SportBikes Inc Magazine March 2019

MARCH 2019 VOL 9 ISSUE 6

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

PAOLO CIABATTI

ducati

FORZA

Technical Partner Developed with

Professional rider on a closed course.

PERFECT

THE

RIDE

Discover the new Ducati model line

See the bikes up close during the Season Op

Participate in the Ducati Season Opening and meet the ‘stars’ of the motor Hypermotard 950 and the entire Ducati Scrambler family. Go to duca 2 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM Ducati dealership.| MARCH 2019

ducati.com

T

e-up.

pening events, March 22nd - 24th.

rcycle season: Panigale V4R, Multistrada 1260 Enduro, ati.com and scramblerducati.com to locate your nearest MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 3

CONTENTS

MARCH 2019 - VOLUME 9, ISSUE 6 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14

14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46 46 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=76 76 THE INSIDE LINE - By Devonne Duerbaum http://issuu.com/action/page?page=84 84 THE LION'S DEN - By Lion James http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 92 RIDING WHILE STRAPPED - By Allan Lane http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98 98 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=104 104 THE SUM OF ALL PARTS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=110 110 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=116 116 THE NEW ISH

FEATURED RIDER: LOGAN NYDEGGER http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98 PAGE 98

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FE ATURING:

TESTED AND CERTIFIED ACCORDING TO EU STANDARD: prEN 17092-2:2017 CL ASS A A A

RIDEICON.COM

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5

FEATURES

MARCH 2019 - VOLUME 9, ISSUE 6

PAOLO CIABATTI: DUCATI FORZA

28

THE INSIDE LINE: MY TRACK DAY PREP

76

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=84

RIDING WHILE STRAPPED: CARRY SELECTION

92

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=110

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=28

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=76

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92

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MOTOGP WITH B.T.:INJURIES,

DUCS IN A ROW & THE OLD MAN

46

THE LION'S DEN: SIGNS

84

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: PRIORITIES

110

SPECS;

• 1.0 TO 1.2MM COWHIDE LEATHER • COMFORTABLE RELAXED FIT • POCKETS FOR OPTIONAL ARMOR AT THE SHOULDERS, ELBOWS AND BACK • REMOVABLE QUILTED FULL SLEEVE LINER • 2 ZIP HAND POCKETS • 5 INSIDE UTILITY POCKETS • VARIABLE FLOW™ VENTILATION SYSTEM FRONT AND BACK • HIGH DENSITY PADDING IN ELBOWS & SHOULDERS • ADJUSTABLE WAIST & CUFFS • YKK® ZIPPERS THROUGHOUT • COMFORT NEOPRENE EDGE ON COLLAR • SUBTLE EMBROIDERED TONE ON TONE BADGING

BLACK / RED

BLACK / YELLOW

BLACK / GREY

AVAILABLE IN SIZES; SM TO 3XL MSRP STARTING @

OLD SCHOOL 2.0 BLACK / RED SHOWN WITH RPHA-11 PRO & V-SPORT GLOVE

299.99

$

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 7

STAFF

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

EDITORIAL

ART & DESIGN

Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com

Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com

Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com

Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com

Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com

Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com

Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Devonne Duerbaum devonne@sportbikesincmag.com

Cover Photography: Andrew Gosling Contributing Photographers: Andrew Gosling Brian J Nelson Stacey Lane Lion James MotoGP.com

Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com

SportBikes Inc Magazine - March 2019 Volume 9, Issue 6 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2019 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 9

FEATURE STORY

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PAOLO CIABATTI

ducati

FORZA PAGE 46

PAGE 28

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=28 MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 11

FROM THE EDITOR

JASON NONEMAKER, CEO OF 10 DESIGNS, INC.

W

alking around any international motorcycle racing paddock, such as MotoGP or WorldSBK reminds me of the ride at Disney World, “Its a Small World, After All.” In an international paddock, you’ll hear some of the most beautiful languages and accents, see and meet some of the most interesting people, and depending on your access, you may even get to taste some of the most delicious foods from all around the globe… mostly European, but you get my drift.

family bonds. Despite the fact that many of us only see each other once or twice or year at the U.S. rounds, we stay connected. And when we reunite, we pick up from where we left off, without missing a beat.

It’s a beautiful experience and a blissful realization. For the duration of the race weekend, for those three days, everyone is unified under the banner of motorcycle racing. The entire atmosphere of the paddock is saturated with positivity. It’s amazing that so many different people from so many different walks of life, from all over the globe can coexist in peaceful harmony, give or take an asshole or two. Our world is densely populated and is vastly diverse. However, motorcycle racing reminds me that it is truly a small world after all.

United by the love of motorcycles, the GP or WorldSBK paddock takes our global racing community and scales it down into a weekend of racing, festivities, social engagements and parties. A race weekend is the best time on the planet. In ten plus years, I have never had a bad time, even when it rains. In those ten plus years, I’ve been introduced to individuals from all over the world. Some of Best, those introductions sparked friendships. Most Allan of those friendships blossomed into brilliant allan@sportbikesincmag.com 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

USING A RACETRACK AS A LIVING LABORATORY

As a recognised long-standing major motorsport player, Motul benefits from the world’s best laboratory in the most extreme racing conditions.

At the Isle of Man TT, you must fully trust your machine around bumpy and winding public roads at 330km/h.

Honda has chosen Motul to lubricate their racing engines: a reward for our ingenuity and performances.

Recognised by many teams worldwide as the best racing engine oil, the 300V has inspired a wide range of engine motor oil tailored to meet the most demanding constraints of daily rides.

Find the one you need on www.motul.com

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13

THE PRESS ROOM

INDUSTRY NEWS ZERO MOTORCYCLES LAUNCHES THEIR SR/F

The SR/F is spotlighted by the Cypher III operating system that offers an impressive rate of connectivity between bike and rider. Te Cypher III features bike status and alerts, a “find my bike” function, unexpected motion notifications, a charge monitoring function, a “ride data sharing” application, and system and software upgrade alerts. It’s important to note that the connectivity services are available at no charge for only the first two years from the time of purchase.

SR/F manufactures 140 foot-pounds of torque with 110 horses. The SR/F is equipped with a rapid charge system that works with Level 2 charge stations and allows for up to three independent charging modules. The SR/F could be charged from zero to ninety-five percent battery capacity within one hour. The street fighter style electric SR/F will be available in two models in a Seabright Blue or Boardwalk Red colorway when it hits dealer showrooms in Spring of 2019. The base SR/F with its 3 kW Rapid Charger will be They are powered by Zero’s new ZF75-10 motor priced at $18,995 and the SR/F premium model and ZF14.4 lithium-ion battery that delivers a with its 6 kW Rapid Charger will be priced at range up to 200 miles, on a single charge. The $20,995.

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DUCATI’S “PERFECT RIDE” SEASON OPENER NATIONAL DEALER EVENT Ducati dealers across the US will host a weekend-long open house to display the 2019 Ducati model lineup.

Attendees will get to check out the entire 2019 model lineup: Panigale V4 R, Diavel 1260, Multistrada 950 & 1260 Enduro, Hypermotard 950 and 950 SP as well as the complete Scrambler Ducati family. Dealers will provide light refreshments, special guests and fun activities for fellow Ducati owners and fans. The season opener weekend event is scheduled for March 22 through 24, 2019. Follow this LINK to find a participating dealer near you.

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15

THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS MV AGUSTA AND FORMULA 1 RACING CHAMPION COLLABORATE FOR THE LIMITED EDITION BRUTALE 800 RR LH44 MV Agusta and Lewis Hamilton have teamed up again to produce a limited edition Brutale 800 RR. Taking notes from their previous MV Agusta F4 LH44 limited edition, the Brutale 800RR LH44 uses the same colorway that consists of carbon metallic black, pearl shock red, and white while Hamilton’s racing number “44” and logo are displayed on both sides of the bike. Other prominent features include a blacked out ceramic exhaust, unique LH44 rim design and pearl shock red lever sets.

The bike is visually highlighted by carbon fiber side covers, fuel tank trim, front and rear

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fenders, and dashboard cover.

Produced in a limited run of 144 units, worldwide, the Brutale 800 RR LH44 has an MSRP of $25,944 and comes with a 3-year factor y warranty and two years of roadside assistance.

