

978-297-2977

www.woodcraft-cfm.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 141

FRICTION ZONE: LAWLESS

ROLLING STONES

WORDS: MICHAEL LAWLESS IMAGES: COURTESY OF JOHN LAWLESS

142 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

W

hy is it when some guys get some miles on them that they stop trying?

They were bulls once but now they are sixty pounds plus overweight, eating junk and sitting around the bar saying, "Remember when?"

John Lawless is not one of those guys. March 1, 2014 finds the fifty one year old racer in shape and sitting on the grid at Roebling Road race track in Geogia. He is astride on his 1961 Norton Manx, a grand prix level vintage racing motorcycle. John purchased this bike in five wooden crates two years ago and with the help of friends he has brought the Manx back to its former glory. The first few races back have been frustrating with mechanical problem after problem. But today the Manx has been running sweet. John gets a good start and after a few laps makes the pass into second place. With two laps to go he spots the leading bike ahead. Reaching deep, he pushes hard, closing, closing, closing. In the final turn he gets the drive and drafts by to take the win. Victory is sweet.

His odyssey begins as a child growing up with the love of European motorcycles and cars. He dreamt that someday he would race on the famous tracks in Europe and America. After getting a street bike he quickly realized that racing on the streets was dangerous at best.

His dad loaned him an old Ducati which John converted to a racing motorcycle and he began living his dream as a real racer.

Shortly thereafter, he formed Team 20/20 Racing, which won numerous regional titles before moving up to AMA Pro Racing 600 and and 750 Supersport series. John also wrote articles for several motorcycle publications. He bravely raced against the odds in AHRMA on a four cylinder Honda. John created and ran the Chadds Ford Classic Motorcycle Auction and serves on the board of the Radnor Hunt Concours d'Elegance.

John also created the the televsion pilot Retro Moto, which aired on Motorweek. He has led a long life of constantly adding to the motorcycle community, all for the love of the sport. And for that, John Lawless is an inspiration to the global motorcycle community.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 143

144 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Perfo

rmanc

e

Short

y

Cafe

Cli

p-O

Rear Sets

Distributed by:

ns

www.VooDoomoto.com

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 145

FRICTION ZONE

TRACK DAY GIRL

WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: COURTESY OF MARIKA KREJCI

146 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

W

hen looking for inspirational stories of individuals that can identify issues or problems, it can be rare to find someone that will not only point out the oversight, but who will also have the courage to correct or solve it.

The industry, the sport and the community of motorcycles have long been male oriented and dominated. In recent years, the female riding demographic has made huge leaps in a world that was designed and constructed by men. The increase of female riders can be seen everywhere... the streets, the clubs, the track, etc. With heroines like Elena Myers, Shelina Moreda and Melissa Paris claiming glory for the ladies on the pro racing stage, it was only a matter of time before that “anything you can do, I can do better” sensibility began to spread.

In a number of regions, female riders are not new news. They’ve been mixing it up with the fellas for decades and they are quick to tell you. However, there does remain an arena in which female riders are once again the fastest growing part of the population. That arena is track day organizations.

Again, there has always been representative for the ladies in this arena but there has been a notable spike in interest and activity in the last five years.

Many ladies are progressing from the basic skill set of riding on the streets to advanced levels of riding on road courses.

Marika Krejci is just such a lady. For a number of years, she was content with riding on the streets with her friends until the wee hours of the morning, getting a few hours of sleep before having to be at work, finish the gig then hopping on the bike to do it all again. Of course, with any true addiction... any true and healthy addiction, the desire becomes insatiable. The thirst and the hunger grows. There becomes no such thing as too much. Marika began to search for other means to get her fix.

Marika was encouraged by her dear friend, Natasha Louis, an avid track rider, to join her for a

few sessions at the next local track day weekend.

At first, reluctant to venture into unfamiliar riding territory, Marika ultimately caved and joined Natasha for a track day at New Jersey Motorsports Park in 2011. Marika would be hooked from that day forward.

