SportBikes Inc Magazine October 2012 (Volume 3, Issue 1)

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . Moto tECH

october 2012 Vol 3 Issue 1

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

Nicky Hayden

...as real as it gets

Kawasaki’s TimeS Square Ninja Takeover | A Rider’s Ink | CAPO’S CUT | KNOW YOUR ROLE: Defining the executive board

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THE FEATURES NICKY HAYDEN: AS REAL AS IT GETS

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THE CASE OF THE BLOWN MANIFOLD

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KAWASAKI: THE TAKE OVER

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KNOW YOUR ROLE: DEFINING THE EXECUTIVE BOARD

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RANDOM: BAD ASS

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A RIDER’S INK

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THE USUALS

October 2012 - VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1

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

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=10 10 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16 16 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - LOURACING KUSTOMZ CYCLEZ http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18 18 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22 22 THE INSIDE TRACK - By Corey Alexander http://issuu.com/action/page?page=26 26 LADIES OF THE PADDOCK - By Carrie Aquino 50http://issuu.com/action/page?page=50 The youngest in charge - By Dystany Spurlock http://issuu.com/action/page?page=54 54 CAPO’S CUT - By Ashon CAPO Dickerson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=64 64 VIOLET STARS & HAPPY STUNTING - By Leah Petersen 78http://issuu.com/action/page?page=78 FEATURED CLUB - HUSTLE & FLOW RiderZ M.C. 82http://issuu.com/action/page?page=82 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=90 90 MOTO TECH - ASK THE PRO WRENCH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=94 94 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - HOLDING THE KEYS IN YOUR HANDS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=118 118 SPORTBIKES INK!!! http://issuu.com/action/page?page=122 122 THIS LIFE - By Tyson Beckford http://issuu.com/action/page?page=126 126 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=132 132 STAFF STUFF

INTERACTIVE CLICK ON NUMBERS TO JUMP TO A PAGE

FEATURED RIDER Chocolate PAGE 82

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

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EDITOR’S LETTER EDITORIAL

THE TEAM

I have those “Is anyone listening...” moments, more often than not. Sure, you open your mouth, words come out but if a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make any noise? What is the sound of one hand clapping? Get where I’m coming from?

Heading home from the AMA Series Finale in New Orleans, I run into Scott Jensen at the airport and he’s proudly rocking his SBI t-shirt.

I smiled because I know that I talk a lot and I say a lot. It’s kind of cool that you guys are listening.

Thank you for reading and supporting SBI for the last two years. You keep listening, we’ll keep talking.

Thank you to my amazing staff for holding SBI down for two tears. We haven’t even scratched the surface yet.

Best, Allan

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ART & DESIGN

Scott Jensen reppin’ SportBikes Inc Magazine in New Orleans.

Editor in Chief: Allan Lane Lifestyle Editor: Tyson Beckford Moto-Tech Editor: Mark Rozema Technical Advisor: Thomas Campion Drag Race Editor: Ashon “Capo” Dickerson Riding Editor: Eric Wood Contributing Writers: Dystany Spurlock Corey Alexander Carrie Aquino Michael Lawless Leah Petersen Marika Krejci Kim Roper Copy Editor: Angela Lane

Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain Graphic Designer: Baz Contributing Photographers: Leon Brittain, Kwame Olds Cover: Courtesy of Dainese

SportBikes Inc Magazine - October 2012 Volume 3, Issue 1 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2012 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.

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

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

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

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

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

The press room VP Fuels celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness month with PINK FUEL CONTAINERS VP Fuel’s has joined the fight against breast cancer by releasing a limited edition fuel container in pink. Proceeds from the sale of Special Edition Pink Motorsports Container will be donated to the Prevent Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation.

In a press release, VP Fuels President Alan Cerwick stated the following, “Many of us have friends and family

members who have dealt with breast cancer. We enthusiastically support the efforts of the Prevent Cancer Foundation and hope in some small way our pink “Special Edition” Motorsport Containers can help increase awareness and advance successful treatments for this terrible disease.”

Visit http://vpracingfuels.com to find a dealer near you.

Triumph announces the 2013 Street Triple and the Street Triple R

Triumph has released information on the 2013 Street Triple and Street Triple R models. Both models feature a new chassis, 105 braking horse power from a 675cc three cylinder engine and produce 50 foot pounds of torque.

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the exhaust pipes. The 2013 models now feature a single low mount muffler that is now located on the right side, alongside the swing arm.

Triumph will reveal the MSRP for both models in late October with the first models scheduled to hit the U.S. in January of 2013.

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The press room BMW RECALLS CERTAIN 2007 AND 2008 K1200 MODELS BMW has issued a recall on the 2007 and 2008 K1200 S/R/R Sport models. Under certain weather conditions, the brake fluid can foam resulting in loss of braking power. To fix the issue, a simple screen needs to be retrofitted into the reservoir.

Dealerships have been instructed to install the screen at no charge.

GEOFF MAY LAUNCHES AMERICAN ROADRACER CLOTHING LINE R e c e n t l y, A M A P r o Ra ci n g’ s G e o f f M ay launched a line of apparel aimed specifically at the motorcycle race enthusiast.

May’s American Roadracer brand includes short and long sleeved shirts as well as hoodies and other accessories.

“I’ve had this idea for a while. I noticed other sports like surfing had companies that produced things for the enthusiasts and competitors, and I thought that our sport of motorcycle roadracing in America should, too,” said May. “Motorcycles have always had a timeless cool factor in our culture, and racing is the ultimate in motorcycling. Up until now, no company has been dedicated to just the heart of American motorcycle roadracing and what that entails. I hooked up with M-M Designs out of Texas, who does all the merchandising for my EBR team,

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and we made it happen.”

Fellow racer Jake Holden was chosen as the first sponsored rider for the line and was quickly joined

by Elena Myers.

Check out the line by clicking on the image...

GET DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR THE IMS WITH THE DISCOUNT CODE “SBKINC” With the 2012-2013 International Tour set to kick off in Atlanta in November, now is the perfect time to purchase tickets for the IMS stop in your neck of the woods.

SBI readers can save $5.00 off of regular ticket prices when you purchase your advance tickets online at www.motorcycleshows. com and use the code SBKINC.

SPY SHOTS FROM THE SET OF THE NEW ROBOCOP FILM Being filmed in Canada, the remake of the 1987 sci-fi action thriller stars Joel Kinnaman in the lead role of the resurrected Alex Murphy aka RoboCop. The film also stars Gary Oldman, Samuel Jackson and Michael Keaton. RoboCop is slated for a 2014 theatrical release.

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Shop Spotlight: Louracing Kustomz Cyclez

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Louracing Kustomz Cyclez

CONTACT:

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Dealership name: Louracing Kustomz Cyclez | Address: 2041 N Leithgow Street Philadelphia, PA 19122 Hours: Monday thru Saturday 9am - 5pm Year established: 1996 | Brands serviced: All

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he team at Louracing Kustomz Cyclez has been holding it down since 1996 and they are showing no signs of letting up. From an unassuming shop in the heart of the city, they have created some of the hottest rides to hit the streets.

Known as the Can Am Spyder Custom Kings, Louracing’s goal is to take a customer’s dream and make it a reality... and they do hit the mark every time. However, the shop is much more than that.

They offer the full range of maintenance service and repair that includes full detailing, chroming and powder coating as well as oil changes and tune ups.

Taking their customized work to the next level, Louracing Kustomz frequently works with one of the country’s top painters, Killer Kreations to make their rides truly unique. By staying focused on the job at hand and steering clear of the industry drama, they remain on the rise. Most recently collaborating with and building a few rides for Hip Hop artist Meek Mill.

Louracing Kustomz Cyclez have been in the game for over 15 years. Their passion drives them to be better than the next guy and it shows.

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THE GRID: NEWS Josh Hayes captures his third National championship With a total of 580 points at the end of the season, Josh Hayes captured his third AMA Pro National Guard Superbike Championship.

Several weeks ago, Hayes achieved 517 points after the Miami/Homestead Superbike rounds and it was then that he was awarded the 2012 Championship Number One Plate.

CIRCUIT OF THE AMERICAS WELCOMES MOTOGP in 2013 After several talks and rumors to the contrary, Texas’ Circuit of the Americas announced that they will host a 2013 MotoGP Round, April 19 - 21.

This is an additional round, not a replacement round as first suspected. Circuit of the Americas joins Mazda Raceway and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as US host to the premier class of professional motorcycle racing.

