SportBikes Inc Magazine May 2012 (Volume 2, Issue 8)

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . Moto tECH

May 2012 Vol 2 Issue 8

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

DANGER DESIGNS | Big Kahuna - Road Atlanta| CHUBBZ - The Interview | The Inside track | The manufacturers cup season opener | The Hailwood

Recommended

Powered by

2 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

The New Streetfighter 848:

Rule the Road The Streetfighter 848 delivers the power, precision handling and agility you would expect from a Ducati Superbike, perfectly balanced with an assertive riding position designed for maximum rider comfort on the street. The reign of the new Streetfighter 848 has begun. ducatiusa.com

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 3

May 2012 - VOLUME 2, ISSUE 8

THE FEATURES

16

DANGER http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16 DESIGNS

48

The manufacturers cup season opener

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=48

ASK THE PRO WRENCH: CLUTCH INSTALL

100

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=100

4 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

30

BIG KAHUNA: http://issuu.com/action/page?page=38 ROAD ATLANTA

76

CHUBBZ: THE INTERVIEW

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

THE HAILWOOD

116

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=116

THE USUALS INTERACTIVE

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=10 10 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLE CLICK ON NUMBERS TO JUMP TO A PAGE http://issuu.com/action/page?page=26 26 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=36 36 THE INSIDE TRACK - By Corey Alexander http://issuu.com/action/page?page=40 40 LADIES OF THE PADDOCK - By Carrie Aquino http://issuu.com/action/page?page=44 44 THE BAKER’S DOZEN - By Phil Baker 50http://issuu.com/action/page?page=50 The youngest in charge - By Dystany Spurlock http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54 54 CAPO’S CUT - By Ashon CAPO Dickerson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=70 70 VIOLET STARS & HAPPY STUNTING - By Leah Petersen http://issuu.com/action/page?page=88 88 FEATURED CLUB - Ruff Ryders, North Carolina http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 92 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=100 100 MOTO TECH - ASK THE PRO WRENCH: CLUTCH INSTALL http://issuu.com/action/page?page=104 104 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - THE FIRST FIVE SECONDS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=120 120 SPORTBIKES INK!!! http://issuu.com/action/page?page=124 124 RANDOM - PHILADELPHIA SHUT THE CITY DOWN RIDE http://issuu.com/action/page?page=126 126 THIS LIFE - By Tyson Beckford http://issuu.com/action/page?page=128 128 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=134 134 STAFF STUFF http://issuu.com/action/ page?page=22

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

MAY 2012

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=8 8 EDITOR’S LETTER

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

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5

D3O® EQUIPPED

CE CERTIFIED BACK ARMOR Covert Green

STRYKER BATTLESCAR VEST ™

CE Approved STRYKER™ Back Armor // D30® Breathable Back Insert with Custom Molded Icon Geometry // Vented BioFoam and AirMesh Chassis // Injection Molded Chest Plate with Integrated Air Vents // HydraDry™Moisture Wicking Liner // Highly Adjustable Waist and Shoulder Straps // Low-Profile Design Fits Under Most Jackets // Available in Covert Green // $150

Dark Earth

Covert Green

VARIANT BATTLESCAR HELMET ™

Fiberglass/Dyneema/Carbon Fiber Shell // Exclusive Battlescar™ Raw Finish // Wind Tunnel Tested & Refined // Multiple Oversized Intake and Exhaust Ports // Fully Removable/Washable HydraDry™ Interior // Shown with included Dark Smoke Shield // Available in Covert Green or Dark Earth // $400

» ALL WORLD STANDARD, MEETS OR EXCEEDS THE FOLLOWING: DOT FMVSS 218 (US), ECE 22-05 (EUROPE), SAI AS1698 (AUSTRALIA) & SG (JAPAN) SAFETY AND TESTING STANDARDS. DOES NOT SHIP WITH SAI OR SG CERTIFICATION STICKERS UNLESS PURCHASED FROM AN AUTHORIZED DEALER IN THAT COUNTRY.

6 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

WWW.RIDEICON.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 7

EDITOR’S LETTER EDITORIAL

My homie John Stax, Outsidaz MC, and I after the Shut the City Down Ride.

THETEAM

Meekail Shaheed captured a member of the SBI family, Dystany Spurlock in Valdosta GA. I am more than fortunate to have her on the SBI team... I’m more than fortunate to have the entire staff on the SBI team. But when I saw the photo that Meek took, the only word that came to mind was “cover”. And that’s where it is. On the cover. It’s significant on many levels. Dystany is the first Black woman to appear on the cover of SBI. This is Meek’s first cover that he’s shot. You can go on for some time in that avenue of thought.

In harmony with all these wonderful reasons why this cover is special, is that I love the look in Dystany’s eyes. Focused, 100 percent. I dig that.

I’M FOCUSED MAN! Best, Allan

ART & DESIGN

I have fleeting moments of self discovery.

From time to time, I realize that I somehow manage to get a lot of stuff done in a very short amount of time. Often, it’s not until after I do something that I discover the significance of my actions.

Editor in Chief: Allan Lane Lifestyle Editor: Tyson Beckford Moto-Tech Editor: Mark Rozema Technical Advisor: Thomas Campion Drag Race Editor: Ashon “Capo” Dickerson Riding Editor: Eric Wood Senior Staff Writer: Lisa Macknik Contributing Writers: Brittany Murrow Dystany Spurlock Corey Alexander Carrie Aquino Phil Baker Michael Lawless Rickey Gadson Copy Editor: Angela Lane Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain Graphic Designer: Baz Staff Photographers: Meekail Shaheed Brian Nitto Cover: Meekail Shaheed

SportBikes Inc Magazine — May 2012 Volume 2, Issue 8 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2012 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

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

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.

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

8 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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.

the press room BRAMMO RELEASES MODELS AT LOS ANGELES LAUNCH PARTY

Brammo released their plans for the production models of the Empluse and the Empluse R at a launch party in Los Angeles. Both models will have their availability based upon demand with production on the R model beginning in June. The base model will be available in early 2013.

cooled AC motor, six speed transmissions, regenerative braking and an onboard J1772 Level 2 charging system.

MSRP for the Empulse will be $16,995 and the R will be priced at $18,995.

“It was important to Brammo to Both models feature a water create a great motorcycle and we

DUCATI RECALLS 2012 MODELS FOR REAR BRAKES Ducati has recalled several 2012 models for issues relating to the rear brake pads. The backing plates and the friction material of the pad may separate, resulting in loss of braking power. Owners will be able to have the pads replaced at the dealership for free.

The models affected include: 848 EVO, Hypermotard 796, Monster 1100 EVO, Monster 796 and the Multistrada 1200 AB.

10 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

paid attention to customer feedback to create just that. From concept to production the Empulse product has evolved quite a bit. We are bringing you a different motorcycle that promises to be more than what our riders expected.� - Craig Bramsher, Brammo Inc. President and CEO.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 11

the press room HONDA REPORTS MOTORCYCLE SALES INCREASE

Honda is reporting an increase in new motorcycle sales in North America for the first quarter of 2012. With 53,000 units sold, Honda is enjoying an increase of 39 percent when compared to 2011.

Praise was given to the introduction of the CBR250 to the North American Market.

MOTONATION OPENS EAST COAST DISTRIBUTION CENTER Getting your Motonation products on the East Coast just got a little bit easier with the opening of the East Coast Logistic Center in Monroe Township, NJ. The warehouse stocks AGV Sport apparel, Sidi boots and Vemar helmets.

“Seeing Motonation grow to the point where a second warehouse was necessary has been a dream of Motonation for years.

Having reached the point of needing the 2nd location, in a down economy, shows how well Motonation is doing so I am doubly pleased.” - Bill Berroth, President of Motonation.

12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

HONDA REPORTS MOTORCYCLE SALES INCREASE

Yamaha launched yamahalube.com for customer’s to research and purchase Yamaha’s oils, maintenance and care products.

“Our full line of oils and maintenance products has always been available through Yamaha dealerships. Now, consumers can review our entire product offering, choose which products they need, learn how to use them and find a dealer who carries them, all online.” - John Tomsche, Yamaha’s Parts and Accessories division manager.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER OF BELL, ROLAND SANDS DESIGN AND SBI HELMET GIVEAWAY CONTEST! Congratulations to Bryan Phillips on winning a Bell Star RSD Black Beauty Carbon Helmet in our recent contest with Roland Sands Design and Bell Sports.

Bryan correctly answered all five of the Roland Sands trivia questions and won the Bell Star RSD Black Beauty Carbon Helmet.

Here are the questions and the answers: 1. What year did Roland win an AMA Championship? 1998.

2. What AMA series did he win his Championship in? AMA 250 GP National Championship.

3. What make and model was Roland riding? Yamaha TZ 250.

4. How many races did Roland win during his Championship Season? Five.

5. Which tracks did these wins come at? Laguna Seca, Willow Springs, Road Atlanta, Road America, and Loudon.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13

VictoryMotorcycles.com 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Victory® and Victory Motorcycles® are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing and obey the speed limit.

Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. ©2012 Polaris Industries Inc.

us.pirellimoto.com

SBK TECHNOLOGY FOR EVERYDAY ROADS. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15

16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

DA NG E R DESIGNS WOrds: Allan Lane images: Carrie McGuinness

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 17

THE SHOW: DANGER DESIGNS

R

yan Danger has been very busy. Since winning the 2011 Ducati Monster Challenge, being featured in the November issue of SBI and successfully launching a cigar company, Danger found time to get back in the lab and create.

What he has produced this time is a slight departure from the “one off” panache that is his signature style. Inspired by form and function yet driven by passion and performance, Danger transformed a stock 2009 Ducati 848 into a paddock ready weapon of mass appeal.

Danger’s direction is evident when looking at the bike.

Affectionately entitled “Christie”, the machine is a blend of high quality performance components that compliment one another, aesthetically.

The finished product is clean.

Simple but not remedial. It offers a strategic sense of purpose.

The bike would sit well in the company of custom show bikes just as well as it would sit on the race grid.

And that’s where the bike is heading.

