SportBikes Inc Magazine October 2014

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . MOTO TECH

OCTOBER 2014 VOL 5 ISSUE 1

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

THE ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

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GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES’ SPEED RACER | CLUTCH CONTROL 2014: THE ILLY IN PHILLY | SBI AT FIVE YEARS | THE INDY ODYSSEY | TOURING ON A SPORTBIKE | THE LION’S DEN: EXPOSED

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THE FEATURES THE SHOW: GCC’S SPEED RACER

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TOURING ON A SPORTBIKE

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LAWLESS: THE INDY ODYSSEY

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THE LION’S DEN: EXPOSED

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CLUTCH CONTROL 2014: THE ILLY IN PHILLY

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SBI AT FIVE YEARS

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THE USUALS

OCTOBER 2014 - VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1

12 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=12 16 THE INBOX http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18 18 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - CHESTER CITY CYCLES http://issuu.com/action/page?page=20 20 THE SHOW - GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES’ SPEED RACER 34 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=34 42 TURN ONE - By Sandra Stammova http://issuu.com/action/page?page=42 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=50 50 THE INSIDE TRACK - By Corey Alexander 58http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58 LINES OF A LEGEND - By Rickey Gadson 66 THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE - By Dystany Spurlock http://issuu.com/action/page?page=66 74 THE MAIN POINTS - By Dena Sodano http://issuu.com/action/page?page=74 84 FEATURED CLUB - THE NEWARK KNIGHTS M.C. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=84 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=88 88 THE LION’S DEN - By Lion James 96http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96 FEATURED RIDERS 100http://issuu.com/action/page?page=100 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=126 126 DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS - By Billy Morrison http://issuu.com/action/page?page=146 146 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=152 152 STAFF STUFF

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FEATURED RIDER: KEVIN SMITH AKA BLK DYNAMITE http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96 PAGE 96 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 5

FEATURE STORY

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GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES’

“SPEED RACER”

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EDITOR’S LETTER

R.I.P. Kyrell “Dirtbike Rell” Tyler.

Five years is not necessarily a long time. For me it’s more of a bench mark, a notch on the belt... As a Publisher and Editor in Chief, five years is a nudge in the right direction. SBI is growing, thriving and expanding. We have a lot of work to do and I honestly feel that a five year anniversary is a stepping stone in the right direction. Some say that the first five years are the hardest in any business. I just think that if it was easy, then everyone would do it. It is hard work, don’t get it twisted. But when you love something and you want it, you’ll do whatever it takes.

I treat each each day like it’s my first.

I’m proud of my team, my staff, our family and the work that we have done thus far but I know we can do better. So we will.

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I thank you. The riders and readers that ride with us every month and support SBI... I thank you.

I’m excited about tomorrow and the next five years...

The next ten, twenty... However long this ride lasts, I’m excited about each day and the possibilities that come with them. I’m excited about what SBI is and about what SBI is becoming. So when I ask you to ride with us, because you know we got it... I mean it. And if we don’t have it, you can bet your ass that we’re gonna get it. #Nobitchassness.

This issue is dedicated to the memory of my friend, Kyrell Tyler AKA Dirtbike Rell.

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 Road Racing Editor: Corey Alexander corey@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 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: Blair Phillips Contributing Photographers: Blair Phillips Terrence Belton Brian J. Nelson Keith Rizzo UK07Films Daiane Freitas

SportBikes Inc Magazine - October 2014 Volume 5, Issue 1 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.

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

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

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

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THE PRESS ROOM THE 2015 KAWASAKI VULCAN S

Kawasaki has taken the comfort of a crusier and a healthy dose of sportbike handling and performance to produce the all new 2015 Vulcan S. The Vulcan S has a 649cc parallel twin, six speed engine and handful of features that proves how much Kawasaki is looking to push the limits in rider usability. The Vulcan S includes the Kawasaki Positive Neutral Finder

RECALL: TRIUMPH ISSUES RECALL FOR 2012 AND 2013 SPEED TRIPLE R’S There are four bolts used to hold the cable guides to the headstock on the 1,368 affected models that have no threadlock to keep them secure. The bolts could potentially come undone and affect the ability to steer the motorcycle. The dealer network has been instructed to replace the bolts with threadlocked ones, free of charge. Owners will receive notices shortly.

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that allows riders to easily find neutral simply by shifting up from first gear when at a stop. The clutch and brake controls are adjustable and when paired with the optional Ergo Fit reduced reach seat, the Vulcan S can be tailor fitted to riders needs of mutlple size and shapes. The Vulcan is priced at $6,999.00 and $7,399.00 for the ABS model.

DUCATI UNVEILS THEIR NEW ENGINE: THE TESTASTRETTA DVT Ducati’s new Testastretta engine is the first to feature their Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT). The engine’s camshafts intake and exhaust valves are independently adjusted so that at higher RPM’s, the output is at optimum while at middle and lower RPM’s, the power is consistent and smooth. The DVT is designed to adapt to RPM’s and provide peak performance throughout the range.

THE 2015 YAMAHA YZF R3

Yamaha has released their all new 2015 YZF R3. The R3 is an inline two cylinder 320cc motorcycle that is part of the prestigious Yamaha R Series. The R3 features a low seat height of 30.7 inches, light weight ten spoke wheels and a new user friendly, compact LCD dash.

The R3 is available in Team Yamaha Blue/ Matte Silver, Rapid Red and Raven and will have an MSRP of $4,990.00. Bikes are expected to be on dealership floors beginning in March of 2015.

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THE PRESS ROOM DISCOUNT TICKETS FOR THE 2014 INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHOW TOUR DATES The 2014 IMS Tour kicks off on October 31 in Northern California at the San Mateo County Event Center. The tour includes several new dates and a couple of new venues, with hopes to reach newer markets than in previous years. New stops on the tour include Phoenix, Arizona and Miami, Florida. The tour wraps up in Chicago on the weekend of February 13 through 15, 2015.

SportBikes Inc Magazine has once again teamed up with the IMS to offer our readers a 25% off of single day admission tickets when purchased on line at www.motorcycleshows.com. Enter code SPORTBIKESINC15 to receive the discount.

