SportBikes Inc Magazine May 2015

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . MOTO TECH

MAY 2015 VOL 5 ISSUE 8

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

ERALDO FERRACCI

LEGACY THE SHOW: MYRTLE WEST CYCLES | JAMES RISPOLI: THE ROCKET | SANDRA STAMMOVA: TURN ONE | THE MAIN POINTS: HAWAIIAN EDDIE | RED SPADE: WHY I RIDE | TEXAS TORNADO BOOTCAMP

Ahead of the Curve

The New Ducati 1299 Panigale S

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Professional rider on a closed course.

Official Sponsor Developed with

Powered by

ducatiusa.com

Unprecedented technical excellence meets the pinnacle of design and performance in the new Ducati 1299 Panigale S. With its new 205 horsepower Superquadro engine, cutting-edge engine management system, Ă–hlins Smart EC semi-active suspension, Bosch inertial platform and new Ducati Quick Shift that allows for both clutchless upshifts and downshifts, this new Ducati Superbike is far ahead of the curve, empowering you to confidently power through it.

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THE FEATURES THE SHOW: MYRTLE WEST

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SANDRA STAMMOVA: TURN ONE

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TEXAS TORNADO BOOT CAMP

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ERALDO FERRACCI: LEGACY

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THE MAIN POINTS: HAWAIIAN EDDIE

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RED SPADE: WHY I RIDE

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THE USUALS

MAY 2015 - VOLUME 5, ISSUE 8 INTERACTIVE

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14 14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 DEALERSHIP SPOTLIGHT - HONDA MARYSVILLE MOTORSPORTS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=26 26 THE SHOW - MYRTLE WEST CYCLES 36 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=36 54 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60 60 THE ROCKET - By James Rispoli 66 TURN ONE - By Sandra Stammova http://issuu.com/action/page?page=66 80http://issuu.com/action/page?page=80 THE MAIN POINTS - By Dena Sodano 90http://issuu.com/action/page?page=86 FEATURED CLUB - ICONZ M.C. 92http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James 96http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=102 102 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=128 128 DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS - By Billy Morrison http://issuu.com/action/page?page=134 134 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=138 138 STAFF STUFF

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FEATURED RIDER: TONY WATT http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96 PAGE 96 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5

FEATURE STORY ERALDO FERRACCI

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LEGACY PAGE 42

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EDITOR’S LETTER

IMAGE BY RILES & NELSON

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t happens. You never expect it. You never really see it coming. But it happens. I’ve been a rider for 20 plus years and I’ve had plenty of training, track days, advanced learning... I’ve ridden just about every type of bike and in just about every type of condition. With all of the things that I love about being a rider, the one thing that I hate is crashing.

many riders traveling at triple digit speeds with maybe only a helmet and often with a passenger that isn’t wearing any legit apparel. What the fuck. Trust me, it only takes one time for you to lose that pretty ass skin that you’re so proud of.

Let’s put it in simpler terms... MotoGP pilots, the best riders in the universe, wear comprehensive protective armor and gear to give themselves the Crashing happens. There’s that old adage, “there best opportunity to get back up and get back are two types of riders: those that have crashed on it. And they crash often and they crash hard! and those that will...” I don’t wish ill on anyone If you are looking to emulate your favorite rider, but here is the point... While we can never then emulate them in their entirety. You want to expect it, anticipate it or see it coming... There go fast? Then dress the part. is one thing that you can do that could minimize the effects of the crash. You can plan for it. How? Don’t be a dick. Wear your gear.

By gearing up. The times that I have crashed, and there hasn’t been that many, I’ve been able to get up and walk away sans any injury. That’s Best, because I wear my gear. It’s very simple... A bike Allan can be replaced. You cannot be. I’ve seen too allan@sportbikesincmag.com 8 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

BMW Motorrad USA

©2015 BMW Motorrad USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks.

2015 S 1000 RR

The Ultimate Riding Machine®

DON’T JUST SEIZE THE DAY. LEAN INTO IT. MAKE LIFE A RIDE.

Not everyone takes the chance. Even fewer have the passion and the courage to make the most of it. But for those who can, for those who do, there is the all-new 2015 BMW S 1000 RR. bmwmotorcycles.com.

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

Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com

Staff Writers: Billy Morrison billy@sportbikesincmag.com Dystany Spurlock dystany@sportbikesincmag.com Michael Lawless lawless@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com Sandra Stammova sandra@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com James Rispoli james@sportbikesincmag.com

Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com

Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com

EDITORIAL

Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com

Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Rev Limiter Editor: Dena Sodano dena@sportbikesincmag.com

ART & DESIGN Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com

Bike Life Editor Lady Kim ladykim@sportbikesincmag.com

Staff Photographer: Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com

Senior Staff Writer Red Spade redspade@sportbikesincmag.com

Cover Photographer: Michael Spain Smith Contributing Photographers:

Michael Spain Smith Leon Brittain Brian J. Nelson Ed Buffman Terrance Belton Bad Luck Media

Beau Nilsson RSR Riles and Nelson Impact Images Rick Hentz Rey Josue

SportBikes Inc Magazine - May 2015 Volume 5, Issue 8 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2015 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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#TriumphAmerica and #Castrol are proud to support #LatusMotorsRacing and #BobbyFong50 piloting a #Daytona675R in the #MotoAmerica #Supersport series.

TriumphMotorcycles.com • (888) 284-6288 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 11

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THE PRESS ROOM HONDA ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF THE AFRICA TWIN The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin will make its return to dealership showrooms early next year. Honda teased the market with a prototype at EICMA in 2014. The

2016 model will feature the new Automatic Dual Clutch Transmission technology, remaining true to its off road abilities.

2015 RIDE TO WORK DAY Just a reminder that the 2015 Ride to Work Day is on Monday, June 15. All riders are asked to mount up and ride to work. The Ride to Work campaign began in 1992 and every year since, the good folks at ridetowork.org have encouraged riders to participate in this annual pilgrimage to the work

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place on two wheels. The organizers hope to communicate to the general public that motorcyclists can greatly reduce traffic and parking congestion, that riders vary in occupations and come from all types of backgrounds and that motorcycling is a social good.

PIRELLI, DUCATI AND VIBRAZIONI ART DESIGN CREATE A CUSTOM SCRAMBLER

Vibrazioni Art Design has revealed their latest creation, a commissioned, special edition custom Ducati Scrambler with Pirelli’s MT 60 RS tires. The tire tread of the MT 60 RS was used on tank design of the bike in which the tank is lined with rubber padding that has the

tire tread and the Ducati Scrambler logo laser etched into them. Entitled the “SC Rumble”, the custom Scrambler made its debut at the Bike Shed event in London and is now currently on a brie European tour. We can possibly expect to see it in the U.S. sometime later in the year.

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THE PRESS ROOM RECALL: YAMAHA RECALLS R1M FOR FAULTY ÖHLINS REAR SHOCK Yamaha has recalled 350 2015 R1M’s as part of the fallout from the larger Öhlins recall that was issued in April of 2015. The number on the damper road can loosen and potentially lead to the shock coming undone. Bikes affected were manufactured between January 19 and March 23 of 2015. Owners will be alerted and the dealership network will inspect and repair or replace the rear shock, at no charge.

BIKER FATALITIES DOWN FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW The Governors Highway Safety Association has projected that the total number of motorcyclist involved in fatal accidents in 2014 will be 4,584. In the 2013, the total number was

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4,668. That’s a 1.8 percent decrease in fatalities. This is also the second year in a row that the number has decreased.

HONDA’S NM4 RETURNS FOR 2016

The stealth Honda NM4 is slated for a return among Honda’s 2016 model line up. The 2016 NM4’s cutting edge design and rider friendly ergonomics make it an attention

grabber. Featuring a six speed automatic clutch powered by a 670cc fuel injected parallel engine, the 2016 NM4 is priced at $10,999.

YAMAHA’S BLU CRU VIDEO CONTEST The Blu Cru Video contest gives a lucky participant a chance to win a new 2015 YZ250F, WR250F, YZF-R3, or FZ-07. A second place winner will able to choose a Yamaha PW3028 Pressure Washer or a Yamaha EF2000is Generator while a third place winner will get a $500 credit to be used at www.shopyamaha.com.

To enter, fans must submit a a short video that captures

their Yamaha lifestyle in its glory and post their videos to social media where they will be voted upon by their fans and friends. Additionally, each week a winner will be selected at random to receive a $25 dollar credit to be used on www.bLUcRUswag.com. For complete contest rules and details, please visit www.blucrucontest.com.

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THE PRESS ROOM MODERN CLASSICS AT MARTIN MOTO Modern Classics at Martin Moto is a premier event and one of the best dealership motorcycle shows in Pennsylvania and the surrounding states. The annual event begins when a committee of passionate riders select a theme for the year’s show and then proceed to hand pick a total of one hundred motorcycles that fall in line with that year’s theme.

The entire showroom of the dealership is transformed into what is best described as a museum exhibition for the event complete with a custom photo booth. Attendees of the Friday night viewing party enjoy a buffet dinner and a sneak peek at the bikes on display before the weekend rush.

Every bike in the exhibition is photographed and will be included in a memorial book that is made available for sale. Other dealerships need to take note as Modern Classics at Martin Moto seems to annually raise the bar in the dealership motorcycle show department.

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INNOVATIVE

HI-VISIBILTY SERIES

HYDRATION COMPATIBLE *BLADDER KIT // SOLD SEPARATELY

AK TROOPER PACK AVAILABLE IN BLACK, WHITE, & HI-VIS // MSRP - $180.00 The Trooper was designed for, well, anything and everything you can imagine. It's big. It's tough. It's perfect. Of course, it includes interior and exterior pockets, tie-downs, the expected fittings and adjustments, a special laptop/tablet pocket and hydration compatible. Not to mention, a place for first aid, a place for eyewear and the ability to secure your helmet to the back. You're going to quit before the trooper even gets close.

AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL AUTHORIZED AMERICAN KARGO DEALER AND ONLINE AT AMERICANKARGO.COM

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SHOP SPOTLIGHT: HONDA MARYSVILLE MOTORSPORTS

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Honda Marysville Motorsports

CONTACT:

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Dealership Name: Honda Marysville Motorsports Location: 630 Coleman’s Crossing, Marysville OH 43040 Hours: Service - Monday - Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm//Parts - Monday - Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm// All departments: Saturday 9:00am to 6:00pm//Sunday: Closed Year Established: 2005 Brands Sold: Honda (Used Bikes: all brands)

L

aunched in 2005, Honda Marysville Motorsports (HMM) has been dedicated with providing Marysville, Ohio with the full line of Honda motorcycles and powersports equipment. While they are an established Honda dealership, they also sell quality used motorcycles of all brands. They value their customer base and are committed to providing their customers with a convenient, rewarding and friendly experience. Their entire staff is trained to put the needs of the customer first. And this goes beyond the walls of the dealership.

HMM participates heavily in the local bike community by supporting the local bike nights at the Quaker Steak and Lube. They host poker rides, charity events such as the Ride for Kids benefitting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. 2015 marks the dealership’s ten year anniversary and they are planning on celebrating in a major way. If you are in Ohio an are looking for your next ride, stop into Honda Marysville Motorsports and let them know that SBI sent you.

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

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THE SHOW

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Judy

MYRTLE WEST CYCLES

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THE SHOW: MYRTLE WEST CYCLES

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ntricate yet simple. Complex but easy on the senses. Visually user friendly. The 2006 Suzuki Hayabusa aptly named “Judy” is definitely an example of just enough.

Playing upon the canvas of the Busa, Myrtle West Cycle’s Patrick Mclafferty’s selection of components paired with a dynamic and engaging paint scheme sets Judy

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aside from the average bike night trophy machine. Aggression was not the motive on this build. The well placed chrome accents build a foundation for juxtapose imagery. Presented is the feel that the bike is bathed in a coat of flames that is tearing away the surface and unrevealing what is underneath, exposing a metallic honeycomb

pattern. The line work of the bike is mirrored in a sweeping up and back motion of the design, moving your eyes quickly from the front wheel to the tail section. Make no mistake, while the overall presence of the bike is quite comprehensive, it is the artwork that defines it’s existence.

The chassis rolls on a set of Myrtle West’s Austan wheels which are components of the 360mm, 20 inch stretched rear swingarm kit. The Laconia exhaust offers a modest and effective option that allows the swingarm to remain the focus while giving Judy a severe bark to match her bite.

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THE SHOW: MYRTLE WEST CYCLES

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THE SHOW: MYRTLE WEST CYCLES MYRTLE WEST CYCLES “JUDY” 2006 Suzuki Hayabusa

Engine: Stock, Power Commander.

Brakes: Stock Front, Rear Performance Machine 4 Piston Caliper.

Exhaust: Myrtle West Cycles Laconic System.

Suspension: Air FX Air Ride.

Swingarm: Myrtle West Cycles 360 Kit with 20i inch stretch.

Wheels: Myrtle West Austan.

Tires: Vee Rubber.

Builder: Patrick McLafferty, Myrtle West Cycles.

Paint: Jimmy Jackson Designs.

Owner: Pete Messina.

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NJMP

2015

NEW 1 DAY CLINICS $999 MAY 30 RIDERS 7 8

PER DAY

$1200 WITH YCRS YAMAHA

MAY 5 6

2 DAY SCHOOLS $2395 JUNE JULY AUG SEP 2 3

17 18

14 15

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Expert-level motorcycle training keeps riders healthy, and healthy participants always grow an industry. The Yamaha Champions Riding School (YCRS) approaches the complex task of motorcycle riding very simply: Who designed the bike and how does that (expert) rider ride?

Even the name "Champions" speaks to this approach because a champion must have consistency and speed, but most importantly consistency. In every two-day Champions school riders of all levels immerse themselves in the intricacies of championship-level riding, no matter what bike they ride or where they ride it. The curriculum is precise and exact because this sport is precise and exact. When the "pace is up or the grip is down", the precision of our curriculum becomes crystal clear. YCRS is growing motorcycling by training riders to ride like champions.

RIDELIKEACHAMPION.COM

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ALL-NEW YZF -R3 ®

TM

56mpg estimated*

TT-R230

WELCOME TO THE R WORLD. • All-new model • The easiest way ever to enter the world of Yamaha R-series supersport performance • Class-leading, fuel-injected 321cc, liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine • Slim, lightweight chassis for agile handling • Yamaha supersportinspired styling with full fairing • Low 30.7” seat height and a flat seat design to get both feet firmly on the ground for added confidence. • Perfect for 1st time riders or experienced riders who prefer an ultra-light, nimble machine

See these participating Yamaha dealerships for more information

4911 Buckeye Rd. Emmaus, PA 18049 610-965-9865 www.blackmanscycle.com

8738 West Chester Pike Upper Darby, PA 19082 610-446-2002 www.crossroadpowersports.com

1037 Unger Lane Boyertown, PA 19512 610-369-3120 www.martinmoto.com

2901 Bethlehem Pike Hatfield, PA 19440 215-712-7433 www.montgomeryvillecc.com

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*Fuel economy estimates are based on US EPA exhaust emission certification data obtained by Yamaha. Your actual mileage will vary depending on road conditions, how you ride and maintain your vehicle, accessories, cargo, and operator/passenger weight. Professional rider depicted on a closed course.

Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. Pre production model shown. Specifications subject to change. ©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com

THE GRID: NEWS MELISSA PARIS LAUNCHES CROWD FUNDING EFFORTS WITH DARK HORSE PROS On May 12, 2015 Melissa Paris launched an online crowd funding effort via Dark Horse Pros. With a goal set at $30,000, the campaign will run for 30 days in hopes that Paris will accrue the remaining funds needed for her 2015 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship efforts.

To date, Paris has raised $10,000. The campaign runs until midnight on June 11, 2015. Paris urges all of her friends, fans and supporters to make a contribution and/or share the news of her crowd funding efforts by visiting her website, www.melissaparis. com and selecting the appropriate links or by visiting www.darkhorsepros.com.

To donate directly to the campaign, please CLICK HERE…

IOMTT: VICTORY MOTORCYCLES HEAD TO THE ISLE OF MAN ON AN ELECTRIC BIKE

Victory Motorcycles announced that they will be entering the Electric Class at this year’s Isle of Man TT with two of their own prototype electric machines. The team will be composed

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of William Dunlop and Lee “General Lee” Johnston. Motion and control technology and systems manufacturers Parker will be providing the GVM PMAC motors for the bikes.

IOMTT: JOE ROCKET’S MARK MILLER MAKES HIS RETURN TO THE ISLE OF MAN Mark Miller will once again compete in the Isle of Man TT. Backed by Joe Rocket, Miller will pilot an EBR 1190RS for the Splitlath EBR Team. Splitlath has confirmed their support of Miller despite the recent news concerning EBR.

AMA FLAT TRACK: TROY BAYLISS TO COMPETE IN THE 2015 GRAND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Troy Bayliss will compete in the 2015 AMA Grand National Series on a Lloyd Brothers Motorsports Ducati with teammate Johnny Lewis.

Bayliss will compete in all five events beginning at the Springfield Mile on a 1100cc air cooled, 2 valve engine Ducati with Penske tuned suspension in a custom chassis.

Troy Bayliss’ Race Schedule – 2015 AMA Pro Grand National Series • May 24 – Springfield Mile (Round 3) • May 30 – Sacramento Mile (Round 4) • July 4 – Du Quoin Mile (Round 7) • July 11 – Indy Mile (Round 8) • September 6 – Springfield Mile II (Round 13) SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37

THE GRID: NEWS MOTOAMERICA: RACING RETURNS TO ROAD ATLANTA Professional road racing returned to Road Atlanta in April. It was a wet one but the rain did not keep the fans away nor did it keep the MotoAmerica series riders off the track.

Despite the weather, in race one, Monster Energy/Graves Yamaha’s Cameron Beaubier bested his superstar teammate Josh Hayes by a comfortable 4.6 seconds. Due to storms that plagued the area, the second race did not begin until nearly 5:00PM. The wet track was not kind to Hayes or Yoshimura Suzuki rider Roger Hayden. Both crashed paving the way for Beaubier to take race number two.

Jake Lewis, who was piloting the second Yoshimura Suzuki machine started fast but ended up in second place as Beaubier edged him out by 3.78 seconds. Lewis, who is only 19 years old, looked like a seasoned pro as he also took the podium in third place during the Saturday race. This was Lewis’ first two podiums running only his third and fourth Superbike races.

We can expect to see a lot more from this young exciting rider. At the end of the weekend, Beaubier walked away leading Hayes by 30 points after four races. Hayes has 65 points to Lewis’ 95 with young dynamo Jake Lewis currently in third with 60 points.

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ERALDO FERRACCI

LEGACY

WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: MICHAEL SPAIN SMITH SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43

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ention his name in any professional racing paddock and wait for the smile to spread across the face of the person to whom you are talking. This is in an industry where your longevity is based upon your ability to persevere not only the ups and downs of the business but of life in general.

But it’s not just about persevering, although that is a large part of the equation. The other part resides in your ability to thrive.

Eraldo Ferracci at his core is the perfect storm of those two very defining elements...

Perseverance and the ability to succeed. A master tuner, engine builder and one hell of a cook, Eraldo’s passion for excellence for himself and those in his company is the strands of a legend. He can be a fiery, explosive, whirlwind of focused energy. But he’s also a humanitarian, husband and father that understands the importance of family.