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 17

THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS SPORTBIKES INC MAGAZINE CELEBRATES 100 ISSUES The 100th issue of SportBikes Inc Magazine was celebrated in style at SMOKE Cigar Lounge in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia on February 17, 2019. Surrounded by friends and supporters, members of the SBI team revealed in the celebration of the centennial issue. Thank you to all of the clubs, riders, and friends… all a part of the #SBINATION for coming through and showing love. A special thank you goes out to the event sponsors ICON Motosports, D3o Labs and Hochstadter's Slow and Low Rock and Rye.

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THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS PUIG HI-TECH PARTS DEBUT THEIR DOWNFORCE SPOILERS FOR THE BMW S1000RR These new aerodynamic components have been designed to be perfectly i n t e g ra t e d i n t o t h e motorcycle fairing, in an optimal position and inclination to provide more downforce to the front section of the bike.

With them, as well as providing a more aggressive and racing look on the bike, the S1000RR (model years 2015 through 2019) improves on stability on braking and strong accelerations.

As a result of the Puig experience in developing accessories for the fairing and constant research, these new items follow the current trend of the aerodynamic designs applied on MotoGP

bikes. The new spoilers are made of 4mm High-Impact acrylic, with a rounded finished edge to ensure safety.

Puig supplies the spoilers in black color with two pairs of deflectors, in red and black so that the rider can personalize it. The mounting process is secure and reliable using standard tools and without mechanical knowledge.

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DOWNFORCE SPOILERS For latest sporbikes models

puigusa.com MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 21

THE PRESS ROOM

GRID NEWS ICON’S HYPERSPORT ONE PIECE RACE SUIT

ICON has debuted their longawaited ICON Hypersport suit. The Hypersport is the first suit to hit the US market that is certified to the new CE standard. Constructed of a 1.11.3mm TracSpec leather chassis, ICON Attack Fit with pre-curved arms and legs, reinforced perforation zones, and integrated TPU speed hump, shoulders, elbows and knee caps. The Hypersport includes a full suite of D3O impact protectors at the shoulders, elbow, back, hip and knee. Four-way stretch material and accordion paneling in the flex zones ensure a comfortable and contoured fit in a full tuck position. Neoprene wrists and ankles are designed for ease of use and reduced cuff bulk. The removable, washable liner allows you to keep your gear smelling fresh, even when you don’t.

The replaceable knee pucks round out the package. “ I CO N ’ s m u ch a n t i ci p a t e d Hypersport Suit delivers top shelf features at a very obtainable price.

The first race suit to be tested and certified to the new prEN 170922:2017 Class AAA CE garment standard. Generous perforation paneling, vented TPU hump, and copious amount of textile and accordion leather stretch paneling result in cool and comfortable suit for all different body types and bikes.” - Amanda Sundvor, ICON Motospor ts Marketing Communication Specialist.

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RENNIE SCAYSBROOK AND APRILIA TEAM UP TO TAKE ON THE PIKES PEAK HILL CLIMB Aprilia has announced that they will be competing in the 2019 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, relying on the skills and talents of Australian racer and moto-journalist, Rennie Scaysbrook.

Scaysbrook first ran the Pikes Peak Hill Climb in 2016, competing in the heavyweight class, and has finished on the podium every year since his debut.

Scaysbrook is only one of five riders in the history of the climb to finish the race in under 10 minutes.

The 4,720-foot climb race to the top of the mountain is composed of 156 corners and has a maximum elevation of 14,115 feet. Rennie Scaysbrook will pilot the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 in the heavyweight class in a single timed attempt on June 30, 2019.

DUNLOP REMAINS THE OFFICIAL TIRE SUPPLIER OF MOTOAMERICA MotoAmerica is sticking with Dunlop as the official tire supplier for the fifth year in a row. Based out of New York, the tire company has been with MotoAmerica since 2014.

“Our relationship with Dunlop is second to none. They’ve been with us since the start as the spec tire in all of our classes and we’re thrilled with our relationship and the technical support they have given us and continue to give us. Dunlop is quick to respond, and our needs fit perfectly with their needs. We want to continue to go faster and do it safer.

The race tires that Dunlop brings to the races continue to get better every year and it shows in our lap times.” - Wayne Rainey, MotoAmerica President.

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THE PRESS ROOM: GRID NEWS PIRELLI NOW OFFERS DIABLO SUPERBIKE SLICKS FOR SMALLER BIKES With the increased number of smaller displacement motorcycles coming to market and being raced, Pirelli has added new sizes in their high quality racing tire lineup.

The DIABLO Superbike SC1 compound tire is available in two new sizes that include a 110/70-17 front and 140/7017 rear sizes. The front tire has been designed for improved handling and grip, while the rear will continue to have the same feel as the current raceproven DIABLO Supercorsa tires that have been winning races and setting records across the United States.

SHARK HELMETS SIGNS AGREEMENT TO HOST THE FRENCH GP FOR 3 YEARS SHARK Helmets and Dorna Sports have announced a three year contract that places SHARK Helmets in the role of Title Sponsor for the French GP at the Le Mans Circuit. The contract changes the name of the event to the SHARK Helmets Grand Prix de France, beginning in the 2019 season and running through to 2021.

“We are thrilled to have SHARK Helmets on board as the title sponsor for the French Grand Prix. Their values match those of MotoGP perfectly. Le Mans is always one of the busiest and most energetic venues of the season and it’s great news for both us and the event to see such a company take top billing for the next three seasons of their home Grand Prix.” - Pau Serracanta, Managing Director of Dorna Sports.

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UPDATE ON THE MANDATORY WSBK AND MOTOGP 2019 FIM HELMET HOMOLOGATION The GP Commission and the WorldSBK Commission have extended the deadline for all riders to utilize FIM homologated helmets by riders to June 3, 2019. The original deadline was set for the opening rounds of the 2019 season. The extension is to allow the influx of helmet manufacturers time to get their helmets to get tested and certified to the required specs and standards. Until June 3, ECE, Snell, JIS and FRHPhe-01 helmets will be legal.

The current list of approved FIM Homologated Helmets include the AGV Pista GP R, Bell Pro Star ECE, HJC RPHA 01R, Kabuto RT-33, X-Lite Nolan X-803-P, SHARK Race R Pro GP FIM Racing #1 and the SHOEI X-Fourteen.

Beginning in 2020, FIM homologated helmets will be mandatory for all riders, in all race classes. No exceptions.

MOTOGP AND WORLDSBK ARE HEADING TO INDONESIA IN 2021

Dorna Sports announced that WorldSBK and MotoGP will go to the Lombok, Indonesia in 2021. The agreement was made amongst Indonesia’s largest integrated tourism developer and operator, ITCD and Dorna Sports SL. Construction of a circuit is scheduled to be built as part of the Mandalika tourism development.

"What a unique project this will be, having an urban,

world class circuit in a country where MotoGP™ has such a huge following. Indonesia is a key market for us with a considerable percentage of motorsport fans living here and the MotoGP™ atmosphere will be even stronger once the circuit is complete. Also, by including Lombok to the WorldSBK calendar makes this offer more attractive for local fans having two World Class events in the area during the year.” - Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports SL CEO. MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25

CORNERING LEARN THE SKILLS DISCOVER THE ART

Would you like to improve your riding skills? The California Superbike School trains riders at tracks worldwide in 14 countries. Its 38 year history has produced 140,000 graduates.

Most riders have no clear idea of how good they really can be.

Sign up for the California Superbike School and find out. www.superbikeschool.com 26 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

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PAOLO CIABATTI

ducati

FORZA WORDS: ALLAN LANE// IMAGES: ANDREW GOSLING MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 29

THE GRID: PAOLO CIABATTI

"In the last few years

, we've been competing against a manufacturer that focuses exclusively on WorldSBK and a fast and consistent rider such as Rea. But we believe that with the new Panigale V4 R we have the potential to bring the title back to Borgo Panigale,” Paolo Ciabatti proclaims, giving his thoughts on the 2019 World Superbike Season and the maiden outing of Ducati’s new Panigale V4 R. “We've been able to mount a strong challenge in recent years.

