ROAD RACING • DRAG RACING • STUNT RIDING • CUSTOM BIKES • LIFESTYLE
MARCH 2017 VOL 7 ISSUE 6
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM
PJ
JACOBSEN NINETY NINE PATRICIA FERNANDEZ'S GRID LIFE | MOTOGP 2017 SEASON PREVIEW | THEIR FAVORITE TRACKS | IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: DRAFTING | MAEGAN BOWERS: EVERYONE AIN'T BUILT FOR THIS
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UNTIL NOW, WE HAVE BEEN ASKED TO TA K E S I D E S. T O C H O O S E B E T W E E N W I C K E D O R V I R T U O U S , B R U TA L O R S O P H I S T I C AT E D , R E F I N E D O R W I L D , G E N T L E M A N O R B A S TA R D . Y O U D E S E R V E B O T H.
© Ducati North America 2016
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CONTENTS
MARCH 2017 - VOLUME 7, ISSUE 6 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16
16 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=20 20 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=40 40 THE GRID LIFE - By Patricia Fernandez http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46 46 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. 60 THE NUMBERS - By Bradley Smith http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=68 68 ASPHALT AND OPPORTUNITY - By Brian and Julian Glascoe http://issuu.com/action/page?page=86 86 THE LION'S DEN - By Lion James http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 92 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98 98 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=108 108 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=114 114 STAFF STUFF
FEATURED RIDER: DANIEL "BLACKBEARD" CUCCIA http://issuu.com/action/page?page=94 PAGE 94 4 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
RIDING JACKET
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FEATURES
MARCH 2017 - VOLUME 7, ISSUE 6
PJ JACOBSEN: NINETY NINE
24
MOTOGP WITH B.T.: SWEET RIDE
46
ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY: MAEGAN BOWERS
68
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=24
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=68
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THE GRID LIFE
40
THEIR FAVORITE TRACKS
56
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: DRAFTING
98
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=40
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=56
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98
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STAFF
Publisher//Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
ART & DESIGN
Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com
Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com
Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com
Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Patricia Fernandez pf@sportbikesincmag.com Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com
Contributing Photographers: Andrew Gosling Asphalt & Opportunity Brian J. Nelson Michael Spain Smith Lion James Jessica Vitro MotoGP.com
Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com Contributors: Bradley Smith
SportBikes Inc Magazine - March 2017 Volume 7, Issue 6 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2017 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.
In no way can any part of this magazine be reproduced in print, digital, broadcast or any other manner without the expressed written permission of the publisher.
SportBikes Inc Magazine (ISSN 2158-009X) is published monthly by Hard Knocks Motorcycle Entertainment.
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EXH I LARATION COM ES STAN DARD
LIGHT, POWERFUL ACCELERATION Just punch it and you'll be there.
Always wear helmets, seat belts, and don’t drink and drive. Drivers may need a valid motorcycle endorsement. Don’t drink and drive. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM |9 SLINGSHOT® is a registered trademark of Polaris Industries Inc. ©2017 Polaris Industries Inc.
PJ
JACOBSEN NINETY NINE PAGE 24
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=24
FEATURE STORY 10 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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10 YEA
C L CO
2THE
PENN’S LANDI 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
WWW.CLU
AR ANNIVERSARY
L U T C H ONTROL
0 1 7 ILLY IN PHILLY
ING•PHILADELPHIA, PA•SEPTEMBER 23, 2017
UTCHCONTROLUSA.COM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13
FROM THE EDITOR
O
n the back end of Summer 2016, I had the privilege of hosting a number of MotoAmerica Racers on a tour through the city of Philadelphia, guided by a great group of Motorcycle Club Members and Riders from the Philadelphia region. We kicked the tour off at the Philadelphia Art Museum Steps and the famed statue of Rocky Balboa. While the Racers traveled in vans, our welcoming committee traveled on two wheels to several cool spots throughout the city before ending the day at Geno’s Steaks on Passyunk Avenue. It was one of the coolest things that I have been a part of… And I have been involved in a lot of really cool things!
as they watched from the safety of their vans, how the Riders blocked traffic… It must have been a flip for them to be the spectators, watching someone else doing the riding. Usually, it is they who are being watched. At the end of the day, a common ground was gained by all. For the Racers, it was a true opportunity to do more than “meet and greet” with a few fans. The Riders were given real quality time with some the of the Racers that they may have only watched from the stands, seen on TV or in magazines. We realized that we are all a part of the global riding community, granted some of us get paid for it and others may wish to get paid for it, but the point remains the same. The mission that day was to minimize the concept of fanship and to maximize the support of friendship. I’m pretty sure it was a success.
The camaraderie that was present between the Racers and the Riders was amazing. Friendships began that day that will carry on well past the race season. I saw Racers and Riders exchanging social media accounts, I Best, heard riding experiences being traded, I saw Allan the look of amazement on the Racers’ faces allan@sportbikesincmag.com 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
DON’T JUST SEIZE THE DAY. LEAN INTO IT. MAKE LIFE A RIDE. Not everyone takes the chance. Even fewer have the passion and the courage to make the most of it. But for those who can, for those who do, there is the 2016 BMW S 1000 RR. bmwmotorcycles.com.
BMW Motorrad ©2017 BMW Motorrad USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks.
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THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS THE 2017 MV AGUSTA BRUTALE 800 The Brutale 800 has been revamped for 2017. MV Agusta’s naked street fighter is back on the block with new designs and upgrades. The new 800 has a harder edged, yet refined aesthetic when compared to the original Brutale 750 that made it’s debut almost 15 years ago. New features include a new full LED elliptical headlight, a three stack pipe exhaust and a new rider and passenger footage mounts. The three cylinder engine houses a counter rotating crankshaft that boasts 116 horses with 83nm of torque, the most ever for the Brutale. With an MSRP of $13,498.00, the 2017 MV Agusta Brutale 800 is available in three color ways: Black Matt Metallic, Pearl Ice White and Red.
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YAMAHA ISSUES A RECALL FOR THE R3 Certain models of the 2015 through 2016 Yamaha R3 are being recalled due to a questionable ignition sub assembly. It appears that water can get into and corrode the ignition switch. This could result in an engine stall. The total
number of bikes affected is over 14,000. Yamaha has alerted owners and the dealer network has been instructed to replace the ignition switch sub assembly at no charge to the customer.
RECALL FOR THE SLINGSHOT Polaris has issued a recall for cer tain 2017 SL and SLR models of the Slingshot. The culprit is the possible loose steering and suspension connections. The bolted connections b et we en t h e st e eri n g and front suspension may have not been tightened enough and could come loose.and affect handling performance. Just over 250 units are affected by this recall. Polaris dealerships will replace the nuts and bolts and tighten them sufficiently, at no cost to owners. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 17
THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS BMW’S 2018 K 1600 B BMW’s new bagger entry, the K 1600 B is packed with features that BMW’s have become known for. Powered by a 1649cc in line six cylinder engine, the K 1600 B pumps out 160 horses with an impressive 129 foot pounds of torque. Riding modes include rain, dynamic and road. Other features include: dynamic traction control, ABS, heated seats and hand grips, cruise control, power adjustable windshield as well as hill start control, to name a few. The 2018 BMW K 1600 B has a MSRP of $19,995.00.