He was 12 years old when he began attending what would be considered vocational school. He would spend half of his days in a classroom and the rest of the day in a motorcycle shop. He capitalized on the opportunity but he also became aware that he was needed just as much as he desired an education. Then, the students could stay later and engage in a kind of mentorship with the factory engineers, assisting them in their projects. It was like an unofficial internship as the factories needed the help and found them in willing and able minded students.

Eraldo was one of those students that

understood the importance of hands on training. He feels that today things are different for those attending technical schools. While there is much hands on learning, a great percentage of the curriculum is based on text books. Perhaps that’s the difference between a mechanic, an engineer and a master tuner. It wasn’t just the knowledge that he acquired in his youth.

It was how he received it.

“One time we developed and we designed the engine. The engineers would come into the shop and sketch right on the floor with the white chalk,”he recalls. From there, they would pull different parts from other engines and motorcycles and part together the bike on the shop floor. No computers. No digital studios. It was different then. It was truly hands on. “It was the opportunity to learn. A big opportunity. I was a little bit fortunate to learn so much and so quick.”

Eraldo made the most logical leap in the evolutionary chain by becoming a professional racer. His professional career began in 1958. In his first year of racing, he won the Novice Championship on board a 175cc Ducati. He went on to win several Italian National Championships for the Motobi Benelli team. Then, in 1964 he was offered a different type of role on the team.

Without warning, the Benelli team found themselves in need of someone that had all of Eraldo’s knowledge and education as well as experience. They didn’t look much further than turning to Eraldo to ask if he would change roles from being the pilot to

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being on the research and development department for the race team. They offered him the same pay with plenty of new perks.

It was a rather difficult decision for him to make. “It was a breaking of my heart and my family, too, especially my father.

He wanted me to continue racing. In those days, you had to race against Agostini and the other top guys. It was like now.

Sometimes when you were trying to qualify, you would crash and get hurt. It was tough.”

Eraldo mulled over his decision for a week before he broke the news to his family that he wasn’t going to race anymore. As a member of the research and development team, Eraldo still got plenty of seat time.

Over the next three years, Eraldo would spend the off seasons developing new motorcycles. He would ride the prototypes the equivalent of 217 miles every day while testing, regardless of the weather.

Three years later, he was asked by Benelli to be part of a team to explore the motorcycle retail market in the United States as well as sort out several distribution issues they were having at the time. It was 1967 and Eraldo had only $160, a pregnant wife and his job with Benelli. A week after their arrival in the States, his oldest son, Larry, was born.

It was here in the U.S., the spark that would become Fast by Ferracci was ignited.

Fast forward to 1985. Eraldo had made a name for himself in the drag racing circuit.

Most notably, he was known for getting his engines to produce an amazing and

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often intimidating amount of power. He was racing and he was winning on bikes that he was building. His knowledge, education and experiences as an engineer and mechanic were beginning to earn acknowledgement from his peers. They wanted to be fast, just like Ferracci.

It wasn’t long before Eraldo found his way back to his first love, road racing.

He was now manufacturing parts and building engines for racers. In 1986, he was contracted by a privateer team that was racing in North America to build their engines and motorcycles. With Eraldo’s hand in the game, the team went on to dominate their season and Eraldo’s name continued to spread across the U.S. and he was the “go to” guy if you wanted to go fast. Perhaps the news of Eraldo’s success traveled back to his home country because shortly after that dominating season with the privateer team that won championships in three classes, Ducati reached out to him to develop bikes for them. For the next few years, Eraldo’s engines would continue to be elemental for many racers’ successes in American road racing and on the international grid. This is where his skills and know how as a master tuner are highly reflected. There was nothing shady or corrupt about what Eraldo was doing... the point is that he just knew what he was doing. Eraldo’s contribution to road racing are best described as a leap in the evolutionary process with concepts like adding electronic shifting, slipper clutches, titanium connecting rods, etc. And that has

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“I

f you want be a champion, you have to be on the limiter. One hundred percent.

You gotta stay on top.”

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always been the difference. If the factory parts did not produce the results that Eraldo was looking for, he would make a part that did. He understood the relationship between potential and actual, often pushing the realms of reality just to see what he could get away with. If he didn’t ask for it, how would he have known what he could or could not have had? Eraldo was years ahead of his competitors.

Eraldo feels that road racing today is different because of the advanced technology in the bikes. This may be in part due to his doings. Eraldo’s use of electronic components, slipper clutches, data logging could be referenced as the tipping point.

Riders today have so much technology available to them; many only need to know how to communicate the feedback from their bike to their crew who can make necessary adjustments. In Eraldo’s day, riding the bike meant really riding the bike. You were the computer and you had to be able to directly translate whatever the bike was telling you and you had to do it on the fly. “Now, the rider has to be a little smarter than before... and less gutsy,but still be able to take chances and be on the limiter.” Eraldo continues, “If you want be a champion, you have to be on the limiter. One hundred percent. You gotta stay on top.”

trouble with the bike. He’s really smooth all the time.”

He mentions a few others, like Marquez and Iannone, that are on his list of riders that he enjoys watching compete. Acknowledging Valentino Rossi’s massive track of success but also hinting that it may be time to pass the reigns, Eraldo laughs, “What he does comes from a lot of experience. But now he has a lot of money to spend. He should one day start a team and enjoy racing that way.”

After several years of competing in various series and classes, Eraldo made the transition from the race paddock to showroom and shop with his Fast by Ferracci. The dealership, located just outside of Philadelphia, is where you’ll find Eraldo these days. He’s typically the first in the door and the last one to leave. Specializing in sales and service of the Ducati, Mv Agusta and Moto Guzzi brands, Eraldo still manufactures performance components.

His focus is now on making his customers fast. His components include exhausts, piston kits and other items that he’s noticed the consumer market needs to maximize performance from their motorcycle. In today’s climate, Eraldo understands the importance of adjusting and making efforts to not only embrace the global community Eraldo’s decades in the motorcycle and but to also be embraced. He says that he racing industry have gifted him with a keen is happy with his empire and content with sense of recognizing talent. He can tell by his place in the racing history books. But observing a rider within a few laps if they his eyes tell a different story. In his eyes, are dialed in with their bike or if they should there lies the fire of a competitor that is still consider a career change. At the highest looking for another first place finish on the level, Eraldo references Jorge Lorenzo. “I like podium. Another championship to show the Lorenzo because he never looks like he’s in world just what he has done.

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THE GRID:

MOTOGP WITH B.T. WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: MOTOGP.COM

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G

reatness is sometimes appreciated with nostalgia. We all do it. "Back in the day.” Or, “That was great racing..."

What about, "I remember I was only a kid but..."

Everything seemed better back in tha’ day! Greatness seems to be associated with a faint memory, rarely witnessed in the present, always the past with a touch of embellishment.

This season of MotoGP is one of those rare times where we are witnessing greatness and the word embellishment is a foreigner looking for a sentence to call its own.

You have the Baby Face Assassin Marc Marquez off to a quirky start, the resurgence of Valentino Rossi who is leading the championship for the first time since 2010. And with his dominating performance in Jerez, you have Jorge Lorenzo back in championship form. Not to mention the rise of Ducati and the second British invasion consisting of Bradley Smith, Cal Crutchlow, Sam Lowes and Danny Kent!

Just in the past two races, we've seen champions collide...

Literally! As in Argentina with Marquez biting the dust as Rossi rode away into the sunset. The Argentinia GP showed us, that Rossi hasn't lost any of his fierce competitiveness and that Marquez is not afraid of bringing the fight. In fact Marquez welcomes it, which is what separates Marquez and Rossi from the rest of the paddock. They prefer the battle. They look forward to it like a kid looks forward to ice cream on their birthday! They're not afraid of getting dirty, banging handle bars, which is what makes this new rivalry great!

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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T. The Kid and the G.O.A.T. cherish the battle, not shying away from it like others Some get a lead and are great if they go untouched, but if they get roughed up in a corner or get touched it throws them off their game. Not Marquez or Rossi. They look for the fight like a bully in a school yard.

Argentina was the school yard fight we were looking forward to. Although it was brief, it showed that these two friends were prepared to scrap! When you saw Marquez slam into Rossi and then Rossi look at him like, "Really youngster!" A split second later, Marquez is down and doing his best Usain Bolt impression. You know this is gonna be how it is going to be between these two for the rest of the season.

Jerez had promises of another scrap but Marquez managed to hold off a hard charging Rossi, broken pinky finger and all to take second place. It was at Jerez that we finally saw another champion act like a champion. Jorge Lorenzo showed why ,if in the lead,he can be the most dominating rider of the last five years! His smooth style and ability to lay tha’ hammer down lap after lap after lap and not skip a beat. He proved that the fight

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for the championship is a four man race, along with Andreas Dovizioso. Although he's only reached the top step of the podium once in his career, Dovi's consisitency is what sets him up for a championship run.

Jerez marked the first time this season, that MOTOGP's actual racing has stolen the show from MOTO3 and MOTO2. Thanks in large part to Brit Danny Kent, MOTO3 has been a bit of a parade and shockingly MOTO 2 has failed to deliver the street fights that it has been known to produce, which leaves GP picking up the slack and doing a fine job in the process.

We still have plenty ways to go in the road to the championship. But if the last two weeks have told us anything, we are witnessing greatness. To be honest, I think we all know it. I just hope one day we can all look back and appreciate what we have in front of us now because the view is nothing short of spectacular!

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THE GRID

Images: Rick Hentz

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

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DANNY ESLICK

#69

“M

y older brother was #69. Then he got his national number which was #16. So I guess I took it over from there.”