Even though the V-twin was at the end of development, and now we have a new bike which has been developed based on our experience in MotoGP." Paolo Ciabatti was born in Turin, in the Northern Italian region of Piedmont. Lush with culture and history, Turin is populated with art galleries, museums, restaurants and the like. Several years ago, when I met Paolo, it was immediately clear to me what type of man he was. Regal, sans the arrogance. Well to do, yet noble. Refined, but a not pushover. Quite simply, a gentleman’s gentleman. I’ve watched him in the Ducati team box at GP races as he emitted a calmed intensity. Watching his eyes, I could see him processing data, lap after lap, second by second. Although soft-spoken, nothing is lost in translation. His interactions with his 30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

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THE GRID: PAOLO CIABATTI

"Andrea Dovizioso... We came to Ducati together in 2013, and it was an extremely difficult year for both of us. But we didn’t give up and, step by step, with lots of hard work, we managed to turn the situation around."

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THE GRID: PAOLO CIABATTI team and riders border the lines of orchestral symphonic heights.

He conducts under pressure while remaining collected. The only thing missing is his coat tails and a baton.

SBI: How do you manage all the different personalities in the team’s garage?

PC: This is one of the most difficult aspects of the job. Everyone has their own personality, and there is no golden rule, but in general, you have to make sure that everybody works together as a team to reach the common goal, which is winning races and titles. It’s all about making sure there is harmony and chemistry in the team to maximize the talent of each member involved. To this end, Davide Tardozzi, the team manager, is very helpful as well.

SBI: Who are the other vital members of the team?

PC: Everybody is, we are not only a team but also a family.

Obviously, without Gigi (Dall’Igna) and our team of engineers, it wouldn’t be possible to achieve the level of performance that our bike is at now.

Ciabatti joined Ducati as the Corse Export Manager in 1997.

Before that, he performed duties as the Commercial Director at Mazda Motor Italia. He remained at Ducati until taking a break in 2007. He returned in 2013 and took on his current role of Ducati Corse Sporting Director in 2014. His duties have included securing team sponsors, marketing efforts, locking down rider contracts, all of the non-technical aspects of Ducati Corse for both MotoGP and WorldSBK. Pressure to perform comes from all around. The stakes are more than high, but the goals are achievable.

SBI: What is the favorite part of your job?

PC: When we win.

SBI: What do you like the least about your job?

PC. When we don’t perform according to our expectations.

Equipment and talent, there is most often a synergy between the two. But not always. There is a short history of very talented riders that have struggled with Ducati’s equipment, seemingly unable to harness the power and ability of their Desmosedici. A selection has taken to the Desmosedici straight away. There is a short list of stellar riders that found the level of adaptation and adjustment difficult.

Part of Ciabatti’s job is to search the talent pool with discernment to find riders that might have that adaptive quality.

SBI: What is the process for selecting or recruiting a rider for the 34 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

team? What is the criteria? Is it a combination of talent, ability, and personality?

PC: It depends. Ducati sometimes relies upon its network of satellite teams to bring to MotoGP riders whom we think have the talent to succeed. For example, Iannone and Petrucci first started with the Pramac Racing Team and were promoted to the factory team. Also, at the beginning of 2018, we have signed Francesco Bagnaia who will debut in MotoGP with the Pramac Racing Team as the reigning Moto2 champion. In other cases, for example with Lorenzo, we simply chose one of the best riders available based on the track record.

SBI: Of the riders that you have worked with, who else stands out?

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35

THE GRID: PAOLO CIABATTI

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THE 2019 MISSION WINNOW DUCATI TEAM: ANDREA DOVIZIOSO (L) AND DANILO PETRUCCI.

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THE GRID: PAOLO CIABATTI

38 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

PC: Troy Bayliss. Aside from being one of the greatest riders ever in bike racing, he was a really close friend, he still is, and we shared many a fantastic moment together, including three WorldSBK titles and that historic win in Valencia at the end of the 2006 MotoGP season as a wild-card rider in the Ducati MotoGP team. More recently, Andrea Dovizioso. We came to Ducati together in 2013, and it was an extremely difficult year for both of us, but we didn’t give up and, step by step, with lots of hard work, we managed to turn the situation around. Nicky Hayden. I only worked with Nicky in his last season with Ducati. He was part of our family for five years in MotoGP, and he stuck with us through thick and thin. Although he didn’t win any races with Ducati, he was always competitive and a class act through and through. Even today, if you take a stroll through Ducati, you will see memorabilia of him in virtually every office. He was a much-loved figure, and we were deeply saddened to hear about his loss.

Casey Stoner won Ducati’s first MotoGP Championship in 2007.

Although Ciabatti was not with Ducati at the time, he still draws upon the achievement as a driving force for himself and his team.

“His (Stoner’s) title represents a milestone for Ducati because it was the first ever we achieved in MotoGP after many successful years in WorldSBK. It took only five years to reach that goal, something which cannot be taken for granted.” Ciabatti continues, “Also, to win it in Japan in front of our main rivals was particularly emotional.

That demonstrated that a relatively ‘small’ Italian bike manufacturer could take on and defeat industrial giants and it consolidated our brand on the market.”

2019 is a pivotal year for Ducati with new teams and new bikes. Ducati finished their 2018 WorldSBK season second to Kawasaki. Their MotoGP season ended with another secondplace finish, behind Honda. “We’ve been targeting the title for a while now, establishing ourselves as the main contender with Andrea Dovizioso,” Ciabatti explains. “The goal for 2019 is to go one better than in the previous two years and seal the title, and I think we have the right riders line-up to make the necessary improvements and work more efficiently. Chaz (Davies) and Alvaro (Bautista) are both top-class riders, who perhaps didn't always have the chance to show their true potential. Chaz has been with us for six years now, helping us with development while at the same time winning plenty of races (25), finishing second in the championship in three occasions, and conquering the fans with his spectacular style, especially under braking. Probably he had to ride the V2 on the limit a bit too often, but he's proved that he MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39

THE GRID: PAOLO CIABATTI

THE 2019 ARUBA.IT RACING DUCATI WORLD SUPERBIKE TEAM: CHAZ DAVIS (L) AND ALVARO BAUTISTA. 40 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

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THE GRID: PAOLO CIABATTI

can win basically in all circumstances, as he did in the second half of 2016. Àlvaro has clearly shown that he is one of the fastest MotoGP riders, especially last year when he rode Lorenzo's factory bike at Phillip Island and immediately fought for a podium finish.

He was also able to adapt quickly to the V4 R and to the Pirelli tires in WorldSBK, showing very interesting lap times during the first winter tests."

SBI: What can you discuss regarding the Panigale V4 R and the Desmosedici GP19?

PC: In the first year we will still have to work on the development of the Panigale V4 R, but I believe that it is the right bike to challenge Kawasaki and Jonathan Rea, and obviously the rest of the field.

Chaz Davies is a top rider in WorldSBK and a fierce competitor.

He has proved on many occasions that he is capable of beating Rea, so I'm sure he'll be even stronger on the Panigale V4 R. Not only him but also Àlvaro, in my opinion, can beat Jonathan.

The Desmosedici GP19 is an evolution of the 2018 model, with improvements targeting all areas, from engine and electronics to chassis and aerodynamics. As always, the goal is to win the title.”

Paolo Ciabatti is passionately focused on his mission of securing a title for Ducati. If you’ve been watching motorcycle racing in recent years, the Ducati Corse teams have always been just over the shoulder, only a few steps behind from Honda in GP and Kawasaki in WorldSBK. Equipped with new riders and new machines, the overture has concluded. It’s a new day. Ducati Corse’s Orchestra of speed is primed and prepared to unleash their symphony. The curtains are rising. It’s show time.

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2019 SEASON SCHEDULE 3/14 Daytona Beach, FL

6/29 Lima, OH

3/23 Woodstock, GA

7/13 Weedsport, NY

4/20 Fort Worth, TX

8/4 Sturgis, SD

4/27 Chandler, AZ

8/6 Rapid City, SD

5/11 Perris, CA

8/17 Peoria, IL

5/18 Sacramento, CA

9/1 Springfield, IL

5/26 Springfield, IL

9/7 Mechanicsburg, PA

6/1 Lexington, KY 6/15 Loudon, NH

9/21 Shakopee, MN 9/28 East Rutherford, NJ

AmericanFlatTrack.com

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THE GRID

Injuries, Ducs In a Row, and The Old Man

MOTOGP WITH B.T.

WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM 46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.

