ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING
CUSTOM BIKES . MOTO TECH
NOVEMBER 2014 VOL 5 ISSUE 2
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM BREAKLITE MOTORSPORTS’
TM
Nightmare
HAYABUSA
THE MOVIE ISSUE TWO WHEELED HEROES | ALONZO BODDEN’S TOP 10 WORST AND BEST MOVIE SCENES | ALWAYS A BIKER BABE, NEVER A FEMALE MOTORCYCLIST | BONNEVILLE MOTORCYCLE TRIALS
License to thrill
New Hypermotard SP
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Professional rider on a closed racetrack
Official Sponsor Developed with
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THE FEATURES 24
THE SHOW: BREAKLITES’ “NIGHTMARE” BUSA
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ALWAYS A BIKER BABE, NEVER A FEMALE MOTORCYCLIST
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ALONZO’S TOP 10 WORST & BEST MOVIE SCENES
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LINES OF A LEGEND: DROPPING THE GAUNTLET...
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BONNEVILLE MOTORCYCLE TRIALS
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TWO WHEELED HEROES
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THE USUALS
NOVEMBER 2014 - VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2 INTERACTIVE
12 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=12 20 THE INBOX http://issuu.com/action/page?page=20 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - THE SPARE PARTS COMPANY http://issuu.com/action/page?page=24 24 THE SHOW - BREAKLITE MOTORSPORTS’ “NIGHTMARE” BUSA 38 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=38 46 TURN ONE - By Sandra Stammova http://issuu.com/action/page?page=46 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=56 56 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson 62http://issuu.com/action/page?page=62 THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE - By Dystany Spurlock 70 THE MAIN POINTS - By Dena Sodano http://issuu.com/action/page?page=70 82 FEATURED CLUB - BLOODLINE RYDERZ M.C. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=82 84 KNOW YOUR ROLE - By Lady Kim http://issuu.com/action/page?page=84 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=88 88 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James 92http://issuu.com/action/page?page=92 FEATURED RIDERS 98http://issuu.com/action/page?page=98 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=142 142 STAFF STUFF
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FEATURE STORY
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BREAKLITE MOTORSPORTS’
Nightmare
HAYABUSA
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EDITOR’S LETTER T
here was a scene in Mission Impossible 2 where Ethan Hunt and Sean Ambrose are running and gunning through the streets of Sydney, Australia on Triumph Speed Triple and a Daytona. Now, disregard the Hollywood theatrics and improbability of it all... And just focus on the cool factor. Hollywood’s portrayal of motorcyclists, bikes, bikers, clubs, etc... must be taken just like everything else. With a grain of salt. I’m going to let you in on a little secret. So listen up and play close attention to these words: None of it is real.
I’ll say it again... None of it is real. Unless you are watching a spot on documentary of a docuseries, what appears on the screen before you has been concocted in someone’s imagination and through the long and tedious process of film making, that figment of imagination has survived to exist in the format we better know it as... entertainment. That scene in Mission Impossible is entertaining. In my opinion, that scene is the most entertaining part of the entire movie. There’s nothing real about it just like there is nothing real about the entire movie. But that movie and others like it are not supposed evoke truth. Even the movies that say that they are based on true story or based upon actual events are heavily seasoned with creative license. The operative word is “based”. These films offer a form of escape where for 90 to 120 minutes, or so, our real world of issue or problems are minimized or pushed to the back burner. I think it’s important to remember that movies, films, TV series and shows all serve a purpose. Some serve better than other. Some fail all together. Some, and this a very small some... exceed expectation and are spot on. But if you are looking for realness, for life captured in motion picture and sound... I turn your attention to filmmakers that specialize in the art of documentaries. Dana Brown’s On Any Sunday: The Next Chapter entertains, inspires and activates you as a rider, builder or enthusiast regardless of your background or walk of life. Why We Ride is another example of how 8 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Produced and Director Zach Siglow and I at the Hollywood Premier of ON ANY SUNDAY: THE NEXT CHAPTER. we as a global community feel about this life we live and how we relate to one another. Documentaries are nine times out of ten, intended to uplift a people or community and give us something more to feel proud of... As if we needed any more reason to be proud of ourselves. I mean, come on... We ride bikes. It doesn’t get much cooler than that. So, the next time you have an opportunity to enjoy a bike flick, be it solely for entertainment or educational purposes, remember to apply a grain of salt where needed and enjoy it for what it is. Best, Allan allan@sportbikesincmag.com
THE TEAM Publisher/Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
Lifestyle Director: Tyson Beckford tyson@sportbikesincmag.com Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Rev Limiter Editor: Dena Sodano dena@sportbikesincmag.com Bike Life Editor Lady Kim ladykim@sportbikesincmag.com International Correspondent Billy Morrison billy@sportbikesincmag.com
Staff Writers: 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 Joanne Donn joanne@sportbikesincmag.com Contributing Writers: Robert Harwood Matthews Alonzo Bodden Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com
ART & DESIGN
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Photographer: Meekail Shaheed meekail@sportbikesincmag.com Cover Photographer: Greg Caparell Contributing Photographers: Terrence Belton Sierra Gate Redline Images Hart Photography Shofner Films Nick Karipis *Stock (images courtesy respective film or televion reference)
SportBikes Inc Magazine - November 2014 Volume 5, Issue 2 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2014 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.
In no way can any part of this magazine be reproduced in print, digital, broadcast or any other manner without the expressed written permission of the publisher.
SportBikes Inc Magazine (ISSN 2158-009X) is published monthly by Hard Knocks Motorcycle Entertainment.
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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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THE PRESS ROOM THE 2015 YAMAHA YZF R1M AND YZF R1 With a $21,990.00 price tag, the new 2015 YZF R1M is Yamaha’s most MotoGP inspired production model to date. Its looks are definitively derivative of the Yamaha Factory MotoGP machine from the tank and rear section to the front upper fairing that appears to be lacking headlights. In reality, the lights have been relocated to the underside of the uppers on opposite sides of the air intake, just in front of the front forks, giving the bike a distinct aggressive and unique front end appearance. The R1M has an Ohlins suspension package that includes 43mm electronic adjustable front forks and a rear single, electronic shock with the piggyback reservoir. It also touts a 200 rear tire for better road and track contact. Then there are the carbon fiber bits that are paired in harmony with the raw metal finish that really sets the R1M off as a machine that is about its business. The R1 is priced at $16,490.00 and has the same 998cc liquid cooled, inline four, engine as the R1M. The R1 is available in 3 colors where the R1M is only available in it’s Liquid Metal and Carbon Fiber finish. The R1’s colorways include Raven, Rapid Red with Pearl White and Team Yamaha Blue with Matte Silver. With a wet weight 439 pounds, the R1 weighs four pounds less than the R1M and also has very slight differences in the seat height, wheel base and rear tire size.
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Both models are expected to be available at dealerships in February of 2015.
MERCEDES AMG AND MV AGUSTA Germany and Italy join forces as Mercedes AMG acquires 25% of the Italian motorcycle brand MV Agusta. The focus of the partnership will be sales and marketing while Mercedes will appoint one member to MV’s board of directors.
FOR $25K… THE 2015 KAWASAKI NINJA H2 COULD BE YOURS The 2015 Kawasaki Ninja H2 is one of the most anticipated production models in decades. Just the thought of a super charger on a street motorcycle boggles the mind. For all purposes, the Ninja H2 is the street legal version of the game changing H2R that was released a few weeks ago. Priced at $25,000.00 the Ninja H2 packs a supercharged 998 four cylinder engine, tucked in a lightweight yet durable trellis frame with a single sided swingarm, which is a first time for Kawasaki. The supercharger rotates up to 130,000 revolutions per minute to produce 20.5psi of boost pressure for maximum acceleration in a minimum amount of time. To counter the speed, the H2 is equipped with 330mm front disc rotors and four piston Brembo calipers. Also included is rider friendly tech that includes multimode traction control, launch control, engine braking control, ABS and a quick shifter. The Ninja H2’s appearance is fortified with a unique paint job that places it well into the realm of a futuristic science fiction film. The official name for the paint is Mirror Coated Black. It has remarkable characteristics that allow it to appear reflective silver from a distance or in the light. At close range or in low lights, it appears gloss black. The Ninja H2 is a limited production bike and will only be available in select markets for a certain period of time. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13
THE PRESS ROOM THE “ON ANY SUNDAY, THE NEXT CHAPTER” HOLLYWOOD PREMIERE The world premiere of the highly anticipated release of On Any Sunday, The Next Chapter jumped off as only a Hollywood Premiere should. Bright lights, red carpets and a literal who’s who from the motorcycle and sports entertainment world flooded the Dolby Theater for this VIP viewing. The red carpet was unlike any other as this was the first time that a “roll in red carpet” was staged for guests to ride their bikes and be photographed in front of the theater. Stars of the film mixed and mingled with guests as they all celebrated the visual and audio achievement that Dana Brown, son of Bruce Brown, triumphed. Bruce Brown is the film maker that
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created the original 1971 On Any Sunday. The film is a battle cry for all riders from all walks of life and riding disciplines. In its ninety minutes, On Any Sunday covers a large spectrum of riding from dirt, customs, electric to MotoGP, landspeed time trials and even how motorcycles are affecting the lives and health of those living in parts of the world that some have forgotten about. On Any Sunday, The Next Chapter hit theaters nationally in early November. Visit http://onanysundayfilm.com to find a screening near you. Take the family when you go to see it and help spark the next generation of riders.
POLARIS RECALLS 122 VICTORY MODELS Polaris Inustries has detected an issue with the installation of the transmission shift drum detent roller spring on certain Victory bikes. They have issue a recall for 122 of the following 2015 Victory models: Cross Country, Eight Ball, Tour, Gunner, Hammer Eightball, Highball, Magnum, Vision Tour ABS and Vegas Eightball. An incorrectly installed roller spring can cause improper shifting or even prevent shifting. Owners of the selected models have been notified and the dealer network has been instructed to inspect and repair the transmission at no charge.
KTM’S 2015 RC 390
KTM annouced their 2015 RC 390, a single cylinder, four stroke, water cooled machine for those looking to be introduced to the KTM line. Beyond being an entry level bike, the RC 390 is comparable to a street legal Moto3 machine. Boasting 43 horses and weighing in
at just under 325 pounds, the 373cc RC 390 is equipped with WP suspension set up and a light weight tubular frame which means a significant power to weight ratio. The MSRP is $5,499.00. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15
THE PRESS ROOM THE 2014 AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE EXPO
The second annual AIMExpo rolled into the Orange County Convention Center with a powerful message for the American Motorcycle Industry and Community at large... The AIMExpo is here to stay. For four days in sunny Orlando, Florida, the AIMExpo hosted over 500 exhibitors who showcased the latest and greatest that the industry will be offering in the coming months for the new year. From bike manufacturers to gear and accessories, all were on display for over 18,000 in attenance. The Ducati Scrambler made its US debut at the Expo with US Marketing Manager doing the honors of the unveil. Yamaha unveiled the new Yamaha R3 in the media hub. SportBikes Inc’s own Rickey Gadson was on hand for the very first viewing of the new Kawasaki H2, which was a indeed a show stopper.
