ROAD
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MAY 2016 VOL 6 ISSUE 8
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM
BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID
FEATURED RIDERS | KAWASAKI’S 2017 Z125 PRO | LINES OF A LEGEND: HOW FAST IS TOO FAST? | MOTOGP WITH B.T. | THE LION’S DEN: WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU | DO BIKES CRASH THEMSELVES?
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UNTIL NOW, WE HAVE BEEN ASKED TO TA K E S I D E S. T O C H O O S E B E T W E E N W I C K E D O R V I R T U O U S , B R U TA L O R S O P H I S T I C AT E D , R E F I N E D O R W I L D , G E N T L E M A N O R B A S TA R D . Y O U D E S E R V E B O T H.
© Ducati North America 2016
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CONTENTS
MAY 2016 - VOLUME 6, ISSUE 8 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16
16 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=24 24 SHOP SPOTLIGHT http://issuu.com/action/page?page=42 42 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. 52 THE NUMBERS - By Cluadio Corti http://issuu.com/action/page?page=52 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60 60 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=72 72 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James http://issuu.com/action/page?page=78 78 KNOW YOUR ROLE - By Lady Kim http://issuu.com/action/page?page=100 100 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=120 110 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=118 118 THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN - By Michael Lawless http://issuu.com/action/page?page=122 122 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=128 128 STAFF STUFF
FEATURED RIDER: ANTHONY CRESCENZO http://issuu.com/action/page?page=104 PAGE 104
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FEATURES
MAY 2016 - VOLUME 6, ISSUE 8 THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
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LINES OF A LEGEND: HOW FAST IS TOO FAST?
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http://issuu.com/action/page?page=72
BUCKY SACRILEGE: HYBRID
82
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=110
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=28
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=82
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MOTOGP WITH B.T.: ROSSI, LORENZO, MARQUEZ
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THE LION’S DEN: WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU
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http://issuu.com/action/page?page=42
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: DO BIKES CRASH THEMSELVES?
DON’T JUST SEIZE THE DAY. LEAN INTO IT. MAKE LIFE A RIDE.
Not everyone takes the chance. Even fewer have the passion and the courage to make the most of it. But for those who can, for those who do, there is the 2016 BMW S 1000 RR. bmwmotorcycles.com.
BMW Motorrad USA
©2016 BMW Motorrad USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks.
2016 S 1000 RR
The Ultimate Riding Machine™
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 7
FEATURE STORY BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID PAGE 82
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=82
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STAFF
Publisher//Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
ART & DESIGN
Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com
Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com
Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com
Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Billy Morrison billy@sportbikesincmag.com Michael Lawless lawless@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com
Contributing Photographers: Luwin Kwan Brian J. Nelson Scott Sorenson Mark Jardiolin Cam Welther Kevin Wing Patrick Wooton Cali Photo Stuart Smith
Contributors: Adam Waheed Lady Kim Claudio Corti
SportBikes Inc Magazine - May 2016 Volume 6, Issue 8 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2016 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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R O F T E K A POC O F T R O & COMF FOLLOW US TO LEARN MORE
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FROM THE EDITOR
M
aybe I’m missing something. Maybe there was a memo that I never received. But has anyone else noticed this new wave of riders that seem hell bent on never seeing their next birthday? I’m not talking about squids... This is something all together different. They are angry, arrogant and have a propensity for the mantra, “Fuck the cops!” They actively challenge the police and authorities, with law breaking behavior that could only have the sole purpose of pissing people off. Then, of course, the evidence of said illegal activity is posted to social media, for all to see... Including the very same law enforcement agencies that they were so brazenly evading. I wonder if they know that the video or picture can be used against them in the court of law... And yes there have been cases where the police trace the upload point from the IP address, got a warrant and made an arrest... And it stuck.
what being a motorcyclist is about? Maybe I never got the news about these shifts in culture because... Wait for it... News flash... It’s not fucking cool. Being a rider is not about fucking up the streets or taunting the law... There are organizations fighting for our rights as bikers and their work seems to be coming undone at the hands of these misguided youths. I’ll end my rant with this challenge. Under the theme of each one teach one, if you are an eligible and road worthy, track worthy unsocial that’s comes across one of the aforementioned riders, reach out to them and gently apply some act right. Mentor them. Educate them. Teach them what being a real rider is all about. It’s our culture. It’s our lifestyle. Let’s handle it before it gets out of handle. Welcome to the riders issue. Mount up.
My question is... When did this become Best, “cool”? Maybe I’m getting old and ornery Allan but when did this become the new normal of allan@sportbikesincmag.com 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS TRIUMPH TAKES THE TOP SPOT FOR EUROPEAN BRANDS IN THE U.S.
This past April, Triumph Motorcycles saw an increase of 31 percent in sales, compared to last year, based on the dual sport and on highway categories. This places Triumph in the number one spot for European Manufacturers in North America. The brand attributes this
accomplishment to their successful Bonneville Reborn Tour that showcased the Bonneville family. Additionally, Triumph scored the top spot for the on highway category for the first quarter of 2016.
PUIG RACING RACING TO PRODUCE ADJUSTABLE WINDSCREENS FOR THE XDIAVEL Puig Racing will be making windscreens for the Ducati XDiavel in both a sport and a touring version. Made from 3mm high impact acrylic, the screens feature a height adjustment system that the rider can easily manage on the fly. The screens will be available in black, carbon look, clear, dark smoke and smoke and are expected to be ready to ship in mid June. 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
THE LIMITED EDITION SLINGSHOT SL LE “BLUE FIRE” While the debate of whether the Slingshot is a motorcycle or a three wheel car rages on, Polaris is keeping it hot with their line up of limited edition Slingshots. The latest is the 2016 “Blue Fire” Slingshot SL LE. As a standard, the SL version of the Slingshot is already packed with plenty of bells and whistles. However, the Blue Fire takes it up a few notches with a special paint job, color matching graphics, 18 inch cast aluminum front wheels and
a 20 inch cast aluminum rear. On the dash, you’ll find the media console that houses a 4.3 LCD screen, a backup camera and a 6 speaker audio system with Bluetooth integration. The Blue Fire is powered by a 5 speed manual transmission 2.4 liter DOHC engine and has double wishbone front suspension with sway bar and ABS disc brakes. Prices for the Blue Fire start at $26,999.
THE 2016 CHIEFTAIN DARK HORSE: INDIAN’S MURDERED OUT BAGGER Indian Motorcycle’s latest offering to the Bagger class comes in the form of the 2016 Chieftain Dark horse. The blacked out bagger, save the bits of chrome, is powered by Indian’s Thunder Stroke 111 V twin engine with features that include: ABD cruise control, integrated audio system and a keyless ignition fob system. Indian went all in and really “murdered” this bike out. The Indian Motorcycle headdress, forks, mirrors, handlebars, turn signals, tank console, engine and airbox covers, lower controls, floorboards and taillight housing... all blacked out. MSRP: $21,999.00. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 17
THE PRESS ROOM HUDSON VALLEY MOTORCYCLES’ 50TH ANNIVERSARY Richard Alexander, Sr. founded Hudson Valley Motorcycles in 1966 in Westchester County, New York selling Kawasaki and Suzuki motorcycles. The family owned and operated dealership continued to grow and expand over the next 50 years with a few moves before resettling in Westchester County, N.Y. in Ossining. They added the Ducati brand to their lineup in 2013 and quickly became one of the top Ducati dealers in the country. Currently, there are three generations of Alexanders working at the dealership, including former AMA SuperStock Champion, current
MotoAmerica Racer and SBI Contributor, Corey Alexander. To celebrate their 50 years in the industry, Hudson Valley Motorcycles is throwing a party. On May 21, 2016, there will be a BBQ party and all in the area are invited to attend. Achievements like this in the motorcycle industry must be celebrated. 50 years in the business is a major accomplishment and serves as a testament to what happens when you work hard and have your priorities in order. Congratulations, Hudson Valley Motorsports! Learn more about the dealership by visiting their site HERE.