W

hile most of us in the good old USA are still donning parkas and sweaters, at the Sepang Circuit in Malaysia, the sound of MotoGP bikes filled the air with the sound of the sweetest music ever played. That meant only one thing: testing time!

riding season.

For MotoGP racers and fans alike, that day comes in early February for three days. Just the sound of the bikes being fired up brings smiles to fans and riders. Bikes are rolled out supporting new livery, new parts and some teams with new riders. It’s somewhat a rebirth with new bikes, new riders, some riders with the same old team, same riders, etc. You get the picture.

What does this test tell us, if anything? I’ll attempt to explain this and what to watch for in the next test as well as a peek into the 2019 Season.

The first test of the year is greeted by fans and riders alike with a collective “Finally!" and "About time!” No one likes winter unless you weigh 500 pounds with sweat gland problems, live in the Arctic Circle and then it’s “why not?” or you’re getting ready for the Winter Olympics! If you own a motorcycle, you despise winter like an IRS audit! You almost literally count the days until HONDA AND THE WALKING WOUNDED: Repsol Honda is in

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a little more trouble than people will give them credit for. Sure Marquez led testing on the first day but was forced to close up shop early on day two and three because of a sore shoulder that was operated on in early December. Marquez has already seeded victory to anyone but him for the first race in Qatar, saying he should be ready by the second race in Argentina. Judging by his body language and demeanor, Marquez looks worried. Gone was his “Cat amongst The Pigeon” smile. It was replaced by “I hope I’m healed by then" response. I'm not going to lie. It was strange and troubling to see Marquez with a look of worry instead of the usual boyish giggly responses.

sore spot for him for the rest of the season, kind of like a baby's momma, once you find a new girlfriend. And speaking of girlfriends, it appears Marquez has a girlfriend and that can either be a hindrance or a helping hand. We will see how Marquez fairs in the second test.

Whereas Marquez is injured but riding, his new teammate, five-time World Champion Jorge Lorenzo, has yet to test because of a broken scaphoid, injured in a motocross training accident.

Lorenzo has said to have liked his new bike and team from his previous outing in Jerez but if his two years at Ducati showed us anything, it might take a while for him to adjust and by then you've Something tells me that his shoulder will be a got to wonder if he’s given up too many points

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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.

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to be considered a threat for the Championship. Championship! A tall order but if this test is any indication, Petrucci is ready for that challenge.

THE DUCATIS: Does finishing in the top four with your He and Dovi were practically inseparable on the newly acquired factory rider posting the fastest race track with Dovi leading ten laps while Petrucci time ever at the Sepang Circuit and a rookie followed. Then it was Petrucci ‘s turn to lead while finishing second mean anything? You damn Dovi followed. Ducati looks exceptionally strong right it does. It means that Ducati remains strong from top to bottom. Look for Dovi to be leading and continues to get stronger as an overall team the World Championship after the first round in from factory to satellite teams. Danilo Petrucci Qatar. His biggest threat at the beginning of the has done all the right things since becoming a season? Read further. factory rider for Ducati. He’s moved to be closer to Andrea Dovizioso so they can train together. YAMAHA: Mav and the Old Dude! Maverick Vinales He started seeing a Sports Psychologist. And he decided out with the old, in with the new when set the fastest lap ever at the Sepang Test. But it came to 2019. He’s changed everything from sadly, I think that will not be enough for him to his crew chief to his number plate. Now that is keep his factory seat unless he wins the World change! It doesn’t sound like much but professional

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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.

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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.

athletes need that little mental boost to get them over that hump sometimes and Maverick seems to have done that, at least concerning this first test.

His race pace has been impressive, and his work with New Rider Coach Julian Simon appears to be working. Sure it’s early, but Vinales seems to be driven straight out the gate. Watch him in the first races of the season.

he neither impressed nor disappointed, Rossi will be in the mix come Qatar, the question remains, will the bike.

THE OLD MAN, VALENTINO ROSSI: Turning 40 never looked so good. Rossi is 40 going on 21. His passion burns more fierce now than ever before because he senses he’s closer to the end than at the beginning. I don’t see that he’s lost anything despite hovering around mid top ten during the test. He seems to be at a nice even keel about the Yamaha M1 which is what makes great champions. They don’t get too high or too low, and Rossi seems mentally in the middle. Testing and qualifying have never been Rossi’s thing. He’s what we like to call as fans, "a Racer, a Sunday kind of guy." No matter where he lines up, you know he’ll be there come race time. So although

Also in the mix, KTM! They have and continue to barge into MotoGP head-on at 100 mph. Johann Zarco and Pol Espargaro will be impressive as well as rookie Miguel Oliveira.

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THE BEST OF THE REST: Pecco Bagnaia and Joan Mir will impressively lead the rookie class. Watch out for Franky Morbidelli to shake things up as he is on an almost identical bike to the Factory Yamahas.

I hope this helps you get a grasp of what I saw at Sepang. I will say this now and will continue to write this until proven wrong. This year in MotoGP will be the greatest year to date! The entire field is stacked from veterans to rookies, not a weak bike on the grid! Don’t believe me? The oldest bike on the grid is a 2018 model! Stay tuned GP freaks.

Its just heating up!

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

ROBERT CICHIELO JR. ADRIAN HACKETT

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

NAME: Robert Cichielo Jr. HOMETOWN: Asbury, N.J. AGE: 26 years old.

SERIES: MotoAmerica, N2 TrackDays, WERA Endurance Racing.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Graduated from Salisbury University Perdue Sc hool of Business. N2 TrackDay Control Rider. 3rd place season finish for the N2/WERA 4 Hour endurance series. Formed Team #42's and Endurance team, 4 Dudes on a Twin with Steve Wilson. I would like to mention that I owe everything to My Dad, Rob Senior, N2 TrackDays and Yamaha Champions Riding School for making me the rider and instructor I am today.

GOALS: Become a Yamaha Champions Riding School Instructor. Get on the podium for a MotoAmerica Twins Cup race.

Always look to become a better rider, instructor and person. Help the sport of motorcycle racing grow.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Racing is the most fun I will ever have with all of my clothes on.

IMAGES: COURTESY OF ROBERT CICHIELO JR.

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

JOHN HENDRIX

ADRIAN HACKETT

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

NAME: John Hendrix HOMETOWN: Fernandina Beach, FL AGE: 32 years old.

SPONSORS: AMA Member since 2010, PrivateerLife, Hendrix Racing, PK's Bike Shop, Sprockets Speed Shop, Infamous Motorsports.

SERIES: WERA #721 GOALS: To finish top five in the championship.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: The commotion, the smell of race gas, the sound of a bike pinned, there is nothing like it.

IMAGES: COURTESY OF JOHN HENDRIX

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 63

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

MICHAEL POND

ADRIAN HACKETT

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

NAME: Michael Pond HOMETOWN: Idabel, OK but I grew up in Bakersfield, CA. AGE: 41 years old.

AFFILIATION: In 2009 I started Tuned Industries. At that time it was a mobile dyno tuning business that has grown into a retail performance shop in Bakersfield, building professional racing bikes and ECU tunes. I started the Tuned Racing brand and went national racing in 2012.

SERIES: We have raced with a number of organizations, AMA, Motoamerica, WSMC, CVMA, AFM and WERA. Our main focus has been on Motoamerica the past few years.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2016 National Superstock Championship with Bryce Prince. Multiple class wins with all the clubs raced, even setting a new lap record on 2-24-19 in Formula 40 at CVMA. GOALS: My goals are to be a innovator to the sport of roadracing while providing a way for talents to showcase themselves to the world. After running up front of the Daytona 200 with Steve Rapp and Bryce Prince I would like to go back for a chance to win that iconic race.

I also want to keep pushing myself to higher levels on and off of the race track.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I have a huge passion for motorcycles and racing in general with the desire to push myself and others to reach for what we only dreamed possible.

IMAGES: COURTESY OF MICHAEL POND

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65

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2019 Schedule APRIL 26-28

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SEPT. 20-22

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MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 67

THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

GABE OLDFIELD

ADRIAN HACKETT

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

NAME: Gabe Oldfield HOMETOWN: Lexington, KY AGE: 32 years old.

AFFILIATION: Joe Oldfield Used Cars Inc., GO Auto Sales Inc. Vance and Hines, AM Performance, RG5, M.2 Shocks (RPS Manufacturing LLC), Adams Performance, DME, Unit5 Components, HTP Performance.