Danger revealed that he plans to have this bike compete in the CCS/WERA series if the elements line up properly: sponsors, rider, etc.

18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19

THE SHOW: DANGER DESIGNS

20 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

I remember sitting with Ryan Danger last October in photographer Elizabeth Raab’s apartment, waxing poetic on the current state of custom bike building. As Elizabeth prepared for the photo shoot of Danger’s award winning custom Ducati Monster, he and I discussed his vision. Sitting with him and talking...

I realized that Danger is a member of a new breed of builder that is more akin to artisans. Things that should not fit, they make fit. Things that should not work, they make work. If it does not exist, they create it.

Perhaps that is the operative word...

Create.

“CHIRISTIE” 2009 DUCATI 848 Engine/Power Upgrades: Power Commander V and Pipercross Airfilter, Corse Silicon Hose Kit Brakes: Brembo Monobloc Calipers, Ferodo Brake Pads Exhaust: Competition Werkes Carbon Fiber System Wheels: Marchesini Tires: Pirelli Diablo Rosso Suspension: Bitubo ECH 29 Nitrogen Charged SBK Racing Fork Cartridges with Bitubo Nitrogen Charged Steering Damper, Bitubo XXF31 Rear Shock SWINGARM: OEM with Carbon Dry Swingarm Cover Built By: Ryan Danger and Eddie Gee Paint By: D&V Autobody VINYL: GAM Printing Owner: RD Cigar LLC

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 21

SHOP Spotlight: Garwood Custom cycles

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Garwood Custom Cycles

Shop name: Garwood Custom Cycles | Address: 441 Pinetop Road Lexington, NC 27295 Hours: Monday thru Thursday 10am - 6pm, Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 2pm Year established: 1995 | Brands serviced: Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki and Honda

G

arwood Custom Cycles is the largest custom bike dealer in North Carolina. They pride themselves on not only selling their clientele great bikes at affordable prices but also on the ability to totally customize the bike to the customer’s desire.

The shop motto proclaims that the staff treat people as you wish to be treated. This translates into their excellent customer service. Their customer network is quite extensive. Like proud parents, the team at Garwood love when the bikes that they have built for their customers are entered into custom bike shows. The only better is when their bikes bring home the big trophies.

Garwood Custom Cycles is very active in the community with charitable donations and other community outreach projects. They are the main sponsors of the Joshua T. Harris Memorial Ride and Veterans Festival.

When it comes down to it, they really just a bunch of really nice people. No egos despite the number of accolades they accrued over the years. Approachable, friendly and knowledgeable... That’s a winning combination.

22 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Contact Info:

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 23

Markbilt Racing was founded in 1998 by Racer and motorcycle enthusiast Mark Rozema.

From its humble beginnings the Markbilt mission has always remained steadfast, to build and tune race winning motorcycles. Markbilt is proud to have been the driving force behind the success of such factory-backed teams as: Team Pepsi Suzuki, Celtic Racing Yamaha, Attack Kawasaki and Markbilt GYTR Yamaha. Markbilt has had the honor of working with many talented riders and winning over 23 regional and national championships including the prestigious Daytona 200. Markbilt proudly offers CNC manufacturing capabilities, welding, fabrication, engine & chassis shop and a fully featured Superflow chassis dynamometer and tuning center. At Markbilt, racing is a passion not a job.

DEALER

Sam Gaige #20 WERA

Service Center

Eric Stump #77 AMA

Miles Thornton # 72 AMA

Located right next to New Jersey Motorsports Park!!!!

• • • • • •

AND MORE….

Dyno Tuning Suspension and Chassis setup Race and track day bike prep SERVICES Fuel Injection & Ignition Mapping Engine Rebuilding Supersport & Superbike engine Packages

Email: markbiltracebikes@gmail.com 24 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

• • • • • •

Performance 2 Stroke Tuning Supermotard Conversions Stoarage and Maintenance Custom Fabrication Accessories & Decals Tires

Website: www.markbiltracing.com

Phone: 201-406-1921

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25

THE GRID: NEWS CHRIS VERMEULEN REPLACES COLIN EDWARD AT LE MANS It was announced that after a successful surgery to repair Colin Edward’s broken left collarbone that he would be able to return to the paddock at the Catalunya round.

The broken collarbone was a result of a crash with Randy De Puniet in a qualifying session from the Estoril round.

With the French round of the GP series fast approaching, Australian Chris Vermeulen was confirmed as the substitute rider for the NGM Mobile Forward Racing team.

DUCATI IS PREPARED WITH NEW ENGINE TO DEBUT AT LAGUNA SECA

Amidst a multitude of question marks on the less than stellar season so far of Valentino Rossi and sincere promise in Nicky Hayden’s efforts, Ducati announced that a major change is in store. Filippo Preziosi, General and Technical Director of Ducati Corse said that the plan is to improve stability and driveability for the Desmosedici.

While Hayden seems to have a better grasp on the 1000cc machine, the lament from Rossi seems to be surrounding the power produced by the bike that needs to be properly managed.

“For sure this challenge is being done because we want to build a bike for Valentino, because we believe that a bike Valentino likes, is a good bike for all the riders. We are following the direction of what he suggests. Of course we are trying to do that at the best of our capability, which is not enough right now to be faster than Honda. But for sure we will try in the direction that Valentino shows us. We give Jeremy (Burgess) 100 percent freedom to define with Valentino what the best set up is. So as Ducati, our duty is just to supply material, and we believe that the crew chief is imperative in the box. The way of working is to put the right person in the right position and allow that person to do what he thinks is best.

We can suggest what our ideas are, but the final decision, day by day, practice by practice, is made by Jeremy speaking with Valentino.” - Filippo Preziosi.

26 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

DAVID ATLAS STEPS DOWN FROM AMA PRO RACING POSITION OF CHieF OPERATING OFFICER, ASSUMES NEW ROLE In a press release, AMA PRO RACING stated that David Atlas has stepped down from his role of Chief Operating Officer and has assumed the new position of Chief Business Development Officer.

“Over the past three years, we have worked tirelessly as a team and I am so proud of the company that we have become, and the growth which we have achieved. With these changes, we are making our operation stronger by investing more effort in future growth opportunities, our motorsports relationships and operating more efficiently. I will now be able to concentrate more on these important opportunities and relationships and cultivating business sectors and potential customers which we have not previously had the resources to fully prospect.” - David Atlas.

ERALDO FERRACCI INDUCTED INTO THE MONZA HALL OF FAME As World SuperBike continues to celebrate their 25th anniversary, the Monza Circuit was the stage for the 2012 round of inductees into the WSBK Monza Hall of Fame. Riders inducted included: Troy Bayliss, Carl Fogarty, Fred Merkel and Doug Polen. Never to be outdone nor outshined was the icon, Eraldo Ferracci. Recognized for his global contributions to the sport of motorcycle racing. As a team manager, talent scout and larger than life personality, Eraldo has touched the world of racing more than most people realize.

Congrats Mr. Ferracci!

I, SUPERBKER - THE SHOWDOWN NOW AVAILABLE ON ITUNES Mark Sloper’s follow up to the action packed documentary on the British SuperBike Series is now available for download on Itunes. The Showdown captures all the intense drama and action that was the 2011 BSB season. A great film for any race fan or motorcycle enthusiast with footage of Tommy Hill, John Hopkins, Josh Brookes, Shane Byrne and others. Click on the poster to download.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 27

THE GRID: NEWS

THE 2012 XDL CHAMPION SERIES GEARS UP

The premiere US Sportbike Freestyle Championship Competition’s 2012 season is drawing near. The 2012 XDL Series will be hitting a few new locations this year. An exciting event to witness, even more spectacular to participate in.

Here is the schedule: Round 1: Budds Creek, MD – Maryland International Raceway, July 21 & 22 Round 2: Long Beach, CA – Queen Mary, August 3 & 4 Round 3: Indianapolis, IN – Downtown, August 17 & 18 Round 4: Albuquerque, NM – Napa Speedway, August 31 and September 1 Finals: Portland, OR – Portland International Raceway, September 14 & 15

SBI’S OWN DYSTANY SPURLOCK TO COMPETE IN LANDSPEED TIME TRIALS

Or very Dystany Spurlock has joined Kerry Alter and Team Crashalot to compete for the National and World Land Speed Records at the 2012 BuB Speed Trials.

The Bub Motorcycle Speed Trials will occur August 25 - 30, 2012 at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.

28 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 29

THE GRID

30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

AMA Pro Racing: Triumph Big Kahuna Nationals Road Atlanta WORDS AND IMAGES: MEEKAIL SHAHEED

F

ans and riders packed Road Atlanta for the AMA Triumph Big Kahuna on the weekend of April 20 through 22. Saturday’s Superbike Race One was a preview to an exciting weekend of racing. The Josh Hayes/Blake Young duel continued. Blake Young recovered from a crash on Lap 13 to edge out Hayes to win the 20 lap race which featured the two riders running inches apart for most of the race. Blake’s fastest lap of the race was a blistering 1:25.364.

Sundays’s Superbike Winner was Josh Hayes on the Monster Energy Graves Yamaha R1. Best Lap 1:24.922. Blake Young took second onboard the Suzuki GSXR 1000 of Yoshimura Racing. Third place honors went to Josh Herrin riding the Monster Energy Graves Yamaha R1.

While Yamaha riders took two out of the three places in SuperBike, Suzuki ran away with two out of

three in the Daytona SportBike race on Sunday.

Sunday’s Daytona SportBike race saw Martin Cardenas standing number one on the podium.

Cardenas and his Geico Suzuki GSXR 600’s best lap of the race was a 1:29.087. Tommy Hayden took second aboard the Yamaha Extended Service Graves’ YZF R6. Third place honors went to Dane Westby riding M4 Broaster Chicken’s GSXR 600.

SuperSport Race 2 first place honors went to Jake Lewis on Riders Discount Vesrah MCJ Motorsports American Suzuki GSXR 600. Second place was secured by James Rispoli on Celtic racing Orient Express Racing Army’s Suzuki GSXR 600. Dustin Dominguez took third on Castrol Triumph GE Capital Freedom Road Triumph Daytona 675.