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THE PRESS ROOM Thursday and Friday of the show were strictly for dealers, industry insiders and media. The show opened up to the public on Saturday and Sunday. SBI was honored to host a ride in for the regional bike clubs on Saturday and we look forward to returning in 2015 to do it all again. Next year’s show is scheduled October 15 through 18, 2015. Visit http://aimexpousa.com for more information.
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Manufacturers subject to change.
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19
THE INBOX BROUGHT TO YOU BY KRIEGA
Email SportBikes Inc Magazine at INBOX@SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM. Every month, we are giving away a R25 Back Pack from Kriega and an SBI T Shirt to the LETTER OF THE MONTH!
LETTER OF THE MONTH Dear SBI, Any advice on how to get sponsored or get companies to pay attention to what I’m doing? I’m a stunt rider and I know I’m good. But there aren’t really any competitions anymore where I can show my talents. It’s all lot sessions now. I feel like we are basically just riding to impress one another. That’s cool and that’s what riding is about but I also know that companies like ICON are still working with stunt riders to keep their brand out in the streets. What can I do? Any help would be cool. Thanks! And the magazine is cool, too! - Kyler Greenville, S.C. Dear Kyler, Great question. It gets asked a lot, more so now than ever before. There was a time when stunt competitions or stunt fests were very popular on a national level. Riders had their pick of events to 20 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
attend and compete at for some cash, prizes and glory. It seems the winds of the industry began to blow in another direction and the focus became other aspects of the culture. That’s not to say all is lost when it comes to showcasing your skills. It just means that you have to be more creative about how you go about getting some attention. The lot sessions are great ways to network with other riders, share ideas, show off and learn some new stuff, as well. Further, SBI makes a point cover lot sessions as a means to showcase talented riders that deserve some shine. In the February 2014 issue of SBI, Leah Petersen wrote a great article on what it takes to get noticed by and hopefully sponsored by companies. It’s worth a read. Check it out HERE. Thanks for reading and riding with SBI. Best, SBI Magazine
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SHOP SPOTLIGHT: THE SPARE PARTS COMPANY
Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of The Spare Parts Company
CONTACT:
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Shop Name: The Spare Parts Company Location: 406 Vine Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Showroom Hours: Tuesday - Friday 10:00am to 6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 4:00pm Year Established: 1981 Brands Serviced: BMW, Moto Guzzi, MZ and other European Brands. lder European brand motorcycles can The Spare Parts Company has established itself as a stronghold in the Philadelphia Euro be finicky to keep in top running form. Biker community, yet remains one of the city’s With a majority of most shops and dealership focusing on the new and now, finding a shop best kept secrets. Looking to inspire the next that services a specific portion of the culture is generation of Euro Motorcycle Enthusiasts, the highly sought after. The Spare Parts Company is shops works with a local high school students for an intern program for an “on the wrench” much more than a specialty shop. education. The Spare Parts Company in Philadelphia has been serving the European Biker Community The shop’s motto is, “Keeping the old Euro bikes roadworthy!” Next time you’re in Philly, make since 1981. Providing quality service backed note of how many Euro bikes are on the road by great customer relationships, owner Roland has been able to tap into what really matters to and you may agree that it looks like Roland his clientele... Credibility. and his team are living up to their credo.
O
Want to see your shop or dealership featured here? Drop us an email!
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THE SHOW BREAKLITE MOTORSPORTS’
Nightmare
HAYABUSA
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WORDS: ALLAN LANE IMAGES: GREG CAPARELL SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25
THE SHOW: BREAKLITE’S NIGHTMARE
M
ovie inspired custom bike builds have become more common place in the market. Popular characters and themes are translated on to two wheel canvases paying homage to films of the big screen. While some movies are more frequently rendered than others, what truly sets a movie inspired custom build apart is the proper execution of every component. The overall concept must be considered from inception, execution to 26 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
completion. The Nightmare Before Christmas was a spirited film, in more ways than one. Painstakingly animated via the process of stop motion, the film had numerous characters that seemingly became larger than the movie itself. The process of stop motion animation is a labor of passion in the realm of modern cinema. With all the digital, three dimensional, computer
design technology at the ready, the question could be asked, “Why?”
Boogie all stepped into lives of their own with branding and merchandising.
It could be answered in relation to why some photographers shoot in only black and white, why some painters choose oil over acrylics, why some sculptors work in clay and others blow glass.
Being that the characters are a few of the most well known from their genre and are extremely popular, not just during the holiday season, their likeness has to be spot on. When it comes to airbrushed rendering of likenesses for custom bikes, there is a very short list that can get it down correctly. Break Lite reached out to Killer Kreations for the task. They weren’t disappointed. Freddie from Killer Kreations has a keen eye and expert level of paint application. His renderings are in the top tier of the business. Beyond that, the composition of the characters in relationship to the lines of the bike in harmony with the dark and stormy skyscapes set an authentic mood that rings true to the essence of the film.
It’s the effect. The look. The feel. So when Mark and the team at Breaklite Motorsports began the build of the Nightmare Before Christmas custom bike, they understood that just like the film, their finished product needed to be on the same level of execution if not better. The movie hit the theaters in 1993, then was reissued in 2006 in a digital, 3D format. The movie was quickly established as a classic and amassed a huge cult following. The main characters of Jack Skellington, Sally, Doctor Finklestein, The Mayor and Oogie
Mark and the guys at Breaklites went for a contrast look when they selected the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 27
THE SHOW: BREAKLITE’S NIGHTMARE
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THE SHOW: BREAKLITE’S NIGHTMARE
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components to be incorporated. To set off the amazing artwork, a set of RC Components Widow wheels in chrome were selected with a 300 rear wheel kit mounted to a single sided 10 inch extended C and S Custom swingarm. The front brake set up was converted to a single rotor to make the front wheel more visible from the profile like the rear wheel. The Nightmare Before Christmas Hayabusa’s strengths lie on it’s visual impact and dominating presence. If this bike rolls up to the local bike night, it is most likely rolling away with a trophy. But there is more to this bike than that. Least we not forget to mention that the base bike is a 2011 Suzuki Hayabusa with a full VooDoo Moto exhaust system, equipped
with a Power Commander 5 and a Healtech X-Tre Power Box. Like the movie that it is inspired by and rendered from, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a rolling example of the process of proper custom bike building. It could have been done the easy way but then there would no effect... No look. No feel. This is where the art of filmmaking and the art of custom bike building meet and synergize. The purpose is to evoke a response be it good, bad or indifferent. Breaklites Motorsports has accomplished that by translating a high spirited, darkly animated film and giving it a new life in the form of a rolling display of cinematic delight that you would hard pressed not to smile at when you see it. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31
THE SHOW: BREAKLITE’S NIGHTMARE
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Breaklite Motorsports “NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS” 2011 Suzuki Hayabusa Engine: Power Commander V, Healtech X-Tre Power Box Brakes: Front Single Rotor Conversion, Performance Machine Rear Caliper Exhaust: Voodoo Full Exhaust System Suspension: Arnott Rear Air Ride Swingarm: C and S Custom 300 Single Sided 10 Inch Extended Swing Arm. Wheels: RC Component Widows, Chromed. Tires: Metzler 300 Rear. Accessories: Custom Four Speaker Stereo System, iPad Mount and Charging System. Builder: Breaklite Motorsports. Bike Painted by: Killer Kreations. Helmets Painted by: Virtuair Airbrush Studios Owners: Tim and Rene Taylor.
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THE SHOW: BREAKLITE’S NIGHTMARE BREAKLITE MOTORSPORTS’
Nightmare
HAYABUSA
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THE GRID: NEWS DRAG RACING: THE INTERNATIONAL DRAG BIKE LEAGUE IRG Sports and Entertainment have announced their new drag racing league and series. The International Drag Bike League (IDBL) replaces the MIROCK Superbike Series that was disbanded at the end of the 2014 season. Jason Miller, founder of the MIRock Superbike Series has been appointed as the Promoter for the IDBL which is scheduled to have five race events in 2015. Miller is not the only component from the MIROCK series that the IDBL is activating. The IDBL will institute the same race programs as MIROCK including payouts, entry fee, admission and vendor pricing. Additionally, 2014 MIROCK Champion Gold Cards will be honored by the IDBL. The new series will host the following nine classes: Orient Express Pro Street, DME Racing Real Street, Louis Concrete 4.60 Index, FBR Shop 5.60 Index, Cycle Connection Crazy 8’s, Trac King Clutches Top Sportsman, Fast by Gast Pro E.T., Brock’s Performance Street E.T., and Psychobike.com Grudge. Visit the series’ official website for more information. http://raceidbl.com.
ISLE OF MAN: TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE 2015 TT RACES Looking to hit up the Isle of Man in 2015 for a little bit of Tourist Trophy action? Well, pack your bags... after you purchase tickets for the 2015 which are now on sale at http://iomtt.com. Several packages exist for fans to experience the race on different levels, including Platinum and VIP packages, as well as grandstand and fanzone tickets. 38 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
MOTOAMERICA: MOTOAMERICA AND KTM TEAM UP FOR THE KTM RC CUP The KTM R Cup has been put together to give up and coming racers a solid chance to compete at select rounds of the MotoAmerica 2015 race season. The RC Cup is a spec class for racers aged 14 to 22, riding the new KTM RC 390 machines. On the line is KTM factory contingency money and a national championship title.
MOTOGP: COTA WINS THE 2014 FIM ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD The Circuit of the Americas has earned the 2014 FIM Environmental Award for their efforts during the 2014 MotoGP Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas in April. The award is presented to individuals, club, manufacturers, circuits or organizations that make earnest efforts to create awareness of the impact that motorcycles have on the environment and their initiatives to minimize the carbon footprint. Here is an infograph detailing COTA’s campaign...
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THE GRID: NEWS MOTOGP: THE MARQUEZ BROTHERS BURN SOME LAPS IN VALENCIA
After capturing the Moto3 World Championship at the 2014 season ender, Alex Marquez joined his older brother, MotoGP Champion Marc Marquez, for some family bonding during testing in Valencia, Spain. Alex turned several laps on one o the prototype RC213V’s. Their father Julia Marquez could not have been prouder to have his sons riding alongside one another.
AMA PRO RACING: AMA PRO FLAT TRACK RACING 2015 SCHEDULE AMA Pro Racing has confirmed a twelve event racing calendar in 2015 for AMA Pro Flat Track. The 2015 season will kick off with a double header in Daytona on March 12. AMA Pro Racing is looking to announce an additional four race events in the near future. Confirmed Dates on the 2015 AMA Pro Flat Track Schedule March 12: DAYTONA Flat Track I March 13: DAYTONA Flat Track II May 24: Springfield Mile I May 30: Sacramento Mile June 20: Hagerstown Half-Mile June 27: Lima Half-Mile August 1: Castle Rock TT August 4: Black Hills Half-Mile August 16: Peoria TT September 6: Springfield Mile II October 3: Calistoga Half-Mile October 10: Season Finale
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THE GRID
Images: Courtesy of Lloyd Bayley
THE NUMBERS EVERY MONTH, WE ASK PROS AND AMATEURS WHY THEY CHOSE THE NUMBERS THAT IDENTIFY THEM ON THE GRID...