SUZUKI UNVEILS THE 2017 SV650 AND SV650 ABS Featuring a 645cc V Twin engine, the 2017 Suzuki SV650 is more than a revamped version of their SV. It has been redesigned and engineered to perform beyond expectations and provide an exciting rider experience. The SV650 is highlighted by a high strength steel trellis frame, dual spark technology and resin coated piston skirts to minimize friction and boost durability... a first for Suzuki. MSRP for the standard is $6,999.00. The ABS model is priced at $7,499.00. 18 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS WORLD SUPERBIKE 2016 CALENDAR UPDATE The original 14 round calendar of the 2016 season has been shortened to 13 rounds. The FIM and Dorna were unable to come to an agreement with Autodromo Nazionale di Monza Circuit nor has a replacement round been announced. Here is the updated 2016 schedule: 2.26 - 28//Australia//Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit 3.11 - 13//March//Thailand Chang International Circuit 4.1 - 3//Spain//MotorLand Aragón 4.15 - 17//Netherlands//TT Circuit Assen 4.29 - 5.1//Italy//Autodromo Int. Enzo e Dino Ferrari di Imola 5.13 -15//Malaysia//Sepang International Circuit 5.27 - 29//United Kingdom//Donington Park 6.17 - 19//Italy//Misano World Circuit ‘Marco Simoncelli’ 7.8 -10//USA//Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca 9.16 - 18//Germany//Lausitzring 9.30 - 10.2//France//Circuit de Nevers Magny Cours 10.14 - 16//Spain//Circuito de Jerez 10.28 - 30//Qatar//Losail International Circuit
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NO WINGS IN MOTO2 AND MOTO3 The ever so extravagant aerodynamic wings that can’t be missed on bikes int the premier class have been banned in the Moto2 and Moto3 classes, effective immediately. The ruling to ban the wins in the Moto2 class came about in March of this year, while the ban in Moto3 was to take effect in 2017. According to a press release, the agreement came about after a unanimous proposal from all of the manufacturers in the Moto3 Working Group.
COREY ALEXANDER RETURNS TO THE GRID
Former AMA Supersport Champion and SBI contributor, Corey Alexander returned to race action at New Jersey Motorsports Park, making his #RideHVMC Freeman Racing Ducati debut. Piloting the #23 Ducati Panigale R, Alexander went on to secure two podiums in the combined Superbike and SuperStock 1000 class over a
very wet weekend in South Jersey. Race one found Alexander finishing second, sixth overall. Alexander rounded out the podium in third place, fifth overall. Not too bad for Alexander’s first race on the new bike and the new team. Congrats and welcome back! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 21
THE PRESS ROOM JONATHAN REA RE UPS WITH KAWASAKI Reigning World SuperBike Champion Jonathan Rea has extended his relationship with the Kawasaki Racing Team, signing a contract that will keep them together through 2018.
A NEW ISLE OF MAN TT VIDEO GAME IS IN THE WORKS Bigben Interactive and the government of the Isle of Man have come to an agreement for the French based publisher to produce a new motorcycle video game to be titled, “TT Isle Of Man: Ride on the Edge.” Bigben is working with another French company,
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Kylotonn Games, who are developing the video game. Current status of the project finds the two companies at the assessment stage, digitally mapping the island and its thirty seven and three quarter mile road course.
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SHOP SPOTLIGHT
CONTACT:
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Dealership Name: Philadelphia Cycle Storage Location: 5400 Eadom St, Philadelphia, PA 19137
Hours: Sunday - Saturday 11:00am to 7:00pm and by appointment.
Year Established: 2012 Brands Serviced: Every brand is welcome.
T
here is a growing business of motorcycle shops based upon the do it yourself model emerging throughout the country. The concept, some would say, was birthed on the West Coast but then quickly spread across the nation, with shops popping up in Atlanta, D.C. and New York. Earlier this year, Philadelphia was the latest city that a DIY shop would call home. Philadelphia Cycle Storage, nestled in the Northeast section of the city offers a 2750 square foot shop where riders can conveniently work on their bikes and enjoy other amenities and perks. Philadelphia Cycle Storage operates on a
membership basis in which members pay $10 an hour, $60 for an 8 hour day and $120 for a month for access to the shop and everything they offer:Â tools, lifts, shop equipment, tire machine, as well as professional assistance from the staff. The shop also hosts workshops on entry level and advanced motorcycle maintenance. Bike storage and parts delivery services are also an added value. Philadelphia Cycle Storage is a community driven shop, focused on servicing and educating the community. They are a shop dedicated to empowering riders with the knowledge and a secure location to keep their bikes on the road.
Want to see your shop or dealership featured here? Drop us an email!
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THE FIRST RIDE
2017 KAWASAKI
Z 125
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pro
WORDS: ADAM WAHEED||IMAGES: KEVIN WING SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 29
THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
F
our gears, 125cc’s, and a 60-something mph top speed. It’s hard for most sport riders to get excited about those paltry specs. But spend a few hours weaving through Prius’ on Kawasaki’s freshest addition to the ‘Z’ family, and it’s hard not to be amused with the $3000 Z125 Pro. If you live in the heart of a big city like San Francisco, the 225 pound Z125 Pro will have you laughing to the bank, or wherever your destination is. With its diminutive dimensions, the little green bike gets in and out of tight spots that full size “big” bike simply can’t. Though tight for a six-foot tall rider, the Z125 Pro’s cockpit is practical around town and you’ll be grateful for the taller and more forward mount handlebar position. Out back, there’s also a set of passenger footpegs, so a buddy can tag along. Electric start, fuel-injection, and a manual clutch and transmission, ensure a simple, uncomplicated 30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
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WHEN THE FRONT LEVER IS SQUEEZED HARDER, THERE’S ENOUGH BITE TO LIFT THE REAREND AT STOP SIGNS.
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
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Although the brakes appear rudimentary, in action they are anything but. Not only are they friendly to use, when the front lever is squeezed One could complain that its compact size harder, there’s enough bite to lift the rearend makes it tough for motorists to spot you in at stop signs. The 12-inch IRC tires have a traffic, but a bright Z-shaped LED tailight, surprising amount of grip for a budget-minded halogen headlight and attention-grabbing Candy Lime Green paint help it stand out in the tire. The suspension components work well, too, crowd. and the shock offers almost as much travel as a big bike. True, the 125cc’s engine power is modest, As easy on the eyes as it is on fuel (Kawasaki however the manual drivetrain lets you claims a range of over 200 miles between fill maximize each of those precious ponies. San Francisco’s got plenty of steep hills, and the ups), we’re fans of tough appearance that stays true to the Z800 and Z1000 family roots. Even Z125 climbs all of them without a hiccup. build quality is better than expected. Though to be fair, second gear is mandatory, as is a big serving of wide open throttle. Small in price, but big on fun, the smallest On the flip side, a mellow powerband, and member of the ‘Z’ family is also one of the most forgiving clutch action make it an easy bike versatile. Factor in its affordable price, and for someone to learn or take their motorcycle there’s little reason why you shouldn’t have one permit/license test with. of your own. riding experience.
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
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2017 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 125cc air-cooled Single; two-valve, SOHC Bore and Stroke: 56 x 50.6mm Compression Ratio: 9.8:1 Fueling: Electronic fuel-injection Clutch: Wet multi-plate; cable actuation Transmission: Four-speed Final Drive: Chain, 14/30 gearing Frame: Steel Front Suspension: 30mm inverted fork; 3.9 in. travel Rear Suspension: Hydraulic shock; adjustable for spring preload; 4.1 in. travel Front Brake: 200mm petal-style disc with single-piston caliper Rear Brake: 184mm petal-style disc with single-piston caliper Tires: IRC, 100/90-12, 120/70-12 Curb Weight: 225 lbs. Wheelbase: 46.3 in. Rake: 26 deg. / Trail: 2.7 in. Seat Height: 31.7 in. Fuel Capacity: 2-gallon MSRP: $2999 Warranty: One year unlimited mileage
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2017 KAWASAKI Z125 PRO
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IF YOU LIVE IN THE HEART OF A BIG CITY LIKE SAN FRANCISCO, THE 225 POUND Z125 PRO WILL HAVE YOU LAUGHING TO THE BANK, OR WHEREVER YOUR DESTINATION IS.