SportBikes Inc Magazine’s own Corey Alexander had the best lap of the race 1:16.223.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31

THE GRID: AMA PRO RACING

32 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33

THE GRID: AMA PRO RACING

34 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Great service, fast shipping. Call or email our knowledgable staff today!

866.931-6644 Support@RidersDiscount.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35

THE GRID

The INSIDE TRACK Words: Corey Alexnader images: Brian J. Nelson

36 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

I

t’s funny, you know... Everything goes so good for a while so you forget what it’s like when things go bad, ultimately making them seem even worse when they do decide to go bad. I had one of those weekends this past race at Road Atlanta.

After coming off of a really good opener at Daytona we returned to a track that I hadn’t been to since 2008 when I raced the Red Bull Rookies Cup. Typically, I’m pretty good at picking up tracks and since I’d been there previously I figured it wouldn’t be so bad. After the first few sessions it became pretty evident I was not going to have such an easy weekend. Although I was fortunate enough to make a push to get up into fifth in qualifying it surely was not easy and I was far off of my teammate and pole sitter James Rispoli. When in situations like this, you often fight your own thoughts as to if it’s the bike that is causing you troubles... Or yourself.

The blame game is never the right way to handle things by any means, but it’s something you can’t help but think about. After getting a bad start in the first race and being held to a tenth place

finish the only thing I could hope for was a better second race.

Little did I know I was wrong and I ended up getting a bad start for the second time, not even learning from my previous mistakes. This time though, I ended up getting tangled with another rider which is a whole different story for some other time.

To make a long story short and a bad weekend worse, I walked away with a slight Posterior Labral Tear in my left shoulder and a few bruises and scrapes. It could have been much worse so I am indeed fortunate. It just goes to show sometimes it does pour when it rains.

As I write this I just finished packing for the next race this weekend at Infineon. I just got cleared to ride, but we will see how it feels. I have to give a shout out to Dr. Ting for helping me out on such short notice. If anyone has any sports related or racing related injuries he’s your guy.

Connect with Corey...

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37

FRICTION ZONE: ducstock 2011

38 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SCORPIONMOTO

SERKET SERKET PARAllEl PARAllEl TITANIUM TITANIUM

SERKET SERKET TAPER TAPER TITANIUM TITANIUM

N O Y L L EA R S i T A E H E H T R.

E W O P D E R GO

WHEN

2012 IT’S NOT THE ENd Of THE WORld… bUT iT MAYbE fOR OUR cOMpETiTORS.

SERKET SERKET PARAllEl PARAllEl CARBON CARBON fIBRE fIBRE

SERKET SERKET TAPER TAPER CARBON CARBON fIBRE fIBRE

With With itit removed removed however however the the exhaust exhaust will will sound sound like like itit looks:looks:- TRULY TRULY AWESOME! AWESOME!

The The new new SERKET SERKET range range fuses fuses ultra ultra modern modern design design concepts concepts with with aerospace aerospace grade grade materials, materials, incorporating incorporating aa brand brand new new polymer polymer composite composite outlet outlet and and featuring featuring aa new new profile, profile, in in keeping keeping with with the the modern modern angular angular lines lines of of current current bike bike design. design.

The The ‘SERKET’ ‘SERKET’ range range remains remains true true to to our our core core values values of of Performance Performance and and Precision.

Precision. Dyno Dyno development development && rigorous rigorous testing testing ensures ensures optimum optimum performance performance improvement improvement within within the the O.E. O.E. manufacturers manufacturers fuelling fuelling tolerances. tolerances.

All All the the new new range range will will be be E-Marked E-Marked and and feature feature aa removable removable baffle baffle to to facilitate facilitate aa dual dual tone tone sound. sound.

With With the the baffle baffle fitted fitted the the ‘SERKET’ ‘SERKET’ silencer silencer will will give give aa huge huge enhancement enhancement to to the the exhaust exhaust note. note.

SERKET SERKET PARAllEl PARAllEl BRUSHEd BRUSHEd STAINlESS STAINlESS

SERKET SERKET TAPER TAPER BRUSHEd BRUSHEd STAINlESS STAINlESS

SCORPION SCORPION RANgE RANgE All Allavailable availableininStainless StainlessSteel, Steel,carbon carbonfibre fibre&&Satin SatinTitanium Titanium--carbon carbonoutlet outletavailable availableas asan anoption. option.((*Rp-1 *Rp-1Gp Gpisisnot notavailable availableininStainless StainlessSteel) Steel)

fACTORY fACTORY CARBON CARBON

CARBINE CARBINE OVAl OVAl CARBON CARBON

CONTACT: CONTACT: TAW TAW PerformAnce PerformAnce (US (US DiSTribUTorS) DiSTribUTorS) WEB: WEB: WWW.TAWPerformAnce.com WWW.TAWPerformAnce.com

POWER POWER CONE CONE CARBON CARBON

TAgMA TAgMA CARBON CARBON

STEAlTH STEAlTH CARBON CARBON

RP-1 RP-1 gP gP ** CARBON CARBON

NEW NEW WEBSITE WEBSITE // // WWW.SCORPION-EXHAUSTS.COM WWW.SCORPION-EXHAUSTS.COM Scorpion.

Scorpion. Hand Hand crafted crafted inin Great Great Britain.

Britain.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39

THE GRID

LAdies of the PaddocK Words and IMAGES: Carrie aquino

W

ith Mother’s Day in May I decided that it was appropriate to interview a Mom, a Racer’s Mom. They are rarely seen out front at the races because their job is to support their racing son or daughter.

Dee Clark is one of those special moms and the positive energy and support she gives her son, Chris Clark is amazing. With only meeting her within the past two years, and most of that is just one weekend a month at the track, it still fascinates me on how easy it is to bond with others from this community. As a mother myself to a racer, all the competitiveness goes out the window when talking with another “Racer Mom”. All we really care about is that everyone, yes... everyone, races hard and stays safe.

SBI: What is your role in Road Racing?

DC: My youngest son Chris races for Yoshimura. He rides a Suzuki GSXR 1000.

SBI: How long has your son Chris been racing and how did you as a family get involved?

DC: The family used to own a motor cycle store in Vegas. Chris was 15 and his brother, Patrick was 16. They wanted to learn how to ride motorcycles. At Las Vegas Speedway, there was a Freddie Spencer School. The boys started taking classes there in October of 2006. After a few 40 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

months of classes, Chris wanted to start racing bikes. It was hard to contain him! He and his brother are true “speed Junkies”.

A year later, Chris started club racing. Three years ago he turned Pro. SBI: What is your role at the track?

DC: The only thing I do at the track is to give as much support as possible to Chris and of course to cheer him on. In the beginning I did the “mom” thing.

But now as a Pro, he doesn’t

need me to make sure he is up, fed and ready to race. He is so independent now. Also when I can, I like being his Umbrella Girl/Mom. SBI: Has this become a passion or job for your regarding your son’s racing?

DC: It is a true Passion!

SBI: What is the one thing you would like to share that people would be surprised to know about you?

DC: I do competitive Ballroom

Dancing.

SBI: Amazing! So competition runs through the family?

DC: I have been doing this sport for two and a half years and have grown as a person and as a competitor. Much like what has happened with Chris. Last year as a competitor, I placed second top female student in the dance sport series and top bronze student in the RSF Circuit.

SBI: Do you find it hard being a women surrounded by probably 98% of men in the paddock?

DC: No. I‘m used to it. In high school, I majored in auto mechanics and work as a mechanic to pay for school. Then I worked as a District Service Manager for Pontiac Motor Division. So I have been in the “man’s world” since I was sixteen.

the USA? DC: I don’t believe this sport is properly covered by the media.

The sport is not understood.

Everything is about exposure on both a personal and professional level.

SBI: What is the one word or sentenced that you would sum up your feelings of the life you have in “The Paddock”?

DC: The paddock is the heart of every race team. It’s where everyone that is directly involved with a rider gathers as a whole.

As a mom of three (Patrick 22, Chris 21 & Caitlin 17), Dee has learned how to juggle her time between her family and still have a very active sport herself. She is an amazing women some of her other interest and passions are animals, babies in need and the

arts.

I truly believe it takes an extra special mom to watch their sons go up to speeds of 200mph knowing that anything can happen. And it does! And when that happens, the mom is there and will be there again when their son gets back on the horse.

Dee knows that she has raised a confident, smart and competitive son. She does what all racer moms do: support, guide and love. Even the best racers in the world know that. Next time you’re in the paddock, look around and see if you can pick out the Moms.

Even though we are not seen all the time, the Racer’s Mom is always there with the racer.

Thanks and Happy Mother’s Day to all you strong, caring Moms.

SBI: What kind of strengths do you need for this working environment?

DC: To start with, a good sense of humor. Self confidence and good work ethics.

SBI: What do your friends and family think of your involvement in road racing?

DC: All my friends and family love the way I support my kids in whatever they do, even if what they do is beyond normal.

SBI: This sport is highly praised all around the world. Why do you think it’s not widely known here in SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 41

42 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Martin Cardenas Team M4 Suzuki

When Performance Matters ®

Superbike Wave Rotors

Superbike Brake Pads

• Used by the fastest racing teams like M4 Suzuki, Yoshimura and many more.

• The G1003 / 7 brake pads featuring a laser cut heat treated backing plate to minimize warpage as well as a Carbon composite capable of delivering up to 0.72u friction levels.

• Good modulation, great heat resistance and strong initial bite.

• Made of a proprietary 420 high carbon stainless steel for increased memory retention.

• Each Superbike Wave® disc is laser cut for precision & cryo treated for longer performance.

• All Galfer Superbike Wave® rotors are stress tested using our COSMOS analyzing system.

• Patented Wave® design includes not only an outer Wave® but also an inner Wave® which equalizes and dissipates heat much faster.

Superbike Line Kits

Accossato’s Designs Include:

• Radial master cylinders with adjustable ratios from 17 to 19 (PRS Kits) • Radial master cylinders in sizes 19x18, 19x20, 16x16 or 16x18 • Electronically adjustable master cylinders, an Accossato exclusive patented design!