“The Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling” replaces the Manx Grand Prix Festival Officials of the Isle of Man have announced the replacement identity of the popular Manx Grand Prix Festival. Scheduled to run from August 17 through September 1 of 2013, the event is titled. “The Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling.”

The festival will feature the following classes: Classics TT, Manx Grand Prix, Vintage Motor Cycle Club Rally and Festival of Jurby and the Classic and Two Day Trials. In addition to the racing action, the festival will be host to exhibitions, vendors, special appearances and family fun.

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James Hoegh pilots the Confederate X13 at the Bonneville Salt Flats This is a very well produced video from Confederate Motorcycles capturing the essence of their very first attempt of running on the Salt Flats.

On August 29 of 2012, pilot James Hoegh rode the Confederate X13 Hellcat

Combat a record breaking top speed of 172.211mph in the big block American V Twin class.

The Confederate X13 Hellcat Combo is a prototype that is scheduled for limited release in 2013.

MAX BIAGGI WINS HIS SECOND WORLD SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP By a mere half a point, that’s right, half a point... Max Biaggi wins his second World SuperBike Championship with 358 points, making him the oldest WSBK Champion in the series 25 years. At 41, Biaggi’s 2012 championship also hands Aprilia their 51st Manufacturer’s Championship across several racing platforms (GP, WSBK, Trials and Supermoto).

Tom Sykes (Kawasaki) wrapped up the season in second place with a total of 357.5 points, followed Marco Melandri’s (BMW) 328.5.

JOHN HOPKINS TAKES A SABBITICAL A familiar face in the WSBK paddock has sidelined himself in order to get back to top shape and health. John Hopkins revealed that he will be taking a break from pro motorcycle racing in 2013 to focus on his health.

Hopkins who has been working through several injuries throughout the 2012 season was absent from the final race due to his reoccurring hip issues.

In the span of four months, Hopkins went under the knife a total of six times. At age 29, Hopkins has been in a total of 29 surgeries since the inception of his professional racing career.

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THE GRID

The inside track

Connect with Corey...

Words & IMAGES: Corey alexander

I

njury is a part of any professional sport. Scratch that... Make that any sport. In the case of motorcycle racing, whether it be motocross or roadracing, the probability of injury jumps tremendously. It is a risk we are all aware of but do our best to stay away from as well as ignore. Unfortunately, you can't run from the inevitable. It's sort of like running away from the Father in “Taken”... It’s just not gonna happen. It will find you!

With that said, it found me. I was riding motocross, I know what you're thinking... "There was your first mistake!" But motocross to me is fun and laid back as well as a good workout. That is until you cross rut and find yourself laying on the face of a jump with your bone protruding from your leg. “You” in this case being me.

From there, to the ambulance ride where I was introduced to my newest friend by the name of Morphine. To the hospital as a "trauma patient", to the surgery...

None of it was fun. Actually, it was the least fun thing I've managed to do in my existence.

The problem is, throughout that whole process, the pain was the most prevalent thing to me.

It was the fact that ONE: I could not ride, but TWO: Not knowing what the outcome will be and how my ability to ride would be impacted. It's scary as

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a professional athlete, people don't realize the full effect of what we risk while riding. It's not just about our well being but it's our careers. Every single time we throw a leg over our bikes, we risk our career. Our livelihood, our hobby, our life metaphorically and literally... It’s all on the line.

I don't know how long this recovery will be but in case you were wondering, I broke my Tib/Fib in my leg. I had to have a rod and three screws put in.

As I write this, I'm in bed...

Where I've been for a few days now. It definitely leaves me with a lot of time to think.

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FRICTION ZONE: ducstock 2011

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THE GRID

ladies of the paddock Words: Carries aquino IMAGES: Courtesy of Sheila Paul

Sheila Paul W

hen you enter the AMA Paddock, you see a lot of official looking people around with blue shirts and black pants with radio headsets. Sheila Paul is one of them. She is one of the first people at the track and probably the last to leave. The other AMA staff is there for the racers and the fans. Sheila is there to make sure the racers and teams are abiding by the rules.

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And she does it with a smile.

SBI: What is your connection or job with road racing?

SP: I work as the Tire Control Officer for AMA Pro Racing.

SBI: How long have you been doing this?

SP: Three years SBI: Can you describe what your

job details during the AMA race weekends?

SP: As the Tire Control Official, I oversee that the racers are running the correct spec tires as well as not going over their allotment for the race weekend.

At every race event I bring in ten to twelve volunteers to help me check tires. It can be a challenging position at times but I enjoy what I do.

SBI: Did you seek this job out or did it happen to fall into your lap?

SP: Right place at the right time!

I worked as a volunteer for two events and at the beginning of the 2010 season I was asked to run the tire program.

SBI: How does all the traveling affect you? The good and bad...

SP: I love to travel so this makes it easier on me. Sometimes I extend my trips and see new sights and visit people, but it can be challenging in addition to being a mom.

SBI: Is this a passion or just a job for you?

SP: Both, but more of a passion.

Mostly everything I do has motorcycles involved in some way.

SBI: What is the best extended trip you ever had?

SP: I have had a few really good extended trips such as the beginning of the year when I went to Daytona for the first race of the season. I flew in a week early to check out Bike Week, Supercross and hang out with friends. Laguna is always

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

SP: That I race motorcycles. I race a Yamaha R6 as well as a Ninja 250. This year the Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) started Ladies F1, an all women's class.

So I race the R6 in that one as well as Superbike C, Superstock B & C and Formula 40. At the beginning of the year we put together an all girls Mini Endurance Team called “Leather & Lace”.

a favorite because I spend time with one of my sisters as well as bring her to the races to work as a Volunteer Tire Marshall.

SBI: What does your family and friends think of your involvement in road racing both as a racer and working within the AMA? SP: Overall most people think it's pretty cool that I am so involved in this sport. My children have been riding since they were three so they are pretty supportive of my racing. It's funny because I have some people watch for me on TV when the races are on!

SBI: How would you describe the

SBI: What kind of strengths do you need to be working in this environment?

SP: Sometimes it is hard being a women in the Motorcycle Industry. I teach the Motorcycle Safety course as well and it takes me a little bit to get the men to trust that I know what I am talking about. Motorcycles and racing knowledge is very helpful. I am also mechanically inclined so I feel this has helped as well.

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THE GRID: Ladies of the paddock

Paddock to someone who has never been?

SP: Its hard to describe the Paddock, especially to people that don't know what road racing is about. I explain that I work with the racers, crews and other officials. Then I tell them to watch the races!

in the US grow up with. I didn't know much about it until 2005 when I bought my first sportbike.

SBI: This sport is highly praised all around the world. Why do you think it is not widely known here in the USA? SP: Roadracing is not televised as often as other racing and unfortunately roadracing is not something that a lot of people

In getting to know Sheila in the past few years it seems that I still am learning about her everyday.

A hard working mom, with three jobs, of two young adults. Her daughter Amanda is 17 and her son Jesse is 21 live with her in Montgomery, Texas. In the

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SBI: What word or sentence would you use to sum up your feeling of the life you have in the Paddock?

SP: My second family!

Paddock as Tire Control Official she is all over the place from one end of the hot pit one moment and at the other end the next.

There is not a lot of time for chit chat but after races are complete there she is, hanging out and talking with teams, crews and racers. That is a special quality to have, to be able to do your job during the day and then being able to have fun and be respected by all in the paddock.

I personally think we will all be seeing a lot more of Sheila during the races!

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words: allan lane images: Courtesy of Ducati & Dainese

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Nicky Hayden ...as real as it gets SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31

THE GRID: nicky Ladies hayden of the paddock

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he real have the uncanny ability to recognize the real. The refreshing familiarity of the company of a person that breathes just like you do. That person dreams like you do. They strive to enjoy the life that they have created for themselves just like you do... And when you understand that this individual has achieved what so many strive for and has accomplished what so many reach for on so many different levels, the real becomes something more.

Beyond recognizing real, the real recognizes true inspiration.

Nicky Hayden fits the bill of inspiration in every sense of the word.

One of the most personable individuals in the MotoGP paddock, Hayden is approachable, likable and exudes a coolness minus any conceivable notion of airs. Let’s talk about the coolness for a moment... as it’s not your average cool. Regardless of the setting, Hayden is level across the board. His demeanor in the paddock is the same as in any social setting... Easy.

If there is a balance of power, ability and self awareness... Hayden has found it. To refer to him as anything less than an ambassador is a disservice.

Allow him to reintroduce himself...

SBI: What is the first thing you do when you wake up?

NH: Smile. Everyday is a holiday!