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THE GRID

THE ROCKET: FOCUSED ON PROGRESSION

WORDS: JAMES RISPOLI IMAGES: IMPACT IMAGES

T

he last month has been so much fun off the track. I have been living with James Ellison and we have been doing so many things that I don’t feel like I am training. We just have fun every day and try and do new things to keep the training fun, fresh and keep the body guessing. I recently have been getting into downhill enduro mountain biking since I recently acquired a new full suspension mountain bike. The new bike is so sweet as it handles the downhill grade and bumps amazingly yet peddles on the single track great, too. What is so cool about England is that it has some really good trails because of all the rain and the trails are so mint all the time. We also do a lot of trails bike riding as well as motocross and the usual gym stuff. I have never felt better. I have really enjoyed my stay in

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the U.K. this time around and it really does feel like home when I’m here.

I really like living around the world too learning new things, meeting new people, trying new foods and learning all the new cultures.

The first 3 rounds of the 2015 season haven't exactly gone to plan but sometimes the road to the top is pretty bumpy. We came from 7 days in Spain testing with zero issues and went straight into the first round with complications. In the subsequent 2 rounds we still have not been able to turn the corner on our luck from a mechanical standpoint. The good news is it hasn't been a speed thing this year. We are going faster at every track even getting below existing track records but it just seems we are lacking in little areas this year. We

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THE GRID: THE ROCKET

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now have 5 weeks off for the team and myself to get things together and get ready for Snetterton which is a track I really like. Realistically we are way back in the points but with 20 or so more races left we can’t count ourselves out. We absolutely expect to claw our way back to the front of the rostrum.

I have been working with a nutritionist since I have been in the U.K. this year and the results have been right on. The program helps provide me with all the essential macros for during the week and the race weekends. It’s a tough sport which means we are in with everyone trying to be the lightest they can be but still be able to function at the highest level. I have always tried to look for an edge away from racing to help me get to another level mentally and physically and getting my nutrition right is a key element toward that goal.

I know my success so far in my career has pushed myself into this position and as I continue to climb in the sport I am always looking for every micro edge to continue to hone my craft. We have a sport where as riders we heavily rely on our mechanics, data guys and motor builders to give us the best possible chance to win but that’s not enough.

The buck always stops on the rider’s shoulders because at the end of the day it’s my last name across the timing sheet posting the results. It’s a cut throat sport and to be at the forefront of it you need to give everything you have all the time. As I submit this article I am in France at the Leman’s MotoGP hanging with my boy Bradley Smith from Tech3 Yamaha team. In a couple of weeks from now I will be testing at Snetterton in preparation of the next race in the series there. Untill next month, have fun and rider faster.

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THE GRID

TURN ONE: THE INCIDENT AT BRANDS HATCH WORDS AND IMAGES: SANDRA STAMMOVA

I

had just moved from Australia to England to race Superstock 1000 in British Super Bikes. As I mentioned I missed all of the pre season testing in Spain because I tore ligaments in my left knee skiing just weeks before the trip. I needed A.C.L. surgery where the recovery time is 6 to 8 months so I had to leave my knee as it was for the season with the vision to get it repaired after the last round in 2011. I think it took me about 3 weeks to get my knee to stop looking like a balloon and to be able to sit on the bike and bend it enough so I was able to ride… I had 2.5 weeks left for testing before the first round at Brands Hatch Indy. After my guys came back from Spain, my mechanic Dean and myself were given a van to go and do at least 3 days of testing at different tracks that included Brands Hatch Indy, Oulton Park and Cadwell Park.

I must admit none of those tracks felt easy, all up and down, very technical and mostly half wet at least for 1 or 2 sessions.

I was loving being back on the bike though and learning the new ZX10. I was slightly impatient with myself. I tried to run before I could walk and I dropped the bike once or twice during the testing.

I knew I was driving my mechanic Dean completely crazy! I still admire him for pretending to be calm when I think back. I just would like to say, “Thank you Dean for putting up with me! You are a legend!”

After my first few days testing I was still far from where I wanted to be, it was so much to learn for me carrying a little experience from the past. We knew how fast I needed to be to get on the grid at Brands Hatch Indy. The grids there are always the biggest as its one of the most favorite tracks there for riders and spectators.

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THE GRID: TURN ONE

So here we are. Sunny open pit lane track day at Brands Hatch about 9 days before the first round.

The team owner didn’t want me to test, of course, as it was too close to the race but I was asking him about 17,278,289 times about having a second test so he eventually agreed. I must say he was right.

As you probably know there is no groups at open pit line track day so you can ride whenever you want. It has got advantages but on the other side it’s not ideal for pushing for lap times due to different level of riders riding on the track at the same time. I was getting faster every time I went out but I still ideally needed to find 1 second to meet the target I was given.

I was out doing laps focused on getting my line better, breaking smoother, hitting my apex more accurate and I really felt like I was circulating there on my own in my own world completely spaced out. I wasn’t really aware that there was at least 20 riders on the track at the time. Brands Hatch GP is very short with the best superbike time is around 45 seconds. 20 riders on track doing different speeds makes for a little traffic.

This is what I can remember last before I hit the pit wall numerous times... I was on the main straight flat out, full throttle focusing on moving my previous braking marker further, break smoother to tip in the third gear downhill turn deeper to get better drive out for the small straight before turn 2. I was doing about 260kmh monitoring a slower rider on the left side at the end of the start finish line. I positioned myself on the right side of the track to make sure I would miss him with having enough space in between us, not expecting a red flag a split second later. When a red flag is out, the rider should slow down and keep his line. I believe the rider before me was not experienced and he slammed the brakes and pulled right in front of me before I

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had any chance to react on the flag. I had no time to brake or anything and I knew if I tried to stop the bike I would have hit him and we would crash together. At that speed so close to the end of the pit wall? I don’t believe we would have survived that one. You wouldn’t believe how much can go through your brain in a flash! It felt like ages to me.

Thoughts of being kicked off of the team because of having a massive crash and destroying the budget for the rest of the season ran through my mind.

My instinct told me to not do any sudden maneuvers with the bike and I hit the rider from behind and slightly right side in full speed! My intention was to hit the pit wall myself and not get tangled up with him. I let the bike go and all I remember is a long slide and stopping by hitting the pit wall few times while rolling down the hill in turn one. I couldn’t believe that I was alive! Nor did I feel that much pain and no bones seemed to be sticking out. My head felt fine as ever as there is nothing much inside, so no damage there.

The ambulance was so fast. The medical guys were with me before I even tried to move. Mr. Nick Morgan laughed, “You scratched your visor.” It made me laugh so much. He told me there is no reason I should ask about my bike. It went straight to the wall followed by flying high in the air hitting the safety fence. It looked like airplane wreckage after a crash.

The guy that I hit, because of his mistake never came and asked if I was ok. He didn’t crash. He just rode straight on the grass on the other side of turn one and apparently broke his leg… I have got 2 scars from that crash and I must thank God and my angels for protecting me in that one. It was the scariest crash on a motorbike I have had in my career and apparently one of the worse they have ever seen there. And only a week before the first round.

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Robin Mulhauser

ROBIN MULHAUSER

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NAME: Robin Mulhauser HOMETOWN: Fribourg, Switzerland AGE: 23 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Moto2 World Championship of MotoGP GOALS: I want to be the world champion in Moto2 and MotoGP. ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

My best result in Moto2 is 17th place.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Living my life at full throttle.

CONTACT: WWW.ROBINMULHAUSER.COM

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MSRP $489

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2015

schedule

april 24-26, 2015

Maryland International Raceway

may 29-31, 2015

Maryland International Raceway

july 24-26, 2015

Maryland International Raceway

september 11-13, 2015 Atco Dragway

october 2-4, 2015 Maryland International Raceway

RaceIDBL.com

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Terrence Courtesy Belton//Tim of Brice LloydHailey

WILLIAM T BURROUGHS IV AKA BUCK

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NAME: William T Burroughs IV HOMETOWN: Shelby, MS. AGE: 43 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: MSWhiteboys Racing GOALS: I want to grudge race as long as I can and enjoy the sport.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Being a backroad grudge racer from a small town and now we are world wide.

I try to attend every grudge event.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion is all of these events and friends I have all over the world. If it wasn’t for drag racing I wouldn’t know most of these people or have gone all over the world racing.

Contact:

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motoDracing/

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THE REV LIMITER

THE MAIN POINTS WORDS: DENA SODANO IMAGES: BAD LUCK MEDIA

Hawaiian Eddie W

hether you've seen him with his infamous selfie, "On the way to the lot", with his bike peeking through the background in the bed of his truck, or yelling "Weeeeeeee!", Hawaiian Eddie certainly likes to keep stunt riding fun and motivating. After owning several different street bikes throughout the years and watching the change of sport bike freestyle unravel, Hawaiian Eddie has kept up with it all one set up and bike at a time.

DS: I guess we can all assume that you are from Hawaii? Â How did you end up in Texas?

HE: Yes I am. Born and raised in Pearl City, Oahu. Moved to the states in my early teen years. I joined the Army in El Paso. When I got out of the military I lived in several states and ended up stopping in Dallas. Huge thanks to Old Man Jimmy and his family for taking me in to help me get going when I first got there. DS: What got you started into riding and stunt riding?

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THE REV LIMITER: THE MAIN POINTS

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HE: I've always wanted a bike when I was little after seeing some people riding in Hawaii. My good friends and I always talked about it and dreamed of it. After getting out of the military, I was in Colorado. I bought my first bike. A 1999 Honda CBR F3, Smoking Joe Edition. I couldn't keep up with too many people I rode with. So I ended up buying a 2002 Suzuki GSXR 600 Telefonica Edition. I was cruising one day on my way to a bike night and a few people passed me and they were on one wheel. I fell in love with it. Then I met some other people who were riding lots and it just took off from there.

DS: To say you are a fellow supporter of the right to bare arms is an understatement. Tell us about your hobby with guns?