SERIES: XDA, NHDRO, KOG. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Before drag racing I road raced with AMA, MotoAmerica and WERA. 2018 was my rookie year in the drag racing scene and did a lot of testing but we did make it to the finals at the last NHDRO round in Brian's Grudge Bike Shootout!

There’s more to come, just wait!

GOALS: Win the 2019 XDA RST Championship!

But most importantly have fun!

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: The bike eats first!

IMAGES: COURTESY OF GABE OLDFIELD

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 69

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

KJ SMITH

ADRIAN HACKETT

72 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

NAME: KJ Smith HOMETOWN: Toronto, Canada AGE: 28 years old.

AFFILIATION: Self Made Stunt Brigade.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Passing on my knowledge of stunting to up and comers so the sport will continue to grow in Canada. GOALS: Working towards movie roles or motorcycle stunt double work.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: The best ride you'll ever take!

IMAGES: COURTESY OF KJ SMITH

MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 73

NEVER GIVE UP. It’s all about performance.

SR2 74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

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THE LIFE

THE INSIDE LINE

WORDS: DEVONNE DUERBAUM IMAGES: COURTESY OF DEVONNE DUERBAUM 76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

MY TRACK DAY PREP

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THE LIFE: THE INSIDE LINE

E

veryone has a different way to prepare uncomfortable than being in a sweaty for their track day. How do I prep? undersuit driving home. If you’re like me, there is also nothing better than pulling I have it pretty easy. I pack my gear bag, off that tight suit of your sweaty body. cooler and throw it in the car for tomorrow. Now, that’s not all that’s in my gear bag.

In my gear bag, are the necessities: I always pack my GoPro, chargers, and leathers, gloves, back protector, boots, mounts, along with sunscreen, chapstick, socks, and a helmet. I also pack a change and facial cleanser. It’s girly, but you of clothes, because there’s nothing more build up so much oil and dirt from riding

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all day, it’s always nice to clean that all That doesn’t sound too difficult right? I away with cold water! have it this easy because of Motocorse Performance’s “Arrive and Ride” track What is in my cooler? Water, Gatorade, day program. Pretty much, I pack my vegan yogurt, healthy lunch that’s light, bags, show up, and everything is taken yet filling, some other snacks depending care of. I don’t have a car that can tow on my mood. Usually some fruit, nuts, a trailer or a pick up truck, so this is my and hummus. Also, you can’t forget your only option, and I’m not mad about it. plasticware, or woodware, if you want to be environmentally cautious.

Motocorse Performance will trailer my MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 79

THE LIFE: THE INSIDE LINE

bike, along with other customers to the track. They set everything up: tire warmers, light maintenance like checking tire pressure, oil, etc. I have a mechanic who gets everything else prepared. I just hop on and off the bike between sessions.

At the end of the track day, Motocorse Performance puts everything away and 80 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

trailer my bike back to the shop. Super simple.

No matter how you do it, just get there.

Go out and have fun. But don’t forget the necessities! There's nothing like getting to the track and realizing you forgot your socks, or worse, your leathers!

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THE LIFE

THE LION'S DEN

WORDS: LION JAMES IMAGES: COURTESY OF LION JAMES 84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

signs

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M

otorcyclists by in large are a fairly superstitious group. Surprising, I know given how practical a bunch we are. Right? There really ought to be a sarcasm symbol on keyboards.

I am both superstitious and a creature of habit with regard to my 2wheel rituals (read “The Lion’s Den: Call It Faith” from the October 2013 issue of SportBikes Inc Magazine) so it should come as no surprise that I believe in the influence or at least the significance of signs. Signs are often warnings, but I think that is because people instinctively look for the universe to show them the way or talk us out of pursuing the unfamiliar, obligatory or unpleasant. Warning signs come in all sorts of forms, but warning signs are not what I’m typing about. The signs I’m referring to are those ever so subtle cosmic hints and breadcrumbs that lead us where we may not have been looking but needed to go.

About a week ago, at the time I sat down to write this tome, the temperature here in the northeast United States was a balmy 32 degrees. Not the coldest weather I’ve ridden in but hardly comfortable. My truck would not start when it came time to head out to the day job. After having walked the children to school, fortunately for the three of us, a neighbor saw us walking and offered us a ride for the 1.1 miles to the school.

I was faced with the dilemma of how to get to work. I made arrangements to have my truck picked up and taken to my usual repair facility.

Those close to me know how much I love my old beat-up truck and how many times per year she goes into the shop for repair or service. I then weighed my transportation options. I settled on three options of which none were optimal.

Choice number 1 was to call out of work freeing me up to address my truck without the pressure of a quickly approaching start time on a Tuesday morning, but that would certainly set a bad precedent considering this was only my second week at a new job. Choice number 2 was to use a peer to peer ride sharing service like Uber or Lyft to get to work which would get me there possibly on time, leaving me the next 8 hours to figure out how to get back home. But that was a $42.00 car ride with a stranger, relying on the driver’s GPS to guide him or her to what was most 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

assuredly an unfamiliar destination and a roll of the dice as to how aggressive he or she would be in an attempt to make up the commute time lost to the morning’s inconvenient vehicle trouble.

Choice number 3 was to ride my motorcycle to work which had the obvious appeal of saddle time and presented the most convenient option but also the least comfortable.

I considered the pros and cons of each choice over and over while walking home from my children’s school after dropping them off. It was while getting a quote from Uber on my phone, to this day I still have never used this service, that I received my first sign of the day. I was logging into my Paypal account from the Uber app on my phone as my payment option when initially setting up an account. As popular as these services are, I hadn’t yet used this service or any like it. When the “prove you are not a robot” security control showed a mosaic of a motorcycle on the screen and asked me to select all the tiles containing the motorcycle. Seemingly random I know but I have had to go thru this process for other apps and services in the past many times but never has the image been of a motorcycle. I’ve seen mountains, school buses, traffic lights, and even buildings twice but never a motorcycle. Interesting that this was the image used on the morning that I was considering whether or not to ride my motorcycle.

I quickly eliminated the option to call out of work for the reason previously mentioned and was now faced with the choice to either hitch a ride with a part-time driver and full-time stranger or throw a very very cold leg over.

Deciding to leave the decision up to my motorcycle I walked into the guest room where my lithium motorcycle battery sat on a dresser charging. I keep all my Ballistic EVO and Shorai batteries inside the house where the ambient temperature is higher than in the garage during the winter months. I select a battery to give life to my bike waiting in the garage. If the bike started right up on the first try, then I would ride but if not then I would be back on my phone letting my fingers do the walking. As I selected which of the three batteries to use out of the corner of my eye on the guest bed, I saw a pair of thermal base layer pants that had recently been washed with the MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87

THE LIFE: THE LION'S DEN

laundry. Surely, I would need to wear these if I was to ride this cold morning. I took this to be sign number 2. Without the likelihood of a motorcycle ride looming, both of these “signs” would be mere coincidences, but I felt as tho there was something more at work. Out in the garage with the battery installed back in the machine a turn of the key, a pull of the clutch and push of a button was all it took before my motorcycle growled to life making my decision for me.

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I wish I could say that the ride to work in sub 40 degrees temperatures was fun and refreshing, but we all know “refreshing” is how a travel agent describes the water in the resort pool on your rained out tropical vacation during hurricane season. Brisk? Nah. Breezy? To say the least.

Exhilarating? How about down-right cold as a barracuda’s balls! While it was surprising to see other motorcyclists out on the road that morning, it gave me little comfort to have allies enduring

$42.00 wasn’t so bad for a trip to work. Too late to think about that now tho, I was all in. The weather was unforgiving. The motorists were unkind. The cold asphalt and my cold tires were uncooperative. I hadn’t even gotten to where I was going and was already dreading the ride home when the sun would no longer be over my shoulder to keep the thermometer on the bearable side of things. Just as I started to cry, on the inside, because I had traveled too far from home to justify turning around and choosing option number 1, another biker pulled up beside me at a red light. It was another brave motorcyclist on a Triumph. I ride a Triumph Daytona 675. He was atop a newer model Triumph Street Triple with a throaty sounding aftermarket exhaust that grumbled when he opened the throttle as if to say while shivering “much respect to you for being out here on two also.” It is rare to see another Triumph urban sports motorcycle on public roads, not so uncommon at the track, in the summertime so once again I took seeing this young man on a Triumph in the adjacent lane as the third sign of the day that riding was what I was meant to be doing. the same self-inflicted torture. If I’m being honest, I regretted this ride the whole commute to work.