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Distributed by:
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19 www.VooDoomoto.com
THE PRESS ROOM: GRID NEWS
GRID NEWS
DANNY ESLICK WINS HIS THIRD DAYTONA 200
Danny Eslick took the victory and claimed his third Daytona 200 win after passing Cory West on the last lap of the 58 lap 2017 race event. Eslick rode his TOBC Racing Yamaha R6 and battled back and forth with West’s R6 for position but it
was West that held the advantage in the final lap. Eslick was able to use the draft and then slingshot himself to victory, crossing the finish line 0.041 seconds before West. The 2016 winner, Michael Barnes, rounded out the podium in third place.
YAMAHA NAMED AS THE OFFICIAL MANUFACTURER OF MOTOAMERICA MotoAmerica and Yamaha are continuing their partnership for a third consecutive year. Yamaha will again serve as the Official Manufacturer Partner of the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship.
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MOTOAMERICA TO HOST THE WERA TRIPLE CROWN Three WERA support races will be held during These three AMA sanctioned support races will the Road Atlanta, Pittsburgh International Race feature a WERA points funds that will be paid Complex and Barber Motorsports Park rounds. after the Barber round.
ANTHONY MAZZIOTTO IS GOING RACING IN 2016 WITH YAMAHA CHAMPIONS RACING SCHOOL
New Jersey native and 2015 and 2016 KTM RC Cup runner up, Anthony Mazziotto is returning the the MotoAmerica grid. This time, he’s attacking the 600 Superstock class, backed by Yamaha Champions Racing School, N2 Track Days and
Markbilt Racebikes. Mazziotto has been awarded the AMA Youth Road Racer of the Year Award as well as the AMA Horizon Award. Mazziotto and his team are currently seeking additional support and funding. Learn more by clicking HERE. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 21
THE PRESS ROOM: GRID NEWS MOTOAMERICA IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS You can be a part of the action this race season. MotoAmerica is once again l ooking for volunteers to help with their 2017 race events. From Grid Marshalls and Track Marshalls to Technical Control and Registration Staff, applications can be found HERE.
MELISSA PARIS CREATES A NEW TEAM TO COMPETE IN THE KTM RC CUP Melissa Paris has announced her new team, MP13 Racing and their 16 year old talent, Jamie Astudillo. MP13 Racing’s efforts will solely be focused on all nine rounds of the MotoAmerica 2017 KTM RC CUP. This will be the Pennsylvania native’s first season in MotoAmerica, having already raced the KTM RC390 in the CVMA series.
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Team Owner Melissa Paris stated, “Jamie has all the makings of a champion. She’s a hard worker, is open to learning and has that racer instinct you have to have to win. Of course, gridding up against the fastest kids in the country at MotoAmerica events is going to be super challenging. But from what I've seen, she is a quick study, and it won't be long until she is running up front.”
april 21 - 23
Circuit of the Americas
april 28 - 30 road atlanta
May 12 - 14
virginia international raceway
june 2 - 4
august 25 - 27
june 23 - 25
utah motorsports campus
pittsburgh international race complex
july 7 - 9
september 8 - 10
mazda raceway laguna seca
august 11 -13 sonoma raceway
new jersey motorsports park
september 15 - 17
barber motorsports park
road america * schedule subject to change
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PJ
JACOBSEN NINETY NINE WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: ANDREW GOSLING// MV AGUSTA REPARTO CORSE SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25
THE GRID: NINETY NINE
I met PJ in 2011
when he was racing for the Celtic Ferracci AMA Pro Racing team. My buddy Tommy Boy introduced us and my first take of him was that he was very observant. There was a sense that while he was just another 18 year old kid, that he was more than just another 18 year old kid… When I talked with him, I could see that he was intensely listening to what I was saying, processing it, like it was data. The trouble is that I don’t recall saying anything of importance at the time… Kind of feels like a wasted opportunity to make an impression. But he made an impression on me. Later that day, I told Tommy Boy, “PJ is a cool kid. He’s gonna do some damage.” What I hadn’t realized at the time, was that PJ had already earned himself a championship in 2006 when the then 13 year old was crowned USGPRU 125GP Champion. The truth is that PJ has been racing since he was 3 years old. He’s competed national and internationally, gaining global experience with several successes and many firsts, including an impressive number of National Championships. In the 2015 season, during the World SuperSport Malaysian round, PJ became the first American in his class to not only qualify in P1, but to also claim a race victory… That was after he switched manufacturers in the middle of the season. After some learning years in both the AMA Pro Racing Championship and the British SuperBike Championship, the now 23 year old from Montgomery, New York is making his way on the World SuperSport Grid. In 2016, he piloted a CBR 600RR for the Pata Honda World SuperSport team landing on the podium a total of 4 times. In 2017, his efforts are focused on his new team, MV Agusta Reparto Corse, his MV Agusta F3 675 and the World SuperSport Championship. SBI: What are your thoughts on the current state of road racing? Do you feel that there is still this great divide between how the sport is supported overseas opposed to how it is supported in the US? PJ: Yes. I feel like overseas it gets a lot more attention as far as it
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THE GRID: NINETY NINE
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"WINNING THE CHAMPIONSHIP IS ALWAYS MY FIRST GOAL. WINNING RACES IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO ME. I HAVE A GREAT BIKE UNDER ME AND AN AMAZING TEAM SO I AM FULLY PREPARED TO ACCOMPLISH WHAT I THINK I CAN."