With an average riding skill set, Marika would quickly adapt to the life of track day rider over the next several months.

“It was overwhelming and chilling! Not only was it the first time that I was wearing over the ankle boots and gauntlet gloves, I was in a borrowed suit that was slightly too big for me! I felt like a Sumo Wrestler!” recalled Marika from her first official track day. “But I did it and I loved it! The first two sessions were scary. I couldn’t relax. But once I relaxed, I was having fun. Then it all started coming together.”

Perhaps it was that day, that Track Day Girl was conceived. What Marika took notice of was that there is a difference between male and female riders. A majority of males riders are, by nature, more aggressive than their female counter parts. It can be intimidating to any new track rider, male or female to share the track with a seasoned track rider or even a track rider with a few sessions under their belt.

“What bothered me was being passed by the faster more aggressive riders that were in the same group as me. Being a newbie track rider, the first time on the track, it was very intimidating to be out there. I wasn’t really sure of what I was doing yet and all of a sudden, zoom, here comes this guy or girl come zooming by me. I wasn’t ready for that.

It was very intimidating. The amount of people that were on the track with me at the same time was very intimidating. They would get so close to me...”

The more experience that Marika gained on the track, the quicker those feelings of being overwhelmed dissipated. Yet she knew that she

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 147

FRICTION ZONE: TRACK DAY GIRL was not the only new rider that was experiencing the pressure.

“As I started to get to know people and talk to people around the track, especially females, I kept hearing the word ‘intimidation’. Or when I spoke to others and tried to get them to come to the track, I would hear, ‘I would try the track but everybody is so fast, I’m afraid that I’m gonna hold them up.’ I saw a need for something different than was being provided and based upon my own experience.

There was a need for a program to address those concerns. So I created it.” Marika approached Glen Goldman of Team Promotion and pitched the idea for this program to run under his established infrastructure. Glen was all in and Track Day Girl was born. It officially launched in April of 2013.

Marika explains the purpose of Track Day Girl as a track riding program for females to provide them a less intimidating environment for them to

148 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

ride, for them to build their skills and ride in a safe environment without the intimidation of more aggressive riders that may be in the same group with them. The groups remain between 10 to 15 riders per session. A smaller group allows for more training and attention from the 1 or 2 coaches riding with the group, preferably female coaches.

Marika explains, “The idea behind Track Day Girl is that it is an all women’s group of riders and coaches. Unfortunately, we don’t have access to that many woman coaches. Some of the guys volunteer and the girls are actually fine with it.”

Within their first year, Track Day Girl has claimed success. It has provided a means for ladies that may have only thought of getting on the track a method to do so in a manner that nurtures the rider instead of applying unwanted pressure. Marika is just starting to see the fruits of her labor pay off and she couldn’t be happier. She makes a point to note that the point of Track Day Girl is not to keep the ladies away from the other riders permanently. It is

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 149

FRICTION ZONE: TRACK DAY GIRL a way for them to get their feet wet. Once they are comfortable, Marika encourages them to ride with the other groups as their comfort level sees fit. They are always welcomed to return and ride with TDG. Coming up on their first year anniversary, Track Day Girl has plenty to celebrate and much more in store for the coming season. Marika has been very busy building her network of professional female racers that are interested in coming to Track Day Girl events to participate as coaches. She has a few already lined up and is looking to add a few more.

Track Day Girl will also be supporting the all female

150 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

racing series in harmony with Team Promotion.

Marika’s dear friend Natasha has since passed away. I’m sure that Marika thinks about her everyday, wishing that Natasha could see how much she inspired Marika to get on the track and just try it. To say that Natasha would be proud of Marika is an understatement. I’m certain that in the same manner of which Marika was inspired by Natasha... Natasha would now be inspired and motivated by the spark that she created in Marika and quickly that spark became a flame that shines so brightly at every Track Day Girl event.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 151

FRICTION ZONE: RANDOM

Image: Allan Lane

EZIAH DAVIS #669 AMA PRO RACING SUPERSPORT 152 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

EVERYONE DREAMS. BUT THE TRUTH IS THAT ONE MUST HAVE COURAGE TO TAKE YOUR DREAMS AND TRANSFORM THEM INTO REALITY. FOR THOSE THAT HAVE THAT COURAGE, PASSION AND DESIRE...