SBI: There are a select few riders in the paddock that can ignite and inspire a crowd. You definitely are at the top of the list. I’ve personally witnessed that connection that you have with your fans.

How do you feel about your fans?

NH: I feel close to my fans and I realize that without them, we have no show. They are the ones who let let us do what we do. I appreciate them and they appreciate us.

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THE GRID: nicky Ladies hayden of the paddock

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SBI: How important is that relationship?

NH: Very. It’s exciting to go back to the same countries year after year and see some of the same people and share that relationship.

SBI: You were the youngest AMA SuperBike Champion. When you look back on that time of your life, how do you think that prepared you for your life now?

NH: It was a box that needed ticked off. There were steps and goals along the way I needed to accomplish. I think the AMA Championship is strong. It taught me a lot.

SBI: What would you say to a young racer or anyone that has aspirations to encourage them?

NH: Track time is very important. Try to get as much experience as possible, is the first thing. The way to learn is by doing it. You can only learn so much watching videos and thinking about it. You have to push yourself. Always try to ride and learn from people faster then you.

SBI: Do you consider yourself a role model?

NH: Yea... I would say so.

SBI: Being fast is part of the equation. There’s so much more involved to ride at the level that you do before you even throw a leg over the bike...

NH: You’re so right. Many people don’t see that.

Especially now with electronics being so much more advanced, you really have to be on your game and prepared with your technicians to know your options and to dial it all in for you and that track.

SBI: On the grid, waiting for the sighting lap to commence, surrounded by umbrella girls, press, officials... Where are your thoughts?

NH: I love that feeling when you’re on the line.

You’re nervous but you know you are right where you belong. You know hell is about to break loose because races never go as planned. That’s why we love it!

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THE GRID: nicky Ladies hayden of the paddock

Greeting fans with teammate Valentino Rossi With crew members (L to R) Roberto Bonazzi and Juan Martinez

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“I

really am the person you see. No show. Just a guy that loves his family and riding bikes!”

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THE GRID: nicky Ladies hayden of the paddock

SBI: The paddock can be a hot box for drama. You’ve done a tremendous job of not being involved in any nonsense, at least not in the public eye. Is that really the case, that you just aren’t involved or is there a secret to remaining “sucker free”? How do you avoid getting caught up in the soap opera?

NH: I really have no time for the drama. I’m trying to win races. It won’t help me do that so I leave all the drama behind. I always try to be a professional. I want no regrets when I hang it up.

SBI: Can you list your injuries? Broken bones, concussions?

NH: I could tell you the big stuff. But all the little ones along the way that haven’t caused me to miss a race... Most of those I have forgotten. I have no time to bleed!

SBI: With the risk factor so high, is it worth it?

NH: Yea, it really is. This is the life I chose. I know the consequences.

For me, personally, it’s worth it.

SBI: What is it inside of you that drives you to achievement?

NH: To be the best.

SBI: Who inspires you?

NH: My family and fans.

SBI: What does the word “legacy” mean to you?

NH: To want to be remembered and never forgotten.

SBI: What legacy do you hope to leave?

NH: That I was an all around guy that could ride anything, anywhere. A professional on and off the track with a lot of heart.

SBI: How has the relationship with Ducati grown over the last few years?

NH: A lot. I really love my team and spend more time than ever in Italy at the company. It’s a great brand and I’m proud to be on their payroll! I love my guys! It took some time, initially, to learn how they do things. Now I really feel at home with these guys. I’m lucky to have them in my corner.

SBI: Can you shed some light on how vital the Rider/Crew relationship is?

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THE GRID: nicky Ladies hayden of the paddock NH: It’s huge! When you have a 45 minute session and only get to come into the pits two or three times, you don’t have time to sit down and go through every little detail and ask questions. They need to know how to read you and pick up what you trying to say with a few words before they can do something about it. That relationship takes time.

It takes trust to make a good one. Kinda’ like with a chick... If you can’t trust, it won’t work!

SBI: Racing as a sport and a way of life is massive, globally. As huge as Laguna Seca and the Indy rounds are, in terms of spectator attendance... they seem dwarfed by attendance at rounds in other parts of the world. What are your thoughts on why racing is not as prominent here in the states as it is in other parts of the world?

NH: I really don’t have the answer. It’s true MotoGP just hasn’t caught on in this part of the world like some of the other spots we stop in. It’s a shame. But I really can’t answer it. If I could, I would try to fix it. But now with another U.S. race here next year, it’s gotta help. We really need to have better TV exposure to attract new fans, as well.

SBI: Who do you think is responsible for promoting the sport?

NH: Everybody. Everybody involved has to do their part. No one person can carry it. Start at the top with Dorna and work down from there to the teams and riders.

SBI: What would you like to see happen in the U.S. in order to get these events on the same level if not greater than the events in the rest of the world?

NH: I wish I had the answer. It’s not easy. The American fans love their stick and ball sport and the traditional stuff so it’s hard to convert them. But I do see it growing here. I hope to do my part to help and give back to the sport I love and the sport that’s giving me a great life!

SBI: Tell me about your support group and the role that each member plays.

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NH: Well, apart form my team it starts with my mom and dad, the same ones that have been there since the drop. I really got great parents and they are the first ones I talk to when I need some real advice. I know they are going to give it to me straight. And the rest of my family. My older brother Tommy has really been a big part of my career and looking out for me. I also have the same crew of friends in Kentucky that I came up with so that’s very important to me. You know how the saying goes, “Dance with the girl you brought!” I got a lot of the same people in my crew that i started out with!

SBI: 20 years from now, Nicky Hayden is doing what?

NH: Ha! I’m not sure what Nicky Hayden is going to be doing in 20 minutes! You’re really trying to put me on the spot! I hope I’m somewhere happy.

Still involved with bikes and still living the dream!

SBI: What was the last movie that you watched?

NH: “Hit and Run” with my buddy and fellow Ducati rider Dax Shepard.

SBI: I know how much of a hip hop fan you are...

GIve me your top three current hip hop songs...

NH: “I Wish You Would”, DJ Khaled and Kanye West. It’s a perfect song for before the race on the grid. “New Day”, 50 Cent because when I’m in a slump I gotta stay up and stay positive and know that everyday is a new day. “Work Hard... Play Hard”, Wiz Khalifa. I love the beat and the motto!

SBI: Tupac or Biggie?

NH: Pac all day! I know I’m probably going against you being from the East Coast but Pac is the guy all rappers are measured against in my eyes.

SBI: If you could take a ride with anyone, alive or deceased... anywhere in the world... Who would it be with and where?

NH: Anyone in the world? Wow, that’s a lot to choose from. Maybe I like to take a ride with Jesus

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THE GRID: nicky Ladies hayden of the paddock

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to see if he can ride!

SBI: What is the last thing you do before you go to sleep?

NH: Say a prayer and set my alarm.

SBI: At the end of the day, what should the world know about Nicky Hayden?

NH: Just know it’s real. And that I really am the

person you see. No show. Just a guy that loves his family and riding bikes!

If the grid was composed of riders on bikes, all in a uniformed single color scheme, visually identical to one another... Hayden would still stand out. He would stand out because he is believable.

Real recognizes real and this dude, looks familiar.

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Chris Tullock

Brandon The Hamma Tullock

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NAME: Brandon “The Hamma” Tullock AGE: 14 Association/Affiliations/Series: MOB Racing, Absolute Cycle, Get In Gear, Pro Wrench, Global Service Tech LLC, Mel-Vics Creations, NEXX Helmets, Vortex, EBC, Dunlop, New Magic Landscaping, Woodcraft, Gaerne Boots, Markbilt Racebikes, Tom and Amy Manalio, My mom and dad! Mid Atlantic and Atlantic Divisions CCS. Goals: To win my first road race to see my Dad quit smoking...We made a bet. When I win my first race, he quits smoking on the spot! After that, to continue racing to the highest possible level!

Accomplishments: 20 Top Ten finishes my first year on a 2010 SV650.

12 Top Five finishes and 9 Podiums Finished third in championship points standings in 3 out of the 5 classes I raced this year.

Define your passion in one sentence: Living my dreams of becoming a professional motorcycle racer!

Contact:

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

the youngest in charge

Words: Dystany spurlock IMAGE: SNS

D

id someone say that October is here? There are two things that I think of when someone mentions the month of October. One is that it is National Breast Cancer Awareness month, and secondly, it’s the anniversary month for Sportbikes Inc! It seems that time truly does fly by when you’re having fun. This year has sped by just as fast as I go down the quarter mile on my motorcycle.

Yet another great year for the magazine!