HE: I used to be real big into skydiving after the military. But I haven't jumped in a while. I was big into Muay Thai Kickboxing and close quarters combat also. But the only other thing that truly fascinates me more than my bike, is guns. I don't exactly want to say what I have, but I do have a lot. Definitely more than I need.

DS: Let’s talk about NLB. What is NLB and where did it originate from? When is the next session?

HE: NLB is Nasty Lot Bumz. A small team a friend, Crazy Z, and I started a few years ago.

Team NLB consists of me, Black Rod, Tommy Nguyen, J Max and Russian Danny. We were just always at the lot, riding. I didn't have a truck at the time, so a friend Corey would take my bike and I in his truck to the lot. He would sleep in the bed of his truck until we were done riding since he had to work at 6AM the next day. Our NLB sessions all started from us just getting together with some locals in Dallas to BBQ, ride and have a good time for the weekend at the lot. Then some of our out of town friends would hit us up asking if they could come out and ride with us for the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 83

THE REV LIMITER: THE MAIN POINTS

weekend. It went from about thirty people to over six hundred people coming out. A huge thanks to PDMoky, Jesse Toler, Rowdy, Jason Britton and Sitdown Steve for helping us along the way to make the sessions bigger and bigger. Our next NLB Sesh is in November.

Hope to see everyone there!

DS: You've had several different bikes and have witnessed the evolution of the way to set them up. What set up do you like to stick with and what is a favorite trick of yours?

HE: Well, I've had quite a few bikes. I tend to switch bikes a lot more than most. Every NLB session, I had a different bike. I usually keep the same set up on them all. RSC clutch, subcage, clip ons and exhaust. Impaktech Cage, JB Seatz, Stealthstay, Dicks Customs 84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

subframe, NDCustomz handbrake bracket, Graveyard Customs tank, 5th Gear Sprocket, Magura 13mm for handbrake and Magura 16mm for front brake, monobloc calipers for the handbrake and my bike is wrapped by DC Grafix. Along with some other parts provided

by Tactical Mindz Stunt Shop. And my favorite trick is definitely hand stalls. DS: Aside from the everyday hustles of work and chaos, do you have any set plans for traveling, upcoming sessions, comps or fun street rides?

HE: I've been traveling a lot lately. Street rides and sessions I try to get to the best I can.

Sick Riders Beat the Heat and Beat the Cold, WCC Ride, Sup Sluts Ride, KS Middle of the Map Ride, Ride of the Century, Mini Yo Face

Sessions, NM Fury and any other lot sessions that are coming up!

DS: What was your worst wreck?

HE: Worst wreck I've had was in Houston at the SupSluts Street Ride. Just helped a friend load his bike up after he wrecked. I was doing a wheelie on the on ramp back onto the highway and I was having trouble with my traction control. Bike cut off then bike slammed

down and I went over the bars. The bike ran me over and drug me in the street a little. But surprisingly nothing major except road rash. DS: What type of plans do you have for the remainder of this year?

HE: 2015 plans include to make our NLB sessions bigger and better. We just picked up Texas Motor Speedway for the events. So big things coming! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 85

THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Rey Josue

CAM AKA KILLACAM

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NAME: Cam AKA Killacam HOMETOWN: San Jose, CA. AGE: 27 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Westcoast Connection Stunt Team, Streetnation Motorsports, Freestyle Lifestyle, Twentyfourkarats, Oneride, JH Customs. GOALS: My goal is to travel the world with me and my stunt bike.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Having my riding skills get me to be part of one of the most known stunt teams since the beginning, WESTCOAST CONNECTION. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I will never stop stunting... Period.

CONTACT:

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Fi n d yo u r fa v o rit e loc al de ale r on w w w.t a w p e r f or m a n c e .c om / d e a le r s SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 89

THE LIFE: FEATURED CLUB

Images: Courtesy of ICONZ M.C.

ICONZ M.C. Rocker interpretation: Incorporating a sportbike with the checkered racing flags is a shout out to the ICONZ pedigree of living like legends. The flame behind the bike simply clarifies that the ICONZ M.C. keeps it hot.

Club history: In May of 2004, 25 close friends began what is now known as the ICONZ M.C. ICONZ were established, May 2004.

They are dedicated to their community, two wheeled and at large. Being a positive organization, the ICONZ make it their focus to present themselves in the most uplifting manner possible. Their mission is to educate the public on all issues concerning motorcyclists.

CHAPTER: Glassboro, N.J. FOUNDED: 2004 MEMBERS: 30 ELECTED OFFICIALS: PRESIDENT:Â Thriller VICE PRESIDENT: Sid Vicious ROAD CAPTAIN: Blue Scobe ROAD CAPTAIN: Lil Joe ROAD CAPTAIN: Romeo TREASURER: Cheddar SECRETARY: Dude SERGEANT AT ARMS: P Nutt SERGEANT AT ARMS: The Rock SERGEANT AT ARMS: Sosa SERGEANT AT ARMS: Shaft P.R.O.: Ketchup

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Club milestones/memorable moments: The ICONZ M.C. actively donate to the needy whenever the call is sent out. In the name of their fallen brother Tony Thornton, the club began a scholarship program for Glassboro High School. They also host an annual fish fry, bike blessing and the Tony Thornton Memorial Ride and BBQ. Future of the club: The ICONZ look to tomorrow with optimism and positivity. They will continue to broadcast their message not just in words but in their actions. Catch up with them at their annual Black Friday Anniversary party and support a club that supports the community.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

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THE LIFE

THE LION’S DEN: FASTER WORDS AND IMAGES: LION JAMES

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L

earning how to ride motorcycles on the streets and highways of Philadelphia and among the many motorcycle clubs, street and track racers alike... both of the drag and road variety, and infamous aggressive motorists of the City of Brotherly Love, I was thrown to the proverbial wolves as soon as I became licensed to throw a leg over. In all fairness I started riding a year before getting my M class endorsement. I’ve had the very best teacher of how to ride that a motorcyclist could have… Experience. There’s no better teacher than saddle time, saddle time and more saddle time. When I first started riding motorcycles I rode as often as I could. I rode to and from work. I rode to run errands. I rode to visit friends. I rode because I had nothing better to do. I’ve enjoyed formal instruction from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, control riders and rider coaches at track days and tutelage from pros and superstars from various areas in the motorsports industry. I’m no name dropper but you know who they are. I’ve learned from the street what not to do, how not to ride and what techniques and tricks work well but that no motorcycle manual, classroom education or “how to” video will teach you. I’ve seen how ego and bravado have left those who dare to ride beyond their limits or ability injured both physically and financially. I’ve also witnessed firsthand how riding with those who are truly better riders than yourself can push you to ride better and challenge yourself.

This is not the same as “trying to keep up,” but having something to strive for riding six inches in front of you walking the line between insanity and exhilarating and setting the example of what’s next in skill progression. Of all the pitfalls I have tried with extreme caution and awareness of the consequences to avoid and of all the accomplishments and skill improvements I have sought to achieve with determination, perseverance and intrepid spirit, the one thing I have never really tried to be was faster.

I was taught that with proper technique, well maintained and operating equipment, huge fearless balls and a little bit of luck speed will come. Instead of trying to be faster on two wheels, focus on riding properly and the speed will come as a byproduct of that improved technique. I’m sure all motorcyclists who have been around the chicane a time or two know that speed has more to do with the motorcyclist than the motorcycle and we’ve all heard many an urban legend about the motorcyclists on sub 600cc motorcycles riding circles around motorcyclists on 1000cc plus bikes. Faster is just something I have never struggled with. Even when I first learned to ride on my old 1980 Suzuki GN400e... Look it up and picture me on that thing cruising around Philly. Yep, I did that! I never put pressure on myself to be fast enough to keep up with or pass my friends on much more powerful motorcycles. I was always content to ride my motorcycle the way my machine and ability allowed me to. Going faster was never the goal but simply a benefit of learning to ride better, longer and farther more safely and properly. I have SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 93

THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN tried to stay warmer when riding in the cold. I have tried to lessen body fatigue when riding for longer periods of time. I have tried to be safer and minimize risk when riding in more dangerous environments. If you’re like me you’re wondering what is a “less dangerous” environment when on two wheels, am I right? I have tried to make the ride more comfortable, more entertaining and even more aesthetically pleasing but never have I tried to make the ride faster.

faster on the street. I too have experienced this and it has further solidified the notion that improved skill translates to becoming faster. Perhaps it’s simply a reaching a higher comfort level riding at higher speeds that leads to shorter lap time or maybe getting better in other areas of riding a motorcycle frees up your attention to subconsciously focus on going faster. Whatever the reason one cannot deny that speed is developed without effort when you get better at everything else.

My lack of interest in becoming faster on my motorcycles is as a result of two things. First and foremost, I have always been content with the way I ride and how fast I ride. There has yet to be a reason or influence that has prompted me to open the throttle any wider than I have. No need for me to stay on the throttle longer or get on the brakes later so I guess you could say I have always been fast enough. Try not to clutch your pearls or gasp in horror, yes a motorcyclist just submitted that he was indeed fast enough. Blasphemy you say? Well I have always enjoyed how fast, or slow depending on your perspective I suppose, my ride is. I ride as fast as I like, plain and simple. Speed is a measurable quantitative dimension whereas fast is a subjective qualitative interpretation. Fast to one rider may not be fast to another and much like what makes a “real rider,” what makes a “fast rider” is nothing that any of us who consider ourselves fast or not are qualified to determine.

I noticed something about riding faster not too long ago while on this year’s season opening “Shut The City Down” ride hosted by SBI which brought to mind another reason I have not sought to be faster.