WE SALUTE YOU.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 153

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

N°1 for Mileage according to an independent test of Motorrad TestCenter comparing Pirelli Angel GT with Michelin Pilot Road 3, Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart II, Bridgestone Battlax BT 023, Continental RoadAttack 2 and Metzeler Roadtec Z8 Interact M/O on 154 and | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM 120/70ZR-17 180/55ZR-17 set. The test took place in Spain, Marbella in November and December 2012, using six Suzuki Bandit 1250 ABS.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 155

FRICTION ZONE

THE HIT

LIST

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

Cristie Lee! What’s on your hit list?

“Pompeii” by Bastille. Love this song! So upbeat and always puts me in a better mood! I’ve been rocking this one for a couple days now.

“All of Me” by John Legend.

John Legend is a great artist. I love the lyrics in this song.

“Top of the World” by Mike Posner. Mike Posner is a local Detroiter and so is Big Sean.

This song is huge here in Michigan right now!

Cristie Lee Motorsports TV Host and Reporter

156 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 157

FRICTION ZONE: SPORTBIKES INK!!!

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

RIDER// Brian Glascoe BIKE// 2007 Suzuki Hayabusa TATTOO ARTIST// Snot

158 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

RIDER// Michael Nark BIKE// 2002 Suzuki GSXR 1000 TATTOO ARTIST// Ken Pleickardt

RIDER// Aaron “Spydaman” Poindexter BIKE// 2012 Kawasaki ZX14R TATTOO ARTIST// Tatted Lo SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 159

THIS LIFE

ON THE EDGE

WORDS: TYSON BECKFORD IMAGE: BRYCE THOMPSON

O

n the edge of Spring and the bike community is in a frenzy to be ready for that first warm riding day. I just want to give a heads up regarding safety concerns of the less experienced, beginner riders and the riders who haven’t ridden in a few months...

Be careful.

Your skills have gotten rusty in the off season. So please take your time and ease into the season, ease into riding and your riding style. It’s been a few months. Take it in stride.

You need to get back on point but that won’t happen overnight.

While we’re at it... Get that bike looked at too. It won’t hurt to replace old tires, flush the oil and other fluids and start the season fresh. Check your brake pads, as well.

Most importantly, let us all respect life and the road. I’ll see you out there.

160 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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

info@lightech.it

Follow us on Lightech racing

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 161

THE NEW ISH CATALYST RACING COMPOSITES • 2013 HONDA CBR 600RR SUPERSPORT SET

Get your 2013 CBR 600RR ready for the track with the complete supersport set of bodywork from Catalyst Racing Composites.

The set includes the upper, lower, tail, front fender and tank cover.

Price:$955.00 Contact: http://catalystracingcomposites.com

DELTRAN • BATTERY TENDER LITHIUM BATTERY

WOODCRAFT CFM • DUCATI MONSTER CLIP ON RISER KIT This riser kit includes clip ons and a reversible riser plate offering a more aggressive look and riding position when installed. The risers are designed with the ability to flip or reverse the position of the bars, raising them or lowering them to suit your riding needs. The risers are available in a selection of sizes so you can really dial in the height of your set up. The plates are forged from billet aluminum and the bars are longer than the OEM’s which give options if mounting accessories such as lever guards. A very innovative product that will set your Monster apart from others while improving the quality of your ride.

Sizes: 1 to 3 inches (Riser Height) Price: $239.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com 162 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Deltran has been in the battery business for decades yet only recently have they released their very own lithium battery. Weighing in well under two pounds, the Deltran lithium battery has five times the life of a lead acid battery. The battery features a four terminal set up for easy installation. Unlike other lithium batteries, the Deltran battery uses the standard Battery Tender leads and float charger to keep it at full capacity.