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THE GRID: NINETY NINE
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being broadcasted more on tv and the sport has way more of a following over there. But I do believe that Moto America will grow and gain more of a following as it did in 2006 and 2007. SBI:What do you think about MotoAmerica’s efforts to promote and standardize the sport in the US? PJ: I feel like they are trying really hard to promote it and each year hopefully they get more exposure and gain a bigger following so they get it to where it needs to be. SBI: In 2011, you raced for Barry’s Gilsenan Celtic Racing/Fast by Ferracci AMA Pro Racing Team. What was that experience like? PJ: It was a very difficult season for us but to be a part of a legend, like Ferracci’s team was a great experience. I'm very grateful for that. SBI: How was it working with Eraldo Ferracci? PJ: It was a really good experience for me, he taught me a lot. It was beneficial to me and my riding by working with such an experienced guy. Throughout the season I gained a really close relationship with him, he is the funniest guy and I'm grateful to have worked with him. SBI: Sure that you’ve heard that Eraldo is officially closing his doors and retiring. Do you have any thoughts about that? PJ: Yeah it's really sad because he has been there for such a long time and there is so much history there. But he will always be Fast by Ferracci. SBI: Would you say that you’ve grown, matured as a racer since your Celtic/Ferracci days? PJ: Yes I have, very much. Both in my training and as a rider. Now that I am 23 I feel like I am more of a mature rider, even though I am still young I have been racing since I was 3 years old. SBI: Right now, there is only you, Nicky Hayden and James Rispoli representing the US on the global stage of road racing, unless I’m missing someone… What type of pressure do you feel, if any? Does it affect how you go about your day to day? Basically do you feel a greater sense of responsibility to represent America? PJ: No I don't really feel much pressure of the fact I'm one of few Americans racing, I'm just trying to do the best I can each race weekend. It is a really great deal to me that I do get to represent America, I'm just trying to do the best I can for myself and my team and make the States proud. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31
THE GRID: NINETY NINE
"I'M JUST TRYING TO DO THE BEST I CAN EACH RACE WEEKEND. IT IS A REALLY GREAT DEAL TO ME THAT I DO GET TO REPRESENT AMERICA. I'M JUST TRYING TO DO THE BEST I CAN FOR MYSELF AND MY TEAM AND MAKE THE STATES PROUD."
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THE GRID: NINETY NINE SBI: Do you consider yourself a role model? PJ: I mean I do try to do the best I can with my racing and in my personal life , always trying to be the best rider I can be and a good person and I do hope that younger riders look up to me as a role model. SBI: Who is your biggest inspiration? PJ: Conor McGregor, because he gets the job done. SBI: What is your training regime during the season and during the off season? PJ: Cardio is the biggest thing for me. During the off season trying not to put on that winter weight, but I'm constantly training for the season ahead. SBI: How important is Flat Track? Is there still room for that genre of the sport to grow? PJ: Yes flat track is very important to me, it's what I grew up doing. I think with the new Super prestigio that Marques put together really brought flat track to a new level around the world. So I do think there is a lot more room for it to grow. Just this year alone, in 2017, it has grown more and brought more manufacturers to the sport, I hope that continues. SBI: Ok, give me your top three circuits that you’ve competed at. PJ: Malaysia, Suzuka and Qatar because all of these tracks have something special about them. They all are like no other tracks I've ever been to. I love the flow that these tracks have. And Suzuka mainly because of the fans and the spectators. They make it so enjoyable to race there and really make it feel so alive. SBI: What are the main points for you in 2017? PJ: Winning the championship is always my first goal. Winning races is the most important thing to me. I have a great bike under me and an amazing team so I am fully prepared to accomplish what I think I can. SBI: Do you have any aspirations for Superbike or is Supersport the main focus for now? PJ: My number one goal is to be on a Superbike. I'm really trying to make an impression in the Supersport class to prove that I can make it to the Superbike. SBI: Any one that you want to say hello to? 34 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID: NINETY NINE
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PJ: Mister Allan Lane. SBI: What is the first thing that you do in the morning? PJ: I go to the coffee machine and make myself an expresso. That gets my day started. SBI: What is the last thing that you do before going to bed at night? PJ: Find the right netflix movie. SBI:Tupac or Biggie? PJ: Biggie. All day. In PJ, I still see that same intensely observant young man, processing the world. Perhaps that’s the key… Being intensely observant of the world around you and processing the data to make the right move. It seems that P.J. is in the process of that methodology, all while remaining a cool kid from Montgomery, New York. At the time of this writing, P.J. has earned the first pole position in round one of the 2017 World Supersport season. Backed by a great team with a great bike, I repeat, “He’s gonna do some damage.” Biggie, all day, huh? I can respect that. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37
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THE GRID
THE GRID LIFE
WORDS: PATRICIA FERNANDEZ//IMAGES: BRIAN J. NELSON 40 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Your only limitation is mental...
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THE GRID: THE GRID LIFE
R
ace season begins for me with the Daytona 200, Woohoo! The Daytona 200 is our longest professional race with 57 laps and 2 pit stops in the Florida heat. So training for a race of this caliber requires both physical and mental endurance preparation. Every rider has a different approach but I’m going to give you what works best for me. Setting a goal is the best way to begin a plan of action, but you have to make sure that you don't limit yourself at that marker. For example, if I were to go for a bicycle ride and set a goal of 30 miles, I might find myself looking at my GPS to see how far I’ve gone, or how long I have left. However if I just say, I’m going to go for a ride and have fun, I never look down or check my mileage. I find that I can pedal farther and
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not feel fatigued by simply enjoying the ride. I was physically capable of the same amount of miles on the first ride, but I let my mind limit my abilities by setting an amount of effort I would exert, instead of just having fun. I find the same in running, racing, and many other aspects of life. If I do not set a limit, I keep pushing, working, and reaching to achieve more. I believe that we are capable of so much more if we never set limits on ourselves. I can remember when I first started using a lap timer. I would constantly look down to see what my time was. If I set a goal for a 2 minute lap, and then achieve it, I wouldn’t push myself further because I thought I may not be capable of going faster safely. My team actually put tape over it and told me, just go have fun. I went out again, and did just that. That was the first time at Daytona I did a 1:56.6! Hooray for fun! Yes there are reasons that racers and teams use pit boards. There is information that is critical to race prep and communication to make for a successful event. I guess the method I use for myself that has pushed me so far in racing, my physical workouts, and in life is to always have fun. If you never limit yourself mentally you can achieve far more than you ever dreamed! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43
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THE GRID
MOTOGP 2017 SEASON PREVIEW
MOTOGP WITH B.T.
WORDS: B.T.//IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM 46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
AVINTIA RACING
T
here is nothing better than the coming of the Spring. Enough with the long dark nights, the bone chilling, testicle shrinking bitter cold that inhabits the nation like a relative that's stayed too long. The sun is sticking around a little longer each day. Is that green grass I spot? Did I just hear a motorcycle a block over going through the gears? Yes! Spring is here and with it, the MotoGP season is upon us. 12 teams. 23 riders. All vying for the top spot on the podium. But only one will be crowned MotoGP Champion! Let's take a look at the teams and riders who we will be following like a lost puppy throughout the year! 12. AVINTIA RACING - Loris Baz and Hector Barbera are the riders. Most recently, Barbera broke his collarbone at press time but is expected to  be fit for the season opener in Qatar. If both riders stay healthy this team could really shake some things up in GP, especially Barbera. Watch for Baz to have a better than expected campaign. A healthy Baz is a always in contention for a top 10, maybe even a top 6.