My thighs were numbingly cold and getting colder with every additional mile. The stop and go traffic was worse than the time spent moving against the chilly wind because at least when in motion I was making progress towards being done with the ride.

Halfway into the ride I couldn’t help but think that

I was riding to work on a day when most, with any common sense and a working automobile, would have left the bike at home. I was freezing my ass off because I had to get to where I was going and because I had the means to do so. I was going to have to explain to my coworkers why and possibly how I was walking into the office in a helmet, and I was doing all of these things because I was following signs.

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THE LIFE

RIDING WHILE STRAPPED WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: STACEY LANE 92 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

CARRY SELECTION MOST PEOPLE... ... that own a gun are familiar with the acronym E.D.C. or every day carry.

Depending upon which US state you reside, the right to carry a firearm concealed or open may be an option. Before I go any further, you may be asking why am I talking about firearms in a motorcycle magazine.

The reality is that a large portion of the motorcycle community are not just legal gun owners, but are also legally licensed to carry.

I understand that this article and the subsequent series of follow up articles may upset and perhaps offend some readers.

Please understand that is my intent, and I apologize beforehand if the subject matter isn’t your cup of tea. However, the right to defend oneself is just as prevalent while riding your bike as it is while driving your car or walking down the street or even while you are in your home. There are several factors that need to be addressed when riding while carried and a majority of the time, the conversation is never discussed. So let's talk about it.

I live in Pennsylvania, an open carry state. It is legal for to ride my bike with my firearm, holstered on my hip except while I am within the limits of a first class city, such as Philadelphia as it has a population of one million or more. Within the limits of a first class city, I may still legally carry with my firearm concealed or hidden from plain sight. I strongly urge you before you consider riding while carrying or even if you already do, thoroughly investigate your state guns laws and your bill of rights as a legal gun owner. A little bit of research and understanding today can save a world of headache, drama, and frustration tomorrow.

Knowledge is clutch.

Once you make the decision that riding while strapped is for you, there are countless items to consider, but there are a few significant factors that should be addressed from the jump. With the legalities handled and with the understanding that you are not prohibited from legally owning a gun, let's start with the obvious: your choice of firearm.

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THE LIFE: RIDING WHILE STRAPPED

Be practical. Your gun should never be cumbersome. What you choose for your E.D.C. or every day carry should never get in the way or prevent you from being able to perform on your bike. Further, it should ever get in the way of or make it difficult for you to wear your riding apparel. You should be just as comfortable riding with your holstered gun as you are off the bike. Guns are available in several calibers and sizes.

Just about every manufacturer will sing you a song as to why their product is the best to carry for self-defense. The truth is that not many of them have not addressed the need of the motorcyclists as a demographic and don’t understand our circumstances or what defensive scenarios we may find ourselves in. Companies like Springfield Armory have begun to consider the needs of the riding community and are actively engaged in market research to further their efforts in serving us. More on that in due time.

Selecting an item that may be responsible for saving your life is not to be taken lightly. The gun that you carry is a serious personal choice and should be given severe consideration. Do your homework. Go to 94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

your local gun shop. Handle several guns and see what fits, and feels comfortable.

Ask questions. The more questions you ask, the better. Some shops have a gun range on sight where you may be able to fire the gun you are thinking about purchasing or something closely similar. Take advantage of that option if it is available. You need to know what your gun can and will do when and if you ever need it to do what it does.

Does size matter? Absolutely. But not in the sense that you may be thinking.

Remember, the name of the game is comfort, concealment, and capability. You do not need a rocket launcher or hand cannon while riding. If you ever had to discharge your weapon while escaping a threat, you’d be more likely to knock yourself off the bike in the process. It’s just not practical. Think about the overall measurements of the gun: barrel length, height or magazine capacity, and width.

Ideal barrel lengths for carrying on the bike is 3 or 4 inches. This size fits conveniently in a holster and worn at the hip, doesn’t inhibit motion. The height and width of the

gun can be related. The width of a gun can be referred to as a single stack where ammunition is stacked one on top of the other in a slim magazine or double stack where the ammunition is stacked in an alternating format, increasing the width of the magazine. The single stack style of handgun is relatively slimmer in width, compared to the width of a double stack. While the single stack potentially offers greater comfort and concealment, the trade-off is the lower capacity of ammunition. If slimness is desired, but capacity is a concern, an extended magazine holds an additional 2 to 3 rounds may be the solution. Again, there’s a trade-off in the gun’s height.

Over many years of riding while strapped, I’ve experimented with a selection of double stack and single stack guns, holsters, carry styles or locations on my person. I’ve tested until I found the most practical and accessible method of carrying while on my bike, if I needed to defend myself and or escape a threat. My E.D.C. is the single stack Springfield Armory XD-S Mod.2 Sub Compact, 9mm with an extended magazine.

Being a larger rider, the XD-S Mod.2 checks all of the boxes for me. This model has a smaller frame and a slim profile that minimizes any printing or outlining through my clothes or gear. It's lightweight and snugly sits in my holster without getting in the way on or off the bike.

Modern ammunition technology has advanced to a point where I am just as comfortable with the stopping power of my 9mm as I am with my 45mm. Could I ride around with a 50mm mini tank strapped to my waist? Sure, I could. Do I need to? Nope, I do not. My nine does just fine.

Comfort. Concealment. Capability. Just three of the many factors to be taken into consideration with selecting a firearm to carry while riding. Holsters and ammunition options will be discussed later on in the series, in addition to other elements that are relative to the topic. In the next installment, we will discuss holsters and where you carry on your person. Until then, ride safe and stay strapped.

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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Logan Nydegger LOCATION:Â Athens, AL OCCUPATION: Pest Control.

YEARS RIDING: 1 year.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Suzuki GSX-R 600.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Custom retrofit headlight and tuned ECU. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Shoei 1200 helmet.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Walls of Jericho, Tennessee.

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Lisa Curl LOCATION: Menifee, CA OCCUPATION: Probate Examiner.

YEARS RIDING: Riding since 2001. Started with dirt and then got into street in 2008.

RIDING STYLE: Street and strip.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2016 Daytona 675R, 2016 BMW S1000RR, 2015 RC390, 2015 MV Agusta F3, 2007 Honda CRF150R, 2017 Honda CRF150R, 2005 NSR 50, 1982 Honda Passport.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My Akrapovic full system on my Triumph. I love that sound!

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Racer riding gloves.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Clifton Arizona riding with some good friends through Old Devil’s Highway 666 for my birthday in November of 2017.

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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS

Misha Troshin LOCATION: Sacramento, CA OCCUPATION: Consultant for Defense and Medical.

YEARS RIDING: 7 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street. Plan to track this year. Â BIKE/S OWNED: 2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale S. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Ducabike clear clutch cover.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: AVG Pista GP helmet.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: 2018 summer ride to San Francisco, CA.

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Ahmed AKA Powa LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: Sound Tech Sound Engineer.

YEARS RIDING: 8 years now and counting.

RIDING STYLE: I’m a street rider and I love to ride. I would also love to hit the track one day again with a better and newer bike.

BIKE/S OWNED: I currently have a 2004 Suzuki GSX-R 600. I’m looking at getting a stack (1000).

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My lights. I love lights and I hope to one day put lights in my wheels.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My body armor and my mowhawk on my lid. Every lid I have has a mowhawk. If it don’t have it, I won’t wear it MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My most memorable ride was my first time on the STCD ride. Never been on a ride like that and it was very memorable. I witnessed unity, brotherhood and sisterhood.

The vibe and energy was awesome.

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PODCAST 102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

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THE SUM OF ALL PARTS

THE SUM OF ALL PARTS

WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: COURTESY OF SHIFT-TECH CARBON PERFORMANCE 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

EVERY MONTH, WE CHAT WITH THE INDUSTRY'S LEADING AFTERMARKET APPAREL & ACCESSORIES MANUFACTURERS TO GIVE YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN A LITTLE MORE ABOUT WHO MAKES THE STUFF THAT YOU BUY AND USE.