Galfer Superbike Wave® rotors are protected under US PTO#6,386,340 and US Trademark# 76,517,881

• Lifetime warranty.

• Direct thread - into caliper banjo less system, to maximize feel and braking force.

• Sizes available: -2 or -2.8. Custom sizes and designs also available to adapt data acquisition needs.

310 Irving Drive, Oxnard, CA 93030 • phone: 805 988.2900 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43 fax: 805 988.2948 • web: www.galferusa.com • www.accossatousa.com

THE GRID

The baker’s dozen One man. Twelve topics. One opinion... HIS! Words: Phil baker

Myth? Wearing the #1 plate will almost guarantee a denial of a championship repeat: Not at all. I think that the number one plate is a great honor and should be worn with pride! It’s an exclusive club and therefore, if you own it, you should show it off. Casey will prove that wearing it is not a myth. He’ll still be wearing it next year!

Explain CRT? This is the way forward for MotoGP. It is a cheaper method of racing and will cap the amount the satellite teams have to pay to be on the grid. This way, we should see an increase, much like Formula One, where they have made the bikes cheaper and more affordable to race in these trying economic times.

Fish and Chips or Bangers and Mash?

Fish and Chips.

Rumors of Troy Bayliss returning to pilot the Ducati 1199 Panigale? How cool would that be? We can but hope!

Stitch for stitch, who is leading the pack in race suit technology? Wow! This is such a tough one as both Alpinestars and Dainese are outstanding companies in their own right. I know the guys at Alpinestars are constantly looking for improvements and have been working on their airbag technology for a number of years now.

They never tire at looking for improvement and it is a work in progress situation, but we should all be grateful to both companies for their efforts to make it safer for us out on the road.

Jeremy Burgess: His record speaks for itself. He is a legend and has done a remarkable job. Would Vale have stuck with him this long if he wasn’t so good? I doubt it! He is a great character around the paddock and I hope he will be here for many years to come.

44 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Team orders? Do they really exist or is it every man for themselves?

The last time that I recall, was in 2006 at Valencia. Nicky had just been unceremoniously dumped by Pedrosa at Estoril and the championship was now in Valentino’s favor. The only way forgiveness could be achieved was by Nicky winning the championship. Well, after about five laps, you might recall that Dani stuck his leg out and let Nicky through and then controlled those behind him perfectly, allowing Nicky to chase the Ducatis out front and come home to win the championship. That was right at the end of the season and championships were in the balance. Until that stage, it really is all for one and one for all.

Random: Is the 4th of July a sore subject? As a Brit, of course it is! If my lot had not been getting drunk on the East coast and partying it up, we might have won!

Joking apart, I love July 4th. It’s great that the U S of A takes so much pride in itself and the nation comes together to celebrate their independence from all those years ago.

I have lived her for 12 years and love it, so as the saying goes, “when in Rome, do as the Romans”!

How important are sponsors? Essential. Without them we would not have a championship. It’s all very well the manufacturers putting up the bikes and the development but the cost of coordinating a team around the world to 18 races is a massive undertaking and sponsors are a total necessity. you might think the factory teams are okay, but without sponsors, it would be factory teams racing on their own with no satellite bikes!!

As the bikes get faster and more advanced, is racing getting safer or more dangerous? Bikes are being developed through racing, for the road. The manufacturers are looking for safety as well as overall performance. ABS braking came in through development on the track and so many other elements are being tested out on the track so that they can be passed down to tomorrow’s motorcycles. Therefore, it is definitely getting safer.

Umbrella girls: Eye candy or annoying? They are a part of the circus. it would be like a football game without the cheerleaders. they are a part of the mix. All the girls I have met have been really nice and not in the least bit annoying. Eye candy? damn right!

What are your top three pet peeves of the racing industry? 1. People getting big egos when they really shouldn’t and don’t have any right to. 2. Marshals at certain tracks who think they are the Almighty for the day. 3. Why is it that some tracks really don’t know how to control traffic, even after twenty plus years of experience!? You know who you are!

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 45

THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Eziah Davis

NAME: Eziah Davis AGE: 15 Association/Affiliations/Series: CCS, NJ MINIGP

Goals: To turn Pro and ride in Europe

Accomplishments: Last season I went undefeated in ultra light thunderbike and 3rd over all in GTL Atlantic and got selected to tryout for the Red Bull Rookie Cup in Europe.

Define your passion in one sentence: I live out my dreams every day and twist a throttle.

Contact: http://www.eziahdavis.com

46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 47

48 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 49

THE STRAIGHT LINE

The youngest in charge Words: Dystany Spurlock images: Meekail Shaheed

W

e are just getting into this 2012 season and it is already starting off great. I’m sure a lot of the fellow racers can agree with me. Since I’m already talking about the beginning of the season, I guess it would only be right for me to let you know how the first two races went.

The first race was in Rockingham, NC for the MIRock Series. Mind you, the first race is usually, always the wettest and coldest of the whole season.

But for some reason it turned out to be the complete opposite. The weather was great, the sun was shining and the sky was clear. I always get to my races a day early that way it gives me time to relax and get focused. I could not wait to get on my bike and race. I was only racing in two classes this time which were the Crazy8’s and 5.60 Index. I figured its the beginning of the season so I will take my time and race at my own pace. I just so happened to go out the first round in Crazy8’s. I was a little disappointed in myself but it was alright. I went out due to my bike being way to fast for the class and I “ran out”, meaning I went a faster

50 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

ET than 8.88 seconds. A lot of people ask me, ”Why don’t you just slow it down?”

It is so hard to do that when you are a speed demon! In the 5.60 Index, I went out second round because the guy came off the line a little quicker than I.

The second race of the season was at Maryland International Raceway.

Now this race was a whole different ball game than the first race. It was freezing cold and raining. None of the racers thought that we would be able to finish the weekend. Friday night was clear but when Saturday came around, it was as if someone put a huge rain cloud over us. We weren’t able to race Saturday, so the track officials told us since Saturday was out the window that for Sunday the winnings would be doubled.

I personally thought that would be a fair deal.

So I got myself ready for Sunday. I raced in three classes: Crazy8’s, 5.60, and Pro ET. I had done a lot of practicing to get ready for this race. I had figured out different techniques to slow my bike down for Crazy8’s, run all out in Pro ET and to slow my bike down just a

hair for 5.60.

I didn’t realize how much different information I had going through my head at once until I pulled up to the line for each class. But through it all, I was able to conquer the challenge. Its all apart of this beautiful sport that I love and cherish. In all three classes I went out second round. I am proud of myself. I’m learning.

I’m truly starting to understand all of the fundamentals of drag racing. Not saying that I didn’t understand it before, but I am now deeply analyzing it all.

I will also like to thank all of my friends, family, sponsors, and supporters for sticking behind me and believing in me. I love you all!

Connect with Dystany...

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 51

52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 53

THE STRAIGHT LINE

Capo’s cut

Words: ASHON “CAPO” DICKERSON IMAGES: brittain/still/snead

T

ime doesn’t stand still for any of us and things do change. Some for the good and some for the worst, in life and in racing. This lifestyle is tough and puts strain on a lot of relationships on and off the race track.

Appreciate the good loyal people you have in your corner and if you don’t tell them enough, please express that to them. Progression and forward movement has to be the plan for those who are determined and set on getting goals accomplished.

Back in 2011 was the first year I was featured to sign autographs for my sponsor Schampa at the NYC International Motorcycle Show. I heard everyone talking about an invite only magazine launch party that SportBikes Inc was having. My wife and I didn’t get an invite but still attended with our close friends Rickey and Kiana Gadson. When we get there the first person I see when I walk through the door is Leon Brittain with his camera. I first met LB back in 2008 when he covered a TV show pilot with Rich Christansen from Pinks. It was a huge six hundred bike, “arm drop” style at MIR where I won a custom Harley and made history.

At the party, LB sees me and says “Yo Capo! Let’s take a pic!” And the rest is history.

This past January, our invite to the 54 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SBI VIP Party was from my big brah, Mr. Allan Lane, himself!

All I’m saying, my people, is dreams do come true. When facing adversity, you must dig deep and think about things that give you inspiration so your energy can hopefully rub off on others. Sometimes a shot in the dark can light up the world!

Remember the sun will always shine!

Loyalty is everything!

Connect with Capo...

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55

56 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57

MANUFACTURERS CUP S eas o n

O p ener

WORDS AND IMAGES: MEEKAIL SHAHEED 58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 59

THE STRAIGHT LINE: manufacturers cup

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

T

he 2012 Manufacturers Cup Series started off with a bang on April 13 in Valdosta, GA. There was a brief scare on Saturday when a Top Fuel Harley Davidson experienced an engine explosion during burnout. The intake manifold blew sending shrapnel flying. Three crew members were injured as a result but were all expected to be okay.

Track officials and EMT personnel worked quickly to handle the situation.

Fast By Gast Top Gas honors went to Mike Lingo who edged out Chad Otts for the win. MTC Engineering Super Comp went to Ken Chapman. Jeremy Teasley edged Frankie Stotz for the Orient Express Pro Street win. Johnny Vickers out of Millers Creek NC took the Royal Purple Pro Dragster final win over Janette Thornley.

Star Racing Pro Comp honors went to Keith Lynn. Tiger Racing Street Fighter crown went to Charlie Tyre.

Weekend powerhouse Brandon Pellichinno took the Worldwide Bearing Crazy 8 honors. WPS Shinko Real Street win went to Johnny Dorbin who ran 194.83 MPH with an ET of 7.807.

The weather was great and the stands were packed. This promises to be a great season with fan favorites and up and comers putting the bikes on the track in Valdosta at South Georgia Motorsports Park.