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11. PULL & BEAR ASPAR TEAM - Riders are Alvaro Bautista and Karel Abraham. It is Bautista who will be the one to watch this year. Riding the 2016 Desmocedici, Bautista has impressed this offseason. Reuniting with his former team that he won the 125cc Championship in 2006. So far this seems to be a match made in heaven. Look for Bautista to possibly take a podium this year and consistent presence in the top 8. 10. TEAM ESTRELLA GALICIA MARC VDS RACE TEAM - Riders are Jack Miller and Tito Rabat. This team is poised for another breakout year behind rising superstar Miller. While Rabat is nursing injuries and struggling, teammate Miller has announced his presence by winning a MotoGP Race last year. This year he looks to add to that momentum with consistent top 5 finishes. 9. PRAMAC DUCATI - Riders are Scott Redding and Danilo Petrucci. The best racing on this team will be between
PULL & BEAR ASPAR TEAM
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T. DUCATI FACTORY
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APRILIA
teammates. Petrucci won out in a battle of teammates to see who would get to ride the 2017 Desmocedici. That seemed to piss off Redding and if last year is any indication these two will not hesitate to do what it takes to gain a podium even if that means a teammate stands in the way. 8. TECH3 - Riders are Johann Zarco and Jonas Folger. This team has impressed all preseason, especially Folger. I expect Rookie of the Year honors to come from this team.The future has never looked brighter for Tech3. 7. APRILIA - Riders are Sam Lowes and Aleix Esparago. Aprilia looks to have found some solid footing in MotoGP at the end of last year. They have two new riders but watch for Esparago to get the most of his machine. He's a fiery veteran who has always done more with less. As far as MotoGP goes, he's the guy who shows up at last call and still goes home with an eight or nine! Not too shabby. 6. LCR HONDA - The lone rider is Cal Crutchlow. Crutch is literally a one man wrecking machine! He won twice last year and managed to be a father. Dude is golden like Pony Boy. Look for Crutch to make a serious run for the championship this year! 5. KTM - Riders are Pol "That Good Looking Bastard" Esparago and Bradley Smith. It's a new team, so who knows? Their times in testing weren't that bad but... It's KTM and they don't half ass anything. It also adds a little fuel to the fire that the President of Operations came out and said "we don't like Honda!" They just kicked a roaring lion and GP fans everywhere will love it! Young riders, great company, kick ass livery. KTM, glad to have you aboard, now be ready for Repsol Honda on the track to say, "What's that shit you was talking, Homie?!" KTM... You've arrived!
YAMAHA FACTORY
4. SUZUKI - Riders are Andreas Iannone and Alex Rins. Look for Iannone to ride with an even bigger chip on his shoulder to prove to Ducati they made a mistake. I predict he will throw that Suzuki around the track like a two dollar whore in a cheap hotel room. He will definately get everything out of that Suzuki that can be had. I predict Ianonne will be in the running for a top 5 finish in GP with a possible long shot for the championship! Look for Rins to show up a little later to the party but his talent is immense. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 51
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
3. DUCATI FACTORY - Riders are Jorge Lorenzo and Andrea Dovizioso. Lorenzo is the Tupac of this team. "All Eyez on Me" should be his mantra for this year. Three time GP Champ doing a total 180 on a bike that ruins careers. While everyone will be watching the usual suspects, Lorenzo is a rider who everyone will be paying close attention to and if he figures out how to tame the beast... It could be over for the rest of the field! 2. YAMAHA FACTORY - Riders are Maverick Vinales and Valentino Rossi. This is no doubt the best team on the grid and on paper. Vinales literally has the whole world in his hands. He's led the time sheets in almost all the preseason testing and he is poised to make a legit run at the championship. Unfortunately for him, his teammate is the greatest, current motorcycle racer of all time and shows no sign of slowing down. This team is loaded like Nick Nolte at last call with a 357 Magnum in a holster. 1. REPSOL HONDA - Riders are Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa. While Yamaha has the better team, Honda has the best rider since Valentino Rossi. Fearless, confident and the scariest adjective to describe him, "still learning". The only thing that could possibly stop Marquez from reaching his full potential is his bike... is Marquez! Winning last year on a bike that only he could ride, Marquez acquired patience, but that patience has worn thin and if Honda doesn't fix those problems or cost Marquez a possible sixth title. It will be interesting to see how long the Champ stays around. I predict the 2017 will be the best season ever in MotoGP. New rivalries will be born, old ones will resume and all of us fans could not ask for more. The coming of the MotoGP Season springs eternal hope! 52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
REPSOL HONDA
SUZUKI
KTM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 53
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THE GRID
THEIR FAVORITE TRACKS We asked a few Pros about their favorite circuits that they have competed at. Here is what they had to say...
"Laguna Seca. I love that place. I love the atmosphere, the mystique and above all... The Cork Screw. It's my home track with my home fans. It's the race I enjoy most of the whole season. The track is very challenging. It's a short track with a very short lap time and no time to rest. The hardest 2 corners is Turn 1. It's 5th gear, blind, almost wide open. You have to be brave for that one. Also, love the Cork Screw, the most famous corner in all of racing. Just talking about it gets me excited and I look forward to going there this summer." - Nicky Hayden.
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"My favorite track is Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain. In addition to having an amazing layout, this track means a lot to me because I competed there in the 2003 World Mini GP when I was 13 years old. Getting to ride there again 10 years later on a Moto2 bike was a dream come true." - Josh Herrin.
"I've always really enjoyed Road America in Wisconsin. With 3 top gear straights and hard braking everywhere, it's a track you can really grind out. And it promotes great racing. That time of year, it's always really green. And the track food is great." - Josh Hayes. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57
THE GRID: FAVORITE TRACKS
"My favorite track can change depending on my recent results at each place... But I like Barber a lot because its got some up and down sections I like, even though I had the biggest injuries of my career there in 2008 when I got taken out... Including losing my pinky. I've also won a handful of races there also. I usually do good there. I like Miller Motorsports Campus or whatever they call it now because of the fast flowing sections and it's big and I like that." - Roger Lee Hayden.
"My favorite race track is Mugello. Mugello suits my riding style. Its very fast and flowing. I can't wait till I can ride there again this July. I have had great battles there." - Damian Jigalov. 58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID
THE NUMBERS EVERY MONTH, WE ASK PROS AND AMATEURS WHY THEY CHOSE THE NUMBERS THAT IDENTIFY THEM ON THE GRID...
BRADLEY SMITH
#38
"So in Alberto Puig’s academy usually the rider takes his number to world championship if he progresses. Mine was 32 but Fabrizio Lai had that in 2006. My dads number was 88 and I used that as my motocross number so we just merged the 2, and got 38!" 60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
IMAGES: COURTESY OF BRADLEY SMITH SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 61
TAKE YOUR RIDE TO THE TRACK!