SHIFT-TECH CARBON PERFORMANCE

WWW.SHIFT-TECH.COM GUIDO DUERBAUM, PRESIDENT

Shift-Tech Carbon Performance has been producing high quality carbon fiber products and other great motorcycle components for the last 17 years. Shift-Tech makes it clear that the carbon fiber products that they make and sell are 100% real carbon fiber and not carbon “look” or “feel” as some other may advertise. Claiming to offer the industries longest warranty, Shift-Tech states: “If it's not good enough for our own bikes then it will not be sold here.”

SBI: What’s your history with Shift-Tech? How my expectation. My friends in the motorcycle did you get involved with the company?

business that had repair shops asked me

GD: I started Shift-Tech 17 years ago. I always if I can’t get this and that from Europe could not find any parts that could satisfy for them. So in addition to the importing of

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THE SUM OF ALL PARTS: SHIFT-TECH

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karting parts I started to import motorcycle today’s market? parts. But only the best. At least I was hoping GD: I believe it is word of mouth and returning the parts to be that. I had a passion to bling customers. To offer only things that I know are out my own bikes, and it snowballed from good. Not sell just to sell but rather to satisfy there.

somebody. If it’s not something I would use,

then I would not sell it to the next person. Never

SBI: What goes into Shift-Tech's research and will customers receive a typical sales answer development? What is the process for product from me. I will speak my mind if my opinion is development?

requested no matter if it makes a sale or not.

GD: No R&D at all. Just a feeling and experience of what works and what does not. SBI: What’s next for Shift-Tech?

Most parts are things friends, or I use to see GD: Next is to continue as we are doing how they work out.

and hope the world will be kind enough to

allow us to stay where we are for as long as

SBI: How does Shift-Tech remain relevant in we want.

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: COURTESY OF DEVONNE DUERBAUM 110 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

PRIORITIES T

he art of riding a motorcycle quickly around a racetrack is a process that includes processing a large quantity of information. One of the beauties of our sport is that there is seemingly no end to the areas in which we can improve.

For example, just for starters, riders can work on entrance speed, mid-corner roll speed or acceleration each corner. At a racetrack that has 12 corners, that’s 36 things to consider before we have even considered anything else (body position, braking technique, etc.). While riders can take in an incredible amount of information on the track, experience has shown that riders can only effectively make changes in one to two areas at a time. Any attempt to do more than this tends to be more change than the average person can implement with any degree of effectiveness. With this in mind, one of the first jobs of a rider who wants to lower lap times is to establish priorities that allow for the improvement in the most critical areas first.

Riders often tend to focus on the corners in which they feel least comfortable. Many times, these "uncomfortable" corners are tight or oddly shaped corners that present challenges in picking a good line or carrying mid-corner speed. In teaching the Penguin School for many years at Loudon, a common problem spot that riders complain about is the middle of Turn 3. This is a slow (3540mph) corner that is both long and bumpy, and riders tend to feel slow there. Understandably,

they want to get rid of this "slow" feeling (racers always do). While riders can certainly benefit from dialing in this corner, the difference in speed between the fastest and slowest riders at the apex is pretty minimal in terms of outright mph. This poses the important question, "Is this where we should spend our effort?"

To establish the importance of the entrance, mid-corner or exit of a given corner, the acid test is very simple. Riders need to make their best assessment of where the most significant differential in mph exists between the fast riders and the slow riders. In general, these differences are the highest where the outright speed is the greatest. The faster the section of the racetrack, the more important it tends to be. Entrances matter most on corners that have the longest braking zones. Mid-corner speed is the most important in the fastest sweepers. Acceleration makes the biggest difference in those corners that lead to the longest straights.

In the study of GPS data that shows precise speed around the track, the largest differences in mph often show up at the point of peak speed in the fastest sweeping corners. Since carrying speed in fast sweepers requires an exceptionally high degree of precision and focus, this is typically where I encourage riders to start. The relief of stress that comes when these fast corners are mastered often frees up room in your mind to MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: PRIORITIES conquer other important areas of the track. Most tracks have at least one or two fast sweeping sections (as a baseline, turns taken in 4th gear or higher) and these corners are critical to not only good lap times but also to overall confidence.

Riders need to not only establish a sharp, precise turn point but also need to assess their throttle re-application point when working to maximize speed in these areas.

Perhaps the most important areas of focus when it comes to lowering lap times are drives that lead to long straights. The primary reason that a strong drive is so critical is that extra speed generated from early acceleration will last all the way down the ensuing straight. If you compare the benefits in terms of "duration of advantage," then it is pretty easy to see why long drives can rank in importance above big braking zones or

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high roll speed corners. The sections of track that precede long straights are typically drive-focused, meaning that riders will often sacrifice a little entrance speed in order to make a sharper turn input that allows the bike to get back on the center of the tire to allow earlier throttle application. The keys in these areas are to minimize the downtime between turning and acceleration and to "steer with the throttle" as opposed to the bars in using all the exit pavement.

Once the major drives and fastest turns have been conquered, the next order of priority is to maximize entrance speed in the longest braking zones. Since we have established that it is most important to focus on the fast areas of the track, it only stands to reason that sustaining peak velocity at the end of a straightaway is critical to fast lap times. The study of GPS data has shown speed

differentials in these areas that are four to five times greater than those previously discussed in the Loudon Turn 3 example. However, since braking zones tend to be much shorter than acceleration zones, we should make them a #3 on our priority list after we have mastered the fast sweepers and the longest drives. Developing proper braking technique and evaluating entrance speed velocity are the important focal points when working in this area.

In the end, clarity of focus is key to improvement.

When riders focus on carrying speed in the fastest sweepers, sustaining entrance speed in the longest braking zone, and creating optimum drives onto the longest straights, they are able to take the original list of 36 things to consider and identify the 6-8 segments that are the most important. Once this list is compiled, riders can then attack the racetrack and work on the areas that will provide the biggest benefits first. After these riders conquer the critical areas of the track, they will be faster than a large majority of their

peers at any event they attend.

This philosophy even applies at the highest levels of racing. When the field is full of talented riders, the competitors who end up winning are the ones who excel in the fastest areas of the track. It only stands to reason that there is much more to gain in the sections where the differential in speed is the greatest. Since we can only effectively focus on making changes in a couple of areas at once, the time taken to evaluate where you are dedicating your efforts is always time well spent.

With this clarity of focus, riders start by making sure that they have placed the major turn effort (the slowest point in each corner) in the proper place to align with each of these priorities, developing their techniques in accordance with the goals they have set, and making progress in the most important areas first. The cycle of improvement continues, feeding the addiction that many of us find to be the most fulfilling sport on the planet.

Until next time... Ride fast. Ride safe.

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since 1946

beyond the horizon Route picked, luggage packed – off you go to explore the mountains and enjoy the landscape.

You define your next adventure, Held provides the best equipment to get you there.

Thanks to innovative technologies and a varied collection, there’s clothing to meet the individual needs of every biker.

We are committed to offering superlative quality. The thing is, you find out how good your kit really is when you’re on the road.

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Sonic Art. 6637 Touring jacket

Vento Art. 6665 Touring pants

www.heldusa.com · Brought to you by SCHUBERTH North America

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TM Sport bike products that make sense!!

Clipons & Adapter Plates Giving your bike a whole new feel

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THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • HYPERSPORT GP GLOVES The materials and construction of the Hypersport GP glove have been purposely chosen for their innate abilities to provide this advantage. It all starts with a French cowhide and kangaroo chassis. The French cowhide backhand, supple and strong, offers excellent comfort and flexibility.

The kangaroo palm, a hallmark of purpose-built track gloves, provides optimum abrasion resistance and dexterity. Additional panels of digital BattleHide goatskin are located in areas of high-wear from grips, and the palm sliders are in case of a high-velocity asphalt encounter. The mechanical articulation panels, which run the length of each finger, provide excellent flexibility from the very first wear, with no breakin period needed. Fundamental construction techniques include ICON’s exclusive floating knuckle with D3O underlay, which allows for maximum knuckle articulation, and an out-seamed finger box for all-day comfort. The Hypersport gloves feature full knuckle coverage from the vented TPU/Polycarbonate knuckle plates.

The gauntlet also features large external TPU wrap-around coverage and perforated ventilation panels. Multiple hook and loop closures allow for a secure fit.