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THE GRID
MOTOGP WITH B.T.: ROSSI WINS, JORGE SPINS AND THE MATURING OF MARC MARQUEZ WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: MOTOGP.COM
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T. Being a kid is the most fun you’ll ever have in your life. Yeah, yeah, yeah, people will tell you when you have a family of your own that will be the most fun. I’m here to say... That is a bold face lie. Being a kid means doing things you’re not supposed to do, getting in trouble for doing it and turning around doing the exact same thing again. It means being carefree to explore. You have no moral compass. If you get hurt, you get back up, peel off your scabs and do it again. Ah... The joys of being a kid. That is one of the main reasons that everyone loves
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or secretly loved Marc Marquez. The smile, the laugh, that boyish enthusiasm of defying the conventional ways of controlling a motorcycle and why not? It bought him four world championships. But alas, we all have to grow up eventually. You can’t keep up with the ways of the youth! Responsibilities suck the youth right out of you if you let it. For Marquez, that moment came during the 2015 campaign. A year that saw him win five races, but crash in six. Championships are not won that way and Marquez, like any racer loves
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
his championships! That is why at the start of the season, on a bike that he is still not comfortable with, Marquez has decided to collect points instead of DNF’s! Not thrilling for the fans but this is how championships are won... Through consistency. This is why I believe the European rounds of the MotoGP championships will be the tell tale sign of what the season will hold. And if Jerez was any indication of this year’s championship, it will be even better than last year’s epic battle. Of course, like any good meal we start with The appetizer, or in this case the support classes of MOTOGP. And my personal favorite, Moto3! What happened in Moto3 was literally the race where legends are made. Brad Binder, due to a technical penalty was forced to start at the back of the field and worked his way though it to finish in first place by more than three seconds! That was “Marquez 48 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
like” and had to be demoralizing to the entire Moto3 grid, including Jorge Navarro who led most of the race. To start thirty first and to finish first, by more than three seconds is truly astonishing and just may have won Binder a championship. Moto2 is shaping up to be a four rider battle for the championship. Sam Lowes added his name into the mix with a brilliant performance that started as soon as the bike was lowered off the truck. Lowes was beautiful to watch as he backed his bike into the corners Flat Track style and emerged victorious with Jonas Folger and Alex Rins rounding out the podium. MotoGP was a dream race with a front row that everyone wanted to see. Marquez, Lorenzo and the elder Statesman, Valentino Rossi on pole! That front row was like
having 1996 Michael Jordan, Steph Curry and Lebron James. That good? Yup, that good. And as in real life, the fantasy is always better. Valentino Rossi literally took his belt off and gave those young whippersnappers a beating that will bruise their egos for the next two weeks. Rossi literally got the holeshot and it was game over. It was shocking to see him literally leave Lorenzo and Marquez behind like a kid in the mall looking for his mother! Not that the victory was without a little bit of trouble. It seems that everyone is struggling with the Michelin tyres. Rossi seems to hold the ace up his sleeve as he’s raced on Michelins back when Marquez and Lorenzo were just a thought in their fathers’ loins. For some strange reason when Rossi wins, all seems
right in the world. We all smile just a bit broader, we forget all the wrongs in the world for a brief moment and revel in the old man’s victory. Some say MotoGP doesn’t even get started until the European rounds, which I take offense to. So the first three races were a scrimmage? Please! But I do have to admit, when you see the multitudes of fans litter the country side for a qualifying session, let alone a race Sunday... the Europeans do GP right! With the season just heating up and the top three riders all with at least one victory, Marquez with two, the emergence of Suzuki and Ducati and with animosity running at a feverish pitch between Rossi and The Spaniards of Lorenzo and Marquez... This season will be the best on record, I predict. Stay tuned GP fans. We’re all about to grow up in the next couple of races! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 49
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BradleySmith
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Only Sidi boots purchased from an authorized Sidi-Motonation dealer are covered by our product warranty.
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Toll Free 877.789.4940 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 51
THE GRID
THE NUMBERS EVERY MONTH, WE ASK PROS AND AMATEURS WHY THEY CHOSE THE NUMBERS THAT IDENTIFY THEM ON THE GRID...
IMAGES: BRIAN J. NELSON 52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
CLAUDIO CORTI
#71
“I
used to use 22 and 24 when I raced with mini bikes. 24 partly because of Garry McCoy when he was on the Red Bull 500 two stroke. In 2000 or 2001, when I moved to larger bikes those numbers were not available, so I chose 71, which is the year of my parent’s wedding. I have been using this number since then.” SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 53
WORLD-CLASS MOTORCYCLE RACING IN AMERICA
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF AMA SUPERBIKE RACING
watch us live! april 8 - 10
june 10 - 12
Circuit of the Americas
barber motorsports park
april 15 - 17
june 23 - 25
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april 29 - may 1
july 8 - 10
new jersey motorsports park
mazda raceway laguna seca
may 13 - 15
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virginia international raceway
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june 3 - 5
* schedule subject to change
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GET TICKETS ONLINE AT MOTOAMERICA.COM
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INTRODUCING THE SADDLEMEN SPORT COLLECTION
TRACK-CF UPGRADE TO GO FARTHER AND FASTER! Finally spor t seats that you can enjoy *Made in the USA and available for most Spor t bike models. 5 unique GELcore designs to choose from.
<TRACK-CF
The TRACK
The SPORT
The TECH
The TRACK-LS
NEW FOR 2016
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55
THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
BONNIE CHIURAZZI ADRIAN HACKETT
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NAME: Bonnie NAME:Chiurazzi
Adrian Hackett HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA HOMETOWN/COUNTRY: Mt.Vernon, NY AGE: 31 years old. AGE:
34 ASSOCIATIONS/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Chuckwalla Valley Motorcycle Association ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES:
MOTOAMERICA, CCS, ASRA, CMRC ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Finished GOALS: 4th overall in the CVMA 2015 and 2016 Femmewalla class.throughout the Compete internationally Carribean. GOALS: Stay on the bike and fight. ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Competed in MotoAmerica Superstock 600 DEFINE YOUR9thPASSION ONE race at NJMP, overall in IN CCS Atlantic SENTENCE: region
The combination of precision and excitement initially peakedINmy interest in DEFINE YOUR PASSION ONE racing and the moments when everything SENTENCE: just clicks keepknows me addicted to the sport. Only a biker why a dog sticks his head out of a car window. CONTACT:
HTTP://HOOKIT.COM/MEMBERS/BONNIECHIURAZZI
CONTACT: WWW.ONELOVEROADRACING.COM
IMAGES: PATRICK WOOTON, CALI PHOTO, STUART SMITH SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
LINES OF A LEGEND
WORDS: RICKEY GADSON IMAGES: COURTESY OF RICKEY GADSON
S I T S A F W O
H
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O TO
? T S FA
PHASE ONE When you were born into a family of respected speed freaks and delivered by a low flying streamline stork, then you have no choice but to be fast. My late mother even said I used to cry if she pushed my stroller too slow. Having a father who loved top end racing on the highway with full family in tow, but wouldn't hesitate to run someone light to light either. By 9 years old, I had already satisfied my dad’s ego and learned to ride his KZ900. At 13, I was doing burnouts and riding his KZ1300. By 15, I was sneaking out of the house late night on the weekends to hang out with one of my older brother’s friends who used to look out for my interest in racing. At 17, after my dad passed, my brother saw me ride at the track for the first time and decided to let me make a pass on his ride which was a 1981 Suzuki GS1100 with a 6 inch over arm and a built motor. After seeing how I adapted so quickly, he decided I was ready for the street racing scene and that's when I realized I was hooked. At 21, I had the backing of another one of my dad’s friends who purchased the record setting Pro Mod Suzuki that I immediately felt so comfortable on that I reset the national record and won my very first race as a professional. In 2009, in South Africa where I set a new South African TOP Fuel Record on a, let's just say, less than favorable race track. 2013, in India I became one of the fastest on two wheels. THE SECOND PHASE Later in 2013, I flew to Japan to test ride the first Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R for the president at KHI Kawasaki. Everything about this bike was like nothing I ever rode before. It was the first supercharged motorcycle in the world. Although the H2R was to have 300hp when it hit the streets, the street version was neutered to just under 200hp. It was totally obvious that the Kawasaki engineers somehow figured out another way, electronically, to limit the horse SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 61
THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND power. Something or someone had to figure out a way to unleash the full potential of the street version. In late 2014, I was given the first and only, at the time, H2 to go out and continue developing while promoting Kawasaki's new spaceship. In a search to make more power than the 300hp that came from the factory, I enlisted the services of Coby Adams and Dustin Schaller. Dustin is an engineer from Dyno Jet. The two were going to assist in developing things for the soon to be released H2. On initial dyno testing at Adams Performance, we came up with 259 rear wheel horsepower, which equates to 310 crankshaft horsepower. After weeks of dyno time we figured out how to get into the ECU to derestrict all of the restrictions that Kawasaki placed on the motorcycle and ended up making 301 rear wheel horsepower which equates to 330 crankshaft horsepower. The next thing I thought would be important was to find out how fast the bike would go in the quarter mile. At the drag strip, I ran 166mph in 1320 feet which inspired me to want to see how fast it would go
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in 1 mile (5280 feet) which was a new record of 218mph with my H2R-G hybrid. In late 2015, I was contacted by Yellow Corn Motorsports, a company in Japan that was interested in having me represent their company in the U.S. and attempt to go after the Land Speed Record on a regular street model H2. So I started out the project with a brand new 2016 H2 that we purchased from Cross Road Powersports in Philadelphia and immediately went to work by having it wrapped. Guhl Motorsports converted it to E85 methanol fuel before our first ECTA LSR race on the first of May. I also installed my soon to be released RG62 Performance Parts supercharger gears and velocity stacks in an unproven effort to increase power. With all of these improvements and no time to tune it, I loaded up the Yellow Corn H2 and headed north for the Ohio Mile to go after the 219mph record. Before leaving I checked the weather forecast which did not look promising for the weekend. Not trusting the weatherman, I headed to Ohio anyway. When arriving it was windy, cold and very foggy. After the fog lifted the winds
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND
remained which made getting down the one mile stretch extremely dangerous and nearly impossible. I could not figure out why I couldn't get the throttle even close to wide open in any gear without the front end hitting me in the chest. The winds created a dangerous situation because the front wheel would not stay on the ground while the cross winds were pushing me sideways. Every time the front wheel would lift, it felt like I was about to immediately crash, so we canceled our day and headed to Brock’s Performance to use his Dyno to find out why this motorcycle’s power was uncontrollable. When we arrived at Brock’s Performance he already had a 2015 Ninja H2 on his Dyno measuring its horsepower with his stage 2 performance kit. This was perfect timing as we could use his results to gauge our performance 64 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
increase with the new RG62 parts installed. When we rolled my Yellow Corn Kawasaki Ninja H2 on Brock’s Dyno we never told him about our modification because I didn't want to embarrass myself if it didn't work. After the first pull on the Dyno it was evident that we had struck gold and created the world's most powerful Ninja H2! 292 rear wheel horse power on the first run! And after a couple tuning changes... Bam! 302hp! Everyone in the room was over the top ecstatic at what we had witnessed. We have helped to build the world’s most powerful H2, which now makes more power than my own H2R-G hybrid. Stay tuned, God willing, for a new Land Speed Racing record coming soon.