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LLOYD BAYLEY
#26
“I
asked for 63. It’s a birthday of a family member of mine. It wasn’t available and neither was 62. They they said, ‘We have 26...’ So I took it. Only because I believe I make the number popular, not the other way around. That’s the reason.” SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43
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SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 45 Hi-Tech Parts - Our passion ever since
THE GRID
TURN ONE: ALL EYES ON ME
WORDS: SANDRA STAMMOVA IMAGES: COURTESY OF SANDRA STAMMOVA
T
here is obviously many ways you can start with racing motorbikes no matter if you are man or woman or what age you are. I know most of the people say that a 30 or 40 year old motorbike rider should retire. I don’t understand why or what should be the reason to do that as long as the rider is committed and capable to be competitive in whatever class or championship they race. I believe it’s the skill, fitness, mental and physical health that determines whether one should finish or start with their career. I am talking about racing at all different levels, of course. I feel you cant generalize anything in life as everything is relative. I don’t let anybody tell me what I can not or can do. I know what’s best for me. I feel it deep inside my core. I bet you know that feeling. It’s like a sixth sense. We all are human and we all have talent and potential to give it a go and reach our potential. The power comes from within us and nobody can take it of us unless we let them to do it. 46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
I often hear from people I meet, “You are so lucky with what you do! I wish I could race motorbikes as a job! How exciting a life!” Well... I know these individuals mean well but let’s put it straight. I believe that “luck” exists but it doesn’t fall into our hands from the sky just like that. We have to build up to it and rely on ourselves, not on luck. Luck can come or doesn’t have to, but if we based our lives on luck we wouldn’t have been waiting until we are 90 to “maybe find it”. I am definitely not that patient. I always knew I wanted to race motorbikes. But I wouldn’t even talk about making it happen as Slovakia wasn’t the country where you could do any road racing. Further, I didn’t have a family who could afford it. My mum did unbelievably well to support me as a pro alpine skier for so many years. I had two jobs in New Zealand, an alpine
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THE GRID: TURN ONE skiing coach and an assistant manager to John in a big taxi company. Later on, we left to join a bigger taxi company and became business partners. John is also my friend and he loves motorbikes. If it wasn’t him, I don’t think I would have ever gotten the chance to race. He was the one who helped me along the way. He was my friend, mechanic, suspension guy and all for the time I was racing in New Zealand. I will never forget it. He changed my life completely. I took a completely different life path than the one I planned. I knew all I wanted was to race and John believed in me. Our first track days were tough as we were so
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inexperienced. We were using one set of tyres for five track days and didn’t really know much about the whole thing. It was very raw start. I jumped on a 1000cc bike and went crazy as I do. He did what he could to prepare my bike and fix it every time I took a tumble. It wasn’t any big glamorous team that started in big style with financial backing. It was only us two, bike, little van, track and our income to support my riding. I think that’s how most riders start unless they are born in a family with motorbike history and sufficient financial back up. John was marketing professional so he made video of every time I rode, edited it and put it on YouTube. He was pushing to get sponsors every day which obviously didn’t work as I was
at the beginning of my career. I had nothing to sell. We were paying everything from our pockets what we earned. We basically spent all our money we had to keep me in the saddle. One day I went to a motorcycle show in Auckland and I met this guy form Honda Hamilton who had his vendor set up there. His name is Peter Bryant and I started to talk to him. After a while of chatting he was interested in what I was trying to achieve and he ended up being a big supporter of mine. He was the person that organized for us to buy an almost new Aarons Slights demo 2008 Fireblade form Honda New Zealand. Honda Hamilton supported us all the way as much as they
could. Big thanks to them! We were battling the first season, we were improving every time I rode. We kept pushing with what we had and we went through highs and lows. I wasn’t very patient. I was stubborn and just wanted to go too fast too soon. That cost us lots of money, time and effort. But it was a start and I have learned so much since! I have to also say thanks to Sloan Frost, Andrew Stroud, Brian Bernard and other riders who helped me to get better. They always supported me with their positive attitudes towards my riding. I just wanted to be as fast as them or faster. That’s all that mattered to me.
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THE GRID: TURN ONE
Later on in the season I went fast enough to deserve the attention of Robert Tylor who was with Ohlins. I must thank them for their help also, we wouldn’t have improved so fast without them. In my first season, there were no sponsors. Just hard work to save enough money for the next test or race. I kept training almost every day to keep super fit. Racing became my life, I was 50 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
waking up thinking about how I will ride the next time, each corner... I went to sleep thinking the same. Everything that I did during the day was going towards making my racing. It hasn’t changed since no matter how hard it has been and how many countries I have to change to follow my career. I still live and breathe for my racing and I will do anything to get the chance to get the best out of me and see where it leads.
Written in the unmistakable voice of Earl “the Squirrel” Hayden, The First Family of Racing gives readers an inside look into the lives of the Hayden motorcycle racing dynasty.
NOW AVAILABLE IN THE HAYDEN BROTHERS GENERAL STORE HAYDENBROSGENERALSTORE.COM SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 51
THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
Images: Hart Photography//Shofner Films
JAY NEWTON
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NAME: Jay Newton HOMETOWN: Montgomery, Texas AGE: 16 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: CMRA, WERA, AMA GOALS: To start out with MotoAmerica and he hopes to possibly go to World Superbike and then MotoGP. ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
2014 AMA - Ran first AMA race at NJMP in Supersport class on his stock ZX-6R, Qualifying Grid Position: 32, Race 1: finished 26th, Race 2: finished 20th. 2014 CMRA Overall Points Standing - Superstock C Expert: 3rd, Formula 1 Expert: 5th, Superbike C Expert: 2nd, Rookie Expert Heavyweight: 1st, Overall Expert: 8th, Overall Rookie Expert: 2nd 2014 WERA Grand National Finals - National Challenge Series 600 Superbike Expert: 11th, National Challenge Series 600 Superstock Expert: 8th, Sportsman Series C Superbike Expert: 7th, Sportsman Series C Superstock Expert: 11th
DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: I love motorcycle racing and strive to be the best I can with hard work and relentless dedication to achieve the goals I set for myself every race season. CONTACT: WWW.JAYNEWTONRACING.COM
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
LINES OF A LEGEND
WORDS: RICKEY GADSON IMAGES: COURTESY OF RICKEY GADSON
W
hen the 2012 racing season closed, a tenth championship was secured in the Manufacturers Cup Series and ended with a four race win streak on the world's only 2012 model turbo charged ZX14R. In 2013, I took off a couple races because of my mom’s passing but finished the season with an exclamation point by winning the World Finals. The 2014 racing season started off slow as the bike developed a mysterious gremlin over the winter and couldn't get down the track under power at the season opener which meant I qualified at the bottom of the field. I would have to race one of the top qualifiers early in the race. While I could not determine my problem overnight, Mother Nature appeared to be on Team 62’s side and threatened to rain out the rest of the event on Sunday. After waking up and performing an Indian ritual rain dance, black clouds immediately started to form and I was sure I would escape an early loss. But as luck would have it, the rain did come but five minute too late as I had already loss due to the problem which meant I received the minimum points for that Rockingham race. At the second race of the 2014 season my luck would not change. Although I qualify well,
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THE DROPPING OF THE GAUNTLET IN DRAG RACING SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57
THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND
loosing second round of eliminations spelled what had appeared to be doom for me and my championship hopes. As of the third and fourth race of the year my situation started to look a little better as I made it to the finals and placed second at both. Race five through seven would be the start of a three race win streak and record setting performances as I took the win over Dave Merks and Johnny turbo on their turbocharged Hayabusa's and also Jeremy Teasley's Nitrous huffing ZX14 which were the top three in the class. 58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Things really started to look up after winning the quickest ever side by side race in the RST class on my way to setting a new national record. Whenever you set a record the officials make a team disassemble the bike to weigh and measure all components to see if there is any foul play involved and of course they're wasn't. So the record was official. Heading into the last two races of the year I felt like the momentum had swung to my side. But at both of those last two races I spun the tire because of fall temperatures, the cold track surface and spit a shim on the exhaust side, which meant the cylinder head had to come
off. But the last time it happened, my engine builder Chris Jones had to end up replacing all the intake and exhaust valves, as well. The hard work paid off as I qualified number one and won that race, as well. Coming into race eight, we had to qualify number one, knock Jeremy Teasley out of the race and win the race in order to win my eleventh championship. Well, although we did all of what it took to win the championship in that series, Mother Nature called for 90% chance of rain, just like race one. And because of the threat of rain and the cost associated with travel, there were not enough competitors
that showed up for me to be able to get enough points to win the MIRock Championship so I had to settle for second overall. Going into the last race of the year in Valdosta, GA, I was once again going for the Championship in this series. I just needed to go further in the race than my competitor Teasley. As luck would have, it we had to race each other in the second round. With all the pressure on the line, I cut my best light of the weekend so far and took the win and National Championship number 11! Just to add icing to the cake for the team, I went SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 59
THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND
ahead and won for the fifth time this year! As the years go by, race wins get harder and harder because most of the up and coming champion racers out here are very young, very light weight and fearless. And most know the secret formula to winning because I have trained them over the years in my school. Again none this would be possible without a 60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
good support team which I absolutely have from family to friends as well as fans. Special thanks to all my sponsors in 2014: Kawasaki, Speed n Strength, Motul lubricants, Jones Performance, Brock's Performance, Shinko tires, CP/ Carrillo, EK Chains, Bike master, Dynojet electronics, Carrozzeria wheels, Help me Ride Powersports lending, Zero Gravity, Anti Gravity batteries and Kendon Lifts.
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE
WORDS: DYSTANY SPURLOCK IMAGES: TERRENCE BELTON//MEEKAIL SHAHEED
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J
ust like that the season is over, where did the time go. I was just on my bike riding in 80 degree weather with my hair blowing in the wind. Now it is time to put my bike in the garage and plug it up to the battery charger. Not only has the motorcycle drag racing season come to an end but a well known motorcycle drag racing series has also closed its doors. It was like a bad nightmare that would never end. It was truly one of those moments when I wanted to pinch myself to see if this was really real. I woke up to a press release stating that there would no longer be a Mirock Superbike Series. I thought to myself “April Fools! Someone is playing a really bad joke.” Until I realized its November and not April. My heart immediately sunk to the bottom of my stomach. Coming to the realization of what I was reading was absolutely 100% true. The same motorcycle drag racing series that made me fall in love with the sport at the age of 13, is now a memory that will no longer be a ongoing series. This series was founded by a person that wasn’t just someone that liked motorsports but a person that was a racer. The series was created with passion from someone that understands the ins and outs of what us as racers love and undergo in this sport. Mr Jason Miller is a phenomenal person, I want to thank him for creating such an impactful series. If Jason would have never created this series I probably would have never been exposed to the motorcycle drag racing world. As a teenager my god dad took me to Maryland International Raceway for my first ever Mirock event. The stands were packed, the bikes were in the staging lanes and the sky was clear. This was all new to me and I loved every minute of it. I watched the motorcycles go down the track and it excited me every pass. Who would have ever thought that just SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 63
THE STRAIGHT LINE: THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE
five years after I had started my motorcycle drag racing career in the Mirock Superbike Series that it would soon be history that we can only look back on. This change has truly had a great impact on the motorcycle drag racing community, it caught all of us off guard. This is not the end of the road for our drag racing community. Even though this was the last year of the Mirock Superbike Series we now have a new series that will take its place. The International Drag Bike League (IDBL). It is a bitter sweet moment but change is good. This 64 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
upcoming 2015 season is going to be one of the best. The IDBL has shrunk its schedule down to five races. I think that this is going to be a change for the better but only time will tell. I am thankful to have had the opportunity in being apart of history. From finishing top ten in the FBR Shop 5.60 class and House of Speed Crazy 8’s class in 2012, 2013 and 2014 to watching others break records and winning championships, I am
thankful. We all will miss MIRock but we are ready for what the future is about to bring.