Price: $99.95 - $145.95 Contact: http://batterytender.com

RK EXCEL • 520 CONVERSION CHAIN AND SPROCKET KIT Convert your OEM chain pitch and stock gearing to a lighter and quicker accelerating set up with the 520 conversion kit from RK. The kit includes a chromoly front sprocket, a steel rear sprocket and a RX or XW sealed ring chain. The chain kit is available for most late model Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha and Suzuki sportbikes.

Price: $168.00 - $267.00 Contact: http://rkexcelamerica.com

GB RACING • MV AGUSTA F3 CLUTCH COVER

GB Racing clutch covers offer superior protection and value at a great price. Now available for the 2012 MV Agusta F3, the cover is composed of an injection molded long fiber nylon, similar to carbon fiber and kevlar covers and is designed to fit over the OEM clutch cover. It offers an additional level of protection by absorbing energy without cracking.

Price: $113.62 Contact: http://orientexpress.com TWO BROTHERS RACING • KAWASAKI ZX10R S1R SLIP ON EXHAUST

Two Brothers Racing has just released their new S1R line of carbon fiber exhaust. The new exhaust is styled in a short form, offering a sleek race look with the power boost and sound that we’ve come to expect from Two Brothers. Available for the Kawasaki ZX10R, model years 2011 through 2014, the S1R features aerospace high temperature carbon fiber, a teflon coated magnesium end cap and a rubber lined styled mount.

Price: $599.98 Contact: http://twobros.com

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 163

THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • SANCTUARY JACKET The Sanctuary Jacket from ICON represents the next level of hybrid street riding apparel. Essentially, you have a leather jacket that offers the mobility, flexibility and breathability of a textile. The jacket was engineered in zones. The primary zone is composed of 1.2-1.4mm Brazilian leather. The secondary zones feature Dynex Ballistic nylons. Armored with D3O protection in the shoulder, elbows and back, the Sanctuary jacket is also equipped with a full inner, removable liner making it more than functional when the weather is slightly chilly.

Sizes: XS - 4XL Colors: Stealth, Blue, Green, Grey, Red, White, HiViz Yellow Price: $300.00 - $330.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

DRIVEN RACING PRODUCTS • CAPTIVE WHEEL SPACERS Save yourself the heartache by picking up a set of captive wheel spacers from Driven. These are almost a necessity for a track day as wheel spacers often go missing while changing tires. They are anodized to resist from corrosion, held in place by dust seals and made in the USA. Available for most late model sportbikes.

REV’IT! • JEREZ PRO GLOVES The Jerez Pro Gloves are the gloves of choice by several on the MotoGP, WSBK and AMA grid, and for great reason.

Constructed with Kangaroo leather and engineered to simulate the natural ergonomics of the hand. Rev’It! refers to this process as the “harmonica” concept. The Jerez offers optimum hand safety features with Tryonic Impact Palm Protection that absorbs impact and double duty as palm sliders in the event of an off. Hard TPU armor covers the knuckles and wrist, maximizing the protection zones. The Jerez gloves were developed and tested on the track by the world’s best riders to ensure that they would offer the highest level of safety and performance.

Sizes: XS - XYL Colors: Black/White, Black/Acid Green,White/Black,White/Red Price: $379.99 Contact: http://revitusa.com 164 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Price: $71.99 - $77.99 Contact: http://drivenracing.com

MOTO D RACING • ALUMINUM MAGNETIC DRAIN BOLT Lightweight and predrilled for safety wire application, these drain bolts feature an embedded magnet that will collect metal shavings. Available for most Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Triumph, BMW models and the Ducati Panigale.