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THE REV LIMITER: THE MAIN POINTS
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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP
SIMON POTILLION
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NAME: Simon Potillion HOMETOWN: Chateauroux, France AGE: 28 years old ASSOCIATIONS: Koub Spirit SPONSORS: Intégral Motos, CER School Driving ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Winner of the Sickest Trick in London for Stunt Bike Freestyle 2011, 10th at World Stunt GP 2011, 2nd at SBI Contest 2013, 2nd at SBI contest 2016. 4th for the race at the Roadster Cup 2016 in Le Mans, France. GOALS: To podium at the 2016 Roadster Cup 2016 Speed Races. Podium at some stunt contests in France. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Push the limits and the rules of gravity with any motorbike is all that I need! CONTACT:
IMAGES: OFOF SIMON IMAGES:COURTESY COURTESY BRADPOTILLION DURHAM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 69
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THE LIFE
THE LION’S DEN: WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU WORDS & IMAGES: LION JAMES
T
his may come as a surprise to some and be expected or obvious to others, but as an avid motorcyclist, motorsports enthusiast and self proclaimed, industry insider... I am often asked by new motorcyclists about all things 2 wheeled. Many new riders consult with me and seek out my opinion and input on what to purchase for their first motorcycle, gear recommendations and I have been asked on several occasions to teach people how to ride. While teaching someone how to ride is a touchy subject for me. Not only do I not want to pass on the many bad riding habits I have picked up and developed over my decade plus of riding motorcycles of all kinds but I am an enthusiastic supporter of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and the courses they offer for new and experienced riders. I don’t presume to know better how to teach someone, new to motorcycling, how to ride at the basic level than the professionals employed by the MSF and highly recommend their courses. I prefer potential students of mine have at least taken the MSF Basic Rider Course and have their valid M Class license endorsement before allowing me to influence how they ride. Those inexperienced with riding motorcycles often confuse operating a motorcycle with riding a motorcycle and I have met people who could ride like the wind and have logged tens of thousands of miles in the saddle but still could not tell me how to operate a motorcycle let alone how one works. On the flip side, I have met people who have a very academic understanding of how motorcycles work and how to operate one but would be petrified to take a ride beyond their neighborhood or an empty lot with cones and someone watching them go thru a 72 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
checklist of basic maneuvers. When I’m presented with one of the most common questions I hear, which is “what type of motorcycle should I get?”, almost without fail I ask the person in return “what does riding a motorcycle mean to you?” I have a series of questions I use to determine what I believe to be appropriate for a new motorcyclist based on my own personal experience and frame of reference. That list starts with finding out “what it means to you.” I think once you know what riding a motorcycle means to you then it provides the framework that influences your motorcycling decisions. If you’ve never thought about what it means to you then take this opportunity to do so. Not only will these questions help determine which way you should look when deciding to ride, how to ride and what to ride but also help give you some focus on what this sport/lifestyle/hobby really means to you. Of course, what riding a motorcycle means to you could be as superficial, in the greater sense of the word, not by any means meant as an insult, as to look cool, to get attention, as transportation from home to work and back or even because you saw it in a movie and liked it. I’ve said it before and I believe it, one’s reason for riding is an individual and personal motivation and someone else can no more comment on that reason as they can ride your motorcycle for you. What is your experience level of motorcycle riding? Have you ever ridden before, taken a riding course, have your M Class driver’s license endorsement, ridden dirt or track before but now want to explore street, or vice versa? Or have you ridden your
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THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN current or previous motorcycle for a substantial time and are now interested in riding something bigger, faster, more powerful, with different ergonomics, slower or faster acceleration, more or less cargo space, additional or less passenger space, more or less features or possibly more or less flashy and customized? The obvious reason this is important is because there are simply some machines out there that, based on your experience level, you have no business throwing a leg over. Much in the way someone who has never ridden a motorcycle a day in his life should not be dropping their income tax refund check as a down payment on a brand new 1300 plus CC built for the drag strip motorcycle such as a Suzuki Hayabusa, Kawasaki Ninja ZX14 or Harley Davidson V-Rod. So too should a motorcyclist with 20 years’ experience in the saddle not park her ass on a 250 CC standard bike. Of course these are two extreme examples, but the same is true about the appropriateness of a cruiser with saddle bags and tassels on the handle bars for someone who wants to zip in and out of traffic on Interstate 95 at midnight in the summer with his friends who are all on litre sportbikes. Or the guy who wants a Honda CBR600RR because his big brother had one when they were growing up and he saw one at the local dealership with his alma mater’s colors as the paint scheme but he’s only getting the bike to commute back and forth to work which is a straight line 10 minute drive from his apartment complex. New motorcyclists should be aware that if you’ve taken the MSF BRC then you most likely learned how to operate and ride a smaller cruiser or potentially a motocross style dirt bike and this is very different than a sportbike or race replica style motorcycle. Like many things that are equally dangerous as they are enjoyable a motorcycle is a tool that performs the way and in the manner that the operator and user makes it. So in that regard, even a novice operator should be able to have success with what would be considered by most as too advanced, powerful or big of a motorcycle 74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
for her or him. The reality of it is that many motorcyclists of all experience levels have gotten hurt and suffered losses as a result of opening the throttle of or squeezing the brakes on motorcycles that were inappropriate for them. Selecting the correct or appropriate motorcycle is only part of learning what motorcycling means to you. Choosing the right tool only gives the craftsman the means to an end but the job to be done is the real purpose of their labor. Why do you want to ride? How would you like to ride? These are the questions in need of answers that will not only help you decide which bike is best for you but also guide you on what to do with it. Many folks are seeking a thrill and there are few options for seeking such a thrill as accessible, affordable and enjoyable as riding a motorcycle. For those who want a fun, convenient and economic mode of transportation well then a motorcycle is that and more. If a motorcyclist is searching for that upgrade or new type of riding experience then with all the many varieties of motorcycle available for sale the choices provide something for everyone. I couldn’t list all the reasons someone could have for wanting to ride here but what I want you to take from this is that the starting point for selecting what to ride and opening the throttle to put the first mile of that ride behind you is discovering or identifying what riding a motorcycle means to you. Start and end your ride there and you will never be lost. Metaphorically speaking of course…Please don’t think my words will replace a good sense of direction, a map or GPS. You may not need a destination to ride but you must choose a direction. Finding out what motorcycling means to you gives you that direction. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 75
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THE LIFE
KNOW YOUR ROLE: GOODNIGHT, SWEET PRINCE WORDS: LADY KIM IMAGES: STOCK
I
t has been nothing but purple memories, thoughts of paisleys, ruffles and hours of listening to Prince’s music since the news of his death on April 21, 2016. Born Prince Rogers Nelson, he was a Grammy winning singer, musician, actor, fashion icon and a biker! The best memory, of course, is that iconic motorcycle in the movie Purple Rain. I was in Los Angeles for the summer in 1984 when Purple Rain was premiering on the red carpet. We were too young to be in downtown Hollywood in
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all the madness. So we grabbed some food and snacks to watch Purple Rain at the drive in theater! I just wanted to be on the back of his motorcycle, ground pounding. That motorcycle was bad ass! It was featured on the Purple Rain movie poster and the album cover. Prince had outfits to match it from the black leather jacket to his purple suits with ruffle opera shirts. He was the only guy that could ride on a motorcycle with lace gloves, high heels and get all the women!