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62 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM www.N2TD.org N2 Track Days, LLC. P.O. Box 27326 Philadelphia, PA 19118 | e: info@n2td.org | p: +1 (855) 263-0200
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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
KATIE MALONE
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Katie Malone HOMETOWN: Denver, CO AGE: 25 years old. SERIES: MRA, CVMA, USBA ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Second place in LOR Championship. First place in LOR Round 7 MRA series and a couple of second and third place finishes. GOALS: My goals for the 2017 season are to place top 5 in both NOVU and NOVO (novice classes MRA), beat all of my personal best lap times from 2016 and maintain second place in the Ladies of the Rockies championship. Also, I want to continue to travel to other states to race at their tracks, meet new people, and grow as a racer. And of course, earn my expert plates for next year! DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Riding is always in my heart, in the back of my mind, it cannot be switched off or toned down because it is my true passion.
IMAGES: KATIE MALONE SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
WORDS//IMAGES: BRIAN AND JULIAN GLASCOE 68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
M A E G A N B O W E R S : EVERYBODY AIN'T BUILT FOR THIS SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 69
THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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T
his month we decided to take our readers to Nashville as we covered a young female racer that has an unlimited amount of potential when it comes to motorcycle drag racing. My first time seeing her in action was at the 2015 Manufacturers Cup Finals in Valdosta, GA. And when she wasn’t racing, she was at the ready line watching her competition. When you see her, you see a young student of the game that has the mentality of a veteran racer. But you may not recognize her fire and that desire to always try and gain that competitive edge. The reason is because Maegan Bowers has been around motorcycles all of her life and that is all she knows.  SBI: What inspired you to begin racing motorcycles and where does the inspiration come from to continue doing it? MB: My father introduced motorcycles and the racetrack to me at an extremely young age. I was inspired to race motorcycles when I noticed there weren't many female drag racers in the sport. At my home track in the early 2000s, we had two female racers. I was so ecstatic to see a woman competing in the sport that was a predominately male sport. This was uncommon to me. When I traveled to other events, I hardly saw any females competitors racing. I knew then that racing was what I wanted to do. I was about 14 when I told my father I wanted to start racing. My exact words to him were, "I want to drag race and I want to be a known female drag racer." He took my passion serious and built my first drag bike which was a 1987 GSXR 1100 known as "Miss Hello Kitty". I'm inspired to continue my journey in racing because it's a part of who I am. I love going to different events and interacting with people who share the same interest as I do in motorcycles. When I go racing, it's not just about going to race, this is a time that I also get to see my race family, friends and supporters.  SBI: It makes it easy when you have the right people in your corner and you have a good supporting cast around you. Tell us about your SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 71
THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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MAEGAN BOWERS
BIKE: 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa HOME TRACK: Music City Raceway (Goodlettesville, TN) SHOP: Quinn O’s Bike Sales & Service SPONSORS: Quinn Orand, Larry Phillips at HARDCORE Cycles, Lee Tomlinson at Lee’s Cycle Shop
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
current 2017 sponsors and the bike you’re racing this season? MB: I have an amazing support system. Each of my sponsors play an important role in my racing career. Quinn Orand, Larry Phillips and Lee Tomlinson are my sponsors. Quinn Orand and Lee Tomlinson are the masterminds behind the bike. Larry has supplied me with a HARDCORE swingarm, chain guard and fender hugger. Last year we decided to beautify MIDNITE. That's my bike's name. I powder coated my GSXR 1000 wheels pink and added pink stickers. We added a led headlight and tail light this season and also 74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
upgraded to a Hardcore swingarm and fender hugger. In addition to what’s on the bike, full stock motor, true hand clutch, aluminum subframe, lithium battery, EK DRZ2 chain to name a few. SBI: My favorite quote is, “Everybody ain’t built for this!” And I tell everyone that there aren’t enough ladies in motorcycle racing period… It’s almost at the point where you can count them with both hands. Not everyone has the passion and can make that transition from riding in the street or in a bike club to taking it to a track of some sort. Explain your passion for racing and tell us what
keeps you racing? MB: I have always had a passion for motorcycles. I grew up around them. I have been traveling with my dad and watching him race his Promod for over 17 years. I picked up a lot from him and others while supporting him. When I was a little girl my dad and I used to practice on my launch. He would line me up on my Honda 50cc dirt bike. I would get into position and wait until he dropped his towel to take off. I would keep making him practice with me until the sunset. That was at age 4… Now I’m 22 and I still have the same drive as when I was a little girl. The legacy of my dad, Pinkey Bowers and my boyfriend, Jimmy Petway keep me racing. Racing is very dear to my heart and I love the adrenaline rush and my fans keep me motivated. I’m in my prime and I’m
young and right now I feel that I can accomplish any and everything. SBI: What goals do you have in place for the upcoming racing season and where can we find you at in 2017? MB: My goals for the upcoming season would be to attempt to gain more sponsorships. I’m constantly practicing because I want to become more consistent and bring home those victories that will make my sponsors and supporters proud. This season you can catch me at the Best of Both Worlds, NHRO Series, Kings of Grudge, AGR, MANCUP Series, King of the Hill, 22nd Annual Shoot Out at Union Hill, and 7-11 at Huntsville Dragway.
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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
LARRY KOREN
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Larry Koren HOMETOWN: Toledo, OH AGE: 28 years old. SPONSORS: Speshi Racing and Clothing SERIES: NHRA ACCOMPLISHMENTS: In the fall of 2015 we held the fastest time slip for the S1000RR in the 1/4 and 1/8 mile, for a short period of time. GOALS: To have the fastest S1000RR again! DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: To run the fastest time possible on a simple setup and to show that the average person can do the same.
IMAGES: COURTESY OF LARRY KOREN
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520 Steel Q/A Kit OEM Replacement Kit Driven Steel Sprockets 520/525/530 RK Chain
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Live chat with us at RKExcelAmerica.com Tel: 760.732.3161 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 81
THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP
KYLE SMITH
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Kyle Smith HOMETOWN: Toronto, Ontario, Canada AGE: 26 years old. SPONSORS: North York Ink. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Being asked to ride in Debikerboyz Blocko Event in my 2nd year of stunting. GOALS: I'd like to travel across Canada and the US to ride with as many people as I can. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE:
Riding! It's what keeps me motivated, focused and sane.