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP
Images: Courtesy of Alexis Brice Lloyd Baker
ALEXIS BAKER
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NAME: Alexis Baker HOMETOWN: Coloma, MI. AGE: 18 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: NHDRO GOALS: To not only be respected as a female racer, but recognized as a young female racer. And to “go big!” ACCOMPLISHMENTS: A photo shoot and interview with Adidas. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: It’s not a passion... It’s a lifestyle. It’s who I am. CONTACT:
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THE REV LIMITER
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THE MAIN POINTS
WORDS: DENA SODANO IMAGES: SIERRA GRATE//NICK KARIPIS
NORTHERN KILLERS
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THE REV LIMITER: THE MAIN POINTS
K
yle Sliger He has created his very own unique style on one and two wheels by putting so much time and effort into this evolving style. He makes a bike do things that it's not supposed to. Even with random injuries popping up throughout the years and a few bikes that withstood the beatings, Kyle Sliger makes it look easy. DS: How did you get started into riding bikes? KS: My whole family pretty much rode bikes so I kind of grew up around them except I never rode one until I was 18. My brother let me borrow his for about ten minutes. That’s all it took to get me hooked. So I started looking for my own. Picked me up an F4i, in mint condition. I even remember telling everyone right after I got it that I was not going to do wheelies on it and trash it. But after watching
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my brothers “ride, ride” and seeing a spreader down main street in person, my whole “no trashing” the bike rule didn't last long. DS: What inspired you? KS: A few months after getting my first bike I ran into a guy, Josh Vetter, on the street with the most horrible clapped out bike I've ever seen. But the dude was good and showed me a few pointers on how to ride the right way. Showed me how to use the footbrake and made sure I figured out how to use it before getting the hand brake put on my bike. I didn't know a thing about bikes and stunt parts at the time so I had to listen to the guy but once I got the hand brake, stunt riding became an every day thing. DS: How do you even think of these new moves, or do you even?!
KS: I’m not really sure how most of the tricks were thought of or if I actually invented them. I spend a lot of time riding alone and it sucks. But it does give me time to sit and think about what I want to try, I guess. Some ideas like the 540 shuffle, was from a buddy doing a 540 tire tap in my garage and made me think about trying that. So ideas just randomly come and go. My solo sessions are usually just going through all of my basic tricks right away for my warm up then I spend the rest of the time trying new ones or new transitions. Trying new tricks is a rush, so it keeps me from getting bored. I took skateboarding pretty seriously when I was growing up and anyone who skates knows how you have to be pretty innovative to be good, so it must have brought that same mentality into stunt riding. I was already used to practicing the same trick for hours at a time.
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THE REV LIMITER: THE VIOLET MAIN STARS... POINTS DS: When did you decide to build a drift bike? KS: I built the 2004 Kawasaki ZX600 Drift Bike this past winter in early 2014 mainly just as a spare stunt bike. I was never going to ride it unless I needed it. So I stretched it just to have some fun on it and to see what high speed drifting is all about. Lots of fun. It’s not quite like a 1000 but its definitely got the same effect once your sideways at a high speed in high RPMs. I’ll be getting a 1000 very soon, but this bike will definitely do for now. It got me back out on the streets
couple of years I would do some indoor shows and that was a major help on keeping up on my riding. Even though taking time off is good for letting the body heal up a bit. Usually there are months off at a time where I can’t ride, so I’ll hit up the indoor skate parks or go snow boarding.
DS: What’s in store for 2015? KS: I recently signed with Widow Wax and might be building a Widow Wax stunt bike or 1000 drift bike. So there might be a few changes in the theme. As far as riding goes, I have a few other tricks I was hoping to land DS: I’m a fellow Northerner myself and know before the weather broke loose. I didn't get that winters can get pretty frigid up there…but them in time, so hopefully next spring I’ll still be what’s your strategy for the winter season? KS: My plan is to most likely head to a warmer able to do what I had planned. I will definitely area down south as much as I can. I usually get be at NLB and any other lot sessions out there. Sessions are the reason I kept riding when I stuck studying the weather hoping for chance started so I plan to keep going to them. of the lot being dry and not covered in snow. I’ll ride when it’s twenty five degrees and up Nick Karipis but any less than that is just miserable. The last He’s been holding it down for the northerners with the Northeast Chill and his full throttle balls to the wall riding. Nick Karapis has been putting in the time and making his mark. DS: How exactly did this craziness evolve? NK: My home town is Haverhill, MA which is located forty five minutes north of Boston, near New Hampshire. eleven years ago, I came across my first motorcycle at the age of sixteen and a half. I say half because this was the earliest you could obtain a motorcycle permit in MA. I convinced my mom I’d be safe and always wear my gear... A few of my close friends also got motorcycles around this time, as well. Two weeks after high school graduation I was on my way to Phoenix, Arizona to attend Motorcycle Mechanics Institute. I graduated with Yamaha Pro 5 Star certification and as a Honda Tech Pro. The incredible weather and knowledge of bikes helped take my friends 74 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
and I into the realm of handbrakes. We would typically ride the streets mostly but always seemed to end up at some sort of industrial park or abandoned lot to try and catch balance point, essentially wheelie in control. Chris Sandberg, Joe Parkhurst, Dave Alartosky and I started riding together and over the years quickly found that riding these bikes were uncontrollable fun and good times. We were constantly pushing one another to learn new tricks. I also started snowboarding at age nine, constantly learning new tricks hitting the biggest jumps. This feeling of "going big" transferred directly into my motorcycle riding. Somehow always feeling comfortable with all the attention on me. Other well known riders like Chris
"Teach" McNeil , Christina “Crashtina” Billings also are from MA and NH. NorthEastChill originated from the inspiration among us friends to take this common hobby to the next level. Constantly reinventing our tricks and pushing one another to achieve more. Week in and week out we rode regardless of rain or snow. Every lot session seeming to become more and more fun regardless of what the local weather man would tell us. With highs only in the mid twenties, many times colder, we met and shred at our local lot year round. First inspiration? It’s hard to pick one because I like to watch the top athletes and possibly
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THE REV LIMITER: THE VIOLET MAIN STARS... POINTS
mimic with my own style what they are doing into an existing trick. I watch a few online videos within our sport or I like to just feel what comes next naturally or what might be different from the next guy. I don't claim to do tricks others can't or anything. I do them with my own style and flow. Nor do I claim to be the best. I am confident in my skills and hope to learn something new each time I ride. And of course have fun! 76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
DS: We all know how dangerous and random stunt riding can be. When your beloved bike decides to throw you off at that very moment, anything can happen. What has been one of your worst injuries? NK: Over the past eleven years I've certainly had my fair share of ups and downs, crashes and set backs. I’ve come to realize that with each set back I always got refocused on what exactly I want and where I'm headed. No injury did this more than when I tore my ACL
in my left knee back in 2011. I completely caught my shorts on my gas tank which trapped my leg in the most awkward position under my 400 pound bike. It was a six month recovery with endless doctor visits. In spring 2012, I began training for XDL, making my debut onto the national stunt scene. I achieved first place in the Long Beach Yamaha Generators Wheelie Race by edging out Red Bulls’ own Aaron Colton. Star struck and all, I somehow finished the year in tenth place in the national series, with one first place finish and a third place finish in the mini comps. I got me some XDL hardware! DS: So many riders are willing to risk life and limb to perfect their skills, often sacrificing all of their free time and personal relationships in the process. How do you manage it all? NK: As far as my personal relationships... Let’s just say in life I've come to realize in order to achieve certain goals you must give up certain things. Most recently this year, I've been on tour with the nations four time XDL National Champion, Yamaha’s own Bill Dixon. We've created the "Extreme Yamaha Experience" by traveling the country performing and demonstrating Yamaha's awesome motorcycle line up with bikes ranging in size from the 50cc Zuma all the way up to the 200 plus horse power V-Max. We perform on eight different Yamaha bikes: Bolt, FZ09, Zuma, Super Tenere, WR250, R6, V Max and R1. DS: What’s next for you in the stunt game?
NK: The next level for me in 2015 would be to acquire sponsors of my own to help fund and promote myself and our "Extreme Yamaha Experience". Of course maintain my health and condition to keep preforming at this level. My love and passion for motorcycles is true and riding these bikes will be something I’ll be doing for the rest of my life. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 77
THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP
Images: Courtesy of Gil
GIL
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NAME: Gil HOMETOWN: Piscataway, N.J. AGE: N/A ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Connmen ,W.S.T. (We Stunt Together), A.V. (Always Vertical), Stunt Show Coordinator for Super Tuner Show Series. GOALS: To push the sport of motodrifting to unforseen levels. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Best moto drifter in the world. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: If you aren’t scaring yourself, keep pushing until you do.” Contact:
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ADVERTISE WITH
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THE LIFE: FEATURED CLUB
Images: Courtesy of Bloodline Ryderz M.C.
Rocker Interpretation: The Bloodline Ryderz M.C. wear a three piece rocker. The centerpiece is a diamond shaped woodblock on which is a full bred canine with the motto “Bred to Ride” underneath its chin. This represents their sense of pride and clearly announces their pedigree as riders in the community. Club milestones/memorable moments: The club has and continues to support the Charles City Recreation Center for the Youth near Richmond, Virginia. Additionally, they participate annually in the Charles City Christmas Parade. Future of the club: The Bloodline Ryderz M.C. is preparing to celebrate their ten year anniversary in August of 2015. As that time approaches, the club will strive to continue to ride and support other clubs and charities in their community.