Colors: Black, Hi-Viz Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $195.00 Contact: www.rideicon.com

MOTUL • ENGINE CLEAN Engine Clean is designed to be used in all types of motorcycle fourstroke engines with injection or carburetors, with or without a catalytic converter, using all kind of fuel. Engine Clean effectively cleans dirtying and clogging which appear in the engine. The removed microparticles are then evacuated at the time of the oil drain. Engine Clean decreases engine wear, oil, and fuel consumption while boosting engine performance. The process is simple. Before each oil drain, add directly in the oil sump, a can of Engine Clean to hot used oil. Let the engine idling for 15 minutes then drain the oil and change the filter before refilling with fresh oil.

PIT BULL PRODUCTS • FULLY ADJUSTABLE REAR STAND Whether your needs include increased leverage, increased fender clearance, or merely the ability to fit a wider variety of bikes in your garage, the zinc plated fully adjustable rear stand from Pit Bull, checks off a lot of boxes. It allows for 3 inches of height adjustment and 5.5 inches of width adjustment. The stand offers increased clearance around prominent rear fenders and comes standard with a quick-release removable handle as well as additional supports for non-spooled swingarms.

Price: $169.95 Contact: www.pit-bull.com 116 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

Price: $16.95 Contact: www.motul.com

BONAMICI • BMW S1000RR STREET TOP TRIPLE CLAMPS

Bonamici BMW S1000RR Top Triple Clamps are CNC machined for an exact fit over the stock diameter forks for 2015 through 2018 models. Lightweight and robust, they resist flex under load providing for a more direct steering input and race feel. The triple clamp is attractive allowing riders looking to customize their motorcycles with a very cool and exotic part.

Price: $499.99 Contact: www.motodracing.com

WOODCRAFT-CFM • GEN 3 TIRE WARMERS 150 SERIES Gen 3 Tire Warmers now come in sizes to fit bikes with a 120 front and 130 to 150 series rear tire such as the Ninja 300, Yamaha R3, KTM RC390 or any bike running that range rear tire size. These feature all the same excellent quality that you expect from a Woodcraft tire warmer, just in a smaller package. Hand stitched in the USA with tough, temperature resistant Nomex thread, the Gen 3 feataure Polartec Windpro Fleece that blocks 95% of the heat-robbing side winds and gets up to a 15-degree increase in rim temperature. The thermostats hold tighter temperature ranges and are more durable than ever, guaranteeing a perfect heat cycle every time. The quick disconnect feature ensures that the tire warmers cut the power as soon as they are removed from the tires. The dual temperature switch allows for the selection of HOT or WARM. The LED indicator lights alert you when the tires reach temperature and also when the power is on. All Woodcraft tire warmers are designed to run off a 120-volt power source and use under 1000W and ship with a free warmer duffel bag with every set.

Price: $419.99 Contact: www.woodcraft-cfm.com

HOT BODIES RACING • MGP REARSETS FOR THE YAMAHA YZF-R3

CNC machined from T6 6061 Billet Aluminum, the MGP rear sets are fully adjustable to suit your riding style with multiple adjustments for the footrest, shift, brake and toe peg. Equipped with knurled footpegs with plastic end caps, the MGP rear sets feature a return brake spring to prevent dragging your brakes.

The kit includes mounting brackets, OEM brake light switch spring and ship fully assembled, ready to be installed. Application for the Yamaha YZF-R3, model years 2015 through 2019.

Colors: Gold, Black Price: $339.95 Contact: www.hotbodiesracing.com MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 117

THE NEW ISH ALPINESTARS • MISSILE LEATHER SUIT TECH-AIR COMPATIBLE Constructed from premium leather, the Missile Leather Suit features a new anatomically mapped fit for improved performance and optimized levels of comfort. Packed with class-leading protective features both inside and out, the Missile Suit is designed to accommodate the Alpinestars Tech-Air Race system for state-of-the-art airbag protection. Thanks to its ergonomic engineering, the Missile Leather Suit can equally be worn alone, making it a versatile performance riding suit that excels on track or the street.

Colors: Black/White/Red Fluo, Black/White/Yellow Fluo, Black/Red, Black/White/Red Fluo/Yellow Fluo, Black/Red Fluo/White Sizes: 46 - 60 Price: $999.95 Contact: www.alpinestars.com

SPEEDCELL • KEY DELETE FOR THE YAMAHA YZF R6

DAINESE • AXIAL D1 BOOTS The new Axial D1 boots are loaded with features that make them an asset on the track and the streets. CE certified, the boots feature the Dainese D-Axial system in carbon and aramid fiber. Construction consists of a D-Stone fabric, microfiber upper and split cowhide leather inserts. Closure operates with a zipper in the back with a speed lacing system to secure your foot in the boot. The Axial D1’s have a suit to boot fastening system to assist in keeping your kit aligned.

Colors: Black, Black/White, Black/Red Fluo, Black/Yellow Fluo Sizes: 40 - 47 Price: $519.95 Contact: www.dainese.com 118 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

The Speedcell Key Delete Master Arm is designed for racers and track day enthusiast’s; the Key Delete replaces your OEM key assembly and fits into the ignition provision on OEM triple clamps. This provides the end user with a Master Arm solution to power your handlebar “Run-Start” switch. In today’s age of heavily electric laden motorcycles there is a definite advantage and arguably a necessity in keeping a Master Arm solution instead of the traditional “Run-Start” bypass. The Speedcell Key Delete eliminates battery depletion by leaving the bike in the “run” position. The Master Arm circuit isolation allows for the immediate disconnect from power in the event of an emergency and allows for quick diagnostics of both main power circuits and “switched” power circuits on your bike. Available for the Yamaha YZF-R6, model years 2017 to present.

Price: $89.99 Contact: www.motodracing.com

VOODOO MOTO • MINI-MEG SHORTY EXHAUST PIPE FOR THE SUZUKI GSXR 1000 The new Mini-Meg Shorty features a removable, natural billet end cap with a Phantom Core that allows for more packing.

The mandrel-bent Mini-Meg Shorty is constructed of stainless steel and houses all stainless steel hardware. The slip-on exhaust pipe is currently available for the Suzuki GSXR 1000, model years 2012 through 2019.

Price: $299.99 Contact: www.voodoomoto.com HJC HELMETS • RPHA 11 VENOM II HELMET A follow-up from the original 2016 RPHA 11 VENOM lid, the new HJC VENOM II helmet is more intense with darker and twisted graphics than its predecessor. A wider scream and more teeth grip the helmet, designed by Starline to offer a menacing presence, the graphics adorn the RPHA 11 Pro helmet that is equipped with HJC’s Premium Integrated Matrix shell material and ships with both a smoke shield and anti-fog lens.

Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $599.99 Contact: www.hjchelmets.com TERMIGNONI • MV AGUSTA F4 TITANIUM CUNB FORCE FULL RACE SYSTEM

Termignoni uses a titanium alloy in this exhaust system that is infused with Copper and Niobium (CuNb) giving it considerable performance advantages over stainless steel. The beautiful Italian system is designed to enhance the visual aesthetics of your bike while increasing overall performance with weight saving and sound improving benefits (Removable Noise Reduction Plug Included). The titanium CuNb Force Full Race System for the MV Agusta F4 1000 is available for model years 2010 through 2018, exclusively in the US from Brock’s Performance.

Price: $2,695.00 Contact: www.brocksperformance.com MARCH 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 119

THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM BAXLEY COMPANIES • LA CHOCK The LA Chock is an innovative and secure parking stand that can be adjusted to fit any size motorcycle tire. Use the LA Chock on your garage floor to provide secure, upright storage for your motorcycle. Just place the stand on the floor and push or ride the motorcycle into the stand.

The patented stand clamps onto the front tire and securely holds the motorcycle upright. You can now get off the bike and perform cleaning or maintenance tasks. Mount the LA Chock or

the LA Trailer Chock in a trailer and your towing worries are over. Loading is as easy as riding the bike into the stand. Once in, you can get off the bike and secure the bike with straps without someone else having to hold the bike up for you.

Another great benefit of using the LA Chock is that no front tie downs are necessary. Just secure the rear of the motorcycle with straps, and the chock does the rest.

Price: $275.00 Contact: www.baxleycompanies.com 120 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | MARCH 2019

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D3O - THE MOST ADVANCED, BREATHABLE PROTECTION FOR RIDING

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