Price: $19.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com

JOE ROCKET • SPEEDMASTER 6.0 RACE SUIT Always striving to improve and to refine the Speedmaster suit, Joe Rocket releases the Speedmaster version 6.0. Engineered for the track, the Speedmaster features 1.4 to 1.7mm cowhide, reinforced titanium shoulders and ceramic compound knee sliders. The CE approved armor in the shoulders and elbows is complemented by the removable spine protector for maximum protection. The suit also has an aerodynamic speed hump that reduces drag at speed. Ventilation is provided by polycarbonate intakes in the shoulders. The Speedmaster has race ergonomics with precurved sections in the torso, arms and legs. Joe Rocket’s top of the line suit is available in three colors and comes equipped with a Speedmaster suit liner.

Sizes: 38 - 48 Colors: Black, Red/White/Black, Blue/White/Black Price: $699.99 - $724.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com

MOTION PRO • TOOL STANDARD This is a great kit of tools designed for roadside minor repairs or service. The kit is composed of a selection of bits, including straight slot, phillips, allen and torx. Also included are a 7/16 and 1/2 inch drive sockets. All items fits conveniently in a durable nylon carrying case.

Price: $24.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 165

THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ARAI HELMETS • CORSAIR V NICKY CAMO FROST LIMITED EDITION HELMET The Arai Corsair V line represents the pinnacle in helmet achievements.

Developed and executed to offer the highest level of performance and protection, the Corsair V delivers with accuracy in terms of fit and comfort.

There is a reason why Arai is one of the most recognizable brands on the pro racing grid. The limited edition replica series gives you a chance to own the same style helmet that your favorite MotoGP pilot rocks on race day.

Capturing the spirit of the American Soldier and saluting the service of the armed forces, Nicky Hayden’s Camo Frost Replica features great design as camouflaged helmet with the phrase “Born to Ride” inscribed on the sides.

You wear this helmet at your next track day or race and you’ll make a clear statement that you’re ready for battle.

Sizes: XS - 3XL Price: $929.95

Contact: http://araiamericas.com

166 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Be Fast or Be Last.

GT-R leather jacket

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

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

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

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 167

STAFF STUFF SCOOTR LOGIC • SLHM1 HAND MITTS Lion James

A

s a year round motorcycle rider riding and residing in the northeast United States I have grown both accustomed to and comfortable with riding in the cold. I have long searched for a solution to my cold hands when winter riding with no solution that worked for me until now. I found that the ScootR Logic SLHM1 Hand Mitts meet both my need for keeping the wind off my hands as well as offer me freedom from cords, plugs and auxiliary input. I like low tech. Less moving parts means less to go wrong. I have used these mitts in moderate cold weather like 40 degree mornings to what most would consider too cold to ride like frigid 20 degree days.

the shape and material lend themselves to the advertised operation of the mitt.

These mitts deliver what they promise. They keep the cold out and that’s all you really need. They, unlike bulky insulated winter gloves, are low profile enough and are flat enough to be stored in between the lining and outer shell of a jacket, easily inside a back pack or even serve as extra padding in a CE pad pocket of most protective motorcycle jackets. These mitts, muffs or even “elephant ears” as I have heard them referred to as slip directly over the clip ons and controls, then secure using a hook & loop closure. I was skeptical about how easily I would be able to slip my hands in and out of the mitts while operating the motorcycle, stopping at traffic lights and even parking the motorcycle but to my surprise

They are not the most attractive of motorcycle gear but that’s not why I gave them a try in the first place. The look of the mitts when in use is a bit off putting but the gangly sight of the mitts is quickly compensated for when you get to where you are going and your hands are still warm. Much more effective and much less expensive than heated and insulated riding gloves.

168 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

My only complaint with these mitts would be that when installing the throttle side mitt one must use caution in the fitting so as to avoid engaging the engine cut off switch.

A little attention when refitting them and I had no more problems in that department. The only other thing worth noting which could be considered a con but is mostly personal preference and highly subjective is the styling and look of the mitts.

http://airhead.com Rating: 5 (out of 6)

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 169

THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Meekail Shaheed Location: Daytona International Speedway