I feel that this year has truly been a phenomenal one for the magazine. With every issue we continue to grow bigger and stronger! I love how it is constantly catching the eye of many motorcyclists, racers, and day to day people. This magazine is definitely one of a kind. With every issue we continue to prove and show that to our readers. We, the staff, are all very different individuals but we’re able to share our love and passion for motorcycles with all of you. We all like to have fun with our columns and just be ourselves.

This time of year is always special to me because I get to support a great cause every day of the month. I don’t know if many of you know but I am a very big supporter of breast cancer due to my aunt being a 50 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Connect with Dystany...

survivor of it. I will tell anyone, my aunt is one of the strongest people that I know. You would never know that anything is wrong with her. She will keep you laughing nonstop. Even if she is in pain, she hides it so well. I don’t know if that is a good or bad thing. She had to have a double mastectomy, and through it all she still continues to smile! I love her so much. I want everyone that feels like giving up because they have not only breast cancer, but any type of cancer, to take her for example and never give up. Fight the great fight, until you can no longer fight. As long as you believe and have determination, anything is possible. I am thankful to have my aunt in my life to keep pushing me through.

Even when the littlest of things get tough, she reminds me that I can do anything, as long as I keep my eye on the prize!

I would like to say Happy Birthday and many more to one of the best magazines ever, SportBikes Inc Magazine! I am very thankful to be a part of this wonderful staff. Last but not least, I have to send a huge shout out to the founder, Mr. Allan Lane, himself. Allan you are not just a great person you are the best big brother a person could ever ask for. Happy Birthday SportBikes Inc Magazine!

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

Capo’s cut

Connect with Capo...

Words: Ashon capo dickerson IMAgeS: Kwame Olds

L

et me bring you guys and girls up to speed with what’s been going on in the rider’s life of Capo. Let me say, that either good or bad results, I love the hustle and the grind of it all. My trip to the Indy Manufacturers Cup in August was a bitter sweet race. Off the trailer laying down the quickest NOS pass to date in the history of the Real Street class, a 5.15! And I did it on a Pirelli road race tire and on a GSXR 1000!

I’m beating my chest! The bad news about it all was after the 8th mile, I had to shut down because the motor was damaged on that run. In my Scorpion Helmet, I was screaming “WTF?!”

So my weekend was cut short and back to the lab to get with my engine builder Carpenter Racing and see if we can come back stronger!

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After that race, the very next weekend I had to be in Rockingham, NC and had to substitute my Crazy8 bike to do double duties in both classes just to earn points and keep my Championship hopes alive in the MIRock Superbike Series. Let’s fast forward to the MIRock Fall Nationals in Budds Creek Maryland. The internet is buzzing. The hype of this race is always a record breaker for me. My grays hairs in my beard are becoming more prominent leading up to this race. Because not only do I have to live up to and back up that number I laid down in Indy but I also have to enter the race with absolutely no test time, dyno time. I literally put the finishing touches back on Goldie when we arrived.

In Maryland that Friday morning, talk

about stress ballin’! With a fresh Carpenter Bullet and some new parts from Brock’s Performance, we are ready to do what we have set out to do... Get down the race track clean. With me making educated tuning decisions, I lay down the first ever, official 7 second pass with a Pirelli tire on the dragstrip!

With no Dyno time and a soft tune, we shakedown one time before qualifying and go a blistering 8.02 at 180mph. I thought to myself, “We are on the right track buddy!” With a slight adjustment on the fuel and launch RPM, on the first round of qualifying it comes together!

Bam! Hsitory was made! A 7.98

elapse time! Welcome Pirelli tires to the 7 Second Club in dragracing! Then, we back that up with a 7.96! For us, seeing our hard work pay off was very gratifying. To do it on a tire that some say couldn’t, makes it feel even better. To do it on a liter small bore bike makes it ten times better! After that, we ran into some slight issues with an

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: capo’s cut

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electronic box on the bike, which I won’t name, causing a first round exit. We may have lost the fight but didn’t lose the war! You can’t drown a shark! We are back and ready for action! Stay tuned!

The tale of the tape... Numbers do not lie!

Loyalty is Everything!

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Tiffany Brice Lloyd Butler

Tiffany Butler

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NAME: Tiffany Butler AGE: 27 Association/Affiliations/Series: Gulf Coast BMW/British USA, Rock Solid Manufacturing.

Goals: To be competitive in NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle, reach 200+ mph on a motorcycle, & become a flight nurse.

Accomplishments: Graduate of Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School.

Second place Hurricane Alley Stock ET, Third place Texas National Motorcycle Rally.

Define your passion in one sentence: It’s what I live for!

Contact:

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The Rev LIMITER

violent stars and happy stunting Words & images: Leah petersen:

: n o i s n e m i D a s d d A l a g c n i i t r e Stunt V e h t

g n i l Tack

T

he curmudgeons will always grumble, “There is nothing else, we’ve topped out, this is it.”

The dreamers will always prove them wrong.

Some riders think the limits of their skills are the limits of reality. Other riders think what today is impossible is tomorrow’s opportunity for growth.

Stunting is full of these individuals, making each riding session a time to experiment on new twowheeled possibilities. In the sport’s short lifespan one can observe the radical surges in new concepts, tricks and styles of riding.

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John Flores

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The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

Each year seems to have its new popular new trick or concept that captures the imagination of riders on a global level. In past years the craze has been drifting, riding in reverse or switchback or “Kangaroo Endo’s” which is when a rider turns 180 degrees on the front wheel and bunny hops at the very end, allowing for a few seconds with the bike in mid air. As the new trick takes off, rides around the world practice it, perfect it and naturally, expand on it.

Which leads us to the point - air.

Big air, on big bikes.

From recent pictures and videos being shared online stunters are starting to contemplate seriously developing sportbike skills on obstacles, non flat surfaces and over jumps. Stunting, a classically flatland sport, is growing and while I wouldn’t say the subculture is splintering, certain individuals are definitely developing varying new facets of it.

The early sportbike vert pioneers were not so successful with this venture... specifically the infamous “Sportbike Tommy” who tried to jump his late 90’s furred out sportbike into a foam pit, does a half backflip and misses the pit entirely. YouTube “Sportbike misses foam pit.” It’s really worth the watch. The skill level of stunters has shot through the roof over the past decade and today the riders who have been attempting jumps and ramps with their stuntbikes, have had much more success than 66 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Tommy, although he did make a great career on Nitro Circus for himself.

I’d say the “Kangaroo” and bunny hop craze over the last year has sparked the vert fire.

XDL Champions like Bill Dixon and Nick “Apex” Brocha have really expanded on getting both tires off the ground without using ramps or jumps. Bunny hops while moving straight forward on two wheels are growing in height, some riders landing on the front tire to endo out of the bunny hop. YouTube Dan Jackson’s sickest trick from 2010 XDL Indy.

The lack of vision and creativity certainly isn’t the problem when it comes to getting stuntbikes to take flight, but there are a few factors working against us. First is technology. Shockingly, I know, our freestyle machines are made for a flat track and to be ridden using two wheels on said track.

When 180 Kangaroo stoppies start getting a few feet off the ground the impact and force is tremendous. Riders are cracking their frames, bending rims and who knows what the long-term effect on the motorcycles will be.

YouTube “David Boyd Kangaroo Stoppie.”

There are a few fixes to that problem. One, get a lighter more agile stuntbike which is certainly the case as many riders turn to the nimble Triumph Street Triples as their stuntbike of choice.

Another option is beef up the existing bikes, which we see

Kyle Rapport

with the steel frame revolution.

Some riders, such as the United Kingdom’s Lee Bowers, have constructed nearly complete custom bikes with aftermarket steel frames, subframes and even custom swingarms are in development.

The stunt industry is growing in size and their products growing in precision, offering a wide range of aftermarket solutions to keep a sportbike in one piece through nearly any amount of carnage. Like the 1990’s technology growth in dirtbikes that lead to the popularization of

FMX, stunting is on the brink of building machines able to fulfill our wildest riding fantasy.

The next factor, a constant in the stunt community, is locale.

Where oh where will someone let us experiment on ramps and half-pipes with our noisy, oil-filled sportbikes? Nowhere.

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The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

Lee Bowers

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So riders are resorting to the organic structures that surround us. Like skateboarders in the 70’s riding swimming pools in Southern California, stunters are hitting the dirt, constructing ramps for the lot and even finding spots with ride able drainage ditches. Maybe these structures will shape the vertical aspect of our sport.