60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 61

THE STRAIGHT LINE: manufacturers cup

Images: Courtesy of Brice Lloyd

62 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 63

64 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SUMMER SHOWDOWN June 2-3, 2012

• • • • •

at Maryland International Raceway

Wild Pro Mod Class 200mph Pro Street Class Short Wheelbase Real Street Class Sportsman Motorcycle ET Classes Smack Talkin’ Grudge Class

• • • • •

Vendor Midway Great Food & Cold Beer Motorcycle Club Hot Spot $1,200 Bikini Contest Huge Streetbike Corral

Over $400,000 in Cash and Contingencies!

The Nation’s Top Motorcycle Drag Racing Series!

All Bikini Contestants must send photos to bikinicontest@mirdrag.com for casting

ADMISSION

1-Day $20 • 2-Day $35 • Kids 6-11 $5

SCHEDULE

Saturday: Open 9am - Elim 3pm Sunday: Open 8am - Elim 12noon

Two Hours of Trash Talkin’ Grudge Racing Saturday Night!

MIROCKracing.com

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65

THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Meekail CourtesyShaheed of Brice Lloyd

NAME: Richard Gadson AGE: 26 Association/Affiliations/Series: MIRock Superbike Series, ADRL (American Drag Racing League) Goals: To become a role model for the younger crowd through my success. By showing them to leave the illegal street racing alone, and bring it to the drag strip! And with dedication, they could be the next champion!

I accomplished my goal of winning a championship in a pro category last year...

So now I just want more!

Accomplishments: 2001 Started Racing.

2003 AMA Prostar 600 Super Sport #5 2004 AMA Prostar 600 Super sport #2 2006 AMA Prostar 1000 Super Sport #2 2007 Entered my first AHDRA race in Richmond, VA and won. I also set the national record in the Hot Street class.

2008 AMA Drag Bike Super Street #3 2011 Set LSR top speed record of 206mph in Loring, Maine 2011 Won SEMDRA Pro Mod National Championship Define your passion in one sentence: “This is what I was born to do!”

CONTACT:

66 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 67

68 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 69

The Rev LIMITER

Violet Stars & Happy Stunting Words: leah petersen images: Anthony pesch B

ike building. Art? Task?

Or some type of sick, selfinduced torture?

Building a stuntbike is a bit like traveling without a road map, sometimes you turn a corner to witness a magnificent, sight and other times you run smack into a big pile of steaming...Well, if you have spent any amount of time wrenching on a motorcycle, you get it where I'm going with that.

Since I opted to sell my motorcycle in Europe instead of importing it back into the states, I touched down in America with one primary objective: new motorcycle. OK, I admit I had to find a house first, but after that, it was full steam ahead on building my new stuntbike. After building bikes in California, New York City and France, I was happy to be back in California for this build. In terms of motorcycle services and products, California is a mecca for any rider. It seems every random community in SoCal is home to a competent welder, a talented fabricator and an endless stream of Craigslist posts selling motorcycle parts.

Still, while building bikes in California is a million times easier than New York City or France, I was left trying to buy a bike and parts at the worst possible time of year: springtime 70 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

and tax return season. This powerful combination creates an environment that brings out every squid who has ever considered twisting a throttle. With the springtime sun coaxing them out of the house after a long winter and a jingle in their pocket, thanks to Uncle Sam, they are ready and willing to overpay for any shiny sportbike that rolls their way.

I was left browsing through countless overpriced, high mileage, salvaged bikes with my "must stunt now" emotions growing and anxiety compounding. Finally, I located a bike that was clean, low mileage, decent price - the catch, was it was 6 hours away in Arizona. Most people would consider a one-day, 12 hour drive a bit intense, but after spending two years on the road, it is just another day in the office.

Seizing the moment is key to building stuntbikes, you snooze you lose...Seriously. If you see something, you need you call that instant, make a deal and go retrieve it. This must be a 12-24 hour ordeal lest you chance the seller backing out, otherwise flaking, using the part for his coffee table or selling it to someone who got cash in his hand before you did.

Without the "carpe the stunt part" mentality a build can turn into a

very long process.

So Arizona it was, the Grand Canyon State was programmed into the GPS and we were flying through the Mohave Desert in no time. We arrived, did the paper work, made the exchange and were back on the road in time to witness a magnificent sunset on the way home. While not entirely orthodox, also not a bad way to spend the day with your friend and trusty road dog.

With the bike purchased, the real work began, it was time to strip it down. Tearing down the bike you just bought is a bit like the beginning of a steep hike - you can't really see your destination and you just have to trust, despite the very unfriendly terrain, that it will be worth it in the end. I started the work on Saturday morning and within a few hours my shiny new sportbike had been reduced to a lone motor sitting in the center of our garage.

The next step is my favorite (aside from actually getting to rip wheelies on a new bike) and that is getting my parts back from the powder coater. If you find a good powder coater, your parts come back looking like they just went through the best spa-day of their life, please excuse the feminine metaphor.

But in all honesty there is not a better feeling then getting a

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 71

The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

huge pile of motorcycle parts back 100% clean and freshly powder coated.

The beauty of the newly powder coated parts normally subdues the angst about the enormous amount of work still remaining to make your motorcycle ride-able.

All that came off, must go back together, you must cull through each piece of metal, plastic and rubber lying hap hazardously 72 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

on your garage floor to make a motorcycle that actually runs.

yourself - why am I doing this to myself?

When it's all said and done I believe building a motorcycle is primarily an art; selecting your colors, materials and styling.

Clearly there is still plenty of mundane wrenching and yes, while you are driving around madly for hours fetching random parts, tires, bearings, seats, forks... you will inevitably ask

I guess most endeavors of passionate creation are this way though, because if you're not struggling through something new and uncharted, you forego the rewarding pride of building something that is truly and uniquely, yours.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 73

The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

“S

eizing the moment is key to building stuntbikes, you snooze you lose...”

74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 75

76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

CHUBBZ THE INTERVIEW WORDS: BRITTANY MORROW//IMAGES: JESSE GORDON

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 77

The Rev LIMITER: CHUBBZ

C

rude. Crass. Loud. Proud.

These are just a few words used on a daily basis to describe the Founder and CEO of Bikestyles Inc. Chances are, if you’ve been anywhere but underneath a rock over the past sixteen years, then you’ve seen, or heard this man at one of the many motorcycle events splattered across the country. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Chubbz is the consummate “don’t give a damn, dirty tattooed biker trash our mothers warned us about!” He has a knack for drawing and holding almost anyone’s attention, the

78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

body of a god (Buddha), and a mouth only a delinquent could love. Never afraid to speak his mind, he’ll tell you exactly what he’s thinking regardless if it’s what you want to hear. And he speaks a language all his own: a lurid mix of gangster rap and Billy Mays-esque sales pitches…

Yes, it is possible.

Despite the immediate off putting demeanor and in your face swag, with Chubbz in your corner, you’d never need another friend. He knows no strangers.

The man is bulldog on the front steps loyal to anyone who has the good sense to never let him

down. A rare quality within the stunt industry, he works hard and stands behind his product to a fault. He is everywhere you’d want to be, doing all the things you’d want to be doing.

Chubbz is also 100% sober, 100% of the time, so his mind is always sharp. He uses that to his ultimate advantage. He makes no compromises and rolls over for no one. And it’s why he’s been on top, and will stay on top, of the underground apparel game until the day he hangs up his BS hat.

We sat down with the legend himself to get an insider’s perspective on getting started

so I started my own company called Rider 4 Life in 1998.

Since I worked for the biggest stunt group in the world, my foot was already in the door.

SBI: How did Rider 4 Life evolve into Bikestyles Inc? Chubbz: In 2003 my band got back together. We put out a cd and did an 18 month world tour. When I got back, my partners in Rider 4 Life got a rich guy to invest and that was a stupid thing to do. So I told them just to pay me to MC all the stunt shows, and we put out a DVD called "BIKESTYLES." In 2005 I got rid of partnering and just called my company BIKESTYLES.

Chubbz and his partner in crime, Jesse.

in the stunt game early, how business should be handled, and the current state of the motorcycle industry.

SBI: How did you initially get started in the industry?

Chubbz: I met Scott Caraboolad from Starboyz in 1996. He worked at a dealership in the parts dept. We became good friends and I starting working for them.

SBI: Where does the moniker “Chubbz” come from?

Chubbz: A punk rock kid said it to me once like he was dogging me. He said, “Whatever, Chubbie

Fresh.” So when I was with the Starboyz, Scott gave me the name Mr. Chubbz, then we just shortened the whole name to Chubbz.

SBI: Where does the inspiration for Bikestyles Inc. and all the designs come from?

Chubbz: It comes from my life! I've been in big bands that have toured the world, so it comes from music, tattoos, and of course bikes. It's all my vision. My influences are as simplistic as it gets: funny sayings, profanity sayings, stuff I think of and of course my graphic artists.

SBI: What was your relationship with the Starboyz like?

Chubbz: The relationship was good; they’re just the craziest guys in the world… on and off their bikes.

SBI: How have things changed over the past 16 years?

Chubbz: The industry is waaay different. Back in the day, everybody supported everybody. Now people think they’re too cool. Fuck 'em!

SBI: What made you choose to break away from the Starboyz and start your own company?

Chubbz: I sold the Starboyz stuff for them and I saw how much money they were making,

SBI: How has the current state of the economy affected the motorcycle industry, and more so, your business?

Chubbz: Everything's affected, SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 79

The Rev LIMITER: Chubbz but I have a huge store in the mall out where I live. It's a fullblown fashion company there.

13 to 19 year old kids are my clients. The stunt industry gets pretty much no help and the reason is these people that get "sponsored" do nothing they’re supposed to do. It's not free!

"Us" companies give money and product and usually get shitted on. The riders don't promote for the companies. I could go off on a lot of the riders... Next question please!

SBI: So what’s in the future for Bikestyles Inc? Chubbz: The future is my store in the mall, that's pretty much it. The stunt world is at an all time low. I mean, there are maybe five stunt events in 2012. But I do the AMA events and bike weeks all over the country. When people ask why there are no shows or events being scheduled, these "sponsored" riders should look in the mirror and realize they are to blame.

SBI: Anything else you want to share with the public?

Chubbz: I just want to thank everyone for years of support.