I always thought that his motorcycle was a Harley. Now I am finding out Prince was Team Honda! Yes, that’s right! His motorcycle was a Honda! He rode a customized 1981 Honda CM400 Hondamatic and made movie history. It was a light motorcycle weighing just over 400 pounds with a low seat height at 30 inches. Considering Prince was only 5’2’’, this was the perfect motorcycle for him to ride for easy access on and off. The customization is what made that bike fit for only a Prince to ride with a large aftermarket fairing, custom handlebars and high sissy bar. The back seat had hot pink velour inserts for Apollonia to sit on and were painted a royal purple. The early version of the Love Symbols were the only graphics
on the bike shaded in hot pink on each side of the fairing. The movie actually used 3 motorcycles. 2 for stunting and the other 1 for Prince to ride. You can tell during the scenes when the tire treads are different on the rear tire. In the 1990 movie sequel, Graffiti Bridge, they used the same motorcycle but painted it black with gold plated chrome pieces. I can’t believe he passed so soon. He was a musical genius. This summer, I will be partying and riding like it’s 1999. Throttle hands up… Ride in heaven, Prince.
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BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID
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WORDS: ALLAN LANE SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 83
THE LIFE: BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID
I
was introduced to Bucky as many have been, via social media. The images of a brazen rider giving the proverbial business to the asphalt of Mulholland highway and literally carving through the canyons of Southern California have been racking up likes and reposts for quite some time now. I was intrigued. That’s my job. To be intrigued. Pictures speak a thousand words, if you are listening. What I heard from the those images of Bucky was that he was not just some balls to the wall hooligan, out for kicks, popping wheelies and screaming, “Fuck the Law!” It was very clear that he was and is much more than that. I had the good fortune of meeting him in person in Austin, TX over MotoGP weekend. To my honest surprise, Bucky is just a happy soul that loves motorcycles. Perhaps the only thing that he loves more than motorcycles is riding them. To say that Bucky has some skill, is a massive under statement. Recently, a video was posted of Bucky drifting his CBR1000RR down a corner of a stretch Mulholland Highway, affectionately known as the snake. I’ve seen images and videos of riders at various skill levels crash on that section of road. Having ridden it myself, it’s a very technical bit of road. But the clip clearly shows Bucky in control, sliding that rear tire around and backing it in, beating up the Snake like it owed him money. If the Snake is sacred ground, then it is no wonder that he goes by name of Bucky Sacrilege.
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“I
always tell a girl I start dating that riding will always be in my life until the day I physically can’t. If they have a problem with that, they should walk away...” SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 85
THE LIFE: BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID
AL: Where are you from? BS: I was born and raised in Southern California. I spent most of my childhood in Whittier, CA. I moved around SoCal a lot since going to college. I would move to a new place after traveling each summer break. I kind of got into a routine of only staying at one place for no more than one year. I’m currently right on the border of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. I’m super close to all the canyon roads of Malibu. It’s pretty nice. AL: Sounds pretty nice. You get to wake up everyday in sunny Socal. What do you do for a living? BS: Currently, I am a freelance journalist, vlogger, photographer and an instructor at SoCal Supermoto School. AL: How long have you been riding? BS: When I was younger, I had some older 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
friends that I used to skate with. They got a hold of some Honda Riva scooters. I would ride them around the neighborhood that we had built a skatepark in. Once one of the guys bought a Ninja 250, I bought their scooter. I’ve been riding for 20 years. Mostly street. I actually took the motorcycle safety class with my mom. She failed out of the riding section and had to go back to complete the class. AL: You’ve come a long way from scooters, man... Tell me about your bikes. What have you had in the past? BS: Well, I obviously had the scooter, and that was during high school. Once I drove that into the ground, I was lucky enough to have my friends bikes at my disposal since I didn’t really have money growing up. My best friend’s dad was known as Beautiful Buzzard, a well known Hells Angel back in the 60s. He used to always make fun of us riding sportbikes around. He was a really funny guy and you’d never know he was some bad ass back in the day. I didn’t actually buy my first real bike until I was going to college. It was a 2003 R6. The one with the flame scheme. It got stolen on Christmas Day later that year. The R1 first got that undertail dual exhaust that year (2004). The only bike I knew of before that was the Ducatis. I loved Ducatis, but I never wanted to own a liter bike because it was too much power. With my R6 getting stolen, and the new R1 out, I gave in and got the 2005 R1 Raven edition. I think that would have to be my favorite bike because it was the first liter bike I owned, and I progressed my skills a lot while I owned it. AL: What’s in the stable now? BS: A 2008 Honda CBR1000RR I’m currently commuting/training on. Other than press bikes I get to test and review, the Fireblade is what I shoot most of my content on for social media. I’m actually thinking of selling it off since I SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87
THE LIFE: BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID have a 2012 BMW S1000RR that I built as a track bike. I think getting that plated would be fun in the canyons. I also have had a plated Husqvarna 510SMR (Supermoto), custom built Yamaha Vstar that’s rigid and has no front brakes, another scooter, and a race prepped YZ450F Supermoto. AL: You’re a man that likes a bit of variety. Variety can translate into experience, which seems to be the truth, in your case. Do you consider yourself a street, canyon carver, both, neither or all together something else? BS: I like to think of myself as just a “Rider”. I will literally do it all. Street, canyon, track, dirt track, etc. I think there is this natural progression for a lot of riders that start out on street, like I did, to go from one side of the spectrum to the other. We usually start out as squids, gear up, start hitting the canyons, then track. All of a sudden, you’re that rider yelling “take it to the track” on the interwebs. That’ll never be me. I will always ride street. I will always go to the canyons. I will always throw the front end up in the air if the conditions permit. However, I will always advocate to other riders to do some track days. Because it’s fun. Because it’s safer. Because it will greatly improve your skill set, thus making you smarter and safer on public roads. If I had the skills I have now when I flatbed truck turned left in front of me in 2003, I would’ve been able to brake harder than I thought I could. I wouldn’t have wound up in the ICU for 10 days with a collapsed lung, and several broken bones. AL: Exactly! Seat time equals experience. It’s interesting that you say we usually start out as “squids”... Define the word. BS: A squid is either a new or experienced rider that is completely ignorant or doesn’t care about certain aspects of riding. Either you know you should be gearing up and don’t care, or you’re new and haven’t had an experienced rider hand down their knowledge. I know some 88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE LIFE: BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID riders with a good amount of experience that still don’t clean, lube, and adjust their chain. That’s a squid. Your chain is the number one way to rob you of horse power, and will cost you more money having to always buy chain kits more often. A really good story about what a squid is, happened to me a few years ago at the Snake. There was this newer kid doing laps when I showed up. Most of the other locals know that I won’t hesitate to tell another rider to tone it down if they are riding sketchy or just need some helpful tips to be smoother. A few guys came to me and said this kid had already lowsided a few times previously and that day was riding with busted fork seals.
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Once the kid took a break, I looked at his bike. The fork oil was literally everywhere on his bike. On the brake calipers, the pads and inside his wheel. It was only a matter of time before the oil was gonna be on his tire. I told him that he really shouldn’t be riding like that cause it’s a danger to himself as well as any other riders that may be around when he crashes. He listened, but brushed it off and headed out. Sure as day, he lowsided in front of every one watching for the inevitable. Luckily, we all knew to stay off the road while he was riding, so no one was put in jeopardy when he went down. Crazy kid was alright and so was his bike, but he was talking about still riding that day. I finally had enough and told him he needed to stop, otherwise I was pulling his key. That to me is a squid. No regard for others. I still talk to this guy. Unfortunately he kept on crashing in the streets. He had two big crashes. The last one finally left him substantially injured and he hasn’t ridden since. He still talks about riding, albeit only on the track. I’m still a little worried that he hasn’t learned his lesson though. I care about him. I honestly hope he doesn’t make the same mistakes. I know he will end up reading this interview, and hope it gives him food for thought. You can still be a total squid on the track. AL: Do you feel that there is a difference with this new generation of street riders and canyon carvers? BS: I’ve been riding long enough though to see how there is a big turnover from summer to summer. The new, young riders are always hungry to prove their worth. It’s just apart of life. AL: And I guess the Snake is as good a proving ground as any. I ridden it and I feel like I would need to spend several days to get it dialed in. We just don’t have those types of roads in Philadelphia! But for those that don’t know about the Snake, can you give a break SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I
think there is this natural progression for a lot of riders that start out on street, like I did, to go from one side of the spectrum to the other...â&#x20AC;?