IMAGES: JESSICA VITRO
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THE LIFE
THE LION'S DEN
WORDS//IMAGES: LION JAMES 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
HOW I GOT OVER M
ost rock climbers don’t dwell on or even celebrate the first time they reached the top of their first climb years after they’ve summited expert level elevations. Fighters don’t reimagine their first TKO once their professional record reaches 23 and 0. Dancers don’t smile while performing a flawless Flamenco because of that one time 6 years ago that they perfected the two step. When you’ve progressed in your sport, trade, craft, hobby, passion or pastime and become proficient you will always appreciate the first steps that got you there however for most they were mere stepping stones towards where you are currently. For me, every time I enjoy a great motorcycle ride, reach a new riding milestone or two wheel achievement I am immediately transported back to that first time on September 9th, 2010 when I drug a knee during a track day. When you ride the track on a motorcycle whether occasionally like myself, regularly like many track day organization members, semi pro like in the CCS rankings or professionally like many of the racers who’s images, stories and input grace the pages of this very publication on a monthly basis, the goal is to push yourself further in your technique, talent, skill and performance. That takes the form most often in higher speeds, shorter lap times, tighter cornering, more efficient use of the tools at your disposal and ultimately being the first around the track. When all of these things come together your form will improve
and in an effort to achieve this dragging a knee on the asphalt while navigating curves is an exciting and often times necessary byproduct. Much like getting faster around the track is a byproduct of improved technique so too is knee dragging. Dragging a knee on the track or “getting over” is an often bragged about achievement in and of itself but many experienced track day rider coaches or control riders will tell you that it will come easier if you focus on other techniques of proper riding and stop trying to get your knee down. This particular track day in 2010 was not my first track day and by then I was pretty familiar with riding the track and the track I was riding in particular (New Jersey Motorsports Park’s 1.9 mile Lightning Raceway). Despite my previous track riding experience I decided to participate in the beginner group as opposed to the intermediate group. The day’s riding groups consisted of Intro, Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. The Intro riders were made to navigate the track following rider coaches, attended classroom sessions after each track session and had a different set of rules to follow than those of us in Beginner and Intermediate. Those in the Advanced rider group were a whole different animal than the rest of us all together. These riders rode as differently from us as sea snails swam from sharks. Beginner and Intermediate had relaxed rules, no classroom sessions and the control riders out on the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87
THE LIFE: THE LION'S DEN track during our sessions were there more or less to our little private club of advanced beginners, I found monitor and offer assistance, pointers and feedback. myself pushing harder, rolling on the throttle more and getting further off the bike and onto the balls of my Unfortunately I cannot remember the name of the feet. Looking deeper thru the turns and planning my control riders who my group went out with throughout next move to scream up the front straight faster than I the day but one of them in particular was very helpful had ever before, it happened. Not particularly trying and I will forever be appreciative to him for his advice to or even initially realizing it was happening when that day. There were two other riders in my beginner it occurred, I drug my knee It happened so perfectly group that I had known and ridden with on the street and naturally that it wasn’t until I looked down to see prior to the track day and we three must’ve shown one how close the asphalt was to my head and felt the of the control riders something that compelled him to vibration and heat in my right knee that I knew it was take us aside and focus on our riding only. He took happening. Jolted by equal parts panic, excitement us three out separately from the rest of the riders in and elation I adjusted my posture to bring the bike up the Beginner group, kept us on the track for longer from what felt like horizontal on the ground so I could sessions than the rest and relaxed the rules about passing for us three. After a few sessions he pulled me aside and asked me what it was I wanted to get out of the day and I told him that I wanted to improve my form entering and exiting corners, make cleaner passes instead of just finding a way around those in front of me and lastly, and if I’m being honest most importantly to me at the time, dragging my knees. He took the time to explain to me how to drag a knee and what I needed to do in order to improve overall. I remember how he would lead us out into the track and tell us to watch what he did the first lap, mimic what he did the second lap and on the third lap do it ourselves so he could watch and give us feedback. Each time we did this his reaction and feedback was bigger and bigger which was very encouraging. It got to the point in the day that the three of us in my little sub group were passing other beginner riders on the inside, lapping Intro riders and making faster and faster laps than we had earlier in the day. I noticed during one session that our control rider was no longer sitting back relaxed on his bike watching us while touring the track with only one hand on the controls and had to actually keep up, so to speak. The sessions became more about keeping up with him and getting faster than simply trying to follow his lines and avoiding punting the slower riders in front of us as we overtook them in the turns and straights. While entering a sweeping banked right hand curve before the long front straight on the track during one session, doing a very good job at keeping up with our control rider and challenging the other two riders in 88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
celebrate in my helmet before doing it again. Next lap same turn on the track my knee was down again and the only thing I felt was excitement. Hugging the corner, passing other riders on the inside and with no concern for what the speedometer read I was in my element and having the time of my life. I know I am an adult and at the time I wasn’t seeking anyone’s approval or praise but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t extremely proud to get the biggest congratulatory fist pump from my control rider I had ever seen in any previous track day or would ever see during any since.
put to use and work in conjunction with what you can already know come together to perform at a higher level. This is what happened this day. This is what we accomplished. I didn’t just drag a knee, I didn’t just shorten up my lap time a bit and I didn’t just impress the control riders. I got better. My riding improved more that day than I would realize until much later. I further developed my riding skill and boosted my confidence exponentially. Seeking the education and experience of a track day is how I got better. Listening to the coaching of the control riders is how I got faster. Putting all that together is It’s a great feeling to accomplish something you how I “got over.” worked for and to see all the instruction you received
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
D-Chill LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: General Manager. YEARS RIDING: 2 years. RIDING STYLE: Street and Stunt Rider. BIKE/S OWNED: Honda CBR1000RR. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Custom paint job with my fallen friend's name who passed away! R.I.P REEK! FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My jacket! MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Philadelphia Shut Down the City Ride.