If you plan on attending the New York (December 12-14) or the Washington DC (January 9-11) events, please stop by the SBI booth and say hello!

THE LIMITED EDITION TRIUMPH THRUXTON ACE CAFE SPECIAL Triumph and Ace Cafe London unveiled their new collaboration at the 2014 Barber Vintage Fest in Alabama. The Triumph Thruxton Ace Cafe Special features a special paint scheme and style that honors Triumph’s relationship with the iconic Ace Cafe in North London. Other highlights include a detachable seat hump, authentic bar end mirrors and a sculpted oxblood custom seat. Production of this special edition has been limited to 325 machines and they are expected to be available in December of 2014.

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THE 2015 DUCATI SCRAMBLER Ducati has just unveiled the new Scrambler which will be available in early 2015 in four different models.

The 2015 Scrambler is a revamping of the 1962 Scrambler. Lightweight yet scrappy, the Scrambler possessed a multitude of qualities that made it versatile and functional in urban and rural settings until production ended in 1975.

The 2015 Scrambler features an oil cooled, two valve 803cc, six speed engine with an output of 75 horses and 50 foot pounds of torque. It has a single rotor front brake set up with a  wet cable clutch package. The individual models have their own variances that make them unique unto themselves.

Visit scramblerducati.com to explore the new Scrambler.

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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, I like that you guys find new custom bikes to feature in the magazine like the Busa in the last issue by Pocket Aces Performances. I hate when you see the same bikes over and over again. How do you find bikes to feature? Do people send you pictures or is it kind of a “who you know” type of thing? I ask because my buddy has been building custom bikes for a few years now but has never been able to get his bikes any type of shine.

How can he get some of his bikes in your magazine?

- Keith Clearwater, FL Dear Keith, Thanks for reading and supporting SBI. We get asked this question often and while we definitely have a system for selecting bikes to be featured in the magazine, it really comes down to what our 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

esteemed staff thinks is hot and what will look great in a spread or on the cover. The one major bit of criteria that we strictly adhere to is that we will not publish a custom bike that has already been featured in another publication. To be clear, it is not personal. It’s jut one way that we can keep SBI fresh with the new hotness and not be in a situation where a reader can say, “Hey, I already saw this bike in another magazine.”

Our job as a publication is to present fresh quality content to our readers so we actively search for new custom builds and builders to feature in SBI and we encourage builders and owners to reach out and to show us what they have. Please have your buddy shoot us an email and we’ll take it from there.

Best, SBI Magazine

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DEALERSHIP SPOTLIGHT: CHESTER CITY CYCLE

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Chester City Cycle

CONTACT:

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Dealership name: Chester City Cycle Location: 1195 Chester Pike, Eddystone, PA, United States 19022 Showroom Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00am to 6:00pm, Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday Closed Year established: 2012 Brands serviced: Harley Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki

C

hester City Cycles may be a new shop but they are primed to make a mark in the industry. The shop’s motto is, “If you can think it, we can build it!” It’s that can do attitude backed by serious talent and skilled know how that creates longevity in the industry.

Operating out of a two bay garage just south of Philadelphia, owner Corey Scanlon has taken Chester City Cycles impressively far in the

very short two and a half years that they have been in business. This is credited to dedicated quality work, respect for customers and a desire to deliver the very best in customer service.

Chester City Cycles has established themselves in the region by hosting bike nights every first friday of the month during the riding season.

For 2015, the shop is focused on expanding their customer base and engaging the regional motorcycle community.

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

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THE SHOW

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GARWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES’

“SPEED RACER”

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THE SHOW: SPEED RACER

T

he call came into Garwood Custom Cycles toward the end of July. The idea was to do a complete custom build within two weeks to have it ready for the 2014 Motorcycles on Meridian, which is part of the Indianapolis RedBull MotoGP weekend. Steve Garwood made the decision that the bike to build would be a 2014 Honda CBR 1000RR for a number of reasons but fundamentally, Garwood Custom Cycles had never customized a CBR 1000RR before. Once the plan was set in motion and the sights were locked, the team had two weeks remaining to meet the deadline for the unveil.

Two weeks. Fourteen days. Three hundred thirty six hours. Twenty thousand, one hundred sixty

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minutes.

A fortnight later, when the dust settled and the smoke cleared, Garwood unveiled the 2014 Honda CBR 1000RR as Speed Racer in Indy.

The team’s mission was to bring customization and performance to the Brickyard, marrying the aesthetics of an all out custom bike while incorporating top end performance components. Speed Racer would look the part, talk the talk, walk the walk and ride the ride.

From within, the team relied on the heavy output of the CBR 1000RR’s engine as the foundation but freed some horses and optimized performance via a full Brock’s Alien Head Exhaust. The suspension was greatly

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THE SHOW: SPEED RACER

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improved by the addition of Ohlins front forks and rear shock. Weight was shaved off by replacing the OEM wheels with C and S Custom carbon fiber, hydro dipped race replica wheels. Core Moto’s brake lines are right at home on this build as they are well used in the pro racing arena because of their high quality and durability, yet they offer great custom colors to match the wildest of applications.

Garwood Custom Cycles’ machines have a striking appearance and are recognizable from a distance thanks to their vivid and bold paint schemes. The CBR 1000RR falls right in line with a great paint job by Neyon Paint that captures the fun and excitement of the thrill of racing, complete with electrifying lightning bolts

that race across the sides. The red frame and swingarm peek out from behind rich yellows and bright patterned blues. The red continues throughout the lines of the bike while gunmetal grey and silver heavily compliment the overall theme.

It is the quality, craftsmanship and pride that Garwood Custom Cycles puts into every machine that is created in their shop. Their name and reputation is on the line. Their Speed Racer is another example of their level of execution. Under the gun with only two weeks, Garwood set out to bring customization and performance to the Brickyard over a MotoGP weekend and when the checkered flag waved, Speed Racer took the podium.

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THE SHOW: SPEED RACER

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THE SHOW: SPEED RACER

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Garwood Custom Cycles “SPEED RACER” 2014 Honda CBR 1000RR Engine: K&N Air Filter, Power Commander V Brakes: Brembo Brake Calipers with EBC Rotors. Core Moto Yellow Brake Lines Exhaust: Brock’s Performance Alien Head System.