BS is the largest stunt clothing company in the world. With over 200 designs, we have tees and hoodies ranging in size small to 5XL. We have a female line. We have an infant line and a kids line. We even have socks, “undeez,” hats, coats… we have it all. BS forever, forever BS!

80 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

“T

hese people that get "sponsored" do nothing they’re supposed to do. It's not free! "Us" companies give money and product and usually get shitted on...”

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 81

The Rev LIMITER: chubbz

“W

hen people ask why there are no shows or events being scheduled, these “sponsored” riders should look in the mirror and realize they are to blame.”

82 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 83

The Rev LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Mike Hartley

NAME: Mike Hartley AGE: NA Association/Affiliations/Series: Down For Life Stunt Team and Ruthless Tactics Goals: I’d like to learn as many stunts as possible and one day compete in Stuntwars or XDL. I’d also like to be able to travel around and meet and ride with as many stunt teams/groups as possible.

Accomplishments: I’ve learned a lot of tricks so far including circle wheelies, highchairs, spreaders, endos and drifting.

Define your passion in one sentence: Two wheels feel good but you can’t compare it to being on one! It’s the reason I ride.

Contact:

84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 85

SS-Shirt

Brotherhood

XXR

Reaper

Shop Online - www.LegendaryUSA.com/SBI 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

90067 -USA/1760963 ges/LeoVince ebook.com/pa 90067 http://www.fac -USA/1760963 ges/LeoVince 7 ebook.com/pa /17609639006 http://www.fac -USA ince LeoV k.com/pages/ eboo w.fac 90067 http://ww -USA/1760963 ges/LeoVince ebook.com/pa http://www.fac

ADVERTISE WITH SPORTBIKES INC MAGAZINE! FO R A D V E R T I S I N G R A T E S A N D I N FO www PL E A S E E M A I L I N FO @ S PO R T www.leovinceusa.com B I K.leovi E Snceus I N a.com C M A G . C OM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87

THE LIFE Featured Club

Ruff Ryders

Chapter: South Carolina | Founded: 2006 | Members: 63 Elected Officials: Presidents - Blue Eyed Fury, Crooklyn, Lucky, Spidey, Â Skinner, Vision, Weatherman | State Rep - Dot Com

Rocker Interpretation: The Double R logo that adorns the back of the Ruff Ryder vest is reminder to those that wear it to live their lives to the extreme... However, the Double R also serves as reminder that they exist and function as a family.

88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

History/Origin of Club: Based in New York, Ruff Ryders has grown to an international organization with over 150 chapters. Founded in 1998 by two brothers, Joaquin and Darrin along with their sister Chivon Dean. The club aspect of Ruff Ryders is an extension of the Hip Hop Record Label by the same

name. With a number of the artist on the label motorcycle enthusiasts themselves, their music videos featured cameos of bikes, street riding, stunt riding, etc.

The South Carolina Chapter is family oriented organization.

Motorcycles serve as the foundation for their unity. The lifestyle brings all that together. Â

Club Milestones/Memorable Moments: In 2011, the SC Chapter of the Ruff Ryders hosted the Myrtle Beach Takeover. Their “hood ride” had over 1000 participants.

Future of the club: The future always depends on continuous growth within the chapter along with a tremendous amount of community involvement. They promote safe riding, portray positive role models, encourage fellowship among riders of all styles and support other organizations in the development of the motorcycle community.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

89 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

BELLSTARCARBON • Ultra lightweight 100% carbon fiber shell reduces strain on neck • Super stable aerodynamic profile resists buffeting and lift • Velocity flow ventilation system keeps you cool and comfortable • Removable and washable interior provides maximum comfort • Anti-fog, anti-skratch, and UV protected shield for excellent visiblity • Star Carbon comes with padded, lined Bell helmet bag

www.bellpowersports.com https://www.facebook.com/BellPowersports

STAR RSD BLACK BEAUTY CARBON

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91

THE LIFE: FEatured riderS Mike Ziegler

Tabernacle, NJ

Stay at Daddy - STADADDY

STATS Years Riding: 30 years.

RIDING STYLE: All street riding. Road raced in CCS 04 to 07.

mike Ziegler

bike(s) Owned: 2001 Triumph Speed Triple, 2010 Harley Davidson Rocker C.

FAVORITE BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: The 2001 reverse paint job on my 2001 Triple.

The black rim swap, dirt bike bars and levers.

Favorite piece of riding gear: Flat Black ICON helmet with the Scala head set and ICON Timax gloves.

92 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

most memorable ride: Besides racing at VIR, I’d have to say my favorite ride is Deal’s Gap. 318 turns in 11 miles.

FEatured rider of the month

Kimberly Huddleston Neely AKA Detail

Philadelphia, PA

COO of Kneely Images

Years Riding: 5 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street and track. bike(s) Owned: 2007 Kawasaki ZX10R, 2005 Kawasaki Ninja250, 2000 Kawasaki ZR7, 1995 Honda CBR600 FAVORITE BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: My Yoshimura dual slip on exhaust on my ZX10R. Favorite piece of riding gear: My helmet and my GoPro2 Motorsports Edition camera.

most memorable ride: The 2011 ride from NJMP to home, in Pittsburgh, riding with my husband. And it was storming rain all the way from Philly to Pittsburgh. It seemed like the harder it rained, the faster we went.

kimberly Huddleston Neely

STATS

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 93

FEatured THE LIFE: LIFE rider FEatured FEaturedriderS riderS Shaileen Shah

Lawrence Township, NJ

Shaileen SHAH

STATS Years Riding: 3 plus years.

RIDING STYLE: Street. bike(s) Owned: 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 650R

FAVORITE BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: Stock.

Favorite piece of riding gear: Jackets! most memorable ride: The Philadelphia Shut the City Down Ride 2012.

94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Systems Analyst

Natalie Seymour AKA Nicety

Alexandria, VA

DC Public Schools

STATS RIDING STYLE: Street. bike(s) Owned: 2005 Suzuki GSXR 600 Favorite BIKE MOD/ACCESSORY: I haven’t made many changes or modifications to my bike since I purchased it, I like it the way it is right now Favorite piece of gear: My black vest because in our club the black vest distinguishes us as riders, our main vest color is white (Mother Chapter of Outsidaz Femme Fatale SC) most memorable ride: My most memorable ride was when I relocated to this area and I had to ride my motorcycle from PA to VA. Still new at riding and not totally confident, I surprised myself and felt I developed the confidence I needed to improve my skills.

natalie seymor

Years Riding: 4 years.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 95

96 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 97

MOTO TECH: The war ROOM

Words: Allan Mark Lane Rozemo Image: Courtesy of Motion Pro

2 0 1

2T

KAWASAKI

ZX-14R

he fastest production motorcycle in existence, the 2012 Kawasaki ZX 14R has already hurt alot of people’s feelings and has delivered massive blows to the egos of many a Hayabusa owner. Here are a few tools to finish the job.

The War Room is interactive. See something that you like? Click on it...

BROCK’S PERFORMANCE | CT Megaphone Full System Brock’s Performance and the ZX 14R have a long standing relationship of taking speed and power and making them faster and stronger. $1,845.00

ROARING TOYZ | Bolt on Swingarm extension kit Roaring Toyz have done their research and as a result, manufactured the most reliable and highest quaility swingarm extension kit. $281.95 98 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

HOTBODIES RACING | UNDERTAILS A cleaner, sleeker alternative over the stock under plastic. $189.95

GPR STABILIZERS | V4 Stabilizer Regardless if you are going straight really fast or exiting that corner like a bat out of hell, a little stability goes a long way. $495.00

PIPERCROSS | RACE AIR FILTER You gotta let the beast breathe!

Pipercross Race Air FIlters trap more dirt yet allow for tremendous air flow. $79.00

MUZZY | ADjustable lowering links Get low and go. The adjustable links allow for less intrusive changes once they are installed. $169.95

DP BRAKES | X Race titanium brake pads Power on demand is awesome. But eventually you have to stop. The X Race Titanium pads offer greater braking power when compared to stock pads. $35.00

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 99

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

ASK THE PRO WRENCH Words: Thomas Campion Q: I have a 2009 R6 that needs the clutch plates replaced. I want to do it myself so I got a new clutch plate kit. Now what?

A: First off, before you do anything make sure you have the correct new clutch plates, clutch cover gasket, and tools for the job. You will want to soak your friction plates in oil before installing (if necessary). I usually soak them overnight if I have the time. It is preferred to not do this while the engine is hot but if you have no other choice then just use caution and a good pair of gloves.

You will want to start off by draining the oil after removing the lower fairing. I often lean the bike over using a tie down and extreme caution not to drop the bike. Remove the two bolts holding the bracket for the clutch cable, unhook the cable from the clutch arm. Remove the rest of the bolts from the cover and remove cover.

Next is the clutch spring bolts.

Remove the six bolts and springs.

Now you are ready to remove the pressure plate The clutch fiber plates will try to stick to this, just hold them down while pulling the pressure plate off. Then pull the clutch plates out taking note of the order they are in. Once the clutch is out inspect your clutch basket 100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

for wear. Grooves where the fiber plate fingers lock in are bad and same thing with the inner hub.

Grooves where the metal plate fingers lock in are bad.

If your in good shape then let’s put this clutch together! Let’s talk about the metals. There is a rounded edge and a sharp edge from them being manufactured.

Some say it doesn’t matter which way you put them in, some say to put the sharp edge out and others say to put the sharp edge in. I put the sharp edge out so when you release the clutch, the nice rounded edge allows for a smooth engagement. Go ahead and put the plates in, starting with the friction and putting a metal in between each one. Then its time for the pressure plate, springs and bolts. Careful not to over tighten the bolts, about 8 ft. lbs. of torque. we can mount the clutch cable bracket next. After getting the Once that’s all together it time clutch cable all hooked up and for the cover. Make sure the tightening the bracket, go ahead gasket surface is clean on the and check your clutch lever to make sure we have everything case and on the cover. Put the correct. new gasket on and as you put the cover on. Make sure you Since it’s a new clutch you may put the clutch arm so that when have to adjust your free play to the cover is seated on the case compensate for the thicker friction the dot on the arm aligns with plates. Once you have made the arrow on the cover. Once you have that aligned go ahead sure everything is assembled correctly go ahead and put and put the bolts back in the some oil back in, bolt up your cover and tighten them down.