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THE LIFE: BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID down? BS: It’s actually Mulholland Highway. The famous two mile stretch is called the Snake. But there are other sections of that highway that are just as fun. It’s a great bit of road because it throws every kind of turn at you: sweepers, decreasing and increasing radius, lots of consecutive turns, off camber turns... It has it all. The funny thing is that unless you live out here and only watch videos on social media, you don’t realize how many awesome roads are within the vicinity. There’s literally over a dozen different roads in the Malibu area. All different. All with amazing views. I love it out here. I’m totally spoiled being so close. AL: I understand that you’ve offered personal one on one coaching to a few celebrities that have come to the Snake... Any one in particular come to mind? BS: I’ve actually done some coaching at SoCal Supermoto where there have been several celebrities. It’s pretty low key, but rad at the same time. I really like how these “celebs” are just normal guys that enjoy all types of riding. I’ve been to some of their houses to check out their rides. I’ve offered some coaching to a couple of celebrities that actually live in Malibu. I know they rode out there and saw room for improvement at the school. My main intention was that they improved so that they would be a bit safer in the unforgiving canyons. I won’t mention names of the celebrities, but this one guy is just like me. An adrenaline junkie. He would crash at least once every time he took the school. Last time he had a pretty good highside, but still rode on. He even presented at the Golden Globes or something later that day. AL: You mentioned that you’ve had a few wrecks. Any major close calls? BS: Heck yeah! I ride almost every day. Close calls and crashing are a part of the game. 94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Most of them, however, are on the track. That’s where I push the most. That’s where I learn and perfect all the gnarly tricks I want to try. I actually pride myself on being drama free in traffic. I’ve really learned to focus on the drivers ahead of me and anticipate what they are going to do before they do it. I’m usually out of the way or in a good position to avoid them if they make a move towards me. AL: Track, street, canyons... Is there anywhere that stands out in your mind? BS: I’m a really lucky guy. I been fortunate enough to ride in Australia. The whole trip was very memorable. I even got to do some track days at Eastern Creek, which is an old MotoGP
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THE LIFE: BUCKY SACRILEGE//HYBRID
track, and Phillip Island. I met Valentino Rossi and he signed my Rossi helmet a few days before my track days. It was the only helmet I had so I had to wear it for the track days. I was so scared to crash on my left side. AL: Okay... Define, if you can... the perfect road? BS: The perfect road is twisty as hell. Lots of elevation changes... and not a single cop in sight! The Snake is very close to perfect. Hit it during midweek and you practically have it to 96 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
yourself. The only other road I’ve been to that I gelled with right away was this one called Putty Road in Australia. It is a couple hours from Sydney. Every turn had a speed limit sign right before so you knew exactly what type of turn to expect. A couple of friends I made out there took me to Putty. After a few turns, I immediately took the lead and started to pull away from my friends that knew the road, on a rented bike. I never felt so comfortable, nor had so much fun. AL: How important is riding to you? BS: Riding is just important in my life as the air I breathe. I’ll never forget the sensations I got the first time I learned to wheelie all by myself. The first time dragging knee in the canyons. My first day practicing how to back it in. The adrenaline and sheer joy I get from riding never fades. I always tell a girl I start dating that riding will always be in my life until the day I physically can’t. If they have a problem with that, they should walk away now cause no one will stop me from breathing. No one. Bucky is a solid blend of street assassin, track slayer and all around good natured human being. The riding community as a whole can be very marginalized. Many track riders look down on, with disgust, those that still ride the street... Many a marketing campaign has been rooted with the sentiment that street riding is beneath the modern day track rider. Riders like Bucky actually serve both the street and track philosophies because he proudly boasts that his skillset is polished on the track... So that when he hits the streets and canyons, or where ever else he may roam, the tools in his toolbox are on point. His level headed views on the culture of riding could be evidence of the inevitable tipping point... The next step in the evolution of the modern day rider. A hybrid if you will, Bucky Sacrilege is more than a simple combination. He’s the perfect storm. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 97
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Wes Jones LOCATION: Atlanta, GA OCCUPATION: Creative Content Specialist (I make things better). YEARS RIDING: 5 years. RIDING STYLE: You have to ride it to get to the strip and the track to stunt. BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Suzuki GSXR 600. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Torn between the custom MotoLimit headlight and the Arrow GP exhaust. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Ogio Mach V back pack. Every traveler’s dream bag. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Back home in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia). 20 deep rolling down US50 into Ocean City, MD. 100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Louis A. Rivera AKA Gizmo LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: Assistant Store Manager. YEARS RIDING: 8 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2011 Suzuki Hayabusa. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My 10 speaker stereo system and my Puerto Rican Flag paint job by Uptowngrafx. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Captain America riding jacket. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Riding to Ocean City, Maryland Bike Week.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Charles Norwood LOCATION: Victorville, CA OCCUPATION: Instructor at Total Control Training and California Motorcycle Safety Program. YEARS RIDING: Street bikes since 1997. RIDING STYLE: I’m a fan of dirt and street riding. I’ve done the drag strip a few times and a handful of track days over the years. Each is as much fun as the other! Never stunted but I admire those who can. BIKE/S OWNED: 2003 Lime Green Kawasaki ZX12R, 2001 Yamaha R6 track bike, Honda XR250, 1992 Harley Davidson Softail. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: I actually like my sportbikes setup mostly stock. My ZX12 has LED lightning which I like at night for visibility and a great sounding Muzzy exhaust. Ironically, I’m a fan of the Ape Hangers on my Harley. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: I can’t seem to keep my eyes off riding jackets, even when I have enough of them! MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: When I rented a bike in Denver and rode a 600 mile loop across two days. Rode through the Continental Divide pass, Steamboat Springs and Rocky Mountain National Forest. 102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
GSXR Ernie Palombi LOCATION: Beverly, N.J. OCCUPATION: Metal Finisher. YEARS RIDING: 4 years. RIDING STYLE: Track only, since 1995. BIKE/S OWNED: 2015 Suzuki GSXR 1000. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My muffler. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Alpinestars boots. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The Shut the City Down ride in Philly.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Anthony Crescenzo LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: Auto Technician. YEARS RIDING: 5 to 6 years, on and off. But the last 2 years, I’ve been riding regularly. RIDING STYLE: Track with a little street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2014 Kawasaki ZX10R. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My favorite mod on my bike has to be my Xtreem Bikeworks crash cage and sub cage setup. It’s definitely saved my bike a few times already and hasn’t let me down yet. But I love my Bikelife Culture stickers, as well. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Has be my ICON Airmada helmet. Have to keep the head safe. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My most memorable ride has to be the day I got my ZX10R. It was raining. I hopped on the bike and it cleared up... the sun came out and I rode for about 4 hours right after I left the dealer. 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Joseph August Mattera LOCATION: New York, N.Y. OCCUPATION: Entrepreneur/Business Owner. YEARS RIDING: 5 years. RIDING STYLE: N.Y.C. streets. BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Ducati Monster S2R. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My Termignoni exhaust, tail chop and lane splitter mirrors. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Shoei helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Split Rock, Pennsylvania.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Brian Horton LOCATION: Fremont, CA OCCUPATION: Marketing and Public Relations. YEARS RIDING: 34 years. RIDING STYLE: I’m having a lot of fun doing trackdays lately. But I also love to ride on the street as well as off road. BIKE/S OWNED: I’m currently hunting for a new sportbike, but I always have my very first motorcycle in my garage, a 1982 Kawasaki KX80. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My favorite accessory is actually for my helmet. I run the PHIPal adventure monitor on my lid to track my performance and keep me safe in case of an accident out on the road. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: That would have to be my Racer Gloves. Amazing quality, comfort and performance. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Every ride I took in the Dolomite Mountains while working for Alpinestars in Italy. 106 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Jason Smith AKA Knuckles LOCATION: Wilmington, DE OCCUPATION: Auto Tech/Tow Truck Operator. YEARS RIDING: 14 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2009 Suzuki GSXR 600. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My custom black and red marble paint job. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Shoei RF1200 helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The 2016 Shut the City Down Ride in Philly.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
DO BIKES CRASH THEMSELVES? WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: MOTOGP.COM
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ike many sports, the art of riding motorcycles fast around a racetrack involves a pretty serious learning curve. Unlike many traditional sports, golf comes to mind, motorcycle track riding not only incorporates a combination physical and mental skill but it also involves conquering fear. I have not spent a ton of time on the golf course in my life, but I can’t ever recall a particularly “harrowing” moment on the back nine. In contrast, motorcycling can involve some serious speed and with that speed sometimes comes real consequences. At the Penguin School we have observed and helped thousands of riders through the process of conquering the fear of falling down. The