A recent video from UK enduro rider Graham Jarvis was certainly inspirational. Check “Graham Jarvis training at The Works skate park, Leeds” on YouTube. In what they dub “Extreme Enduro Riding” Graham hits anything a BMX or skateboard would hit, with the flair and muscle of having an engine to back him up. This video is certainly really cool urban twist on trials or enduro riding. Graham rocks circle wheelies on tabletops, parks his rear wheel on columns, grinds rails and endo’s down ramps. One could speculate it’s only a matter of time before sportbikes are trying to follow suit.

Right now people might scoff and skateparks will turn sportbikes away, but someday, someone, with the keys will share our vision. Until then stunters will do what they do best, entrepreneurially building, destroying and rebuilding stronger methods and objects to use when stunting; all the while expanding the limits of what is possible on a 600cc sportbike.

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The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

John Flores

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Kyle Rapport

Matt Lyons SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 71

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sportBikes inc savings: get $10 tickets ($13 in nY), a $5 savings off Box office prices!

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Indianapolis, IN Lucas Oil Stadium February 15 – 17, 2013 Charlotte, NC Charlotte Convention Center February 22 – 24 2013

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www.motorcycleshows.com

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The Rev LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Nhan Vo

Nhan Vo aka PhenomeNHAN

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NAME: Nhan Vo AKA PhenomeNHAN AGE: 26 Association/Affiliations/Series: Team No Limit.

Goals: To live the life that my parents always wanted me to and to raise my future kids better than I was. And to have motorcycles help me do that is always a plus!

Accomplishments: To have hit rock bottom and make it back on top! And to prove all my peers and whoever doubted me, wrong!

Define your passion in one sentence: Anything on two wheels or with handle bars are my passion. Some say motorcycles will kill you. But motorcycles saved my life! Without bikes I’d most likely already be dead.

Contact:

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THE LIFE: FEatured Club

HUSTLE & FLOW RIDERZ M.C. CITY & STATE: Orlando and Clermont, FL FOUNDED: 2008 MEMBERS: 10 ELECTED OFFICIALS: STATE PRESIDENT - Justice PRESIDENT - Douchebag VICE PRESIDENT - PorkChop Sergeant at Arms - Rob Treasurer - White Boy Secretary - La Reina

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Rocker Interpretation: With the club motto, “Life is a gamble and we are all in”... the club’s logo represents the sentiment. The rider with his passenger, hand on the throttle and rolling the dice with his clutch hand.

History/Origin of Club: Hustle and Flow was formed in 2005 and originally based out of Queens, NY. The original members were passionate riders that decided to start their own club instead of joining another club that was already on set. They wanted to do things their way. They

wanted their own family.

Club Milestones/Memorable Moments: Along the way the club has had many great moments of success and have made many memories. A shining moment of the club’s history was the launch of their Florida chapter along with receiving their hard earned M.C. patch in 2011.

Future of the club: A positive club with a positive outlook toward their community, Hustle and Flow will continue to grow first as a family, then as a club.

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THE LIFE: Know your role

Defining the executive board

Words: Lady Kim/Allan Lane Image: Allan laNe

W

ith so many new clubs emerging on the set, we thought it appropriate to give those who may have just arrived a run down of the roles specific members of the club hold and their responsibilities, focusing on the elected officials.

The Executive Board oversees the management of the club/chapter. They are voted into their position by the members of the chapter. Typically the officer’s positions are as follows depending on the club dynamics: The President is the executive head or leader of the chapter. He is the co signer with the Treasurer for all legal documents and Treasurer documents. He handles all matters and relations between other clubs and outside organizations.

The Vice President performs all duties and powers of the President in his absence as second in command.

The Secretary is in charge of the books, archives documents, conducts general correspondence of the chapter, arranges meetings and records the minutes of the chapter meetings.

The Treasurer has custody of all funds and property of the chapter. He is the co signer with the President for all legal documents and treasurer documents

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and prepares all financial reports.

The Sergeant at Arms is responsible for ensuring the Bylaws, maintaining order at the meetings and the club house, policing the rules and regulations, insuring the safety and security of the club members, responsible for securing colors from former members and protecting and defending the members.

The Road Captain is responsible for approving routes for all sanctioned chapter rides, provide a safe ride to and from a destination and to report any safety problems.

The Public Relations Officer may or may not be on an executive board. They are responsible for disseminating club information, event promotion, acting as the main networking contact for club functions and the main liaison between the chapter and local community.

These positions are to be held sacred and never taken lightly or for granted. The harmony and strength of the M.C. Community rests upon the shoulders of these members.

Know your role. Play your position.

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FEatured THE LIFE FEatured LIFE:rider FEatured riderS riderS

Shala Penevolpe AKA “Chocolate” location: New Brunswick, NJ Occupation: Weapons Engineer Years Riding: 10 plus years.

Riding stlye: Street but plan on taking it to the track in 2013.

Bike/s owned: Custom Honda CBR600F4i. favorite bike modification/accessory: The total customization of my bike. Every part is my favorite.

Favorite piece of riding gear: My cuts/rags/colors nothing makes me prouder than reppin the Jer-z Jewelz MC most memorable ride: Riding down to NC to an event and it rained the whole way from NJ to NC. And riding in memory of my best friend and sister Jackie Busa in 2011.

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Justin Thomas location: Yokota AB, Japan Occupation: USAF Sergeant Years Riding: 3 years.

Riding stlye: Street, drag and circuit.

Bike/s owned: 2003 CBR 600RR, 2007 Triumph Daytona 675

favorite bike modification/accessory: My hand fabricated Stela Exhaust on my 675. The owner of Stela is a world renowned exhaust guru famous for doing GP bikes and living right down the road from Twin Ring Motegi! All his exhaust are hand made... No assembly line, no cad design, just pure talent!

Favorite piece of riding gear: My ICON Variant Construct helmet. most memorable ride: Being part of the ICON 2012 Fall catalogue photo shoot in Tokyo!Â

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FEatured THE LIFE FEatured LIFE:rider FEatured riderS riderS

Elias Hildreth location: Norristown, PA Occupation: Steel Worker Years Riding: 37 years.

Riding stlye: Street.

Bike/s owned: 2000 Kawaski ZX12R favorite bike modification/accessory: Muzzy exhaust and Power Commander.

Favorite piece of riding gear: Icon Leather Vest. most memorable ride: Riding to Myrtle Beach Bike Week.

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Paul D. Pozniak location: Philadelphia, PA Occupation: Ph.D. Student in Neuroscience Years Riding: 10 years.

Riding stlye: Street and track.

Bike/s owned: 2007 Honda CBR 600RR favorite bike modification/accessory: Akrapovic exhaust.

Favorite piece of riding gear: Arai Corsair V Helmet and Dainese Dyno Shoes. most memorable ride: Battling with my best friend at the California Superbike School at Thunderbolt Raceway at New Jersey Motorsport Park. The experience at the two day camp was unreal and completely worth every cent.Â

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MOTO TECH

The case of the blown manifold Words & images: Allan LAne

I

had just left the Tuesday night meet up at the Abbaye and was heading home on Kelly Drive. It wasn’t that late but their wasn’t the usual amount traffic on the nice romp home alongside the Schukyll River. With a little bit of open road, I rolled on the throttle and gave it the business.

I was on my trusty everyday rider, Johnny Cash... a 2005 Ducati 749 Dark. Now Johnny has some miles on her and she oftens reminds me of a bad relationship... You know the one where you know you need to move on, but its such a good ride that you can’t let her go. Yep. That’s how it is between Johnny and I. As I passed through a nice sweeping left hander, flicked her back and forth a bit, there was a distinct eruption of motor running just slightly to my rear left. Whoever was riding up on me was really making moves because they came out of nowhere. A head check to my left and then my right and realized that I was still the only one on the road.

the asphalt... but your bike is not a Desmosedici, you have a problem.

When your bike sounds like a ferocious Desmosedici terrorizing

I threw a leg over and started her up. Another twenty minutes

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I quickly pulled over into a gas station lot and inspected my machine. I couldn’t find anything wrong. There were no mechanical or electrical issues.

She had oil. My thought was to just get her home and inspect her thoroughly in the morning.

later, we’d be pulling to my drive way. Not three minutes into the second leg of the ride did I begin to feel a severe amount of heat breathing on my left thigh and ass cheek. I glance down to see what the hub bub was and blue flame was spitting from the rear of the horizontal cylinder. My exhaust manifold cracked right at the head! I mean a clean, clear separation of pipe. It was sliced as if you took a hot knife to a stick of butter.

At this point, I was roughly fifteen minutes from home. Ten minutes later, we were home.

The next morning, I spent some time inspecting the situation.