Remember to leave the two out so fairings and get out there and ride!

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 101

102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 103

improve your skills

The first five seconds words: Eric wood images: Brian Nitto/Allan Lane

W

e are going to touch on some of the basic concepts for improving performance during the most important five seconds of any race: The ones following the green flag.

There is no better time to gain an advantage on your fellow competitors than during the run from start/finish to turn one.

Anyone who watched the restart of AMA Superbike race 1 at Road Atlanta saw what a determined Blake Young could do while starting from the back of the grid. The combination of proper technique, focused concentration and good planning 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

took Blake from the back row up into the top 5 before the end of the first lap. In order to have successful starts riders must not only master the proper mechanics of a good launch but they also must spend a little time developing a plan in advance.

The first bit of advice that I would give any rider who wants to learn how to get a good launch is to get advice from the best.

Drag racers like Rickey Gadson have made careers from their ability to make motorcycles get great starts, and there is much to be learned from them. If you have the ability to do so, attend a drag racing school and it will

serve you well for the duration of your road racing career. These schools expand on the three basic areas that every rider needs to concentrate in order to get a good launch: body position, throttle action and clutch action.

We will touch on the basic concepts in each of these areas to get started.

When considering body position for any task on a motorcycle, it is always important to look at the physics behind what is happening. The limiting factor for the average road racing launch is the tendency of the bike to wheelie, so our posture on the bike should be taken with the

goal to help keep the front end down as much as possible. The lower and further forward the center of gravity on a motorcycle is, the less it will tend to wheelie.

If you imagine yourself as a 200 lb lump of lead that can positioned anywhere on the chassis, the best place you could be is on the front axle (as low and as far forward of the torque source - the rear wheel) as possible. As such, riders should get all the way up against the tank and get as low as possible with their upper bodies (by flattening their backs) without giving up the ability to control the bike.

A secondary consideration with body position is that the motorcycle generally needs to launch in a straight line. As such, it is important that the rider is completely balanced from left to right. The most critical time is in the first 60 feet of the launch when the bike has the greatest tendency to wheelie. Since most bikes do not need to shift in the first 60 feet, the best way to maintain this balance is to start with both feet on the ground.

Throttle action is a place where many riders have questions. At the Penguin School, the first bit of advice that we give riders is to maintain a steady throttle. If a

rider is revving the bike up and down by “whipping� the throttle at the start from (for example) 6,000 to 12,000 rpm , it is just as likely that the green flag will be thrown when the rpm is low as when it is high. It is much better to determine the ideal RPM in advance and hold it steady at that level. The best launch from the line happens when the motor is producing peak torque (not peak horsepower). If we look at the graph (fig. A) from a Ducati Monster, we can see that the peak horsepower is at 7500 rpm, which is about 1000 rpm shy of redline (this is very typical).

The peak torque is at 5750 rpm, making that the ideal launch RPM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 105

improve your skills: reference points for this motorcycle.

The clutch action is the part of the launch that takes the most practice. As the starter is about the throw the green flag, the clutch should be just on the verge of engagement. I typically hold the bike still with 1 finger on the front brake lever. When the green flag drops, riders should simultaneously roll the throttle to wide open (not a snap, but a controlled roll) and engage the clutch as much as they can without causing the bike to wheelie. The perfect launch will have the front wheel just skimming the ground until the clutch lever is

106 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

fully released. The key is that the control of any wheelie is done with the clutch, and not with the throttle. If the front wheel starts to come up, ease the lever in and let the clutch slip a little more. If the front wheel is firmly planted on the ground, let the clutch out smoothly and transfer more power to the rear tire. The whole time that this clutch modulation is going on the throttle is held strong and steady.

The final pieces of the puzzle involve a little planning. First, be sure to watch a few starts before you come to the line the first time.

Establish if the starter is consistent

or varied in the time to throw the flag. Also, look for any physical signs that he or she gives before throwing the flag. Finally, watch where all the riders tend to bunch up as they enter turn one. In most tracks, the first few riders will dive to the inside and the field will then stack up behind them. On other tracks (like the Superbike field at Road Atlanta) riders will collect on the outside of a turn to set up for a good drive out of turn one. Unless you are in the first few riders, it is a good idea to look where the other riders are NOT in order to give yourself a clear path to pick up some spots at the start.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 107

improve your skills: reference points Finally, just as you have reference points entering each corner while riding, it is just as important to establish a shut off point for the first turn on the start. In most cases, riders are entering the first turn 20-30 mph slower then they do during a normal lap, yet many of them use the same brake marker that they always do. This takes some conscious effort in advance, but it is helpful to establish both the gear and rpm that your motorcycle is at during a normal entrance and then seek to replicate those numbers during the start. Since it is best to keep your visual focus on the track during the start, it can often be good enough to simply replicate the sound of normal RPM of the motorcycle on the way in as a good starting point.

These starting techniques take practice to put into action, but once they are mastered a rider will never find a place where more positions can be gained in such a short period of time. Until next time, ride fast, ride safe!

108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Fig. A

“W

e can see that the peak horsepower is at 7500 rpm, which is about 1000 rpm shy of redline (this is very typical).

The peak torque is at 5750 rpm, making that the ideal launch RPM for this motorcycle.�

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 109

FRICTION ZONE

THE HIT

LIST

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

Kiana Gadson! What’s on your hit list?

“N that!

as’ “Ether” because lyrically its one of the best rap songs of my time. And more importantly, Nas tells it like it is. I love

Beyonce’s “Who Run the World” because it depicts the role we plat as woman. Holding our own,holding down our men and the power of “P” ersuasion!

Muse/s “Supermassive Black Hole” because I gotta rock out at least once every day!”

Kiana Gadson, Wife and Manager of Rickey Gadson

For more sportbike news and announcements:

VISIT THE SPORTBIKES INC BLOG

HTTP://SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM/BLOG

110 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111

112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 113

114 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

The Hailwood Words: Michael Lawless Images: Allan Lane

H

ave you ever saved a few coins to purchase the most trick helmet ever only to show up at an event like “Clutch Control” and find at least five other guys wearing the same lid? Worse still is spotting a “cute”,I use that term lightly, couple sporting matching “his and hers” versions of that same trick helmet you saved painstakingly to get! Yeah, it’s happened to me. More than once.

Many a time, I left one of those motorcycle events with an overwhelming feeling that I should stop and buy a can of satin flat black paint to “improve” the look of my lid. In fact, the last few helmets I purchased were either plain white or plain flat black with zero decals, numbers, designs, or anything. I figured anonymous was the best way to go so as not to be confused for one half of the “Cutsie Couple”.

Despite all of the pratfalls, I still had the urge to have a helmet that was unique, special, and carried a design that had some special meaning to it. And no, an airbrush of my wife as a

pinup was not an option. And so I started my research, combing through countless tomes on the history of motorsport and all I came up with was a helmet that I wanted but that was also not for sale in the US: the Mike Hailwood replica.

Why Hailwood?

Well, a long time ago when sportbikes had sixteen inch wheels and some were even aircooled, a few of the guys at the local bike dealership offered me to join them for a Sunday ride.

When we met up it seemed that everyone was either coming from or headed to Superbike School in California. My heart fell because I figured I would be the slow guy in the back of the pack that day but I figured I had already gotten up early so it couldn’t really hurt that much to tag along. On the way to the mountains everyone took off at top speed, hurtling through corners, dragging knees, I mean…what the fuck? So if that’s how it was going to be, I was committed to not be in the back of the pack and by the time SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 115

FRICTION ZONE: The Hailwood we were halfway up the mountain I was in the lead and remained there. Eventually I realized no one was behind me so I thought I must have taken a wrong turn, someone fell off or I was lost.

I decided to pull over and just wait. I put my bike on the side stand, took my helmet off and waited. A few minutes later I looked up to see the pack riding by with confused looks on their faces. Everyone pulled over shocked that I had gotten so far ahead and more shocked that I let it all hang out on the street.

One of those skilled riders said to me, “You ride like Mike The Bike.”

I didn’t know quite how to take that comment but I decided to take it as a compliment that I had a riding style that mirrored a nine time World Champion.

Flash forward twenty years later and I have a chance to ride the streets with Luca Scassa the Italian National Champion. I hate to sound cocky but it was pretty awesome to ride the streets of Chester County, PA with a professional rider, both of us on MV Agustas. After that day of taking Chester County by storm, Luca told me that I was not entirely slow and started calling me “The Bike” in a nod to Mike Hailwood who also rode an MV Agusta with all his heart.

In 2010 I had the pleasure of forming a Facebook friendship with David Hailwood, Mike’s son that would culminate in a true friendship over the course of a year. David flew to the Main 116 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Line, PA area last year to be a judge at the annual Radnor Hunt Concourse d’Elegance and I had the pleasure of spending some real time with him that didn’t involve any acronyms or imaginary farms. YOLO, right?

David regaled me with stories of his father, the Isle of Man and what it really meant to have a passion for the sport itself. Like the matador loves bull so does a rider love the track.

I suppose all of these mild encounters with the legend of Mike Hailwood had to mean something and I finally put it all together in late 2011. Why not commission my very own Mike Hailwood helmet? Besides being the height of cool I couldn’t imagine that anyone anywhere had turned the design into any sort of his and hers ensemble that involved pink. I asked David for his blessing to use the family images and he gave me full permission to not only reproduce his fathers’ helmet but to ride with it proudly on the streets of America. I got the MV decals, the pictures of Mike’s helmet, and took all of the information to Bruce at Virtuair Airbrush Design.

I didn’t really give Bruce any direction when it came to the design. He knew I needed MV to appear on the front and that the major colors were white, gold, and red. None of what I told Bruce prepared me for the end result. Not only had he handpainted the MV logo on the front, he had also hand-painted “Mike The Bike” on the right side of the

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 117

FRICTION ZONE: The Hailwood

chin bar and the back of the lid bore the words “For The Love of The Sport”.