A reason that I may not have realized had it not been for my mid ride revelation regarding riding at high rates of speed. As I rode up front with the ride leaders and front runners for the duration of the ride it became evident to me that it doesn’t matter how fast you are going when everyone else is behind you. The pace setters at the front of the pack are considered the fastest by virtue of being up front. It doesn’t matter if traveling the speed limit or breakneck impending bike impoundment and court appearance speeds, when you are in the lead you are the fastest. I’ve been comfortable in the lead and comfortable being fast. Am I fast or merely fast enough? What’s the real difference? I’m faster today than I was yesterday but not as fast as I will be tomorrow. Every day I get better. Every day I get faster.

The second reason that I have not tried to become faster on my motorcycle is because I truly believe that speed comes naturally and appropriately as a result of technique and execution improvement. I am a faster motorcyclist today than I was five years ago because I am a better rider today than I was five years ago. My technique has improved and I have become faster without trying. When I stopped trying to get low and drag a knee at the track and concentrated on my race lines, braking points and exiting the apexes is exactly when my knee puck made contact with the asphalt. I know that when riding a motorcycle you go where you look but I have not traditionally looked to go or be faster.

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Dynamic American businesswoman Mary Kay Ash once said “The speed of the leader is the speed of the gang.” While she may not have been talking about motorcycling, she did make a great point that is applicable across fields. Albeit perhaps only acknowledged by me and a limited few others, as a Motorcycle Club President, staff writer for SportBikes Inc Magazine, owner of R.I.D.E. apparel and outspoken ever present member of the local PA,N.J.,DE, MD quad state motorcycle community I consider myself to be a leader in the two wheeled world. With that said as a leader I set my own pace and all those behind me can keep up or meet me there. I’m fast enough.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Tony Watt LOCATION: The DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) OCCUPATION: Systems Administrator YEARS RIDING: 25 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: Ducati Streetfighter 848, Ducati Hypermotard 1100 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Deep growling full Termignoni exhaust system.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Shoei X11 Norick Replica Helmet.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: I rented a R6 after MotoGP at Laguna Seca and road all day in NorCal before boarding my flight home.

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Gina Ortiz LOCATION: Pasadena, CA. OCCUPATION: Administrative Assistant.

YEARS RIDING: Less than a year riding.

RIDING STYLE: I ride street and canyons. Within the next year I will be riding track.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2014 Honda Grom.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My CNC levers and windscreen.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My custom painted ICON Stryker Vest.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My fastest canyon run at Lakes Hughes.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Korye Miller LOCATION: San Diego, CA. OCCUPATION: Owner of Murphy And Me Pet Sitting.

YEARS RIDING: 2 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street... Semi stunt.

BIKE/S OWNED: Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Dark pink crash cage, stunt pegs, clutch and break levers.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Spine protector.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The SoLow Cali Tribute Ride.

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Tyree Mabson LOCATION: Pemberton, N.J. OCCUPATION: Materiel Manager.

YEARS RIDING: 6 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2004 Suzuki GSXR 600 FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Suzuki Replica Supersport Riding Jacket.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Titanium headers with M4 GP slip on exhaust.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The SBI Official Shut the City Down Ride 2014 Season Opener AKA the Great Cheesesteak Run. My first time in attendance and the experience was amazing!

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

CRASHING

WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: MEEKAIL SHAHEED

O

ver the past several years, we have written dozens of articles about how to ride both faster and safer. Most of the same techniques that top racers use to win championships are directly applicable to both track day and street riders who want to ride safer. However, in spite of our best efforts sometimes we still fall down. This article will cover some of the best practices we have found to help minimize injury in the event of a crash.

The track is a beautiful combination of exhilaration and risk that becomes a lifelong passion for most who try it. When riding the track, we have the benefits of being in the safest environment possible. Without the presence of cars, mailboxes, telephone poles and other unfavorable obstacles we can learn new skills and enjoy the potential of our motorcycles in a fantastic environment. Quality facilities have runoff, air fence, and corner workers who warn you of unexpected dangers. Track riders also wear full leather suits and track level riding gear. The end result is that in the event of a fall, riders are far less likely to be injured than if they fall on the street.

The inherent existence of danger is part of what makes any sports exciting. It doesn’t matter if you are standing at home plate in the face of a 95mph fastball, staring down a 250 pound linebacker on the other side of the field, or carving a sport bike around a 90mph sweeper. Danger is what creates both the thrill and the important requirement for each of us to assess our comfort level with the edge of traction. As we each develop our riding skills, whether on the track or on the street, we are bound to make a mistake sooner or later that results in a crash. If that fall happens on a track, your chances for a favorable outcome are greatly increased, 102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

especially with some key words of advice.

The best way to prepare for an unexpected situation is to decide your course of action in advance.

While most riders don’t want to think about crashing, some basic preparation can potentially be life saving. Many riders fall unhurt and find themselves still on the track surface when they come to a stop. The natural and correct reaction of these riders is to get off the track as soon as possible.

However, this is a scenario where premeditated

decision making can save your life.

The first thing you need to do is to quickly assess the situation and locate the closest edge of the racetrack. Once you have done this, stay as low as possible and crawl off the side of the track as fast as you can. Never get up and run! It is critically important to remain below the axle height of the motorcycle while crawling. If a motorcycle runs over the top of you, which is what happens when you are below axle height, your chances of surviving with minor injuries is greatly increased. However, if you stand up or even sit up a motorcycle can then run through you, which will most likely cause serious injury. The chances of a favorable outcome is significantly increased when you stay low and below the axle height.

In the event of an incident that involves any type of speed, there are a few suggestions that can help

reduce the likelihood of injury. The first is to do all that you can to avoid tumbling. As such, I always try to spread out to give myself the widest base possible in order to reduce the chances of starting this process. If you slide for a long time, the greatest danger is that the friction will generate too much heat. Shifting slightly from one side to the other can help reduce the likelihood of a friction burn. In this case, having a top quality glove, I have had fantastic luck with Held, to use for stability while sliding is a big help.

When you start slowing down at the end of your slide, remember not to attempt to get up before you stop sliding. While the desire to get off the track is understandable, I have seen riders who would have otherwise come to a harmless stop end their slide with big hit when they plant their feet before coming to a stop. If you start sliding at a high rate of speed, it may seem safe to plant your feet at

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MAKE THE PADS TOUCH IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: CRASHING 20mph but this anxiousness can potentially cause tumbling and injury.

As much as riders want to minimize damage to their motorcycles in a fall, the best advice I can give you in this respect is to get as far away from your bike as possible. If you find yourself sliding next to your motorcycle I would suggest kicking or pushing it away. The last thing that you want to do is to get tangled with a 400 pound object that either starts to flip or perhaps gets to a wall first and bounces back at you.

If you find yourself tumbling, the best way to minimize injury is to draw your arms and legs in towards the center of your body and relax as much as possible. While this may not be a natural reaction for many riders, the act of trying to stop a

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tumble can often result in soft tissue injuries. Once a tumble has begun, tuck your chin towards your chest and put your arms and legs in a position that reduce the likelihood of them catching on the ground.

Next month we’ll get back to talking about techniques that help our readers ride faster, safer and with more confidence. As with most things, when you make a plan in advance your likelihood of reacting well in an unexpected situation, like a crash, is greatly increased. Please take a moment to imagine the reactions that you would want to have if you ever fall down. We wish you a successful and safe 2015 season.

Until next time, ride fast... Ride safe!

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS SKILLS: MAKE THE PADS TOUCH

TEXAS TORNADO

BOOT CAMP WORDS & IMAGES: ALLAN LANE

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MAKE THE PADS TOUCH IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: T.T.B.C.

I

t was after the 2014 Indy MotoGP race that my dear friend, Sheila Paul, began to heavily hint that I should make the trek out to Montgomery, Texas to attend the Texas Tornado Bootcamp (TTBC). I remember specifically, as it was an emotional weekend for Colin Edward as he was retiring from MotoGP.That weekend was his last home Grand Prix. I had heard of Colin’s camp before from other friends and it was always in the back of mind that I needed to sort out my uber hectic schedule and make the trip. But there was something very serious about the way Sheila was approaching it. She made it seem that my life would be forever changed if I came to camp. My line of work allows me

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to do a lot of really cool stuff but Sheila was convinced that four days at the TTBC would top them all. A few months later, Shea Fouchek contacted me about my availability for the 2015 season.

Shea is one of the instructors at the camp and also handles the press and media. He gave me the rundown of dates and it made the most sense to attend the camp just before the Austin MotoGP race in April. Shea, in harmony with Sheila, was convinced that these four days would change my life. Let me back up here for a moment. I have never ridden a dirt bike before, let alone rode a dirt bike in the dirt. And

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leaves for when nature calls. The campus is very simple but most importantly, it’s accommodating.

I asked Sheila what I should pack other than my personal items. Her suggestions were to simply When you get down to it, the world’s top riders bring some comfortable apparel to change into for when we were not riding. Everything else all have a rich history in the dirt and actively ride dirt in the off season to keep their skills is provided and I do mean everything. Towels, soap, food, helmets, gear, armor and of course, sharp, to train or just for recreation. My life the bikes. The chosen stead for the camp is the has been focused on track and street riding.

Yamaha TTR125. It’s lightweight yet tough. It’s My thoughts on dirt riding were that it would extremely nimble and very user friendly, which make me a more educated rider and give me more tools to have in my skill set. My lack of is a great selection for the total newbie like experience in the dirt was never for not wanting. myself yet still super fun for the experienced It was always of question of air and opportunity. dirt rider. While it was my very first time at the camp and the first time in the dirt, several of my camp mates were repeat campers. It didn’t take I arrived at camp on Saturday afternoon where long to understand why. After checking in and I met my other camp mates. It is important to signing the appropriate waivers, I was assigned note that the word “camp” in this regard does not imply the use of tents, sleeping outdoors, a bunk and went to try on my provided gear. keeping an eye out for small or large woodland As the remaining riders arrived and we creatures or procuring a stack of not so rough I made it clear to both Sheila and Shea that this was a brave new world for me. Their level of excitement for me was almost palpable.