Suspension: Ohlins Forks and Rear Shock.

Swingarm: C and S Custom 240 Single Sided Swing Arm. Wheels: C and S Custom Hydro Dipped Carbon Fiber Race Replica Wheels.

Tires: Dunlop Q2 Accessories: Custom Seat By Shawn, Performance Machine Grips, CRG Levers, Voodoo Adjustable Foot Peg Assemblies, Tinted Integrated Taillight, Sportbike Lites Blue Light Kit with Headlight Halo and Multifunction Remote Control.

Builder: Garwood Custom Cycles.

Paint: Neyon Paint.

Owner: Garwood Custom Cycles.

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THE SHOW: SPEED RACER

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THE GRID: NEWS MOTOGP: MARC MARQUEZ DOES IT AGAIN!

Marc Marquez finished the Grand Prix of Japan in a very smart second place after an entertaining battle with Valentino Rossi. While Jorge Lorenzo took the number one spot on the podium, Marquez’s second place finished allowed him to garnish enough points to capture the 2014 MotoGP Championship. The Motegi Circuit is

MOTOGP: MARC MARQUEZ DOES IT AGAIN! Monster Energy will continue to serve as the official sponsor for the Yamaha Movistar teams for the next two years per a new agreement. Monster will also continue on as the title sponsor of the Yamaha Tech3 team.

“Monster is once again pleased to announce our continued partnership with Yamaha for our MotoGP program. The Factory Team run by Lin and Hervé’s Tech3 Team always do a great job and we could not be happier to continue such a strong relationship with a view to winning races and championships for years to come.” - Mitch Covington, Vice President of Sports Marketing for Monster Beverage Company.

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considered home for the Honda Racing Group so this accomplishment will be cherished slightly higher than if Marquez had won the championship at another venue. With only three races left in the season, it’s all about the Manufacturer’s points for 2014 but it looks as if Honda is going to snag that prize as well.

MIROCK DRAG RACING: RICKEY GADSON WINS IN THE FINALS AND SETS A NEW RECORD AT THE FAST BY GAST FALL NATIONALS SBI’s own Drag Racing Editor, Rickey Gadson had a dominating weekend at the MIRock 22nd Fast By Gast Fall Nationals. Going into the Real Street Class Finals, Gadson was the number one qualifier with a time of 7.703 at 191.13mph, as he lined up his Kawasaki ZX14R next to John Dobrin’s Suzuki GSX1300R. Gadson took the win with a 7.703 at 190.30mph, setting a new record for the class in the process.

Up next in the MIRock Superbike Series is the Lee’s Performance World Finals, October 31 – November 2, 2014 at Rockingham Dragway. Visit mirockracing.com for the details.

MOTOAMERICA RELEASES THEIR 2015 ROAD RACING SCHEDULE

MotoAmerica has released their 2015 schedule along with their four racing classes.

Noticeably missing from the 2015 dates is the legendary and historical Daytona 200 which has customarily opened the race season for the last 73 years. The 2015 MotoAmerica season will kick off in Austin, TX at the Circuit of the Americas on April 10.

The 2015 MotoAmerica Road Racing Series: April 10-12 Circuit of the Americas April 17-19 Road Atlanta May 15-17 Virginia International Raceway May 29-31 Road America June 12-14 Barber Motorsports Park August 7-9 Indianapolis Motor Speedway September 11-13 NJ Motorsports Park TBD Laguna Seca

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THE GRID: NEWS MOTOGP: SUZUKI WILL BE BACK ON THE GP GRID IN 2015 WITH ALEIX ESPARGARO AND MAVERICK VINALES

Suzuki has been absent from the MotoGP paddock since 2012. They just announced their return and the two pilots for their 2015 premier class efforts. The new GSX-RR will be piloted by Spaniards Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales.

Suzuki will make a wildcard appearance at the finale round of the 2014 season in Valencia.

MOTOAMERICA ANNOUNCES THEIR 2015 RACING CLASSES A total of four classes with compose the 2015 MotoAmerica Racing Series: Superbike, Superstock, Superstock 600 and Supersport.

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The Superbike class will rely on specs from the 2014 AMA PRR chassis rules and borrow from 2015 World Superbike rules in terms of engine and electronics. Riders will be allowed to use two bikes per race event.

Superstock 1000 will based on the rules of the FIM Superstock 1000 class. The brake systems can be swapped out and the use of two bikes that run on slicks will be allowed per race event.

Formerly known as Daytona Sportbikes, the Supersport class will use the same chassis and electronics rules as 2014 AMA PRR. The engines specs are geared toward World Supersport and the bikes will run on slick tires. The class is based on 600cc machines, including 675 three cylinder machines. Riders can only use one bike per race event but a second bike can be on standby and used only if cleared by the technical director.

The Superstock 600 class, formerly known as AMA PRR Supersport, rule’s will be based upon AMA PRR Supersport and FIM Supertock 600 classes.

Both Superstock classes will run together but will be scored separately.

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THE GRID

Images: Brian J. Nelson

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

ROGER HAYDEN

“I

#95

chose #95 because when I first started racing, Anthony Gobert had that number and I thought it looked cool on the bike. I liked his riding style. Luckily for me, my second year when I was allowed to choose a two digit number, he wasn’t racing in the states and I was able to get it!”

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True Champion

Marc Marquez Repsol Honda Team

THE ULTIMATE HIGH SPEED PERFORMANCE CHAIN The specifically designed XW Ring has three contact lips and two convex stabilizers. This means three lubrication pools to protect against high speed abrasion, extreme heat build up, torsional flex and the loss of lubricant.

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Racing Levers

Bar ends

Spools

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SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 41 Hi-Tech Parts - Our passion ever since

THE GRID

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TURN ONE: NEW ZEALAND

WORDS AND IMAGES: SANDRA STAMMOVA

I

n 2008 I made the decision to go to New Zealand to study English for three months. I actually never came back home since I found my biggest passion there... Racing.

In February of 2008, I landed in New Zealand, hardly speaking English. Although, I thought how fantastic my English was after studying it for nine years in Slovakia. I was very wrong. I couldn’t understand almost a single word... Strange as it might sound but people didn’t speak English in a Slovakian accent. My dad lived there and it was very nice to see him after eight years. After only two short months of study, I moved to the center of Auckland where I found an English speaking flatmate to learn the language faster.