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most effective method we have found is to start by first helping riders understand the reasons that crashes actually occur. Armed with this information, riders can move forward with confidence as they can more easily recognize mistakes before they progress beyond the stage where they can be fixed. One of our mantras the we teach with at Penguin is “Bikes don’t crash themselves, riders drag them down”. This basic premise is true in 95% of all crashes not caused by an outside force (i.e. another rider). If the rider can learn to simply release the “bad” input from the motorcycle, traction is usually restored and
everything settles back down. Crashes are usually the result of nothing more than a rider who refuses to listen to what the motorcycle is “telling” them. To help clarify this concept, let’s consider an example. Imagine a bike and rider traveling at 100mph through the apex of a sweeping corner. What happens if that rider lets go of the bars mid corner? Does the bike start flipping end over end? Does it step out sideways and high side the rider to the moon? Of course not. The motorcycle simply straightens out and begins to run wide. Since the rider’s upper body is giving the bike any input (hands off), body weight is
wholly supported by legs... Which is exactly what we want. Now, in real life riders do not take their hands off the bars, but real riders and all top racers, often release almost all of their input on the bars multiple times every lap. They sense an impending problem, the bars get heavy and allow it to self correct. This happens long before the It becomes large enough for a trackside observer to see. The bike doesn’t run off the racetrack, it simply tracks slightly wider than originally intended... Often by only a few inches. If there was just one skill that I could impart into all the racers and track day riders SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111
IMPROVE YOUR SKIILLS: DO BIKES CRASH... that come to my school, this is it. Put yourself in a position on the motorcycle so that anytime you need to release your input on the bars you can do it instantly. With the ability to make instant corrections as a primary focus, riders can often answer many of the questions that they have for coaches themselves, which is exactly the point of good instruction. Is this line the right one? Does this body position work? Is this too much lean angle here? If you can pass the instant correction test, then you are probably not far off. Bad lines force you to give bar input at times when you should be loose. Bad body position forces weight to the inside hand and diminishes rider mobility. Almost every rider I have seen who is stuck at a given lap time is there because there is something they he or she is doing to the motorcycle that is consuming traction that is needed for something else, like braking, turning or accelerating. I ran some math last weekend at a local race. A novice rider I was observing was running a pace 18 seconds a lap slower than the winning expert pace on that same machine. This gap is very normal. At this particular track, 18 seconds per lap calculates out to an average speed differential of 16mph. Of course, this differential is not constant, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probably 8mph in some areas and 26mph, or more, in others. However, the force calculations on the tires make for some interesting data. The formula for the force on a tire around a corner is MV2/R. M is he mass of the bike and rider combined, V is velocity and R is the radius of the corner. Comparing two riders who are roughly the same weight riding the same bike through the same turn, the relative force on the tires, which is the ultimate limiting factor for anything we do, is determined by comparing the square of their velocities. Turn one at my local track has an average apex speed of about 50 mph. If the expert rider goes through 112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
at 58mph and my new rider goes through at 42mph then we simply need to compare 422 (1764) to 582 (3364) to get the theoretical difference in force on the tires. If we assume that the expert was using 100% of the tire, which he probably was not, then the novice was using, at most, 52% of the available grip at that point. Interestingly enough, the novice fell down in this corner during the race and the expert did not. How is this possible? Both riders had the same tires, the same motorcycle and were on roughly the same line. The answer is simple, the expert got most all of his bar input done while straight up and down and positioned his body so that when the bike was at full lean he only had â&#x20AC;&#x153;guidanceâ&#x20AC;? input in the bars... Just enough SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 113
IMPROVE YOUR SKIILLS: DO BIKES CRASH...
pressure to hold the arc, which is often only 1 to 2 pounds of force. The novice was both supporting his body weight with his arms, as evidenced by a stiff inner arm, and was turning the bike all the way through the corner. If you look at the numbers, the novice consumed at least 48% of the tires available traction with his actions on the lap that he fell. He dragged the bike to the ground! Now, soft bar input at full lean is not the only factor to avoiding crashes but it is in my experience the most important one. Soft bar input mandates that you use your legs for body support and time your turn inputs properly. Having this foundation is what allows riders the ability to release all of their bar input for a moment, if needed, to allow the bike all the grip it needs to stay upright. Again, soft hands 114 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
also make for far greater ability to feel problems when they are small and hence more easily corrected. The lesson here is that the next time a coach offers a body position tip or a line change, please consider how these changes will allow you the ability to relax on the bars when it is most critical. The more lean angle you have, the more critical it is to relax. This concept, combined with smooth inputs at the controls will help riders avoid a vast majority of accidents while riding the track. More confidence, more feedback and more speed is the result. Remember, bikes donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fall down. We drag them down. Until next time, ride fast... Ride safe.
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THE FRICTION ZONE
THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN: THE FALL OUT
WORDS: MICHAEL LAWLESS IMAGES: COURTESY OF MICHAEL LAWLESS
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n the old days, racers use to joke, “Live though the crash, but survive the medical treatment.”
Yes, back in the day they might have one ambulance at the far end of the track with inexperienced help manning it. If you pitched it away it was going to be a long time before real medical help would see you. Things have changed for the better. Today the new problem is surviving the expense of crashing. The human part, as well as the motorcycle part. Scenario: A rider donates to the local ambulance fund. She falls and hurts her back in a crash. The rider does not want to but is told she must take a ambulance from the scene. It turns out that the ambulance ride that was only for a few miles was over $1000. The rider made donations to this ambulance company prior but they would not discount her bill. At the hospital she was told she had a cracked bone in her back. The first doctor comes in and states a minor crack that may have happened prior but the fall has aggravated the injury. He further tells her that she should be out in a day and that all is ok. A second doctor, who claims that he is 118 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
in charge of the unit, says that surgery is recommend. The rider demands to speak to the first doctor. Several days later, she left the hospital after a few days of testing wearing a plastic corset, to the tune of a cool $31,000. Her insurance paid most of it but she still had to pay a substantial portion. The lesson here is to get a second opinion. Perhaps the insurance companies are not the bad guys, after all. When I crashed in December, it was clear to me and the track personnel that I broke my left collar bone. They asked if I wanted an ambulance ride to the hospital. Knowing what happened with my friend I stated that I would drive myself to the hospital, saving the expense. And I did so, after I stopped off at home and changed into clean comfortable clothes. Entering the emergency room, I was grilled by the hospital staff for my insurance info and photo identification. They asked what happened and I simply explained, “I fell off of my bike.” I was interrogated with questions about drug use or alcohol abuse. Why was I
being treated like a criminal? Unbelievable.
up to speed.
After a few hours I saw man who gave me a pill for pain and had me X rayed. I was told that my collar bone was broken but the break did not go through the skin. I would need to see an orthopedic surgeon for treatment as an outpatient. So, basically... I was going to be paying $3100 for nothing more than a referral. My insurance covered most of the bill but still I paid a hefty share.
Twenty years later and no surgery yet. I cannot let a few questionable apples ruin the bunch, so I say this... Most doctors and especially nurses are fantastic on many levels. But you need to be careful. Ask questions and if needed, get a second opinion. First things first, though. If you need emergency help, Get it! I would suggest doing some research if you have time to avoid some of the expensive medical pitfalls though.
Many years ago, a retired gentleman drove his car out into the center of the road “to see if it was clear”. He just happened to pull out in front of me while I was on my bike.. I hit his left front fender at speed, I sailed through the air and landed on my knees. At the hospital, I learned that I broke my knee caps. The doctor was full of disdain, leeringly referring to motorcycles as “donor cycles”. He expressed to me that if I wanted to walk properly again, I would need surgery. I didn’t like the way I was being treated so I optioned to see my own orthopedic surgeon as a second opinion. The second opinion revealed that my knee caps only had minor cracks and that I needed physical therapy. I followed the advice of my surgeon and in a few months I was back
My dad use to hit me with “There is a fine line between hero and zero”. Corny. But true. We can help ourselves by being a percentage player. Think twice before dropping that clutch. Manage the risks you expose yourself to wisely. Wear quality riding boots to protect your feet and ankles. Wear body armor to protect your knees and elbows. If anyone ever said you are handsome, pretty or have a nice smile... I would suggest a full faced helmet if you’re not rocking one already. Treating yourself to top grade helmets and riding apparel may save you money and pain in the long run. Think about it. Not too mention, you will look and feel good too!