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assembled at the Tornado Hotel, essentially base camp for everything, there was an easing sense of familiarity and family among the camp instructors and the campers that were there for a return visit. We all met in the dining hall for a quick orientation given by Colin where he introduced his team and gave an overview of the next few days. He discussed the drills that we would be practicing, the daily Super Pole competition, the gun competition and the consumption of adult beverages. The latter of which indicated that you were done with both bikes and guns for the day. Bikes, bullets, and beer! If this wasn’t the most Texas thing I’ve ever been involved with then I don’t know what would be!

Suited and booted, we went out to get familiar with the bikes along with our camp instructors.

It’s important to note that Colin’s instructors are all highly skilled with their own riding accolades

of which to boast. Mike Myers, multiple WERA championships; Joe Prussiano, 2006 Texas Flat Track series Open Pro Champion as well as other multiple WERA Championships; Jake Johnson, two time AMA Flat Track Grand National Champion; Cory West, five National Championships under his belt. Sheila Paul, Shea Fouchek and Steve Bodak round out a great team of qualified and motivated instructors.

From the gate, it is clear this is going to one of the best times of my life. I was beginning to understand why Sheila and Shea kept saying that my life was going to change during these four days... And I hadn’t even thrown a leg over the bike yet!

The campus consists of three tracks: A covered arena TT track, an open TT track and a dirt oval track. There is plenty of freedom to just ride and get used to the mechanics of the bike. For a sportbike or cruiser rider, sure, it’s simple to just

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T.T.B.C. INSTRUCTORS (L-R S) SHEA FOUCHEK, CORY WEST AND JAKE JOHNSON

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hop on the bike, twist the throttle and go, but that’s missing the point and opportunity before you. There is technique. The instructors want you be an educated rider to employ the proper technique. Shea would consistently remind us that riding dirt is comparable to mogul skiing, illustrating the motions so that we would pick up on the bikes’ movements and the feedback that the bike would give and how to adjust. For me, the adjustment took a little time but not much.

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one attention is aplenty.

Over the next four days, I participated in a curriculum that was designed to be fun and progressive;Meaning that you would noticeably see your own improvements throughout the day.

You could actually feel yourself getting better with real time results. The best evidence of that is the Super Pole. The first Super Pole is held on Saturday evening just before dinner. Its goal is to set a foundation or benchmark regarding your

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MAKE THE PADS TOUCH IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: T.T.B.C. lap time. All three tracks are linked together and you leave the line underneath the Arena TT track, crossing over to the Open TT before completing the lap with the Dirt Oval. The next three runs are to measure your abilities based on the instruction given and adhered to throughout the day. You are only in competition with your own time from your previous Super Pole lap.

Although you are really only supposed to be in competition with yourself but seriously, you get a group of riders together talking about lap times, you are bound to engage in a little friendly “I’m faster than you are” competition. It’s all in good fun. The camaraderie among my fellow camp goers grew rapidly. We were all rooting for one another, helping one another and supporting one another.

My camp mates were a Rogues Gallery of riders from all over the world... Male and female, from the U.K., Germany, Switzerland, young, old... All passionate riders with a deep desire to increase their level of skill and have a great time while doing so. In the evening, after dinner, some took advantage of the free time under the lights of the Arena track, others sat around the fire pit with Colin enjoying adult beverages. Did I mention that the adult beverages were provided as well? Amidst the crackling embers and the Texas night sky, Colin talked with, answered and asked questions of the camp goers making genuine connections and providing one of the many reasons why so many attendees come back for return visits.

After the second day, I had already decided that I was coming back next year. And here’s why... The camp’s curriculum is designed to hold your affinity for learning, growing and riding in an infinite loop, regardless if you are a seasoned vet, new comer, male or female.

There are a number of drills that you participate in, led by instructors that essentially break down the technique and skills utilized to be proficient in the dirt; The 90 degree drill, braking drills, 116 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

static throttle, to name a few. All elements came together as I started my way around the tracks. I was partial to the Arena track. For me, there was a speed and flow that I found encouraging. The TT track is technical with several corners where you must slow down, adjust and overcome.

The Oval is just flat out balls to the wall with its massive sweeping left hander that slingshots you into a tight left hander before flicking into an equally tight right hander.

While I will say that the camp easily ranks in the top five of the coolest things that I have done in my life and that it indeed is a life changing experience, by no means can I claim that I was proficient or even good at it. Keep in mind that I had never been on a dirt bike on a dirt track before, ever. Nor had I crashed as much in my life, ever. However this is a telling factor of the climate of the camp’s culture... No matter how many times I fell, I got my ass back up and in the saddle because I wanted to and I could.

The camp offers the safest environment for you to fall and get back up on it. You are geared head to toe with the same items that Colin wears as he occasionally blasts by you, innocently reminding you what fast in the dirt truly means.

The bikes are designed to take a beating and keep going. From the moment you step foot on the grounds, Colin and his team set you up for success. It’s personal for Colin and you can see it in his eyes. This is not about collecting a check from students. This is about Colin actively expanding his riding family. This is about Colin contributing to the global riding community and making generous deposits into the wealth of the culture of motorcyclists. There’s good reason why so many make return visits to the camp. There are plenty of reasons why you should make plans to attend yourself... The education, the opportunity, the riding, the camaraderie and of course, the Barrett .50 caliber rifle. But that’s perhaps a story best experienced firsthand.

COLIN EDWARDS

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FRICTION ZONE

WHY I RIDE WORDS: RED SPADE IMAGES: RSR

"You live more for five minutes going fast on a bike than other people do in all of their life."

Marco Simoncelli.

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FRICTION ZONE: WHY I RIDE

E

veryone has a multitude of reasons why they ride and I'm sure for most of us they are all similar. Until I tried it for myself I never really understood why people that ride are so passionate about it. Bikers are a special breed, giving their motorcycle names, unparalleled attention and admiration. But how can one possibly love a cold piece of steel and give it so much affection? All this became quite apparent as I started to surround myself with motorcycles. First and foremost you obviously have to be attracted to the sport and machine.

Once you start to bond with one, then the possibilities become endless.

There's something amazing in the freedom you feel when riding. It's not just the wind you feel, or the openness of the surroundings. There's this connection you start to feel between you and the machine. You learn its ins and outs, its quirks and habits. And likewise you adjust your perceptions and abilities, you grow and learn to forge this connection. In a sense, you build

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a bond with this machine so that you can trust it when you push it. I sometimes sit back and laugh at this notion. After all, how is it possible to create such a bond with a machine?

When something brings a deep and genuine smile to your face, then you know it's real.

Riding has brought a new dimension into my life. It's opened a doorway within me that has let me find out who I am and what I'm made of. Nothing about riding has come naturally to me though. Every step has been frightening and awkward. I've been pushed out of my comfort zone since the very first time I sat on a motorcycle. And with each passing day as I push myself to go harder and faster, I push myself more and more through the threshold of comfort. It's an evolving state, one that requires trust in myself as well as in my machine.

When something changes you mentally on such a level, you become bonded with it. I'm sure many of you feel this. Those that ride a

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FRICTION ZONE: WHY I RIDE

motorcycle for the pure passion and sport of riding, know and feel this. However, even with all my mounting love for riding over the last two years, I still struggle. In fact I would say the journey is becoming harder. As I peruse more skill sets and push myself harder, I find that mentally I can not keep up and a fear is starting to build within. I started riding just before I turned thirty one and now two years later I am starting to feel like I've hit a wall. Perhaps

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it's the factor of thirty years of self preservation conditioning that is affecting me so. In either case, the frustration is disheartening. So two years later as I struggle with becoming a better rider, I come back to realize the core key of why I ride. It's the amazing learning experience and self discovery that lured me into this sport and the wonderful happiness that stems from it. When I ride, it's for myself.

No one or thing matters, just that particular moment in time. When in total concentration and mindfulness, it is like meditation. Riding lets you forget your troubles, lift your spirits and take you away to a place of solitude. I think this is why many riders are able to bond with their machines. However, just because you are in solitude on your motorcycle doesn't mean that you loose social interaction. Quite the opposite! As a very socially introverted person, riding has encouraged me to step out into the world and put myself in exciting new places and situations. I've met more people in the last two

years than I have in the last fifteen beforehand.

People that are of like mind and spirit, people that encourage and connect. It's truly been a beautiful journey when I look back on it.

So many fond memories, experiences and opportunities have presented themselves. And to think, I could have encountered all this sooner if I had discovered riding years before hand.

And so I will continue to ride to my next destination, to my next journey, to the next beautiful moment in time. I ride to find myself, to experience freedom and to make new friends.

I ride to feel the goosbumps on my soul and to reach my limitless potential!Â

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FRICTION ZONE ZONE:: ERIK BUELL SBI AT FIVE YEARS

DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS: AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL

WORDS: BILLY MORRISON IMAGES: ALLAN LANE//BILLY MORRISON

T

here is no higher level of motorcycle sport than MotoGP. It is the NFL, the Davis Cup, the World Series of two wheeled competition. Most non believers, and by that I mean the people who gasp and shake their heads disapprovingly when you tell them that you ride, the ones who immediately say… “Ooh, but that’s dangerous” and then apply their make up or text their office while they drive their car, oblivious of you in their rear view mirror...

Don’t think of racing as a sport. In fact I have had a few moments with people who I have taken to a high level race meeting or watched a GP on the TV with them, where they cannot believe that 100,000 128 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

people gather to watch the sport. They marvel at the high tech nature of the bikes. The immaculately coiffured circuits. They make comments like “it looks like a rock festival.” Well, they are not far wrong.