I applied for lots of jobs with many companies as I was very confident with my fresh engineering degree. Within two weeks I had was an assistant manager in a big taxi company as well as an alpine skiing coach for juniors and adults. I thought that I would just extend my trip for three months more to get more experience and to improve my English. My boss at the time asked me, “How can I keep you here for longer? What do you miss the most?”

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THE GRID: TURN ONE “The rest of my close family... And my motorbike.” I replied.

Since he couldn’t bring my family to New Zealand for me, the next day he took me to a bike shop and we bought 2005 Honda CBR under the condition that I would work harder than what I was already.

My first track day was about two weeks later at the Pukekohe Circuit not too far from Auckland. It’s an old, pretty short, bumpy and fast track. I had old road tyres mounted as I didn’t think it was that important. I was wearing Kevlar gear with trainers!

Thank God I had a proper helmet and gloves because on the third session, I had a massive highside. I was the last rider on the track and despite nobody seeing my crash I had some luck and was able just to roll off the track. Despite my massive off, I realized who I was, my sport, my dream, my passion, my motivation to wake up every morning and work towards getting back on track as soon as possible.

After three months, we fixed my bike. My body was also newish and ready to test at the Manfield race track. From then on, I started to do track days on a regular base. I improved very fast... Not that I have a big head about it, these are just the facts. I have never been afraid of speed. It was the opposite for me. The faster I rode, the more satisfaction I got out of my riding. I found riding motorcycles on the track very similar to alpine skiing which was my sport I did professionally for so many years. For example, the way you pick your lines on the race track has got the same principal as when you think about the fastest line you take through the slalom except for this difference... That you rely on your tyres and not on your sharp edges on the skis. The G force is also very very high in both sports. You are using your body strength, core, legs, arms, neck, etc. and technique to make the bike to turn or hold the line and in alpine skiing you also lean inside the turn with your body, especially hips and use mostly the strength of your legs and core to fight the G force. You need to build up and get up to speed in both sports step by step as you know what happens if you go first lap on fresh rubber after a long time not riding full throttle. I exactly know what happens as I tested it few times hitting the ground as an unexperienced rider or tearing my ligaments as a brave or more likely stubborn skier. The biggest difference comparing these two sports for me is the importance of team work in motorcycle racing. With motorbikes, you always have got someone to chase and pass until you are at 44 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

the front of the pack, which is also very mentally demanding as you know you have got riders chasing your butt and you need to stay focused on your own game. Just you and the track, no distractions. I was falling in love with this sport more every time I rode. I loved the fact there is so much to it and so much to learn and things are never the same. It is a constant challenge for a hard working team trying to make the bike perfect in different weather conditions and at different tracks. The rider also feels differently every time he or she rides. It’s never the same and the development of the suspension, chassis, other characteristics of the bike, strategies or rider tuning is constant.

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THE GRID: TURN ONE

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I think after four months of doing track days, we upgraded our bike with new standard Honda Fireblade, which was a promo bike of New Zealand legend and former WSBK rider Aaron Slight. It was very kind of the Honda guys to pass that bike on to us. I later met Aaron at one of the track days at Taupo when he was offering coaching. I was riding my new bike, well his old bike, while he was coaching. I came to ask him few times if he could take me around and show me his lines but he was always booked with someone else. So I thought I woud follow them around anyway and see what happens. I passed them later on and was getting faster and faster every lap. You wouldn’t believe but Aaron came to my garage after the session and gave me a compliment.

Aaron said, “I don’t think you can go possibly much faster on that bike. You should start racing.” That was the day I was convinced what I felt was right and I really wanted to race.

I knew I wouldn’t be an over night success. My first season of racing started in the Superbike class in the New Zealand Superbike winter series. We raced at Manfield and Taupo. I must say I was very raw rider and I kept crashing my brains out but every time I road I went faster. I think my best finish was fifth at Manfield. Our bike didn’t have many modifications and I also didn’t understand much about suspension and all the other attributes I was supposed to look for and provide a feedback.

The most important thing for me was to ride faster every time and improve in every dimension so I could beat my closest rival at the time.

In the beginning, I was very stubborn and wanted to run before I could walk. I wanted to learn jump by jump, as I call it. I was riding with my heart not with my brain which wasn’t always ideal. But I couldn’t control it at the time. I was very unexperienced far from complete rider who can use his brain to his advantage. That’s the fact. But it would all soon change.

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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.

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THE GRID

THE INSIDE TRACK

WORDS: COREY ALEXANDER IMAGES: KEITH RIZZO

I

t’s crazy how fast time seems to go by the older and older I get especially being as busy as I am. Three weeks ago I was in Ocean City, Maryland for H2Oi for those of you in the car scene. It’s very similar to bike week. It is supposed to be German cars but, most recently it’s for any car in general. There’s tons of rad stuff down there and I was fortunate enough to take an F40 down and shut it all down. That’s a whole story in itself but back to bikes.

Two weeks ago I was in Austin, Texas riding at Circuit of the Americas! Definitely the most beautiful track in the U.S. It literally feels like you’ve left the country and gone to some amazing racetrack in Europe. Riding there was definitely a dream come true. Hopefully, in the future we will be able to race there, particularly under the new leadership of MotoAmerica.

For those of you who don’t know, since 2007 leading up to just this fall the AMA Pro Racing was owned by Daytona Motorsports Group who also owns NASCAR. They had acquired the AMA from AMA Ohio or the American Motorcyclists Association and since have ran it basically completely into the ground so much so that one would wonder if perhaps they were just using it as a tax right off to big brother NASCAR. At the conclusion of the shortest season in late AMA history, only five races, it was decided by Wayne Rainey and friends

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that perhaps motorcycle racing in America needed a boost, or maybe a whole entire shot of steroids to get it back going again. With that said after a few months of discussions with DMG they were able to come to an agreement and purchase AMA Pro Roadracing.