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Gerald King LOCATION: Atlanta, GA OCCUPATION: Founder of GKSPORT. YEARS RIDING: 3 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2005 Suzuki GSXR1000. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Full Arata race exhaust. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: GKSPORT Leather Polo. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: In 2016, riding with the Street Pirates to Rick Ross' pool party on the 4th of July.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Daniel "Blackbeard" Cuccia LOCATION: Stormville, NY OCCUPATION: State DOT, Motorcycle Tuner, Mechanic, Trackday Coach. YEARS RIDING: 10 years. RIDING STYLE: Track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2013 Kawasaki ZX10R, 2012 Yamaha R6 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Custom ECU Dyno tune and suspension. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Heroic gloves. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The ones where a rider thanks me for all that I have taught them throughout the Trackday.Â
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Spaze LOCATION: Columbia, MD OCCUPATION: Barber. YEARS RIDING: 10 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2006 Kawasaki ZX10R FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: ECU Flash. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Alpinestars Boots. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: When my son got a pocket bike and we got to ride next to each other in a parking lot. Best feeling to see your son wanting to be like his father
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
DRAFTING
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: DRAFTING
W
e had just taken the white flag, and I was right where I wanted to be. It was the AMA 750 Supersport class at Daytona almost 15 years ago, but those high banks were always good for the same thing back then that are good for now – dramatic finishes. Coming into the first horseshoe I was right behind Tommy Hayden and Lee Acree, with a gaggle of riders including Steve Rapp, Josh Hayes, Vincent Haskovec and more. Tommy Hayden was amazingly at the front on his Kawasaki 636 in a field of 750cc bikes, partially due to the fact that soft tire he was able to run on the “little” bike giving him fantastic drives out of and mostly due to his outlandish talent. Tommy’s bike was down on power, but when he was in the draft he could sit behind our 750’s and keep up on the banking. I had raced Daytona many times and the one thing I knew is that it’s almost always a bad idea to lead on the last lap out of the chicane. I learned from both by own experience and from watching master at drafting strategy like Miguel Duhamel that when the race was tight that the rider in 3rd or 4th coming out of the chicane was often the winner. You just had to be close enough to get the benefit of the draft and it didn’t matter if your name was Hayden or not, there was nothing you could do. Luckily for Tommy (and unfortunately for us), he was able to put a lapped rider between himself and 100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: DRAFTING
the pack of us just behind him in the 2nd to last turn before the banking. When combining this with his incredible drive off the last infield corner, he gapped the field enough that we couldn’t catch his draft before the chicane. As I sized up the gap between us and the little Kawasaki, I decided to make an unconventional move and passed Acree (and a lapped rider) on the brakes into the chicane. My thought was that if I dove deep enough on the brakes I might be the only one to catch Tommy’s draft and if I got lucky the rest of riders in the battle would get stuck behind the lapper. As it turned out, Acree and Rapp also got through and it became a 4 way dogfight. I left the chicane 4 bike lengths ahead of Rapp and Acree but 8 lengths behind Hayden. Acree 102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
used the draft to pass both me and Rapp and the momentum carried him right up to Hayden… who managed to hang on to win by a mere 3 inches at the stripe. If the finish line was another 10 feet down the track, the results would have been different! The physics behind drafting is very simple, and it all comes to understanding the forces that slow your bike down. The basic formula for power is P = F x V (Power = Force x Velocity). There are hundreds of little places that your bike experiences frictional losses, but for the sake of this discussion we will just consider the factors of rolling and aerodynamic resistance. When you leave the starting line, virtually all the power from the
engine pushes your bike forward. As soon as your speed begins to increase, rolling friction begins to fight against f o r w a r d acceleration. R o l l i n g friction exerts a constant force on the m o t o rc ycl e, and the amount of power needed to overcome this force increases in a linear fashion with respect to speed. In other words, if rolling friction consumes 1hp at 20 mph, it
ends up as ½ Cd A Rho V3. The power to overcome this force is the cube of velocity, which is huge! To figure out what this looks like, I did some research to get numbers for Cd and A for an average motorcycle. These are just ballparks, so please take the numbers with a grain of salt. Assuming that a rider stays in the same tucked position the whole, time the Power needed to overcome Aerodynamic Drag is roughly as shown below. As your motorcycle approaches get over 100mph, aerodynamics make a much bigger difference than outright horsepower when it comes to determining top speed! Power consumed by drag on a sample bike with a tucked in rider 10 mph = 0.1 Hp 60 mph = 0.7 Hp 100 mph = 27.9 Hp 150 mph = 93.0 Hp 200mph = 219.5 Hp
Motorcycles do not punch large enough holes in the air that allow a trailing rider to be completely shielded from the wind. However, there is a significant reduction (we’ll call it 20% for the sake of discussion) in aerodynamic drag when consumes 10 hp at 200 mph. you are sitting in the draft of a rider in front of you. At 100mph this is theoretical 20% is like a As speed increases, the power consumed by 5hp boost and at 150mph this is like an 18 hp wind resistance increases at a much faster rate. boost! I have personally seen trap speeds that The formula for the force exerted by aerodynamic are almost 10mph higher than what I can do by drag is as follows: myself when I catch a big draft. It’s important to have a plan when you try to utilize the draft. First and foremost, if you are at a track day (or on the street) DO NOT DRAFT! In order to get the full benefit of a draft you need to ride very close to the rider in front of you and be directly in his wheel tracks. This kind of riding should be confined strictly to experienced racers The power consumed Aerodynamic Drag is F x on the racetrack who understand the need to V. Since Fd = (½ Cd A Rho V2) x V, the formula be completely smooth and predictable around Fd = ½ Cd x A x Rho x V2 Cd = Drag Coefficient. This number is a constant A = Frontal Area. This number changes depending on how well you tuck in. Smaller Area = Less Drag Rho = Air Density. This number is a constant V = Velocity. This is the #1 factor in Aerodynamic Drag
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: DRAFTING
each other. Riders unaware of what is going on prevent contact with the other rider (who may still behind them can surprise you with unexpected have his front tire right behind your footpeg as moves, and high speed collisions have severe you apply the brake lever). consequences. One final thought on drafting is that timing is At a place like Daytona, you can start to pick up important. From the chicane to start/finish at the draft as much as 5-6 bike lengths behind the Daytona there is a lot of time. Riders who make rider in front of you. The closer you get, the greater their move too early are often re-drafted at the line. the effect of the draft will be so you need to be The last lap at Daytona is the one place that I will aware that you will gain ground more rapidly as sometimes take a peek over my shoulder on the the gap closes. When in doubt, pull around and last lap. If it’s just me and one other rider, I’ll sit make the pass early when you are learning. You 3-4 bike lengths behind the lead rider until we get need to be especially careful when drafting at all the way around the bank and start heading the end of a straight and approaching a braking down the front straight. If there is a rider (or riders) zone. In these cases, be sure to pull out of the draft on your tail – then roll the Daytona dice and make with plenty of time to both get around the rider in your best call. As the story at the start of this article front of you and to get your bike back straight up tells, sometimes you win – sometimes you lose, but and down before applying the brakes. NOTE: that’s the beauty of racing at a fast track! Never sweep back over in front of the rider you just passed. Most riders will draft to the inside, Until next time... Ride fast. Ride safe! and it is the responsibility of the passing rider to 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE NEW ISH REV’IT • SPITFIRE GLOVES The Spitfire gloves feature a goatskin and air mesh cowhide outer shell with double adjustment and cuff closures for proper fitment and comfort. Protection is provided via TPU hard shell knuckles, little finger protectors and double hard shell palm sliders. The race fit and style of the Spitfire make it a choice selection for street or track application. Sizes: XS - XYL Colors: Black, White Price: $239.99 Contact: http://revitsport.com