BLOODLINE RYDERZ M.C. CHAPTER: Richmond, VA. FOUNDED: 2005 MEMBERS: 8 ELECTED OFFICIALS:
PRESIDENT: Big Dog VICE PRESIDENT: Quiet Storm SERGEANT AT ARMS: Chop PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER: Boogie TREASURER: Big Ball
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THE LIFE
KNOW YOUR ROLE: THE BIG PICTURE WORDS: LADY KIM IMAGES: REDLINE IMAGES//STOCK
S
.A.M.C.R.O. Tuesday is coming to an end! Am I the only one upset that this is the final season for Sons of Anarchy! The final ride! I have been glued to the show for seven seasons watching this outlaw motorcycle club take over our lives. These club brothers know the true meaning of ride or die. Members come and go but the road is always there to ride another day. This is must see TV with over eight million viewers. Why is the series creator Kurt Sutter ending the show? I have yet to deal with the death of Opie and now Bobby has died… Wooosssaa! For those readers that haven’t watched the show, I need you to watch the last six seasons on Hulu, Netflex or OnDemand so you can get “patched in!” There aren’t too many shows or movies that have great motorcycle drama. They may have a great stunt, race or chase scene but not an entire show with actors that gel the way these actors do in this show. I have totally forgotten that Gemma, the bad ass matriarch of the club, played by Katey Sagal was ever a housewife in “Married With Children” as Peggy Bundy. She is the most despised member of the cast since she killed her son’s wife Tara. I can’t
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wait to see what happens when her son Jax finds out. Let me write the script so I can earn my S.O.A. Mrs. Mayhem patch. The Mayhem Patch means you killed someone for the benefit of the club. I’d have Gemma dragged on the back of my bike at triple digit speed! Hollywood tends to make a mockery of bikers. Movies like “Indiana Jones” and “James Bond” have some great realistic chase and action scenes unlike “Torque” that has the rider racing on top of a train and back flipping a street bike over a truck. I can’t forget the movie “Dhoom” where the rider overturns a car by throwing his helmet under the front tire... Not! I can’t think of another show or movie with bikers in it that measures up to the drama of S.O.A. “Easyrider”, “The Wild One” and “On Any Sunday” are classic biker movies. But I have run across some bad movies. Here a few, in my opinion... “Cool As Ice”. Vanilla Ice stars in this movie and the only good think is the GSXR that he’s riding! “Murdercycle”. Can you believe that a meteor falls to earth and merges
Clockwise from the top: Vanilla Ice in “Cool as Ice”, The Alien Fused Soldier in “Murdercycle” and “I Bought a Vampire Motorcycle”.
with the rider and his motorcycle, creating an alien soldier trying to recover an alien artifact? Ok… Me neither! “I Bought a Vampire Motorcyle”. A gang kills an occultist and the evil spirit it was calling takes over a damaged bike and tries to get vengeance on the biker gang. Ahhh… No! All good things must come to an end. But this is one series I hate to put my throttle hand up for the
last episode. Sutter has commented that the series will not end with a happy ending but in “a pool of blood”. It would be great to see a spinoff from the show during the early S.O.A. days starting from the beginning of the club with the original nine in the late 1960’s. That would be a great series! In the meantime, I will pretend to be Trinity from the “Matrix” on the track. Ride safe, fam! SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 85
THE LIFE
THE LION’S DEN: THE WINDS OF CHANGE WORDS AND IMAGES: LION JAMES
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W
hat can I say Sportbike nation? It seems like not too long ago I was complaining about the mercury dipping and having to dust off the cold weather riding gear so pardon the cliché but “here we go again.” We over here on the East Coast have tried to hold on as long as we could to summer but it seems that the winds of change are a blowing and with the breeze from the left pushing the leaves to the right comes a change in attitude, preparation and the two wheeled landscape in general. In my life off two wheels I thoroughly enjoy the change in the weather and actually prefer cool weather over the heat but I’d be lying if I said I like to ride in the cold more than the warm weather. Who in their right mind would rather ride in 40 degrees and lower if given the opportunity to ride in 60 plus? Not a soul but much like riding in the rain, cold weather riding is something you must do at times and the more you do it the less uncomfortable it becomes. For our two wheel compatriots to the west and south, to walk outside in October or November greeted by 60 degrees or higher this would be a nightmare but for all my east coast motorcyclists we know the joy of such a late season treat. We all got spoiled in the recent past few years with warm weather lasting well into late November so to have a few days in October and early November this year that prompts jackets, coats and even an occasional trip to the thermostat to kick on the heat can send a shock thru the system and take an enthusiastic motorcyclist from “let’s ride” to “let’s drive.” What’s really happening in fall to affect a motorcyclist? What’s the big deal about the end of the warm weather? Why do some motorcyclists retreat to the warmth, security and confines of four wheels, doors and a roof? Why does the flipping of the calendar mean so much SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87
THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN more than the next wave of seasonal holidays? Of course the wind picks up and the ground is no longer “rubber ready” and warm. The motorcycles take a bit longer to warm up and most will swap out leather for textile gear. You’ll observe the street riders leaning later in the ride and less aggression in the way they navigate the roads. But I think the most noticeable change that cool weather brings with it is the reduction in motorcyclists sharing the roads. There are fewer of us out on two lately than just a few weeks ago. If there is strength in numbers than we east coast motorcyclists are getting weaker with every new autumn week that passes, every green leaf turned brown and with every degree dip in the temperature. I’m starting to see the all too familiar odd stares from motorists and commuters that are surprised to see me out on my bike. Comments in the vein of “aren’t you cold?” or “you’re crazy for riding on a day like this” are being heard more and more from the non-motorcycling community. Public storage units in urban and metropolitan areas are getting busier and busier as the fair weather riders have started renting units to house their machines while they wait for spring and summer to once again bring them out of two wheel hibernation. The Motorcycle Club community will soon be hosting more parties than organized rides as the backpatched [sic] bring it indoors to fellowship and motorists in cars, trucks vans and SUVs get used to being alone on the roads once again. I’m not ready to hang up my helmet for the season. I’m not ready for my tires to take longer to warm up. I’m not ready for the selfish road hogging distracted cell phone operating nonattention paying motorists looking upon me like some sort of inconvenience on the road as if I don’t belong there. I’m not ready to layer up before a ride or have to leave earlier to allow more time for the bike to warm up. I’m not ready for the piles of leaves in and on the side of the 88 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
road and I’m not ready for the myriad of changes that come with the end of summer and the preview of winter that slows down even the most dedicated of us that fancy ourselves year ‘round riders. I recently took a brisk ride on what was undoubtedly one of the coldest and windiest days of this autumn thus far and I wasn’t so much surprised that I only saw one other motorcyclist... not another sportbike rider, by the way,out there with me but more so disappointed that the sea of bikers that I had the esteemed privilege of exchanging “the wave” with just weeks ago were now nowhere to be found. I was saddened to be out there alone against the elements, the road and the other motorists and despite the solo experience that a motorcycle ride is, despite who or how many you ride with, I was bit lonely. I didn’t want or need someone on my six or at my side while cruising but knowing and more importantly seeing that I was not the only one out there would have been a morale boost that while not required, sure would have been appreciated on that cold and blustery Sunday out on two wheels. As I made various stops on my ride the one comment from onlookers that resonated with me and really was the catalyst that prompted this very article was when a young man at the lake I found myself hanging out at toward the end of my trek approached me while staring at my motorcycle and asked me “isn’t it too cold to ride?” Expecting him to say something like “hey nice bike” or ask me “what kind of bike is that?” (both of which I am much more accustomed to hearing) the question struck such a chord because he wasn’t asking me as a clever way of saying that he wouldn’t be out on two if he were me, he seemed to genuinely be bewildered by the fact that someone would be riding a motorcycle on a day as windy and as cold as this one was. Is there such a thing as a day that is too cold to ride? The quick answer is “yes, of course” but
it is a matter of perspective and is subjective because what is too cold for me to ride may not be too cold for someone else. I thought about how if it were one week earlier this question would not have been asked of me. Hell, it just so happened that the week after this the weather had warmed up a bit and that question would not have been asked then either. The cooler weather had bought with it the expectation that motorcyclists would be or better yet should be putting up our machines and opting for more modest means of transportation.
their watercrafts and look for dryer means to get their thrills. The lake held many barometers for the changing seasons which made it a fitting stop on my chilly ride. The leaves are changing colors and falling to the ground by the pile full. The water was cold and crisp fitting for only cold blooded creatures now. The earth beneath my tires and boots was cold and hard not fit for falling on or digging up. The breeze thru the woods and off the water let one and all know that there are changes coming and we all better adjust.
The winds of change were blowing and bringing with it nothing nice. My visit to the lake made me think of how water sports enthusiasts who live and play where all four seasons are endured or enjoyed, depending on your frame of reference I suppose, must go through similar seasonal pains when the time comes time to winterize
I should mention that the changes in the air are not all bad. The crisp cool air makes the bike run better and the more gear you have to wear to keep warm means more protection so there’s just a few of the silver linings in these pre winter clouds. Riding in the colder months makes me appreciate the warmer weather I get to enjoy
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THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN
for part of the year. Riding in weather that many can’t or won’t does fill me with a personal sense of accomplishment and I’ve always felt that riding in adverse conditions, be it poor roads, cold weather, precipitation, with better or faster riders or amongst aggressive motorists improves your riding ability and conditions you to better deal with such motorcycling hardships.
where the thermometers rarely read less than the posted speed limits are luckier than you realize so don’t take it for granted.
The motorcyclists and non-motorcyclists alike are starting to feel as though it’s getting too cold for motorcycles and there are fewer of us blazing trails and waving the flag for riders everywhere. If this keeps up so early in the fall and winter I may have to start giving “the wave” to people in Continuing to ride later and later into the year is somewhat of a personal goal of mine that I like to cars because there are less and less two wheel push to further and further limits each year. Aside warriors to salute in the battlefield as of late. Yes from the fact that I enjoy riding too much to stop Sportbike nation I said it earlier and I will say doing it just because it gets colder outside, with it again; the winds of change are blowing and all of the other obligations of work, family and bringing with it the colder weather. How will you other interests beyond motorcycling it’s sometimes greet the chill? difficult to throw a leg over as often as I’d like Stay toasty my friends. even when it’s still warm. Those of you who live 90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS
John Bower LOCATION: Marietta, GA. OCCUPATION: Journalist. YEARS RIDING: 20 years. RIDING STYLE: Street, dirt and track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2010 Triumph Street Triple, 2001 Triumph Bonneville, 1997 Suzuki RMX 250 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Arrow titanium slip on... They make the Triumph Triple sing and look great, too.
FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Loving my Shark RSI Carbon Helmet. Light weight and comfy.
MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: A track day at Barber with CLASS
school. It rained the entire day. Probably got three inches or more. Even had standing water in turn 5 and 6. I can’t say it was enjoyable but came away riding more confident in the wet.
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Done’ Theresa Carroll LOCATION: Orting, WA. OCCUPATION: Customer Service Agent. YEARS RIDING: 3 years. RIDING STYLE: Mainly street. I plan on doing track days at Pa-
cific International Raceway next year.
BIKE/S OWNED: 2012 Yamaha YZF R6 Raven Edition. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: I like my
custom plate “SICKR6”. I have LED lights that are red on the side of my bike that go around the gas tank to behind my seat
FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: I love my Scorpion
helmet. It provides protection around the most crucial area. I love my ICON vest. It’s black and pink, my favorite colors.
MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: It would have to be the “BTO”,
a ride that’s put on every year and it’s epic! Massive amounts of bikes, stunters, guys and girls. I’m outgoing so I like meeting other people who enjoy my same hobbies. I also like seeing and getting ideas for my bike.
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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS
Kathleen Rohrbach AKA Kat
LOCATION: Allentown, PA.
OCCUPATION: Consumer Loan Processor.
YEARS RIDING: 4 total. Second season with this bike. RIDING STYLE: Street for now. Hoping to get on the track. next season. BIKE/S OWNED: 2002 Suzuki GSXR 600. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: The best mod I did on my bike was the custom seat. They’ve made it possible for me to put miles on my bike. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: All of them. I’m a firm believer of wearing protective gear. All will save your skin and your life.
MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: This year I did a solo ride from Allentown, PA to Ocean City, MD to Myrtle Beach, S.C. for bike week. It was intimidating to travel that far alone but very satisfying. 94 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Donta Deisel LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: CEO of IlladelStyles Entertainment. YEARS RIDING: 3 years riding. RIDING STYLE: STREET. BIKE/S OWNED: 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 650 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Green night light kits. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Home going for a fallen rider.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
RIDING IN THE RAIN WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: MOTOGP
R
ain. For many people who ride the racetrack, it’s a four letter word that rivals old age and taxes... Sooner or later it will be something you have to deal with. However, like many things in life, if you adopt the right attitude, then riding in the rain can actually be fun. Wait, did I actually say “rain” and “fun” in the same sentence? Yes and more importantly, it can be a fantastic learning tool. Now, I’m not talking about thirty eight degree April rain, not even the most sadistic rider can enjoy that. But riding a motorcycle on a wet track can be a good time, especially with rain tires. Now, before you cancel your subscription and use this article for your new origami hobby, take a moment to open your mind. If you think that you can benefit from learning better body position and smoother control inputs, rain can be a fantastic teacher. If you think that spending less time on the edge of the tire can shave seconds off of your lap time, or that learning to let the bike move around underneath you helps you gain confidence, then consider getting yourself a set of rain tires and looking forward to the next summer shower. Often, all it takes is a little bit of knowledge and a positive attitude and you’ll be on your way! 5 KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL RAIN RIDING SOFT ARMS AND HANDS. This is probably the most important lesson that rain riding can teach a rider. I would estimate that at least 75% of track
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: RIDING MAKE THE IN THE PADSRAIN TOUCH riders, racers included, place artificial limits on their speed by either supporting their body weight with their hands or simply holding on the bars too tightly. In the dry, most riders ride at a pace that only consumes 50 to 60% of the available grip of the tires, leaving a 40 to 50% grip margin that masks their imperfect technique. However, in the rain, that 40 to 50% is cut in half and leaves much less room for error. APPLICATION: Since there are only four places your body contacts the bike (bars, tank, seat, pegs), if we eliminate the bars as a means of weight support then riders are only left with their legs. The number one key to being able to have soft arms
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and hands is to anchor your body with your outside leg against the tank. This skill is mandatory in the rain, and will allow you to instantly drop your times in the dry as well. GET OFF THE BIKE. When turning a bike in the wet, riders want to do as little as possible with the bars. In addition, bikes must move their center of gravity to the inside of the contact patch in order to shine. The solution to both of these problems in the wet is to get off the bike as much as possible‌ Probably 30% more than you would in the dry. When a rider gets off the bike, it allows the bike to go around a given corner with less lean angle, which is a big advantage in the wet.
APPLICATION: Make sure that you first separate from the tank in order to give yourself the ability to get off the motorcycle as much as you can. How far is too far? Mid corner, you should get your butt off at least to the point that the crack of your butt is over the very outside edge of the seat... one cheek on, one cheek off. Your head and shoulders should move off to the inside as far as they can without diminishing control. You should always be able to turn the bars lock to lock at mid corner without “locking” your arms. All the while, pay attention to item number one and be sure your arms are completely soft and relaxed. SHORTEN YOUR TURN DURATION. In the rain, you want to spend less time “arcing” through the corner. The longer you can keep the bike upright on the way into the corner, the longer you can safely brake, trail braking in the rain is tricky, and should minimized whenever possible. In addition, riders should work to stand bike up as soon as possible after the apex. The number one cause for crashes, in both the dry and the rain, is not throttle input, but instead... It is bar input. APPLICATION: The major difference between an 1000cc superbike and most other bikes is duration for which it can spin the tire. As a result, superbike lines tend to be more “V” shaped than that of a smaller machine. In the rain, all bikes act like superbikes because the reduced traction allows them to spin the tire much easier. In the rain, ride your bike more like a superbike and straighten your entrances and exits. SMOOTH INPUTS. Tires, in any riding conditions, always react poorly to sudden inputs. In the rain the tolerance for these inputs is even smaller, so it is imperative that all braking, acceleration and steering inputs are made smoothly. With braking and acceleration in particular, many riders do not have a habit of making their initial inputs smooth enough, braking, or early enough, throttle. Habits learned in the rain from the smooth application, and release, of the brake lever and throttle will make for faster, safer laps in all conditions.
APPLICATION: Follow the 25/75 rule with both the throttle and the brakes in the rain. The should take the same amount of time for your first 25% of throttle application as the remaining 75%. Think early and smooth. With the brakes, the application is a two step process: apply the brakes (first 25% of brake pressure), then brake (remaining 75% of brake pressure). It is critical to have weight transferred to the front wheel and the suspension set before ramping up brake pressure. USE THE AVAILABLE GRIP WHEN UPRIGHT. The bike can handle a lot more braking and acceleration than you think in the wet. This lesson is the last of the series because riders must apply the first four concepts mentioned here before being able to exploit this available grip. The two most critical requirements are that the bike must be as upright as possible and the application ramp of throttle and brake pressure must be much smoother than in the dry. APPLICATION: The two words you should think about with throttle application in the wet and dry are "early" and "smooth". The primary difference in rain strategy is the riders will typically turn up track for an extra moment after the apex to allow the bike to be more upright for a greater length of the drive. Riders will avoid the late corner carving while on the gas that they do in the dry. When braking straight up and down, be sure to first apply the brake lever smoothly and then continue to slowly ramp up brake pressure each lap. You will be surprised how much braking force the tire can take... Up to 80% of dry brake pressure on some tracks. This principle, which mandatory in the rain, will also expose under utilization of available grip in the dry. When riders apply these principles, rain riding not only can be a lot of fun, but it also can be a great learning experience that can translate in to faster times in the dry. So, the next time it rains, break out those rain tires and have a good time. Until next time... Ride fast, ride safe!
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FRICTION ZONE
ALWAYS A BIKER BABE, NEVER A FEMALE MOTORCYCLIST WORDS: JOANNE DONN IMAGES: STOCK
I
love movies. I love motorcycles. What I love even more is seeing these two together, especially when there are women riding (and operating) the motorcycles! I know movies are supposed to be fun, cool and exciting. But why can't they be a little more realistic at the same time?
Gal Gadot
If you see a police officer being portrayed in a movie, chances are you wouldn't be able to tell the actor apart from a real officer. Other than the fake bullets and the location, you see them wearing the right gear because they want you to believe that person is really a police officer. It's often the same for similar roles such as astronauts, firefighters, doctors. Why can't this be the case when you see women riding motorcycles? Whenever a woman is portrayed in movies riding a motorcycle, she's typically wearing casual, "motorcycle inspired" clothing. However, if she is actually wearing something that resembles safety gear, it's skin tight, not armored and doesn't fit right while she's riding. To those of who ride motorcycles, it's blatantly obvious that safety always takes a backseat, with the exception of full face helmets in some cases. There's always this need to show off her body in the sexiest way possible. It drives.me.crazy. A couple examples... FAST FIVE: Actress Gal Gadot's stunt double wears an open face helmet, light jean jacket 104 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
I would think gear manufacturers would jump at the chance to have their outfits showcased in large movie productions with huge audiences, dying to find out “What is she wearing? I want to wear that!�.
with three quarter length sleeves and skinny jeans, no gloves. (Read Brittany Morrow's interview with her stunt double, Crystal Hooks in the July 2011 issue of SBI). Every woman you've ever seen on the back of a motorcycle in a movie. Think about it, when was the last time you saw a female passenger wearing one or two piece leathers? Never. I would think gear manufacturers would jump at the chance to have their outfits showcased in large movie productions with huge audiences, dying to find out "What is she wearing? I want to wear that!". Everytime I watch these films, I think to myself "I could've easily dressed her in x, y and z" and she still would've looked fantastic.
Megan Fox
I will admit that there are a couple of movies out there that have attempted to show us in a safer light. These are the ones that I would give a B minus for effort... TRANSFORMERS, REVENGE OF THE FALLEN: Megan Fox wearing skin tight leathers that have absolutely no body armor and would likely burn through in less than a second. HAYWIRE: Gina Carrano rides a Ducati Monster for a couple minutes. She seems fully geared up, although none of it appears to be armored but at least head to toe covered and SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 105
FRICTION ZONE: ALWAYS A BIKER BABE full face helmet. GIRL WITH A DRAGON TATTOO (Swedish version... the best one too, I might add): Noomi Rapace is geared from head to toe including a full face helmet. However, she isn't wearing gloves in a couple scenes. I still applaud this effort!
Gina Carrano
I totally understand that in some movies like KNIGHT AND DAY where Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz are two up on the Ducati Hypermotard, wearing jeans and tshirts because they're trying to get away from drug lords... that they're not going to gear up to prepare for their getaway. It's an action movie so those kinds of situations are impossible due to the storyline. But I'm not concerned with
Noomi Rapace
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Gal Gadot on the set of FAST FIVE with her stunt double, Crystal Hooks.
Cameron Diaz
those types of situations. It's where the women riding are purely intentional such as FAST FIVE and TRANSFORMERS, REVENGE OF THE FALLEN. Why can't we show women riding in a more realistic light?
Gear is always sexy because it shows that a woman knows how valuable, irreplaceable and unique her body is and that, in and of itself, is sexy.
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BONNEVILLE MOTORCYCLE TRIALS
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WORDS & IMAGES: ROBERT HARWOOD MATTHEWS
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FRICTION ZONE: BONNEVILLE
“B
est advice I ever got about sleeping rough? Sleep next to a river, snakes and bugs and the like gonna be up and about anyway, that way you won’t hear them.” I hadn’t planned to be at Bonneville this year, I was passing through on a cross country motorcycle trip but after witnessing the heroics a few years back at Speed Week I couldn’t resist laying out my cot (I wasn’t carrying a tent) and staying awhile. This was the AMA motorcycle-only event and like most things on the salt is kept bare bones and simple. You get the feeling either the big sponsors never caught up or the authorities told them to stay away to preserve the landscape. It’s full of true enthusiasts, madcap engineering and an unnerving sense of purpose. The guys who convince themselves their backyard engineering is better than Honda’s or the (often) women who delight in jockeying these rockets to astronomical speeds. This year the salt was part flooded so the course had shifted a little and you had to traverse ¾ mile of salty water to get the the pits. Most hitched out on the trucks, some foolhardy types rode out on their bikes and are probably scraping the salt off still, or lamenting the massive charges that AVIS hit them with on sight of that devilish white powder coating. On arrival you are greet simply with a line of cars, trucks, bikes and tarpaulins that extends up the side of the run. This isn’t NASCAR, you aren’t going to see someone fly past under you, this is like being told to stand a several blocks back and watch a drag race. The spectacle frankly is the landscape, the people you meet and the atmosphere. Go to the riders meeting and stand in the early sun as people pray, scratch their heels in the salt and begin to go 110 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
through their rituals. Safety is taken seriously here but it’s done with simple rules, common sense and personal responsibility. This one is on you. It’s not unusual to see bikes built with two Hayabusa engines back to back, twin cylinder engines where one cylinder has been converted to supercharge, if you are into engineering this is another level. It’s not the guy on the Sunday run who has changed his pipes and filter, these things are fire breathing frankensteins and they are incredible to be around. The grass roots nature of all this is part of what makes it so special. You can run anything and half the game is to find a class where you can make a record. One of the most impressive attempts I met was Texan Dan Parker, blinded in a four wheeled SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111
FRICTION ZONE: BONNEVILLE
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FRICTION ZONE: B0NNEVILLE
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drag racing accident, he’s gone on to race a two stroke trike, using GPS based audio warnings to keep him on track. A rider with full sight gets a thin black line to follow through the mile markers, just regular orange cones. The majority of the bikes appear to be privateers, I did spot BMW Manhattan, Confederate and a few bigger teams but this is still a place for dreamers, as it has been since the 1930’s. Bonneville Motorcycle Trials; look it up and prepare to start fettling your machine this winter, there’s a class somewhere with your name on it. If engineering isn’t your thing, stick a visit on the bucket list, like most things in the motorcycle world, everyone is welcome, they’ll recognize that gleam in your eye. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 115
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FRICTION ZONE
ALONZO BODDEN’S
TOP 10
! T S WOR &
best!