Wayne Rainey and friends have very strong ties to both AMA Ohio and Dorna whom owns MotoGP. With the support of the two, it’s seemingly impossible that they can fail to rejuvenate racing the in the U.S. I hope to see a return to many of the tracks that DMG pissed off such as VIR and a few others. It seems based upon what’s been released already that the structure has been realigned to the rest of the world and what the old AMA used to be based off with a system that actually works as a ladder to help riders grow as opposed to anchor them down. 1000 Superbike, 1000 Superstock, 600 Supersport, and 600 Superstock are what the core classes will be.

The names actually coincide with the rule structures of every class as well. Crazy right?

I’m very very excited to see what the future holds for both the rest of the riders in the U.S., our youth, and myself as motorcycle racing in America so desperately needs the support it deserves. Americans are the best at everything else, its about time we take back the crown for motorcycle racing. #MERICA

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Avalon Biddle

AVALON BIDDLE

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NAME: Avalon Biddle HOMETOWN: Orewa, New Zealand AGE: 22 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Italian Moto3 Championship, New Zealand 600cc Supersport.

GOALS: To win a large national 600 championship such as AMA, BSB or CIV. Race in the world championship.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

2013 Third Mastercup Stock 600 Mugello 2013 Ninth New Zealand Supersport 600 2012 Second Italian Women’s 600 Championship 2011 Second New Zealand 125GP Championship 2011 Wildcard in World 125GP Phillip Island 2010 Second New Zealand 125GP Championship 2009 New Zealand GP Winner

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Two wheels, one love.

CONTACT: WWW.AVALONBIDDLE.COM

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e k i d l ies l u g o o l w o a G n r N h I c C fo e A s T R r m ! o N u n s i A n aso n M o n Y p e e l s W s l i l LE k M oya 2014 Y K an ny l ful h t a s s m to e d an succ

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

LINES OF A LEGEND WORDS: RICKEY GADSON IMAGES: RICKEY GADSON

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FIGHTING

AGAINST

THE CLOCK SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 59

THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

A

s a racer who's been in the business of motorcycle drag racing as long as I have, it's very easy to lose the desire and or the ability to turn on the green "Win" light when you’re racing against the youthful talents of today's young up and coming racers especially when some of them have even been trained and groomed by you. And as a teacher, I'm  not holding back while teaching them what it takes to be a winner at my drag racing school.

Now when you line up against these same guys whose confidence you have helped build like I have over the last five years, they are ready to show and prove. I have had to line up against my students as we race in the same class trying to turn on the win light.

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2013's race season ended with me winning the last couple races so expectations at the start of the season where really high about winning a championship in the only organization I have never won a championship in, which is the MIROCK series.

After parking my bike in my garage at the close of last season and not touching it til the opening race this season, one might think that it would run exactly as it did when I parked it for the winter. Which is why I didn't make any changes to the winning combination I felt I had over the winter months. Well that and the fact that I have so many other "irons in the fire" career wise and no time to test, that I told myself the bike was perfect and ready to go.

When I rolled into the first race this year in

March at "The Rock" things just fell apart!

The same bike that had dominated the last few races of last year would not even get down the race track cleanly at the season opener. I spent all day Friday and Saturday during qualifying trying to figure out what the problem was. I ended up losing first round of competition on Sunday just minutes before the race was postponed due to rain. Which meant if I had only made it past first round I would have several months to prepare before the continuation of that race. I wasn't prepared and that was all on me.

At the second race in April at Maryland International Raceway my bad luck continued.

After qualifying number three and making it all way to the final 4, the gremlins returned which caused me to not even make it off the starting

line which meant I was slowly burying my chances of finally winning a championship this year.

After a visit to Jones Performance in May things started to turn around quickly as my bike was back to championship status... or so I thought.

After winning the next two races at the June Rockingham, N.C. race and the world’s largest attended all motorcycle race at WPGC Bike fest (thanks to Jones Performance and my amazing team at the race track), the MIROCK series rolled into Atco raceway (my home track and stomping ground) where I planned on a "three-peat".  But after plan A was completed which was qualifying on the pole in front of family and friends, it was now time to put Plan B in place...

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: LINES OF A LEGEND

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Unfortunately I let a few distractions at the line cause me to forget to activate my boost controller and once again let the same guy beat me who beat me the last time my bike wasn't running right (at the rained out March race) triumph again.

After suspecting a problem from Atco, I payed another visit to Jones Performance and Chris immediately found our problem of losing boost which looked like it had been affecting the bikes performance most of the year. With this problem now fixed, Chris warned about the bike now being unrideable with the same tuneup.

After a quick trip to a test session in Valdosta which proved his theory was correct. The bike was like a bucking Bronco but still went close to the same et I was running on a perfect pass

earlier in the season.

Upon arriving super early at the MIROCK fall nationals, I was the first one to go down the racetrack and instantly saw the difference as my bike ran a  career best 7.76 right off the trailer.

After running the tables at the Fall nationals with the now largest racer turnout of 800 motorcycles, I ended up being #1 Qualifier, Set the fastest turbo and overall  record with a 7.70 and even won the race!

Now team Gadson is back into striking distance of the number 1 guy in the points. We are currently separated by 37 points with one race left. But I must now turn my focus to the fact that the new Kawasaki H2 is about to be shown to the U.S. Motorcycle world in a week again with no time to focus solely on racing.

Stay tuned.

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

THE YOUNGEST IN CHARGE WORDS: DYSTANY SPURLOCK IMAGES: TERRENCE BELTON

W

hat a wonderful and fun filled weekend I had at the final MIRock race of the season.

The weather was perfect. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky. There were records being broken in almost every class. It was definitely a race weekend that you did not want to miss.

Of course having a weekend that begins so perfect will also have a few set backs and obstacles that one has to overcome. Often, those set backs can help you. They prepare you for what is to come.