The athletes who race at the MotoGP level are rock stars in their own right. And fans are fans... Waving banners, cheering for their guy, wearing the tee shirt or scarf or full Alpinestars race replica leathers.

They are the same as rock fans. We could not do what we do without the fans. And so it was that, as a fan of MotoGP, that I flew to Austin, Texas just three days after returning from a long Australian and New Zealand tour with Billy Idol, to soak up

the sights... faces painted in Repsol Honda colors, the smells... a unique blend of overcooked hot dogs and burnt motor oil and the non stop action...

Rossi, Marquez and Dovizioso... of the Circuit Of The Americas round of the 2015 Red Bull MotoGP. I’m pretty sure that a full rundown of the actual race will be elsewhere in the last issue of SBI, and as it happened weeks ago now, anyone who cares will have seen the race itself. That’s not the point of this column. The point is to make certain observations about such an amazing travelling circud. The sheer size of the whole thing becomes even more impressive when you think about the fact that it all rolls in to an empty circuit on a Wednesday, gets built and set up, used, and then torn down and packed away in just four days. I’m talking about near enough building a small city with team home bases, support areas, tech areas, tires, helmets, leathers, bikes, medical services, VIP hosting services... The list is endless and the MotoGP crew build this shit every other week.

Exactly like a rock and roll tour. The similarities don’t end there, either. MotoGP attracts a huge cross section of people. Random celebrities can be seen knocking around the paddock at any given race. I was wandering around and bumped into Keanu Reeves. Literally just ran into him as I walked

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around a corner. I’m not usually a fan boy but when you run into Neo just hanging out, it’s kinda cool!

We spoke for a while. He’s a super nice guy that loves his bikes. Just another Sunday afternoon at the races!

The start and finish straight grandstands are like the front rows of a rock concert. That’s where the expensive seats are. That’s where all the people desperate to be seen, hoping to rub shoulders with the Race and Rock Royalty are hanging out. It’s an interesting vibe up there as lots of people don’t even leave the safety of the suite. They spend the entire race at the free bar, chatting to gorgeous supermodel type girls wearing Monster, Red Bull, insert brand here... tight lycra jumpsuits. Maybe they glance at the plasma screens inside the suite 130 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

screening the race which is going on just outside the suite for real! But mostly their GP is spent inside.

Me? I couldn’t wait to get out of that suite, to smell the racing oil, hear the ridiculously loud screaming of the bike engines as they came roaring across the line at 180mph, to experience the true energy of motorcycle racing at its highest level. The similarities between the race weekend and the big rock and roll show are startling. In fact they even bring rock bands to do shows at the MotoGP races now. And that’s how after the race, I ended up standing on a stage with the band Cheap Trick, who are friends of mine and had been brought to the circuit to play the after race show, performing one of the greatest rock songs ever written to a bunch of die hard bike racing fans! For me, a truly great weekend all around.

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THE NEW ISH POWER TRIP • PIVOT TEXTILE JACKET Comfort and protection without breaking the bank.

Power Trip’s Pivot jacket may be inexpensive but it offers high end quality that features CE certified armor in the shoulders and elbows, complimented by a high density spine pad and rib padding. The Pivot’s RockTex outer shell is both water and U.V. resistant and it has a full sleeved, removable inner liner. The Pivot jacket offers impressive ventilation and detailed fitting thanks to its six point sure fit adjustment system.

Sizes: S - XXXL Price: 129.99 — $139.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com

MOTO D RACING • RACING FUEL CAP Weighing 50% lighter than your OEM fuel cap, the Racing Fuel Cap from Moto D makes filling up the tank quick and easy. Made from CNC Aluminum T 6061, the cap ships with the rubber seal o ring and stainless steel screws.

Price: $99.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com

NEW RAGE CYCLES • FRONT TURN SIGNALS FOR THE MV AGUSTA BRUTALE AND DRAGSTER The latest offering from NRC really changes the front end of the Brutale and Dragster by neatly tucking the turn signals flush into the line work of the bike. The bright 1mm LED’s are housed in CNC machined billet aluminum and feature a plug and play, pain free install.

Price: $139.95 Contact: http://newragecycles.com 132 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

MOTION PRO • CLUTCH HOLDING TOOL This tool just makes the job of swapping out clutch plates so much easier. Whether you are seasoned wrench at the shop or the do it yourself type, this clutch holding tool is made from medium carbon steel with hardened jaws that can open up to five inches. It can also hold clutch hubs, flywheels, gears and sprockets.

Price: $25.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com

TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES • MODERN LOGO T SHIRT

It’s a quality t shirt that automatically associates you with the Triumph brand. The modern Triumph logo is imprinted across the chest of a cotton shirt. Available in several colors.

Colors: Black, Blue, Navy Blue, Red Sizes: XS -XXL Price: $34.95 Contact: http://triumphmotorcycles.com WOODCRAFT CFM •

ADJUSTABLE REARSETS FOR THE 2015 YAMAHA R1

This kit ships complete with everything that you need to really help dial in your footing on the new R1. Made from aircraft grade aluminum and anodized black, the rearsets offer 12 positions of adjustments.

Designed to work with the stock quickshifter, the kit can be configured in either standard or GP shift patterns.

Price: $469.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com

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THE NEW ISH ALPINESTARS • GPX LEATHER GLOVE The GPX Leather Gloves are a short cuff glove that feature premium knuckle protection, reinforced leather finger seams and Alpinestars patented finger bridge on the third and fourth fingers. The palms are constructed with synthetic suede reinforcements to improved grip and the perforated fingers and gussets allow for maximum cooling.

Sizes: S - XXXL Colors: Black, Black/White, Black/White/Yellow, White/Red/Blue Price: $129.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com

BROCK’S PERFORMANCE • ADJUSTABLE LOWERING LINK SET FOR THE KAWASAKI H2 These lowering links for the Kawasaki Ninja H2 feature an innovative window so you can actually see the thread engagement every time that you adjust the ride height.

Adjustments can be made from 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 with new rolled thread adjustment rods that have a tensile strength almost 50% stronger than Brock’s other links.

ICON MOTOSPORTS • WOMAN’S TEAM MERC JACKET The Team Merc jacket for the female ride features a relaxed fit that offer comfort when riding. The outer shell is a waterproof softshell chassis with reinforcement panels made of nylon. Available in two colorways that showcase popping graphics, the Team Merc jacket houses D3O Impact protection in the shoulders, elbows and back.

Sizes: S - XXXL Colors: Black, Pink Price: $175.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

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Price: $164.95 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com

ALIANT BATTERY • X3P 12 VOLT BATTERY FOR SPORTBIKES The X3P is fifty percent lighter than your stock battery and features a super fast charging cycle. It takes only thirty minutes to achieve full capacity and remains stable under high temperatures. It can be mounted in any position, making it a great battery upgrade selection.

Price: $285.00 Contact: http://tawperformance.com

JOE ROCKET • SUPER STREET RX14 BOOT The Super Street RX14’s are an aggressive offering from Joe Rocket for over the ankle, armored street riding footwear. Composed of split grain leather, the RX14’s feature a reinforced ankle, heel armor and an articulated ankle design for mobility. The boots are water resistant and have antibacterial insoles. The RX14’s look ready for the track but made for the streets.

Sizes: 7 - 13 Price: $179.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com EAZI GRIP • EVO TANK GRIPS FOR THE KAWASAKI ZX10R

The Evo tank pad offers you an exceptional level of grip and feel thanks to their unique traction domes. They are engineered to assist in better bike control while cornering and braking. Made from durable polyurethane, they are 100% UV resistant and will yellow or harden.

Price: $51.46 Contact: http://orientexpress.com

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THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM VOODOO MOTO • SIDEWINDER FULL EXHAUST SYSTEM FOR THE HAYABUSA

Voodoo’s powerful and popular systems have continued to impress with their economical yet ever so effective performance increase for a variety of bikes for the last number of years. Their latest offering to the exhaust world is the Sidewinder Full System that was designed specifically to fit every single model year of the Suzuki Hayabusa. That’s right. From 1999 first generation Busa’s to the 2015 second generation. The complete system is constructed from light weight and sturdy stainless steel that weighs less than twelve pounds and features a stepped headpipe configuration. The Sidewinder’s muffler is a megaphone style with a four inch diameter with a two and a half inch removable baffle. There are fairing modifications required but everything that you need for installation is included in the box. All for less than $1000.00.

Price: $899.95 Contact: http://voodoomoto.com 136 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

The pursuit of refinement is the road to perfection......

Quality Sportbike Accessories www.compwerkes.com

800 736-2114

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STAFF STUFF NIKON • D3000 DIGITAL SLR CAMERA Leon Brittain

You may be surprised to read one of my favorite camera’s isn’t the latest and greatest gadget on the market. You will probably also be surprised to find out it isn’t even on the high end scale when it comes to digital cameras.

My favorite camera... ok, one of... is my Nikon D3000 which hit the market a few years back. The D3000 is only a 10 megapixel DLSR and features a fixed 3” color LCD and has an OK ISO range from 100 to 1600. So why is this my favorite considering some smart phones nowadays surpass this?

Easy. It produces great quality, excellent functionality and ease of use and most of all a very very compact design that allows me to easily pack away or toss over my shoulder.

Experience has taught me you don’t need all the bells and whistles to take great photos and I grew tired of lugging around a large camera from event to event to event. Sure, there are upgraded versions that now offer more in a compact body, but why upgrade for the sake of upgrading? Don’t get me wrong, there are occasions when I prefer my higher end camera, a Canon, but for the majority of my on site work, it’s the little Nikon D3000 work horse for me. http://nikonusa.com Rating: 5 (out of 6)

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Meekail Shaheed Location: Road Atlanta