DRIVEN RACING • UNIVERSAL SCREW KIT This kit includes 4 zinc plated counter sunk M6 screws, 4 M6 nuts and 4 washers. The washers are CNC machined and anodized. Available in a selection of colors, this kit has many uses, from holding bits together to keeping your license plate in place. BELL POWERSPORTS • STAR HELMET The shell of the Bell Star is a composite of Aramid, fiberglass and carbon fiber while the interior liner is made of X Static material. X Static provides protection from bacteria and odors. Weighing in at 3.3 pounds, the Star’s cheek pads are held in place by magnets that allow for easy removal for washing or in the event that the helmet needs to be removed after an accident. You have to give it to Bell for thinking of the riders that wear glasses. The Star is eyewear compatible, equipped with pockets for the arms of glasses woven directly into the liner. Sizes: S - XXXL Prices: $449.95 - $499.95 Contact: http://bellhelmets.com 108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Colors: Black, Blue, Red, Gold, Silver Price: $12.95 Contact: http://drivenracing.com
WOODCRAFT CFM • ADJUSTABLE REARSETS FOR THE 2017 YAMAHA R6 Woodcraft’s newly designed rear sets for the 2017 Yamaha R6 are simply one of the best on the market. Inside the box, you’ll find components made from 6061 T6 aluminum. The kit includes eccentric foot and toe pegs, an integrated brake heel guard, an integrated rear master cylinder mount and an updated brake pedal assembly. The Woodcraft standard shift adjustable rearsets was inspired by the all new R6 but also fits the 2006 through 2016 R6, as well. Price: $449.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com ICON MOTOSPORTS • FIELD ARMOR STREET KNEE Add a layer of protection underneath your favorite riding jeans with these knee protectors from ICON. Featuring D3O impact protection, injection molded knee caps and wicking lining, the Field Armor Street Knee set is a must have for today’s street rider. Price: $65.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com SCORPION EXHAUST • SERKET TAPER CARBON FIBER EXHAUST FOR THE CBR 1000RR
This half system for the Honda CBR 1000RR, model years 2014 to 2016 features a lifetime warranty and a crash damage guarantee. The crash damage guarantee provides you with the opportunity to replace your muffler at 50% of the retail price in the event of a crash and that certain criteria is met. Featuring a fit and ride installation, the Scorpion Serket drops pounds and boosts power and performance. Price: $1,199.00 Contact: http://tawperformance.com
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THE NEW ISH ALPINESTARS • MOTEGI V2 LEATHER SUIT Alpinestars continues there long line of quality and impressive track wear with their new Motegi V2 Leather Suit. Built with full grain leather, the suit features external shoulder protection as well as internal CE armor in the elbows, knees and rear shoulders. The suit is equipped with foam padding in the chest, hips, coccyx and upper arms, providing greater comfort. The speed hump is formed for maximum air flow over the rider at pace. The Motegi suit is packed with features for performance and all for under $1000.00. Colors: Black/White/Red, Black/White/Red/Yellow, Black/White/Red, Black/White/Blue/Yellow Sizes: 46 - 60 Price: $999.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com
LIGHTECH • REAR RACE STAND Made from steel and powder coated, the Lightech Rear Race Stand features rubberized wheels with proper bearing for smooth motion. The stand has a universal fit since you can adjust the width of the lifters to accommodate a number bike models. Price: $148.80 Contact: http://www.lightech.it
JOE ROCKET • CYNTEK GLOVE
The Cyntek is a leather and textile hybrid glove equipped with injected molded split knuckle armor for increased mobility and dexterity. The palm has a leather construction with a padded section just above the wrist. The Cyntek gloves are great for street riders as the weather breaks and the temperatures begin to rise. Colors: Empire, Street Style Hi-Viz Yellow, Street Style Hi-Viz Orange Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $49.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com 110 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
WOODCRAFT CFM • CLUTCH LEVER GUARD Protect your clutch lever when things get a little too close for comfort, as it often does in racing. Install a clutch lever guard from Woodcraft. Made from durable plastic affixed to a CNC machined aluminum base, they have great application for the street as well. Available in several colors. Colors: Black, Blue, Green, Yellow, Red, Silver, Orange Price: $109.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com MOTO D RACING • UNIVERSAL DIGITAL GEAR INDICATOR Knowing what gear you’re in comes in handy when analyzing your riding so you can start to dial in those lap times. While most late model bikes come equipped with gear indicators, if you have converted a prior model street bike into a track machine, most likely you are missing this bit. The Universal Digital Gear Indicator from Moto D features a backlit LCD display with six colors to select from. It’s easy to install and uses a microprocessor control for speed and accuracy. Price: $129.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com
PUIG RACING • WINDSHIELD FOR THE TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE
Composed of 3mm high impact acrylic, the Puig Racing Windshield for the 2016 and 2017 Triumph Speed Triple is available in several shades: dark smoke, light smoke, black and clear. Measuring 7 inches higher than the OEM screen, the Puig screen includes specific hardware for a spot on and hassle free installation. Colors: Dark Smoke, Light Smoke, Black, Clear Price: $135.35 Contact: http://puigusa.com
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THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM SIDI • ROARR BOOTS
Suitable for both street and track performance the Sidi Roarr Boots have many of the same features found on the higher grade Sidi boots. Double stitched in high stress areas, the boots are made with a technomicro material as a foundation.
stability is supported by an anti twist external brace while a shock absorbing air vents, TPU heel cup, nylon inner sole with removable arch support pad provide tremendous comfort.
Sizes: 8.5 - 12.5 Colors: White/Red/Black, Black/Silver, Stability and protection is provided by the Black/White Vertebra bracing system, Techno 3 adjustable calf Price: $295.00 system and an elastic panel that works with the Contact: http://motonation.com entry zipper for an easy and improved fit. Ankle 112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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STAFF STUFF DAINESE • LAGUNA SECA PERFORATED ONE PIECE LEATHER SUIT Allan Lane
felt like I was wearing premium second skin. The next day, at the track, even with my back protector in place, the suit took form to my body shape. I could move, walk, squat, sit, etc… With no problem or discomfort. The first session came and I was in love with this suit. If there is such a thing as reverse break in time, the Laguna Seca fits the bill. The fabric expansion sections allow for great mobility, especially When my first track came around, I put the suit on and it in the inner and lower thighs, lower hamstrings and calves, seemed fine until I actually started putting in some laps. I as well as the under and inner arm. The suit is amazing and I realized that my mobility wasn’t as great as it should have truly struggled to find something negative to say other than been. Trying to stretch out a suit while riding your first track it didn't come in solid black. day definitely diminishes the overall experience. I managed and wound up having a pretty decent day. What I learned that Every track event since then, the suit felt more and more day about suit fitment is that it is key… It’s one less thing like an extension of me, like second skin. The quality and for you to think about while you’re focusing on your riding. construction of the Laguna Seca is right on the level with the grade of high performance that the suit offers. It looks Last year, I picked up a Dainese Laguna Seca Perforated One good and makes me look good while offering the much needed Piece Leather suit about a week before the opening track protection that is needed for on track activities. day of the season. Due to my schedule, I really didn't have time to engage in my typical suit break in rituals. The night www.dainese.com before the track day, I donned the suit and mulled around my abode like Batman wandering the Bat Cave. It honestly Rating: 6 (out of 6) I remember the first time that I wore a suit, almost 15 years ago, as I prepared for my first track day. I heard all of the tricks to break in the suit so that it would be comfortable. I did everything from wearing it to cut the grass, stretching and just chilling around the house. And of course, I watched what I was eating so that the suit would fit.
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