MOVIE SCENES S
BI wanted me to write about the 10 worst motorcycle movie scenes. I started looking around but the clips were too painful. In order to ease the pain I decided to mix in some of the best scenes.Its sort of like the ice cream your mom gave you after the bad medicine. Whats’ that? Your mom didn't give you ice cream after medicine? Neither did mine, but it sounds good. So, here they are 5 of my worst along with 5 of my best. I stayed away from those really campy old biker movies because they're so bad they're good.I mean how can you knock a movie called “The Born Losers” you knew what you were getting into. 118 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
! T S WOR
COOL AS ICE STARRING VANILLA ICE “Starring Vanilla Ice” should be warning enough but chasing a woman on a horse with a Gixxer that can fly is just too much. i wish the horse had kicked him.
best! THE GREAT ESCAPE The chase scene starring Steve McQueen. No special effects back in 1963 You just ride your ass off and we’ll film it.
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FRICTION ZONE: TOP 10 BEST & WORST MOVIES
! T S WOR
CC AND COMPANY Joe Namath is a biker I know i said I’d stay away fro campy but thesis Joe Namath. Did they not have a football script Joe? If you can handle it theres a scene where Joe Namath takes on motocross on a Harley chopper, Spoiler alert , he wins.
best! MAD MAX In the Opening chase scene Wez, the bad ass gay biker, pulls arrow out of arm and wheelies off to fight another day. Baddest gay man on film until Omar showed up. If you don’t know who Omar is go watch every season of the The Wire then come back and thank me. Mel Gibson has proven to be an asshole over the years but Mad Max is a classic.
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! T S WOR
TORQUE Pretty much any scene in Torque would qualify but if I have to pick one I’ll go with the bike chase through the woods and desert culminating with a bike duel on a moving train with Ice Cube snarling thru the whole thing. Mind you that only narrowly beats out the jet bike flying thru the city dodging bullets that were on fire for some reason. Look at both , choose for yourself. Dont say I didn't warn you.
best! FASTER, THE MOVIE I pick the whole movie on this one, you pick a scene. If you ever want to explain to someone why you watch MotoGP show them this movie. If you wonder why we love Moto GP, watch this movie. If theres any question why Rossi is the GOAT watch this movie. Its the opening film in a trilogy including “Fastest” and “The Doctor The Tornado & The Kentucky Kid” but I like Faster most because those 500cc two strokes were trying to kill their riders
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FRICTION ZONE: TOP 10 BEST & WORST MOVIES
! T S R WO
MEGAFORCE The flying bike scene. Ok, I’ll admit I cheated a bit to find this one I googled bad motorcycle movies and this one came up repeatedly. I don't remember seeing it but when I saw the flying bike scene it easily made my list. Its bad, no its really bad. Then there are the hairstyles. iI’m not sure if those make it better or worse but I am sure you couldn't hide those with helmets.
best!
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STAR WARS: PHANTOM MENACE The Pod Race. Ok, I know technically they aren't motorcycles but in a Star Wars world they qualify. It’s got everything, smack talking, crashing, high stakes gambling, a hero, a villain and a happy ending . Besides all that it made a bad movie worth watching. Ya’ gotta love it.
! T S WOR
best!
BIKER BOYZ The final scene. Here’s another tough one. No, it’s easy to pick it as the worst of the worst but it’s hard to pick why. Is it racing a Busa versus a ZX on a farmers dirt road? Is it the open face half helmet or the adventure bike helmet? Is it the magic tunnel vision or the casual interest shown by horses as two bikes race by. Perhaps it’s the beautiful combination of all these elements. Congratulations Biker Boyz, you win my worst of the worst.
MATRIX RELOADED Ducati chase scene. Trinity in leather on a Ducati 996, enough said.
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TWO WHEELED HEROES:
A BRIEF LOOK AT THE HISTORY OF JAPAN’S MOTORCYCLE RIDING DEFENDERS OF JUSTICE WORDS: BAZ IMAGES: STOCK
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eleased in 1995, “Mechanical Violater: Hakaider”, marked the big screen debut of what was previously the bad guy from the Japanese TV shoe: Kikaider 01. Obviously, being a kid’s TV show, Kikaider wasn’t big on plot or character substance. Acclaimed director Keita Amemiya (Zeram, Moon Over Tao) took the basic Hakaider character and reinvented him as an avenging angel on a souped up Yamaha V-Max. It’s an enjoyable movie with some bizarre characters and situations... It’s set in Jesus Town which is ruled by the androgynous Gurjev, who looks like a roadie for the 80’s band, Culture Club. It has a very organic feel to it, almost as if the Hakaider and motorcycle were one unit. Director Amemiya had previously worked on the Kamen Rider Black, Black RX, ZO, J tv shows and movies, so he has a history of two wheeled heroes. The Kamen Rider show actually began back in 1971 on Japanese tv. It’s your basic superhero fare... Guy gets super powers thrust upon him and he fights bad guys each week. Kaman Rider is still in production today and over the years has shwocased a variety of motorcycles for the hero to use. A deal with Honda has meant most of the bikes used are supplied to SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 125
FRICTION ZONE: ERIK BUELL WHEELED HEROES ZONE: TWO SBI AT FIVE YEARS
them by Honda but there have been a couple of different companies that have provided bike: Ducati supplied the the bike for Kamen Rider Accel (2010), Gas Gas supplied the bike for Kamen Rider Kuuga (2000) and Harley Davidson supplied the tricked out touring bike for Kaem Rider Super 1 (1980). Because the Kamen Rider franchise has lasted so long on tv and in movies, it’s easy to see what trends were popular during production, The early series tends to favor off road or scramble bikes. The late 70’s and early 80’s touring bikes were also popular. The Hakaider movie showcased the bio mechanical designs that were popular at the time abd the recent interpreations faovr the sleeker, all busines stylings of sportbikes. Of course, this is TV and movie fantasy so some of the bikes were quite impractical. But hey, it’s only a movie!
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FRICTION ZONE ZONE:: ERIK BUELL SBI AT FIVE YEARS
DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS WORDS: BILLY MORRISON IMAGES: STOCK
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here’s a reason why 95% of all “biker” movies are pieces of shit. And I say 90% so that you can all throw your 5% favorite bike movies back at me and I have an out! For me, there has yet to be a convincing, well made, non Hollywood motorcycle movie. Not so much documentaries, as there a few really cool films out there, but I’m talking about a scripted piece of fiction. Motorcycle culture is a subgenre of society. Look at the 1%’ers. Look at the way most of the rest of the human race look at you when you pull in to a gas station, either with complete and utter disdain or fishbowl curiosity and wonder. It’s like they are witnessing the birth of an alien giraffe or something. And we like that. We don’t ride because we want to BIKER BOYZ: A young man whose father died and who tries to make his name in the street racing scene has potential as a story, but the awkwardly written dialogue and absolutely hilarious and fabricated drama that occurs ruins any hope of that story being told. And that makes for some extremely amusing emotional dramatic performances from the cast when they don’t actually intend to be amusing! Very “Fast And Furious” but with none of the cool qualities all those movies hold. Plus any movie that replaces an “S” with a “Z” should be avoided at all costs!
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fit in to mainstream culture. We ride because we like the feeling of solitude, the open road, being in that small clique that know what it’s like to get on two wheels and get away from traffic and into the twisting, undulating countryside. It’s very hard for someone who doesn’t do it, to make a movie about such a specific area. But before I carry on, lets have a look at a few of the more well known Hollywood fails, and one cult classic that manages to fly the flag for motorcycle movies. Oh and the pic of me on the GPX750 has no relevance to this months column whatsoever. I just came across it and laughed my ass off at the faded jeans and the mad white and green Sidi MX boots! The Kocinski replica lid is dope,
GHOST RIDER: The story of Johnny Blaze and adapted from the comic book character. Featuring the worst southern American accents I’ve ever heard, reminiscent in authenticity of the whole ‘Mary Poppins Dick Van Dyke English Accent!’ this movie’s bad acting, plot, action sequences and pretty much everything else took a cool character and turned him into a cheesy, laughable parody. Peter Fonda’s cameo is the best thing about it.
TORQUE: Oh. My. God. Director, Joseph Kahn, known for Britney Spears and Backstreet Boys videos, managed to make possibly the worst bike movie in history. Bad absolutely everything, outlandish, impossible stunts like racing on top of a train and back flipping a jet powered street bike over a truck, this film is stunning in it’s level of ineptitude at capturing anything at all to do with two wheels.
WEREWOLVES ON WHEELS: Anyone renting this one should already have a picture in their minds. The title alone speaks volumes about this atrocious 1971 horror bike movie. “We all know how we’re gonna die baby... We’re gonna crash and burn!” This is more a commercial for facial hair removal products than a real movie. It gained B Movie cult status for its... Well, I’m not sure why actually. Because I can’t even get through it!
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FRICTION ZONE: ZONE: DIRTY SBI ATLITTLE FIVE SECRETS EASY RIDER: Now this movie is a different animal. Dennis Hopper and Peter Fonda both loved bikes and made this movie themselves. Accurate, poignant and thought provoking. My favorite lines of dialogue are: “They’re not scared of you. They’re scared of what you represent to ‘em...” “All we represent to them is somebody who needs a haircut…” “No man, what you represent to them is Freedom!” Easy Rider depicts an the 60’s era of motorcycling in a very real way. Using custom built bikes by real bike builders, solid performances and a killer soundtrack, this was one of Hollywood’s finest. Like I said earlier, the documentary side of things is way better, with movies like CLOSER TO THE EDGE, ON ANY SUNDAY, FASTER and also THE LONG WAY ROUND making thoughtful, accurate portrayals of life on two wheels. Movies like EASY RIDER and THE WILD ONE... Marlon Brando was stunning in this 1953 classic... Make me rethink my initial dismissal of all movies about motorcycle culture. I think its more a case of ‘they just don’t make ‘em like they used to’. The new Hollywood is responsible for the shitty, inaccurate depictions of the two wheeled lifestyle. Finally, I have to end with a promo quote from the trailer for GIRL ON A MOTORCYCLE. The intense gravitas of the male narrator pipes up with, ”Now you’ll know the thrill of wrapping your legs around a tornado of pounding pistons. Straddling the potency of 100 wild horses.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. 130 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
“W
e don’t ride because we want to fit in to mainstream culture. We ride because we like the feeling of solitude, the open road, being in that small clique that know what it’s like to get on two wheels and get away from traffic and into the twisting, undulating countryside...” SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 131
FRICTION ZONE
THE HIT
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Do you ever wonder what MUSIC your fellow riders are listening to when they are not on the bike? We do... So we decided to ask them.
Joe Vertical! What’s on your hit list?