I was absolutely blown away by the attention to detail, the way the design came together, and the overwhelming feeling that after all these years in the seat I finally had a lid that suited who I am as a rider and as a man. When asked how he beat his opponents each time at the track Mike the Bike would reply, “Look at all of them on the front grid before the start.

You can see it in their eyes. If they think they can beat you, smile, give a nod and a wink. It works every time. Then you go out and show them what you meant.”

This is my nod and wink to everyone out there.

118 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 119

FRICTION ZONE: SPORTBIKES INK!!!

Words: Baz

K

eep sending the pics of your ink and remember to watch this space every month for more awesome tattoos!

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

RIDER// Sean Hightower BIKE// 2005 Suzuki GSXR 1000 TATTOO ARTIST// Jerome Gunn

120 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

RIDER// John Graves BIKE// 2008 Hayabusa TATTOO ARTIST// Popcorns

RIDER// Candace Shepherd BIKE// 1978 Suzuki GS400 TATTOO ARTISTS// Various

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 121

SHORTY JACKET ™

1.1-1.3mm Premium Grade Antique-Finish Brazilian Cowhide Chassis // Icon® Relaxed Fit // CE Certified D30® Viper Back Protector (Removable) // Strategically Placed Flex Panels // Custom YKK® Zippers // Available in Branded or Stealth // S-2X $400 // 3X-4X $450

Check Out the Entire ICON ®ONE THOUSAND Collection at www.ICON1000.com

Shorty™ Branded (Limited Edition) Unique Sleeve Logos Make Every Jacket One of a Kind

Shorty™ Stealth (Non-Branded) No Sleeve Logos / No White Thread ‘Rocker’ Embroidery

Icon 1000 Elsinore™ Boot Available in Johnny Black and Oiled Brown / $230

EQUIPPED WITH D3O® VIPER CE Certified Back Protector

WWW.RIDEICON.COM

122 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 123

FRICTION ZONE: random

Words: Allan Lane Images: Kim Pace/Derek Snead

once and a while, my shit works.

Every

were prepared to weather the rain.

It was only a few ago that I began to reach out to my network of riders to see who would be up for a friendly ride through the streets of Philadelphia on a Saturday afternoon. Sometimes you have to roll the dice, market the hell out of a situation and hope that people come out. And it looked promising for the gathering that I was boldly calling the Shut the City Down Ride 2012 Season Opener... Until the weather forecast began calling for rain.

This is good time to point out that last October, I did a Shut the City Down Ride on Friday night in the rain and had roughly 250 riders show up... On a Friday night...

In October... In the rain. Did I mention that there were 250 riders on a rainy Friday night in October?

I asked Mr. Ferracci if we could use his dealership as the rally point for the ride and he obliged.

The only thing left to do was make sure that my bike was ready for the run, show up and wait...

In the hours leading up to the meet time for the ride, my phone was being riddled with text messages and calls inquiring if the ride was still on. In the parking lot of Fast by Ferracci I waited among the few others that

124 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Then it happened. In a matter of minutes the parking lot was full and spilling over with bikes.

Riders from PA, NJ, DE and NY mounted up for a nice ride through the streets of Philly.

At one point, Mr. Ferracci asked me, “Animal (what he calls me), how come when you ask people to do things... They do them?”

I told him that I didn’t know why.

Unofficially, there were about 300 riders that showed up for a ride. Just because I asked them to. Kind of crazy. Kind of awesome. Like I said, every once and a while, my shit works.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 125

this life: Weathering the Ride Words: Tyson Beckford Images: Aidan

must always keep tread on our tires and protective gear on when out and about this season and also make sure that lady on the back of your bike is safe and protected as well. Some states will charge manslaughter for the operator and owner of the bike if the passenger is hurt or killed. God forbid any of this to happen but it’s better to be safe then sorry.

Personally I stay with a full face helmet, boots, jacket and gloves. But I do understand hot weather riding and wanting to be cool and not sweaty when cruising the streets of NYC. But there is always a price to pay.

W

eather plays a major part in riding motorcycles and how we dress to go riding. Hopefully most of you are ready for the great spring/summer riding that lies ahead of us this year and track days as well.

This means having your tires with a great tread pattern or a least a good tire front and back. Some of you think because you do a track day that your tires still have life... Guess what? It does not and you too won’t have your life if you think you can ride on them. We

Connect with Tyson...

126 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

No one likes riding in the rain but if your bike has good tires it’s not a problem. I’ve seen guys and girls slipping and sliding cause they don’t have all weather riding skills. This is something that one must learn from experience and years of being a rider of the storm.

Based on my experience, it is best to stay out of the center of the lane at all times and off the white and yellow lines as much as possible... Awww, fuck it! Stay your ass home if it looks like rain! But if you get caught in it be cautious and get dat ass home ASAP or camp out and wait it out. Regardless, use your judgement wisely and remain safe.

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 127

THE NEW ISH AVON TYRES • 3D ULTRA XTREME TIRES Avon’s latest offering of rubber for the track are the 3D Ultra Xtreme tires. They feature am interlocking three dimensional point system that improves stability and grip, minimize tread flex and allow the tire to warm up fast.

Available as 120/70ZR17, 180/55ZR17 and 190/55ZR17.

Price: $158.11 - $227.86 Contact: http://avonmoto.com

SPEEDYMOTO • FRONT AXLE SLIDER KITS FOR THE DUCATI 1199 AND DIAVEL While the new parts bin is slowing increasing for the Diavel, the need for aftermarket parts for the new 1199 is apparent. Speedymoto offers front end protection for both models with their new front axle slider kits.

The kit features high density plastic polyethelyne sliders, anodized, corrosion resistant aluminum support rod and stainless steel hardware.

Price: $64.95 Contact: http://speedymoto.com MUNITIO • STANDARD ISSUE TITANIUM BLACK 9MM EARPHONES Bud style earphones are often a hit or miss. You either love or hate them. However, these SITi 9MM earphones from Munitio not only surpass expectations with their sense of style, they elevate the standard regarding audio quality. Perfect for getting in the zone with your favorite tunes as you wait for your next session on the track, flights to your next race event or just when you want to tune the world out.

The SITi 9MM have a built in, in line suppressor mic to accept calls while listening to music that also doubles as a play/pause function. The cables are reinforced with Kevlar cloth to add tremendous durability.

Price: $179.00 Contact: http://munitio.com 128 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SUDCO • VAMPLIERS File these under “Wish would have thought of this!” The Vampliers appear to be the tool that you want in your kit even if you do not have an immediate need for them. It’s better to have them when you eventually need than to need them and not have them. Perfect for removal of fasteners, screws, bolts and just about anything that you need removed... within reason. Constructed of carbon steel.

Price: $34.97 Contact: http://sudco.com

ROARING TOYZ • ARROW POINT BAR END Get straight to the point with the Arrow Point Bar Ends from Roaring Toyz. An aggressive alternative to the typical bar end caps. Fits the 1999 - 2007 Suzuki Haybusa.

Price: $59.99 Contact: http://www.roaringtoyz.com

BARRACUDA • SUPERGRIPS This Italian aftermarket accessory company really gets the concept of form and function. Barracuda’s Supergrips are beautifully crafted hand grips that give your ride a subtle accent while maintaining a comfortable feel while riding. The body of the grip is a combination of machined aluminum and grippy rubber.

Colors: Black, Gold, Silver Price: $74.95 Contact: http://bellissimoto.com

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 129

THE NEW ISH: Featured Item SCORPION EXHAUSTS • GP SERIES FOR THE KAWASAKI ZX6R The UK based Scorpion Exhausts continues their run with a great slip on pipe for the 2007 - 2011 Kawasaki ZX6R. The GP Series is a light weight, great looking pipe that features plug and play features that do not require electronic remapping nor repacking. As with all of Scorpion Exhaust, the GP Series comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Price: $799.00 Contact: http://tawperformance.com

For more sportbike news and announcements:

VISIT THE SPORTBIKES INC BLOG

HTTP://SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM/BLOG

130 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

AD DESIGNED & PRODUCED BY OTLMP.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 131

staff stuff ROLAND SANDS Design • RONIN JACKET Allan Lane It is not that often that I wear a color other than black. It’s just my nature.

So if I don a jacket that is out of my color palette, or lack there of, comfort zone... It must be something special.

In this case, the jacket is really special.

The RSD Ronin jacket is an example of what can happen when the needs of fashion meets styling performance.

Off the rack, the jacket is bad ass. It looks new because it is but has a vibe of familiarity to it. It seems as though its been worn before even though it hasn’t been. It feels broken in, even before its worn. It smells cool. You know that smell that leather has after its been caught in a few down pours and has dried? That’s the smell this jacket has. It smells like a man who has been places and done things. I love that smell. I want to smell like that!

But its brown...

Ok! So it’s brown! Sometimes, brown leather jackets resemble a shit brown.

This Ronin, however, is a cool, dead brazilian cow, oiled leather brown. This is a cool brown jacket. I’m a cool brown dude. This could work. Two browns that look good together. Let’s see if this dog will hunt.

glove. Plenty of room in the chest and under arm without being baggy.

Plenty of zippered pockets in the right locations. Again, the jacket seemed familiar, pre broken in. It felt great.

Looked great.

On the road test, the Ronin was extremely comfortable. But here is what was missing... Armor.

No padding. No armor. At all. Short of that, the Ronin is a great apparel piece but it’s not perfect because of the lack of protection and I so want to give this jacket an A plus. I can’t. Not as a proper riding jacket.

On first fit, the Ronan is subtle to the touch, in contrast to its rugged demeanor. Arms in and zipped up, the fit was spot on. I was wearing an XXL. I typically wear an XL but this is a euro cut jacket. The cuff was just at wrist http://rolandsands.com which is perfect for a non gauntlet Rating: 5 (out of 6)

132 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 133

THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Derek Snead Location: Fast By Ferracci, Willow Grove PA