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ZUMA JACKET / WWW.ROLANDSANDS.COM This jacket was not designed for the timid or faint-at-heart. Introducing the Zuma. With rotated, pre-curved sleeves, stretch nylon panel sleeve inserts, a dropped back and relaxed collar opening, the Zuma fits right in to the RSD family with its aggressive riding fit and features. And aggression is something that the Zuma has in aces. Made with topgrain Buffalo leather the Zuma offers extensive protection, increased two-fold by the include foam back protector and SAS-TEC certified Level 2 shoulder and elbow armor.
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THE NEW ISH JOE ROCKET • META X JACKET The Meta X from Joe Rocket is a fine blend of premium leather and textile. Featuring Joe Rocket’s FullFlex mobility system, the Meta X has breathable stretch and expansion panels. It has an attack or sports cut, fortified with CE certified armor in the shoulders and elbows as well as a high density, articulate spine pad. Equipped with an insulated removable liner, the Meta X is also highlighted by its low profile collar, a 4 point adjustment system, and two hand warmer pockets as well as an internal chest pocket. Sizes: 40 - 52 Price: $349.99 - $365.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com
SATO RACING • ENGINE SLIDER FOR THE HAYABUSA Protect the stator cover on your Suzuki Hayabusa with the Sato Racing engine slider that is composed of a delrin slider and billet aluminum mounting bracket. The kit fits over the stock stator cover with no need for modifications. The included stainless steel bolts mount the bracket directly onto the stock engine case. The slider puck is made with an abrasion resistant delrin nylon plastic to help minimize damage in the event that bike is laid down. Fits all model years. DAINESE • D1 EVO TECHNICAL MOTORCYCLE JEANS
Constructed with stone washed denim, stitched with aramid, the D1 Evo Tech jeans from Dainese come equipped with Pro Shape protectors at the knees and internal Kevlar fiber mesh reinforcements. They remain soft and comfortable whether off or on the bike. To enhance the performance of the jeans, Pro Shape protectors can be added at the sides. Sizes: 28 - 44 (Waist) Price: $249.95 Contact: http://dainese.com 122 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Price: $100.00 Contact: http://orientexpress.com
COMPETITION WERKES • FENDER ELIMINATOR FOR THE 2015 YAMAHA R1
Now available for the 2015 Yamaha R1, the Competition Werkes fender eliminator kit is CNC laser cut from stainless steel for quality and durability. A simple installation process allows for and easy and stylish clean up for the back end of the R1. The kit includes flush mount LED turn signals and an LED license plate light. Price: $149.95 Contact: http://competitionwerkes.com
NITRON RACING SHOCKS • R1 REAR SHOCK ABSORBER Nitron’s entry level rear shock option offers a tremendous of performance when compared to the stock set up. The R1 shock is a big 40mm diameter piston integral pressurized gas monotube system with a single knob adjuster for tuning both rebound and compression. The shock’s body is CNC machined from a hard anodized corrosion resistant aluminum alloy. An optional remote hydraulic preload adjuster makes changing the preload on the fly possible and eliminates the need for the included C spanner for manual adjustments. The R1 shock is completely rebuildable and revalvable with support from Nitron’s US based maintenance and support service. Price: $699.00 Contact: http://nitronracingshocks.com
SIDI • SPEEDRIDE BOOTS
The Speedride boots from Sidi take all the features from the Mag 1 boots and put them in a their new ankle high boot. The Speedride boots are packed with features a magnetic closure system, shock absorbing heel cup and toe sliders. Equipped with a dual compound sole, a TPU shift pad and thermoplastic resin ankle protection, the Speedride boots pack style, durability and comfort into quality footwear. Sizes: 40 - 47 (Euro) Price: $260.00 Contact: http://motonation.com
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THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • WIREFORM GLOVES
The Wireform gloves feature a softshell chassis with a very cool, seamless Battlehide palm section. The index and thumb are touchscreen enabled. D3O armor is inserted at the knuckle for protection while the fingers house thermoplastic rubber plates. Available in several color options, the Wireform is a premium option for the summer riding. Colors: Black, Blue, Red, Orange, Hi Viz Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $50.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com
DUCATI • REFLEX REFLECTIVE BAND
The Reflex is inexpensive way to increase your visibility while out on the road in the day or the night. It’s a reflective band that can be worn over your jacket with reflective material. The adjustable elastic braces make the Reflex one size fits all. Made for Ducati by Dainese. Price: $29.50 Contact: http://ducatiusa.com
DP BRAKES • SDP SPORT HH+ FRONT BRAKES FOR THE 2016 KAWASAKI ZX10R Brake control is equally as important as throttle control. Upgrade your stock brake set up on your 2016 ZX10R with the sintered brake pads from DP. With a strong initial bite and progressive and controllable feel, the SDP HH+ pads feature a high tech ceramic heat shield and have a low wear rate and minimal brake dust. Price: $58.95 Contact: http://www.dp-brakes.com 124 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
VOODOO INDUSTRIES • PERFORMANCE SLIP ON FOR THE HONDA CBR1000RR This is just a mean looking and sounding pipe for the CBR1000RR. CNC mandrel bent and master welded, the pipe is in the master class for fitment, durability and finish. Equipped with a removable and rebuildable baffle, the pipe eliminates the catalytic converter and mounts directly to the OEM header pipe, maintaining clearance for both stock and wide tire set ups. All mounting brackets and hardware are included in the box for a stress install that does not require any frame or bodywork modifications. Price: $299.99 Contact: http://voodoomoto.com
IRC • M SPEC 19X18 BRAKE RADIAL MASTER CYLINDER Italian made, the M Spec Brake Master Cylinder is CNC machined from a solid block of billet aluminum and features a folding lever that will swing upward if the bike goes down. The M Spec’s piston has an teflon ring that allows for motion without touching the cylinder wall, greatly reducing wear and boosting braking feel. Price: $349.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com
HOTBODIES RACING • MGP REARSETS FOR THE YAMAHA R1
Hotbodies Racing continues to expand their offerings and the latest is the MGP line of rearsets. With application for the 2015 and 2016 Yamaha R1, the MGP rearsets are CNC machined from T6 6061 billet aluminum and are fully adjustable. The kit can be used in either GP shift or standard shift set ups. The MGP rearsets feature knurled foot pegs with plastic end caps, mounting bracket and OEM brake light switch spring and return brake spring. Ships as a complete kit with everything needed for install in the box. Colors: Black, Gold Price: $399.95 Contact: http://hotbodiesracing.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 125
THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM REV’IT! • AKIRA ONE PIECE LEATHER SUIT Derived directly from the paddocks of MotoGP, the Akira suit is composed of highly abrasion resistant Agustini and Monaco leather that features strategically stretch and expansion panels. Equipped with CE approved armor in the shoulders, elbows, hips and knees, the Akira has a semi perforated outer shell with aero cool 3D mesh. The armor in the knees and shoulders are adjustable to optimize your fitment. Double zippers in the calf area lessens the hassle of getting the Akira on and off as well as giving a little more room for riders with larger calf muscles. Taking suit tech to the next level, the Akira has replaceable inner knee grips to give extra grip and assist with bike control as you move through the corners. The leather seat of the suit is doubled and reinforced to prevent the stitches from coming undone. Rev’It! has a long list of top notch motorcycle gear for today’s track rider and racer... The Akira represents their understanding and application of cutting edge safety apparel technology to bring you the suit of tomorrow, today. Colors: Black/White, White/Red, White/Blue, Black/Acid Sizes: 44-56 Price: $1,299.99 Contact: http://revitsport.com 126 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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STAFF STUFF AVON TYRES • COBRA SERIES Leon L. Brittain
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’m sure we’re all aware of the importance of that little thin piece of rubber between the roads we pound and our two wheel machines of joy. Just to be clear I’m talking about tires. So when it came time to upgrade my tires to go along with the new look of my ’04 R1, without hesitation I went with Avon Tyres’ Cobra series with a phatty 300 on the rear.
to experience these beauties in all conditions from rain, cold and southern heat, performance and grip have never been a problem. Your investments in performance, styling and handling are protected with a road hazard and 15k warranties should you ever find yourself in need of. And least I fail to reaffirm the style points and bevy compliments from onlookers.
Aimed specifically to the cruiser, touring and custom http://avonmoto.com market the Cobras not only provide solid performance, but also style with their snakeskin outfitted sidewalls set Rating: 5 (out of 6) off by a venomous Cobra head. Having the opportunity
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