Welding crossed my mind but I thought better of it. I had only installed a Termignoni half system on Johnny that included the mid pipe and muffler. The header pipe, the actual pipe that was no longer of use was stock. How hard could it be to find one and replace it. Did I mention that Johnny is 2005 749? Parts, stock or aftermarket aren't just falling out of trees.

So the phone calls began, starting with a few local dealers. I was also doing some research on eBay to see if the pipe was available in used but decent condition and also what the going prices were. I was definitely hesitant to purchase a used bit for fear that I could find myself in the very same predicament a little bit down the road.

As suspected, no dealers had the part in stock. It was time to call in the experts. Austin Grey and Elliot Cho are two friends of mine form Ducati North America, both on the corporate level of service.

On a conference call, I gave them a run down of the situation and after we laughed about my nuts not getting burned by the blue flame of death. What they filled me in on was the fact that her level of mileage, “these things have a tendency to occur...� and that there really wasn't much to SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87

MOTO TECH: the case of the blown...

do about it other than replace.

In other words, I’ve put more than just a little bit of miles on Johnny.

At 35K miles, she has seen her fair share of hard riding and hauling ass. I was slightly relieved to learn that there wasn’t anything necessarily wrong. She was showing her age. I guess it was just a matter of time.

About a week later, a box arrived at my door. Inside said box was the very exhaust manifold that I

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was in need of. I grabbed my tool box and got to work.

Degree of difficulty... 3.

Estimated time... 25-30 minutes.

No problem. I got this.

An hour later... The new manifold was installed and she was good to go.

Granted, you may not have the immediate network to help you trouble shoot and ultimately solve your issues. But you do have a

network of fellow riders. The point being is that it pays to do the research and to ask questions.

Invest a little time and effort in your bike’s welll being and it pays off in the end. How much so?

Let’s just say that had I dropped Johnny off at the shop for repairs... Let’s just say I saved a boat load of money and leave it at that.

978-297-2977 www.woodcraft-cfm.com

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

Ask the Pro Wrench Words: Thomas Campion

Q: A:

What should I do to winterize my ride before I put her away for the winter?

Modern motorcycles are pretty maintenance free. It’s not like back in the day with carbureted engines where you needed to do a whole lot. I have had friends not do anything and their bike starts and runs fine in the spring. However, I do not recommend that.

First off, drain the fuel. A fuel stabilizer will be fine if you cant drain the tank. Second, get the bike off the ground with front and rear stands.

This is often forgotten but think about it... You spend all this money on performance tires and then you let them sit in one spot for a few months. Flat spots will form and you will have vibration come spring. Third, put your battery on a trickle charger. Battery Tender makes

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some great chargers and are pretty reasonably priced. Next, check your anti freeze. Most auto parts stores sell anti freeze testers with which you pull your radiator cap off and suck a little out. If you’re good, then you’re good, If not then you gotta drain and refill with good anti freeze. Be sure to run the bike after changing so the new coolant flows through the engine.

After that, your all set. I always put a bike cover over it so that no dirt or debris get’s on it and it also keeps most animals and insects away from it.

In the Spring, you will want to do basic maintenance before riding: oil change, air filter status, flushing brake fluid, tire pressure, etc. The reason I don’t suggest this while winterizing is because moisture will build during the winter and you would have to do things twice. You don’t need to do that... Right?!

Q:

I ride all year round in everything but snow or ice. What should I do to prep my bike for colder weather riding?

A:

Throw some studs in those tires and rip it in the snow!

Seriously, this is pretty similar to winterizing a bike except not removing fuel. You will want to check your anti freeze quality, get a Battery Tender or something similar and do routine maintenance on the bike. If you haven’t done an oil change in a while, get it done now. Flush out your brake fluid because the change in weather forms moisture on the inside of your system.

Check your tire pressure. This should be done at least once a week anyway.

Finally, get yourself some insulated riding gear. It’s cold out there!

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Improve your skills

Holding the keys in your hands Words: eric wood IMAGES: Eric Wood/Allan Lane

W

hen looking at what makes athletes successful in a given sport, it always amazes me how much some of the smallest details matter. It doesn’t matter if you look at golf, baseball, motocross or any other sport, there are basic fundamental skills that every successful participant has in common.

These fundamental skills are not always obvious to the casual observer, as they are so natural to the professional athlete that he or she utilizes them with virtually no conscious thought. However, when a casual player attempts

Most riders have the habit of gripping the handlebars across the knuckles so that their hand is perpendicular to the bars...

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to play like a pro (like a golfer trying to hit the ball 300 yards), the missing components of fundamentally sound mechanics become obvious.

Many riders come to the track after spending considerable time on the street. Since street riding, rightfully involves spending very little time near the threshold of traction, habits that decrease sensitivity or reduce traction and control rarely cause any problems. When a bike is being ridden down the street at 40 mph, riders could sit side-saddle

and hold on with one hand and still stay in control much of the time (barring any interaction with drivers, of course). As a result, street riders often need to break habits that are harmless on the street, but critical on the track.

This article will discuss how making a small adjustment to how the handlebars are held can make a major difference in your riding. Like the amateur golfer trying to out drive Tiger Woods, using an improper grip makes it nearly impossible to get the most out of even the best equipment.

Riders should instead grip the bars so that the grip is situated diagonally across the palm.

As we approach the limit of traction, it is critical that riders do all that they can to maximize grip, control and feel. Since we get a large portion of our feedback through our hands, proper grip is the key to making it all happen.

Many riders have the habit of gripping the handlebars across the knuckles so that their hand is perpendicular to the bars. This grip causes several problems that affect a rider’s ability to ride to their potential on the racetrack.

Riders should instead grip the

bars so that the grip is situated diagonally across the palm as shown below. In using this grip, riders will better be able to relax their grip on the bars, they will have better feel and feedback for traction, and they will be in a greater position of control. In short, having the proper grip on the bars becomes one of the keys to proper riding form.

In order to have sensitivity in your hands, it only makes sense that you need to have the ability to relax. In each class that I teach at the Penguin School, there are always a few riders that have issues with forearm pump.

Changing grip can go a long way to eliminating this problem. Since all handlebars are angled backwards towards the rider, gripping the bars so that your arm is roughly perpendicular to the bar naturally pulls

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Improve your skills: holding the keys... your elbows into your ribs.

Unfortunately, holding your hands at the angle of the bars and pulling your elbows into your ribs places your major forearm muscles in a position of flexion, not unlike someone who is “making a muscle� with their bicep. As a self test, without doing any squeezing of the grips at all, try holding the angle of your hands constant while moving your elbows from as wide as they can be to as narrow as they can be. You will notice that as your elbows come out, the belly of your forearm muscle relaxes almost completely.

As a result, riders who ride with elbows out tend to hold the grips with less force and are then much more sensitive to the feedback coming through the bars.

The natural benefit to this position is that it also gives you more leverage on the bars.

Think about watching an AMA Supercross rider through a set of stadium whoops... Elbows in or out? If you were trying to wrestle a broomstick out of the hands of a bouncer, would you have your elbows in or out? Since riding with your elbows out, of course, there are limits to how far you go, gives us more leverage on the bars, it only makes sense that it requires less effort from us to ride. If we exert less effort, we tend to be more relaxed and have more control over the motorcycle. We also have the benefit of extra power when we need to make big efforts with the bars. This increase in control and the ability to exert more 96 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

When riders use a grip perpendicular to the bars, they tend to bend at the wrist when the roll on the gas....

Sometimes when they near full throttle they can no longer bend their wrist and have to drop their elbow and shoulder to get wide open.

The action of going from throttle closed to throttle wide open does not involve bending the wrist at all.

When riders grip the bars diagonally across the palm... leverage over the bars when needed are additional reasons why riding with your “elbows out” and relaxed is a good idea... Maybe Ben Spies is on to something.

A key benefit to proper grip is evidenced during acceleration. When riders use a grip perpendicular to the bars, they tend to bend at the wrist when the roll on the gas. Sometimes when they near full throttle they can no longer bend their wrist and have to drop their elbow and shoulder to get wide open. This unwanted body motion not only is a distraction, but it has the potential to cause unintended weighting of the front end and a subsequent reduction in traction.

When riders grip the bars diagonally across the palm, the action of going from throttle closed to throttle wide open does not involve bending the wrist at all. Instead, the action is more like turning a doorknob and the elbow stays still while the wrist bones roll from side to side. This strategy tends to avoid the “re grip” action and more importantly

allows the elbows and shoulders to stay nearly motionless, relaxed and in control throughout the entire exit of the corner.