For example, my last few races I have had the worst luck of all time. My bike was having issues that I couldn’t seem to resolve. It was in July that my bike continuously bogged on every pass at the WPGC Bike Fest. I literally took my bike apart twelve different times to try to figure out the problem. I was unsuccessful. I went to other racers that had been racing for years for advice and no one could come up with a solution. Needless to say since my motorcycle was not capable of running the numbers that it needed to in order to be competitive. I was out in the first round of each race. Once that race weekend was over I was on a mission to figure out what was wrong with my bike. I decided to take my bike to Cecil of HTP Performance. I know that they know what they are doing when it comes to speaking about motorcycles because they were the first to get a Pro Street Motorcycle into the 6’s on the drag strip. If you are not familiar with the Pro Street class it is a class in the Mirock Superbike Series that is a sports bike with certain rules and regulations that you must follow all while going a certain time. Ultimately, it is a Sportsbike Street Tire motorcycle. So I took my BMW S1000rr to their shop to see if we could figure out why my bike had been giving me this issue. Cecil told me that he could not figure out why my bike was bogging but decided to put my bike on the Dyno because 66 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

if it was something internal then the Dyno could show it. Once again the Dyno Machine showed nothing. We all had our hands up with question marks floating around our heads. Two weeks after I had picked my bike up from the show I decided to go to the race track because I was suffering from Bike Cabin Fever. I went to Virginia Motorsports Park for a bike event that they were having. My first pass down the race track, my bike went a 8.51 in the 1/4 mile. I was stunned due to the face that we were unable to figure out why my bike was bogging previously and out of no where my bike was working just fine. I did not complain. I was very thankful that my bike was working. Sometime the bike has a mind of its own. Going through all of those obstacles showed me that no matter how hard you try to make something work in your favor, if it is not your time then it will not be. Sometimes, we as racers we have to go through different things to become strong in all aspects.

So going through all of what I went through, it showed me to have patience when the going gets tough. I definitely have prepared myself for what is to come. It showed me to test my bike before going to any event. It showed me to look over my bike from top to bottom. I am preparing myself to be a champion. Even Carmelo Anthony missed the playoffs… It happens to the best of us. Sometimes we have to have a major set back to bring us up higher then we could ever imagine.

In qualifying I had spun once due to a lack of proper air pressure in my tire for the temperature.

But once I changed it I was in the top ten for qualifying. In the 5.60 index class I raced the closest race that I have ever competed in. I went a 5.612 at 127MPH to my opponent’s 5.603 at 118MPH. That race was so close, we were both

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

looking at each other to see who was going to win. We both applauded one another once we got to the return road. It was amazing and I couldn’t have asked for a better race. All of what I have went though this season has prepared me for what is yet to come in the year of 2015. I am going for

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the championship. I would like to congratulate my Uncle Rickey Gadson for winning the Real Street Race. He is my role model when it comes to drag racing. I have my eye on the prize for next year. I’m focused on making some history of my own.

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Vickie Brice Lloyd Guest

VICKIE GUEST

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NAME: Vickie Guest HOMETOWN: Greer, S.C. AGE: 27 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Motorcycle Grudge Racing GOALS: To qualify for and compete in the MIROCK Superbike Series 5.60 and 8.88 classes, as well as qualify for and compete in the NHRA Summit Series Bike classes at Atlanta Dragway for the 2015 race season. I will expand and begin participating in bracket classes as well continue in the grudge racing scene at local events. I wish to bring notice to all of the females out there, fighting for respect and recognition in this male dominated sport!

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: With the help of my sponsors Hardcore Cycles, ProSpeed Racing Apparel, APE, and Renegade Services, as well as few awesome friends I have been able to pursue my dream. I have won a few grudge races and participated in local bracket events such as the American Red Cross Race.

Gaining exposure and experience with each track day.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: When you lock that throttle and fly down the track as fast as humanly possibly the feeling that overcomes your body is so intense it leaves you wanting more and more! It is truly an addiction!

CONTACT:

WWW.VICKIEGUESTRACING.WEEBLY.COM

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THE REV LIMITER

THE MAIN POINTS WORDS: DENA SODANO IMAGES: UK07FILMS

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INDIA’S 2014 BIKE FESTIVAL T

his month I tracked down and caught up with fellow rider and one of the original members of the Florida O Town riding crew, Chris Tice. For those of you who do not know, Tice is the official XDL Director of Competition, a regular show emcee, Sportbike Freestyle Judge and not to mention... quite the traveling gypsy. This time Tice’s travels brought him and freestyle rider Aaron Twite into the heart of India last month for the country’s 2014 Bike Festival of India.

Dena Sodano: For starters, what is the 2014 Bike Festival of India?

Chris Tice: Well, it is the Bike Festival of India! Do I have to explain? All kidding aside, there are not a lot of big or full sized motorcycle festivals that take place in India. This event was designed to bring all kinds of motorcyclists together to share in their passion of bikes and riding. There was a little bit of everything including live performing bands, Drag racing, road racing and of course the XDL National Championship.

DS: This was the very first XDL competition outside of the USA! How big is the stunt scene in India? What type of motorcycles do they ride and stunt with?

CT: When you think of the “big” scenes in stunt riding, the first SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 75

THE REV LIMITER: THE MAIN POINTS thing that comes to your mind is not India. But the shocker here is that stunt riding is way bigger here than it is in the United States. There are so many teams and individual riders that kill it. I know some people hate because they do ride smaller bikes and scooters, but larger or full sized motorcycles are not readily available like they are in other parts of the world or the states. A brand new 600CC sport bike in India would be over $40,000 in US dollars! Regardless of the size of the bikes the riders here straight kill it. I am not saying that they kill it on small bikes. I am saying that they are straight up talented.

DS: How would you describe the judging and competing aspect of it?

CT: At the 2014 Bike Fest of India, there were almost 60 riders registered to compete in two separate classes. A Geared Class and a Non geared Class, a.k.a. scooters. We did some really cool qualifying jam sessions and the riders were heavily judged on the overall category of skill level, execution, etc. The riding was so good that Aaron Twite and myself had our hands full trying to find the winner.

DS: How many stops are there to the XDL India Series?

CT: This year we are only doing one stop but we are hoping to

CHRIS TICE AND AARON TWITE

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MONTY

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THE REV LIMITER: THE VIOLET MAIN STARS...

POINTS

Atinderjeet from the Totally Insane Riderz 78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Anirudh Rived

change that in the upcoming year. I can't say anything yet, but I am positive that this will not be the only XDL Competition in India.

DS: Are there “stunt parks” or local spots riders have to contend with?

CT: The stunt scene in India is just like the American stunt scene... Practice whenever, wherever and however. We didn't come across any stunt parks but after talking with the riders we discovered that they would and do practice anywhere and anytime that they can.