“Kickstart My Heart” by the Motley Crue. Secret fact about me... I’m a huge 80’s music fan. This song gets me amped. It’s my go to shred song. “Agenda Suicide” by The Faint. Funku. Uptempo. Keeps me flowing and off the beaten path. “Skulls” by the Misfits. I love old punk and the Misfits are one of my all time favorites. They have a variety of songs that I can get into no matter what kind of riding I’m doing. But “Skulls” makes me want to open the throttle to full lock! Joe Dryden AKA Joe Vertical Professional Stuntman, Freestyle Stunt Rider
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THE NEW ISH AGV • SV COMIC HELMET Designed with the AGV Extreme Standards and along the lines of the high-end Pista and Corsa but at a very affordable price point, the K-3 SV is expected to be one of AGV’s top sellers, boasting an internal sunshield; an aerodynamic thermoplastic shell; a wind-tunnel-tested ventilation system with four front vents and two exhaust vents; communication-ready cutaways; a removable, washable, plush interior; DOT/ ECE certification and sharp AGV styling. Sizes: S - XXL Price: $239.95 Contact: http://agv.com
MOTO D • KEYLESS FUEL CAP The Keyless Fuel Cap makes quick work of refueling your bike. Made from CNC aluminum, the cap is up to 50% lighter than the stock fuel cap. The spring loaded, quick release opening cap is available for most late model Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki. It’s easy to install and comes with a rubber seal o-ring and stainless steel screws. Price: $99.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com
SBI MAGAZINE • EMBROIDERED PULLOVER HOODIE Nothing feels better than a cozy pullover hoody in the early mornings while your trackside or later in the night while your posted up at bike night. The SBI Pullover Hoodie features quality embroidery on a 50/50 poly blend heavy weight hooded sweatshirt. Sizes: S - XXL Price: $65.00 Contact: http://shop.sportbikesincmag.com 134 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
TRIUMPH • CHAIN BELT BUCKLE
Display your love for your British bike brand with the Triumph Chain Belt Buckle. A motorcycle chain outlines the Union Jack Shield on a buckle that measures 2.8 inches in length. Price: $24.99 Contact: http://triumphmotorcycles.com AMERICAN KARGO • COMMUTER BACKPACK The Commuter is made for and design the serve the rider that is their bike more often than not yet still need to carry the essentials. Equipped with enough room, pockets and storage to hold a small office... Maybe not that much space but it is pretty roomy with strategic compartments to hold your necessities and then some. The Commuter features a compartment for storing your laptop, tools as well as pockets for cell phones and other small electronics. The Commuter utilizes a harness that connects across the chest along with adjustable closures, providing proper fitment and stability while removing weight and pressure from the lower back. Price: $110.00 Contact: http://americankargo.com
ICON • MOLDED HELMET CASE
Look no further if you’ve been looking a way to store or travel with your helmets. The ICON Molded Helmet is sleek, stylish and fits the ICON Airmada, Airframe and Alliance helmets. Composed of a molded polyurethane outer shell, the case features a no scratch inner liner along with a isolation hammock to keep your lid protected and secure. Price: $90.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com
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THE NEW ISH DUCATI • DARK ARMOR JACKET The Dark Armor Jacket is strongly fashionable while providing the wearer quality protection. Equipped with CE certified armor in the shoulders and elbows, the jacket houses pockets in the chest and back for additional installation of armor for added protection. The outer shell is a combination of a soft 1-1.1mm leather and textile material in key areas that allow for movement and comfort. Adjustable velcro closures at the waist secure the fit while an extended back offers coverage when in the riding position. Sizes: 48 - 60 (Euro) Price: $659.95 Contact: http://www.ducatiusa.com
YUASA • YT19BL-BS BATTERY FOR BMW MODELS The YT19BL-BS battery is a sealed, maintenance free AGM (absorbed glass mat) unit for BMW models. An upgrade from the factory installed unit, the YT19BL-BS is a direct replacement and includes the protective terminal covers. The battery is 12 volts, weighs 12.5 pounds and has an application for BMW motorcycles produced from 1970 to current. Price: $114.00 Contact: http://yuasabatteries.com
WOODCRAFT CFM • STAY DRY RIDING SHIRT The Stay Dry Riding Shirt was made to remove moisture away from your body to keep warm and dry in colder conditions. In the same manner, when you are in warmer conditions, the Stay Dry Riding Shirts wicks sweat away from your skin to keep you cool and comfortable. It’s thin and lightweight, making ideal as a base layer or as an undergarment for your track suit. Sizes: S - XXL Price: $40.00 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com
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NEW RAGE CYCLES • FENDER ELIMINATOR KIT FOR THE DUCATI MONSTER 1200 New Rage Cycles continues to expand their fender eliminator kit applications. Their kit for the Monster 1200, which is grab rail compatible, cleans up the rear of the bike with a billet aluminum plate holder that includes LED turn signals and a LED license plate light. The kit is powder coated black for looks and durability. New Rage Cycles’ LED’s are the among the brightest light components on the market today. Price: $214.95 Contact: http://newragecycles.com ALPINESTARS • AFFILIATE ZIP FLEECE
The Affiliate Zip Fleece is a color blocked hooded jacket with a zipper front. It features a relaxed fit with rip stop poly blend that makes the jacket resistant to tearing and ripping. The Affiliate Zip Fleece is sure to help keep you warm on those track day mornings and evenings. Available in two colorways.
ROARING TOYZ • CONTRAST CUT POCKETS LOWERING TOP TRIPLE CLAMP FOR THE HAYABUSA
Sizes: XS - XXXL Colors: Black, Dark Shadow Price: $69.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com
Anodized black with contrast cut pockets, the lowering top triple from Roaring Toyz allows you to set your bike’s front end to the desired height. CNC machined in the USA, the triple clamp is lighter than the OEM thanks to the strategic deep cuts that also offer a contrast look. The handlebars are slightly angled back to offer lever clearance as well as minimizing the wind drag on your hands. These clamps fit all models of the Hayabusa with a special note for the 2008 and up model. For the 2008 and up models, the Roaring Toyz lowering top triple clamp is the only lowering clamps on the market that offer full lock to lock handlebar wing without the lever hitting the inner panels. Price: $174.99 Contact: http://roaringtoyz.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 137
THE NEW ISH RACER GLOVES • ADVANCE GORETEX GLOVES In the less than warm riding weather, few things can kill a ride more than cold hands. Proper hand warmth and comfort is key to extending your seat in the saddle. The Advance Goretex Glove from Racer employs two layers of insulation and comfort via a “warm chamber” and a “grip chamber”. The grip chamber is designed to insulate your hand and allow you to maintain the feel of your controls. The warm chamber fortifies the gloves warmth factors to compliment the gloves complete waterproofing. Goatskin and textile compose the glove’s outer shell, with a leather palm and reflective print. The Advance include a five year waterproof guarantee. Sizes: M - XXXL Price: $219.99 Contact: http://racerglovesusa.com
PUIG RACING • EXTENDABLE LEVERS These levers expand the level of customization that one would expect from a set of control levers. Puig Racing’s Extendable Levers feature a thumb adjustment system so you can increase or decrease the lever movement, on the fly. The levers are foldable and feature a uniques extension system that allow the length of the levers to be adjusted, as well. Levers are sold as set. JOE ROCKET • THE BIG BANG 2.0 BOOT The Big Bang 2.0 is a riding boot that is specifically designed for the street rider. The over the ankle, no slip sole, casual styled boot offers the basic protection needed for the daily commute without weighing down the rider. The upper is a 2mm full grain triple stitched leather that houses a reinforced shifter zone on the toe as well as padded armored ankles. A ratchet adjustment strap system secures the fitment for great comfort. Sizes: 7 - 14 (USA) Colors: Black, Grey Price: $99.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com 138 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Price: $234.00 Contact: http://puigusa.com
DRIVEN RACING • TT REARSETS FOR THE HONDA CBR 1000RR The TT Rearsets feature six different mounting positions offering you true customization for your set up. Included in the kit are the new Driven GPU styled footpegs and adjustable folding toe pegs and brake pedals. It is compatible with ABS systems and can be set up for standard or GP shift patterns with no need for modifications. Applications for the 2008 through the current Honda CBR 1000RR. Price: $459.99 Contact: http://driveracing.com
BELL HELMETS • BELL ARCH BASEBALL T SHIRT
Get nostalgic with this 100 percent cotton throwback baseball styled t shirt from Bell Helmet. Printed on the front, “Since 1954” is a reference to the year that they first produced motorcycle helmets. Sizes: S - XXL Price: $35.00 Contact: http://bellhelmets.com
SPEED ANGLE • GMOS JL100S LEAN ANGLE LAP TIMER
The Lean Angle Lap Timer allows you to measure your lean angles in real time up to 69 degrees. It also logs data, measures speed up to 255mph via GPS and stores up to 15 tracks. All data and info is displayed on the 2.25 by 1.75 LCD screen. The unit weighs 15 ounces and is equipped with a 3.7 volt lithium ion battery that gives 14 hours of power. All logged data is readily accessible via the included software. The GMOS JL100S ships with all the necessary mounting equipment and will all U.S. tracks pre installed. Price: $489.00 Contact: http://www.markbiltracebikes.net
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THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM PROLIFIC DESIGN GROUP • EPIC ID The Epic ID is a waterproof, silicone band that contains your vitals and contact information so that in the event that the rider is incapacitated, emergency information can be at the ready. The Epic ID is unlike the commonly used I.C.E. (IN CASE of EMERGENCY) contact entry in one’s cellphone where a responder would have to perhaps get by a password locked screen to access vital stats. Your selected information is uploaded and can be edited via USB and stored on the Epic ID. To recall the information, the Epic ID just needs to plugged into a USB port. The Epic ID has a stainless steel clasp closure and can be easily sized to fit. Compatible with both Mac and PC platforms, the Epic ID is available in three colors and recognizable by First Responders. Price: $34.95 Contact: http://epic-id.com
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Cool all the way through. GT-R Air textile jacket
The GT-R air breathes well, comes with built-in safety features and is smartly styled to boot. The outer shell features large 3D air mesh-panels for ventilation, and stretch areas on the elbows to allow for a comfortable forward seating position. For hot summer days a Challenger cooling vest can be zipped in. Thanks to CE armor at the elbows and shoulders riders are protected against impact, and an easily upgraded back protector further enhances safety.
View the new Spring-Summer 2014 collection and locate your nearest dealer on www.revit.eu
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STAFF STUFF SCHUMACHER XM1-5 • MAINTAINER 1.5 AMP SPEED CHARGER Leon Brittain
H
ere’s a situation we never want to be faced with. You’re looking forward to getting out on the bike for a fun day of twisty scenic riding. You’re ready and geared up, but the bike isn’t going anywhere thanks to a dead battery because you forgot to turn the ignition completely off. Hey, don’t judge, I know I’m not the only one. Coming to the rescue was the Schumacher XM1-5 battery maintainer/speed charger.
and power. Another feature is its compact size and multi-use to include tractors, mowers and automotive. Not bad considering its very affordable price of $20 with availability at battery specialty stores, automotive stores and your local Wal-Mart. I went from a completely drained battery to fully-charged within an hour, two at tops with a smile on my face and the open road ahead.
The 1.5 amp XM1-5 is fully automatic and features auto detection for 6 or 12 volts, safety start, quick connect http://batterychargers.com and disconnect connections, thermal runaway protection and easy to follow LEDs that indicate charging, charged Rating: 5 (out of 6) 142 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE BACK SHOT!
Image: Greg Caparell Location: Massachusetts