Riding with the proper grip is a key to putting together fast laps on the track. Although the angle of the grip across the hands will vary from rider to rider, a few important fundamentals remain. The elbows of a rider should be out wide enough that the forearm can completely relax. Elbows should be positioned so that there is a reserve of strength available at all times so that in those moments when additional force is needed, it is available.

Riders should be able to able to go through the entire corner with very little force on the hands with the only exceptions being during heavy braking and during the initiation of bar input. Finally, riders should be able to fully accelerate without requiring any movement of the elbow or shoulder. Once you are able to accomplish these basic tasks, riding fast becomes a whole lot easier.

Until next time, ride fast, ride safe!

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FRICTION ZONE: Random

Bad Ass...

Words and image: Allan Lane

M

y mother is from Sumpter, South Carolina. My father is from North Philly. If you ever have the opportunity, ask them if I was a bad ass when I was a kid. My mother will just smile and answer, “Lil Al was different.”

They call me Lil Al because my dad is Big Al. His reply to that question will a simple tilt of the head, a look over the top of his glasses and a smirk that retorts, “What do you think?”

I’ll tell you right now. I was a bad ass then. I’m a bad ass now. It’s just the cloth that I’m cut from. Think about it...

How many of you would describe your childhood plagued with behavioral reports? I remember scheduling my social calendar as a teenager around the issue if I was going to be on punishment or not. My social life was not only based upon being disobedient, but how much much I was going to be in if or when I got caught.

I’ll admit it. I put my parents through

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it. Thinking back, I can’t believe some of the shit that I pulled. I would apologize, and I have..., but isn’t that the circle of life? Bad ass begets bad ass. Bad ass is as bad ass does. I had to get it from somewhere. I’m just saying.

I believe that it is kismet that I grew up to be a bad ass motorcyclist. It’s was in my personality make up since I was knee high. A step further... I made a career out of motorcycles.

Are you telling me that my folks didn’t see it coming? Not only did they see it coming, I believe they breathed a sigh of relief when it finally did happen.

I’m not saying that you need a reason to be bad ass. Do you, homie! But a bad ass with a purpose... That’s just bad ass.

Mom and Dad, thanks.

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FRICTION ZONE

THE HIT

LIST

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

Dennis Espinosa! What’s on your hit list?

Alicia Keys, “No One”. Because she’s hot and her voice is sick!

Elvis Presley’s “In the Ghetto”. Reminds me of what life was like as a kid and is a cool song.

Jason Aldean, “Tattoo This Town”. Again, it’s part of my childhood.

Join the SBI ONLINE COMMUNITY today!

VISIT THE SPORTBIKES INC FORUM Dennis Espinosa, Owner at M.O.B. Racing.

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The

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Takeover

words: Allan Lane Images: Leon Brittain

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FRICTION ZONE: the takeover

I

n the history of things being done... and there have been a multitude of things done in that time frame... Never has anyone attempted what Kawasaki conceptualized and executed. In what can only be described as a sensory overload onslaught with a dash of controlled chaos, Kawasaki commandeered what is possibly the world’s largest stage, New York’s Time Square, to unveil their two new 2013 models.

But this was much more than a model launch. This was a raising of the bar.

The citizens of New York were treated to a fun filled, star studded day of entertainment and motorcycles.

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Kawasaki spared no expense when bringing out their line up of marquee talent that included Rickey Gadson, Jason Britton, Eric Hoenshell, Tom Sykes and Ryan Villopoto. Stunt shows, fashion shows displaying the latest gear from ICON along with the incredible sounds of the one and only D.J. Scribble, multiple rounds of give aways to the masses of fans, autograph sessions, graffiti artists...

There was something for everyone. This was the largest event that I’ve ever had the privilege of being a part of.

Oh, that’s right. Did I mention that I was the host of

the event? Once again, my gift of gab landed me the most coveted position of hosting the Take Over.

Armed with the mental motto: “Given a mic, work shall be done!”, I was honored to entertain along with my cohost J. Pigg.

Throughout the day, between the stunt shows, giveaways and celebrity interviews... I had the opportunity to talk with the real people of New York. More than impressed, I was inspired by the huge crowds that attended and supported the event. Mind you, the official start time was 11:00am and it was over at 8:00pm. That’s right!

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FRICTION ZONE: the takeover

I ran my mouth from 11 to 8. And I loved every minute of it! What a blast! There were individuals that stayed for the duration of the day, some just to see themselves on the Jumbotron. One of the most exhilarating moments of the day was the Kawasaki Ride In where what seemed to be hundreds of special invited Kawasaki Riders rode right into Times Square and posted up for impromptu bike night in the afternoon, smack dab in the middle of Manhattan!

As much fun that was being had by all, there was still some serious business that was about to go down. In addition to unveiling the 2013 Kawasaki

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ZX636 and the Ninja 300, Nick Anglada was on hand to unveil his brand new customized ZX636.

Kawasaki also gave away a 300 and a 636 to two lucky winners that were in attendance.

Their generosity didn't end there as the charity organization City Harvest was more than happy to receive Kawasaki’s donation of a 300 and 636 that would be raffled off at a later date, with the proceeds going to the charity.

Let’s get real for a moment. The logistics, wo/ man power and monetary effort that was put into play here was nothing short of epic. What was witnessed by the public was the result of months

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FRICTION ZONE: the takeover

The 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 300 of a hard working and beyond passionate production team that pulled all the stops to make this event a success. The Take Over was a exquisite cocktail of the right team, right talent and the right moment in time. Hard work always pays off. I am proud to say that I had got to be a part of something... that in the history of things being done... had never been done before.

Kawasaki... Well done.

The rest of the world... Game on.

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Check out the amazing video highlights from the Kawasaki Ninja Time Square Takeover.

Click the play button and enjoy!

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FRICTION ZONE

a rider’s ink words and images: Baz

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T

attoos and bikers. The two words seem to go hand in hand. History has warped society’s concept of a biker as a long haired, tattooed Neanderthal on a Harley.

Heavily tattooed people were often asked, “Are you a Hell’s Angel?”

Okay... So admittedly, these statements were true for a long time! Back in the day, the only people with tattoos were often “outsiders” or “outlaws”, people out of step with reality. The anti social ones! Yea, you youngsters can gasp at the idea of tattoos being “anti social”. But back in the day, not every mom had a tattoo. There were no TV shows, and no tattoo shops on every corner. Maybe you had an uncle with a tattoo, but your family considered him weird and left him alone to tinker on the

Triumph he brought back with him after the war!

The idea of the biker being a modern “outlaw” grew out of the American Motorcycle Association statement in the 1950’s that 99% of motorcycle riders were law abiding citizens, while it was just 1% who were “outlaws”. The biker gangs decided to embrace the 1% moniker, incorporating it into their club colors, and of course, tattoos.

The tattoos of motorcycle enthusiasts have changed over the years. Originally they were predominantly Harley based, usually championing the “Live to ride...” ideology. At the same time, the 1% outlaw mentality: eagles, skulls, flames... were de rigueur. In fact, some of those original designs are still being used today.

Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, Publisher of Chopper Magazine and one of the forefathers of “outlaw” biker lifestyle.

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FRICTION ZONE: A rider’s ink

As we move on, new ideas and approaches to tattooing has allowed people to adorn themselves with tributes to their particular bike, company or club that are both original and more artistic than back in the day. Nowadays, you can get a “portrait” tattoo of your own bike or the emblems of your favorite company or club colors.

Each design is individual and is an expression of the wearer’s commitment to their machine and lifestyle.

Many of the early bikers were ex servicemen who, after fighting in wars, found it hard to integrate back into society... now affectionately called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD , so embraced the brotherhood of other like minded individuals.

It was common for military to get tattoos, especially those in the Navy, so for them it wasn’t weird.

Incorporating their love of motorcycles and the freedom they

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offered, along with their love of tattoos gave birth to the image of the tattooed biker riding the highway on a chopper. Times and society have both changed to a point where tattoos are now acceptable and those rowdy Harley riding hell raisers are probably bankers, accountants or lawyers enjoying their weekend freedom.

The sportbike enthusiasts have come from a different background. Modern, contemporary designs and ideas mean the sportbikes rider will be younger with little or no idea about the anti social aspects of tattoos. For them, tattoos have always been a personal expression of their freedom and individuality.

Their choice also reflects their vision of an alternative lifestyle.

You can recognize the sound of a Harley engine two blocks away. The same goes for a sportbikes... Its the sides of the same coin.

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FRICTION ZONE: SPORTBIKES INK!!!

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

RIDER// Julia Ahn BIKE// 2012 Ducati Monster 696 TATTOO ARTIST// Dennis Delprett

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RIDER// Joey Pascarella BIKE// Yamaha YZF-R6 TATTOO ARTIST// Paul Ulrich

RIDER// John Loughlin BIKEs// 2003 Kawasaki 636

2001 Triumph Speed Triple

2012 Triumph Scrambler TATTOO ARTIST// Jessica Nucifora

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This life

TIMES SQUARE MADNESS

Connect with Tyson...

Words and image: TYson Beckford to call it the Times Square Kawasaki Shut Ilike Down It’s about 3pm and I ride into Times Square on my trusted Ducati. I park up and walk through the madness on this warm September afternoon with the smell of burning rubber. Fans were screaming and wanting more rubber and exhaust fumes in the air!

Kawasaki’s line Broadway like the lights and billboards that Times Square is famous for. But never has it looked like this with so many police and rice burners together and no one getting a ticket. On this day, the peace between bikers and coppers was welcomed.

I see drag race champion Rickey Gadson and Mr.”AMA”Lane, the MC of today’s one off event.

Rickey Gadson’s Drag School Bike on display in Times Square.

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Man this guy has the crowd so hyped! Or maybe it was the free shirts... Either way, New Yorkers, tourists, even cops and US. Marine’s are all hyped up and enjoying Jason Britton’s stunt team doing their 20 minute shows in the most famous real estate on the planet. With the chance of winning a free bike everyone is hyped up! Team Kawi is here strong from MotoCross to World Superbike. I am chatting them all up and so are the fans. Team Kawi brought some of their finest products out to display: Tom Syke’s ZX10R World Superbike, Ryan Villopoto’s 450 SuperCross bike and Rickey Gadson’s drag school bike.

We need more of this in my city from the motorcycle manufacturers. It’s what they owe us as customers and fans of the brand. We fly their colors. We cheer for their teams and we support them every time we hit that start button.

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THE NEW ISH WOODCRAFT CFM • WET CLUTCH COVER PROTECTOR FOR DUCATI Offering protection with a sense of style, this clutch cover protection set up from Woodcraft foot the bill. In recent years, Ducati has returned to the wet clutch assembly for their line of bikes, stepping away from the dry clutch set up that was a snap to swap out or customize. Since the return to the wet, the risk of a tip over or crash could result in a dangerous oil spill.

Made from CNC machined 6061 aluminum billet, the clutch cover protector comes with a replaceable skid plate and an internal rubber pad to provide cushion between it and the stock cover.

Price: $169.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com

CNC RACING • REAR AXLE NUT KIT FOR DUCATI Made specifically for the single sided swing arms of late model Ducati, the kit includes nuts for both sides of the rear axle, weighing in 1.4 ounces.

Colors: Black, Red, Gold, Titanium Price: $74.95 Contact: http://cncracing.us DOMINO • Experience 3 Grips Often, the longer rides take a toll on the throttle hand and ultimately put a cramp in your ride. Domino’s Experience 3 Grips were originally designed for off road use but have found a wonderful application on street bikes. Consisting of three layers of soft thermoplastics, the bring an elevated level of comfort to your ride.

Available in a number of colors.

Price: $27.95 Contact: http://bellissimoto.com

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BROCK’S PERFORMANCE • ADJUSTABLE KICKSTAND FOR THE ZX14R Machined from 6061 T6 billet aluminum with a black anodized finish, this adjustable kickstand is stronger than the stock Kawasaki ZX14R kickstand. It’s easily installed and features 3 inches of lowering adjustability.

Price: $179.00 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com

MOTION PRO • STANDARD TOOL KIT Packed with roadside essentials for roadside adjustments or minor service, this kit fits conveniently in the storage space of your bike so that it is there when you need it. The kit includes flat head, phillips, allen head and torx bits as well as drive sockets.

Price: $24.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com

ALPINESTARS • Stella Vika Leather Pants Complete with removable CE certified heat and impact sensitive knee armor, the Stella Vika pants give the female rider a non cumbersome piece of protective gear that remains classically fashionable. They feature a number of aramid stretch zones in the right places, providing a full range of motion and freedom, regardless of riding position, all the while, flattering the female figure.

Size: 38 - 50 (Euro) Price: $429.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com

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THE NEW ISH AGV HELMETS • BARRY SHEENE GRID REPLICA AGV has really held down the replica helmet game for quite some time. Adding to their tradition of honoring the greats of the racing world, AGV presents the Barry Sheene Grid Replica. Emblazoned with Sheene’s iconic number 7 and the image of Donald Duck that was in every bit of the way, classic Sheene.

The Sheene Replica is equipped with the incredible technology that a rider expects from AGV: cool max with hygienic treatment fabric, removable and washable padding, double d retention system and quick release shield system.

Size: XS - XL Price: $499.95 Contact: http://agv.com

JOE ROCKET • SPEEDMASTER 3.0 Leather Race Boot The Speedmaster Boot has been a staple in the Joe Rocket footwear line up for quite some time. Joe Rocket went back into the lab and emerged with a completely redesigned Speedmaster boot, Version 3.0. The boot features reinforced titanium ankle plate, replaceable magnesium heel and calf sliders and perforated split grain leather.

Size: 7 - 13 (USA) Price: $279.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com SCHAMPA • WarmSkin Thermal Wind Break Shirt

With the colder weather just around the corner, the year round riders know that core temperature maintenance is elemental to having a successful fall and winter riding season. Wearing the WarmSkin Thermal Wind Break Shirt provides a layer of windproof and waterproof protection that is comfortable and wearable.

Size: M - XXL Price: $89.99 Contact: http://schampa.com 128 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

FORCEFIELD BODY ARMOR • PRO SHIRT The Pro Shirt from Forcefield provides a high level of protection with its high spec CE approved elbow, shoulders, chest and built and CE Level 2 back protector.

The removable armor is built into a shell made from “BeCool” fiber that is designed to wick away hot and wet air from the body and replace it with cool and dry air. The result is maximum comfort and maximum protection.

Size: S- XL Price: $299.00 Contact: http://motonation.com

AMERICAN ROADRACER • GEOFF MAY UNIFORM TEE Earlier this year, AMA Pro Racer Geoff May announced his line of apparel and accessories. The shirts feature classic designs that represent what May’s vision is... A return to classic American Racing.

Size: S - XL Colors: Black, White Price: $25.00 Contact: http://americanroadracer.com YOSHIMURA • CHASSIS PROTECTOR KIT FOR THE KAWASAKI ZX6R Designed for the 2009 - 2012 Kawasaki ZX6R, this kit provides solid bolt on protection minus the need to cut or modify your machines fairings. Additionally, they serve as case savers as the brackets mount directly onto the existing mounting holes.The replaceable, puck style chassis protectors bolt onto the brackets.

Price: $199.95 Contact: http://yoshimura-rd.com

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THE NEW ISH: Featured Item

GOPRO • HERO3 Black Edition Having set the bar in quality and brand trust in the action sports camera market, GoPro presents their latest offering with the HERO3: Black Edition. In comparison to its predecessors, the HERO3 is lighter by 25% and 30% smaller. It features built in Wi-Fi, GoPro App compatibility and the included Wi-Fi remote. The housing has been upgraded to a more rugged style, more suitable for today’s sport action.

Other specs include: 1440p 48fps, 1080p 60 fps and 720p 120 fps video and 12MP photos at a rate of 30 photos per second.

Quite simply, this is the most advanced GoPro camera, ever.

Price: $399.99 Contact: http://gopro.com

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Join the SBI ONLINE COMMUNITY today!

VISIT THE SPORTBIKES INC FORUM

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Staff stuff Bell powersports • Star Black Carbon Helmet I’ve been riding with the Bell Star Black Carbon Helmet for track days and press launches for the last two seasons. By far, it is one of the lightest helmets I’ve ever worn.

It’s sleek and stealth... Just like me!

As much as I enjoyed the helmet on the track, I thought I might give it a go on the streets in my daily commutes and rides. Just as on the track, the helmet was just as enjoyable on the streets. It’s not the quietest helmet but it definitely makes up for it in comfort. There are plenty of vents to help keep a cool head on the warmer days.

The face shield change out set up is easy to manage. Perhaps one of the most stellar points of this helmet are the aerodynamics. Lift is minimal if existent at all. At speed, there is almost a tuck that occurs as air moves over and around my head. It’s an impressive piece of kit. http://bellhelmets.com Rating: 5.5 (out of 6)

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Leon Brittain Location: Times Square, New York