DS: What are your future plans?

CT: My future plans? I am hoping to get through this trip and then I’m going back to the USA where I will be working on a lot of big adventures with XDL and my Harley Stunt Team, the Street Cowboys. I can’t say too much but if things follow through it is going to be a fun, chaotic, and adventure filled 2015 for sure.

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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Eder Garcia de Souza

EDER GARCIA DE SOUZA

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NAME: Eder Garcia de Souza HOMETOWN: Brazil AGE: 29 ASSOCIATION/AFFILIATIONS/SERIES: Federação Brasileira de Wheeling GOALS: My main goal is to surpass myself every day.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Participation in Brazilian and states championships.

DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Stunt is the pleasure of adrenalin coursing in the veins!

CONTACT:

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ADVERTISE WITH

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION AND RATES, EMAIL INFO@SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

HTTP://SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE LIFE: FEATURED CLUB

Images: Courtesy of Newark Knights M.C.

Rocker Interpretation: The Newark Knights wear a three piece rocker vest that in it’s simplicity, speaks volumes. The valuable color of gold that represents “hope” is utilized as the top and bottom rocker with stoic fonts to indicate the name of the club. The focal point of the club’s vest is the center shield upon which the profile of a Knight’s head stands at attention and at the ready.

History/Origin of Club: In 1972, Gregg Braunstein decided to organize independent riders into a motorcycle club. He drew inspiration from an organization formed as a result of the infamous Newark riots called “New Ark Center”. Seeing themselves as the Knights of Newark, their the official name became the New Ark Knights Motorcycle Club. Years later, a new set of colors were created that read “Newark Knights MC.” Since the beginning, the club has contributed to the history and growth of the New Newark. The “Newark Knights Motorcycle Club” became the foremost organization of bikers in the city of Newark, N.J.

NEWARK KNIGHTS M.C. CHAPTER: Newark, N.J. FOUNDED: 1972 MEMBERS: 30 ELECTED OFFICIALS:

PRESIDENT: Royal VICE PRESIDENT: Gregg SERGEANT AT ARMS: Rude Boy ROAD CAPTAIN: Prime Time FINANCIAL CHAIR: Lane BUSINESS MANAGER: Gerri PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER: Lady Groove SECRETARY: Jean CORRESPONDENCE SECRETARY: Yvonne

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Club milestones/memorable moments: The Newark Knights first resided in an old electrical store on Washington Street, located in downtown Newark. Two years later, the club moved to our present location on Springfield Avenue in Newark.

The Newark Knights have hosted many club parties and traveled to many different clubs in many states.

The club “Lefty’s Magnificent Ones MC” of Newark used to host the Mother’s Day Bike Blessing. In 1976, the Magnificent Ones passed the torch onto the Newark Knights to run the event. Since then, the Mother’s Day Bike Blessing has been held at the Newark Knights Motorcycle Club and continues to grow larger every year.

Super Sunday at Melody Lake was one of the biggest summer events of the year. After many successful years, the land was developed and Super Sunday was no more. We also used to go to Rahway Park, where the club started hosting bike cook outs on Sundays. Today they continue the tradition with our cookout at Thompson Park, bringing together bike clubs from all over, family and friends to enjoy a day of food, fun and laughs.

Other Knight events include Harley Day and Sports

Bike Day, both of which are hosted in September.

Our Annual Trophy Party is held in November.

The club celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2012.

Throughout the years, the Newark Knights have been committed to the growth and development of Newark’s youth. In 2006, they started the Newark Knights M.C. Scholarship Fund. The Knights also host an annual Children’s Day Celebration to help prepare Newark’s youths for back to school by providing much needed book bags and other school supplies.

Other charitable accomplishments include our Toys for Tots Christmas Toy Drive as well as clothing drives for the local shelters. We are also involved with the HIV Awareness Campaign, Bikers Against Breast Cancer and Bikers Against Diabetes.

Future of the club: The Newark Knights are fully committed to supporting both the City of Newark and its youth. Further and of equal importance is their desire to promoting safe riding within the Motorcycle Community.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

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THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN

EXPOSED

WORDS AND IMAGES: LION JAMES

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L:

“You could get seriously hurt or worse if you go down.”

R: “I don’t plan on going down.”

L: “But it’s not a matter of whether or not you get hurt if you go down, you will most certainly be hurt if you go down plus nobody plans to go down.”

R: “Yeah but I’m not out here to ride and crash.”

Are men and women superficial enough to choose vanity and attention over safety? It would seem to me that the mystery of a helmeted rider holds much more appeal than the perceived confidence of a helmetless rider but perhaps my outlook is skewed.

I can see how engaging in a dangerous activity with careless abandon or disregard for the risk can display a certain amount or bravery, confidence L: “Okay but what about all the other hazards like and excitement but are women walking down the bugs, damage to your hearing and just the overall street looking at men on motorcycles with no helmet risk associated with having your dome exposed like winking at them thinking to themselves “wow look that? C’mon man! You gotta be smarter than that.” at him all risking his life and what not?” When a R: “Yeah but if I rock a lid then the bitches won’t man sees a woman on two wheels, which let’s face see me, know what I’m sayin’?” it is already pretty damn sexy, does she become instantly more attractive or alluring because he That was a short conversation I had with a friend can see her hair or the color of her lipstick? I may of mine who despite not wearing a helmet when not be of the popular opinion if I say no but then riding unless the law requires it is quite a skilled again it’s not my answers to these questions that I motorcyclist. While I disagree with his practice of want to understand better. I have only ever ridden riding without a helmet and find his responses to my without a helmet twice in my riding career (save questions about it a bit juvenile and irresponsible, for the few times here and there I cruise around the I can’t make him protect himself. All I can do is neighborhood after making some adjustment to the hope for the best and keep my fingers crossed or bike, putt putting around the paddock area at the pray to the Flying Spaghetti Monster that I never track or thru the lot and thru ways at motorcycle get a call or text that he’s gone down and wasn’t events I’m working) and neither of those times was wearing his helmet at the time. This exchange enjoyable because of the missing helmet. The between “R” and me, as well as many instances latter of those two instances was in Myrtle Beach where I’ve seen motorcyclists out and about for Atlantic Bike Week back in 2008 and it was “naked,” got me to taking a good look at what one of those “everybody’s doing it” situations where motivates some folks to take such risks and expose I followed the crowd just to sort of fit in and see themselves to certain injury or worse while riding. what the big fuss was about. That was the last time Why would a motorcyclist forego such a vital I rode exposed and for good reason. piece of personal protective equipment? What is it that I am missing because I simply wouldn’t ride That brings me to my next theory on why without a helmet? Why do some motorcyclists ride motorcyclists choose to ride without a helmet. I call exposed? it “The Lemming Paradox.” The concept that people will follow the crowd and do what someone else I assume or at least I hope that “R” was joking is doing just for the sake of fitting in or giving into when he made mention of women seeing his face peer pressure despite the inherent risk. I heard while riding as justification for the risk of riding “awe why are you wearing your lid, no one wears with no helmet but I can’t be sure. Is this really a helmets down here” every time we went out for a factor for motorcyclists when deciding whether or ride and I was the only one in a group of maybe not to adorn a helmet before throwing a leg over? twelve rocking a helmet on two. The follow the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 89

THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN

crowd mentality where motorcyclists, especially new motorcyclists or those cutting their teeth in the Motorcycle Club community, emulate what they see around them is very pervasive in the urban motorcycle community in PA where I lived and rode early on. In some cases the desire to be like those around you works in the favor of a new motorcyclist insomuch as it pushes you be ride better, faster, farther or more aggressively.

Maybe it’s the desire to be like the rest that influences my peers in the motorcycle community to leave the helmet at home when venturing out on their motorcycles. As if they’ve forgotten what high school was like, they are eager to fit in or sit at life’s popular kids’ table at lunch?

You’ve seen it as much as I have and no doubt you know and ride with a motorcyclist or two who has at times or prefers in general to ride without On the flip side that same desire to follow the a helmet. I personally can’t comprehend how wearing anything less than a full face helmet while crowd can lead the inexperienced down a path riding is comfortable but I am probably more safety to failure, embarrassment and injury. Many a new oriented than most on or off the bike. Between motorcyclist has tried to keep up and ride how or the deafening sound of the wind while riding at where they have no business riding only to end up on the ground or shook after a near miss. Perhaps highway speeds, having lost an expensive pair of it’s not vanity or some over stimulated version of two sunglasses on a ride, the tears sweeping across wheel flirtation that drives people to ride exposed. my face while squinting, trying to keep my mouth 90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

approved helmet) is as alluring to motorcyclists as any other freedom that riding provides. People driving in their cars and trucks choose to not wear seat belts every day so why not choose to not wear a helmet on two wheels. It’s not my choice and may not be yours but who are we to discount that personal freedom for someone else? Freedom to be foolish or freedom to ride and live the way you want to, no matter how you look at it it’s a choice that all motorcyclists have and I have to respect I suppose there could be a more progressive and less superficial reason a motorcyclist, biker, rider or their choice regardless of my own beliefs and whatever you classify yourselves as would choose to tendencies. Living and riding in Pennsylvania where there is no helmet law I saw helmetless motorcyclists ride without the protection of a helmet. At the root my whole life and it wasn’t until I started riding of some motorcyclists’ willingness to ride exposed could be one of the most basic desirable aspects of that I realized the risks involved. As I developed motorcycles themselves…freedom. The freedom to and grew as a motorcyclist I made up my own not wear a helmet when riding (in states that have mind about wearing my helmet while riding and no law mandating the use of a DOT and, or SNELL the same freedom that permits motorcyclists who closed to prevent accidentally swallowing bugs and the constant nagging worry about not only getting hurt should this ride not end well but actually losing my life to even a minor low side off just because my precious brain bucket was exposed to the asphalt I decided very quickly after embarking on that last helmetless ride that this way of rolling was not for me.

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THE LIFE: THE LION’S DEN

ride exposed to do so is what gives me the right to do the opposite. Thinking back on “R’s” replies to me when I questioned him about riding without a helmet I guess he was simply exercising his freedom to not ride with a helmet while trying to catch the eye of some women… Just like all the other motorcyclists who do the same.

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park and remove my helmet to get a good look at the green eyes, the popular kids be damned and my freedom to choose a helmet each time I ride should no more be chastised than someone else’s freedom to not because I’d rather be cock blocked by caution, considered a gear whoring lame and proudly speak out from under my helmeted head high on my soapbox than to ride exposed.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Mike Zeleny LOCATION: New York, N.Y. OCCUPATION: CEO of Sport Bike Riders and Hot Chicks.

YEARS RIDING: 20 plus years.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2009 Suzuki GSXR 1000 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: The flashed ECU.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Suomy Apex helmet.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Too many to name!

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Steven Godfrey LOCATION: Franklinville, N.J. OCCUPATION: Retired N.J. D.O.C. Sergeant.

YEARS RIDING: 40 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2012 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: None.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Speed and Strength Jacket.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: 2014 Philadelphia STCD Cheesesteak Run Season Opener.

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FEATURED THE LIFE FEATURED LIFE:RIDER FEATURED RIDERS RIDERS

Kevin Smith AKA Blk Dynamite

LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA

OCCUPATION: Retired, former Transit Police Officer YEARS RIDING: 10 years.

RIDING STYLE: I love street riding.

BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Kawasaki ZX14 AKA Blk Mamba.

FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My M4 Exhaust and Power Commander 5.

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My helmet and leathers.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My most memorable ride was coming

back from Atlantic City one afternoon with a few friends. We got from A.C. to the Ben Franklin Bridge in 25 minutes.

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Mandy Mcgarry LOCATION: Honolulu, Hawaii OCCUPATION: Operations Manager and Model.

YEARS RIDING: 4 years.

RIDING STYLE: Street and if I ever live on the mainland again where there is a track, then track too!

BIKE/S OWNED: 2011 Triumph 675R. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: It’s stock on the R, but definitely the quick shifter!

FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Alpinestars boots.

MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: TN/NC Tail of the Dragon trip with my motorcycle club, Euro Knightz.

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

QUICK TURNS

WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: ERIC WOOD/DUCATI

I

t was a complaint that I have heard many times before. One of my students who had been racing for a few years and had hit a plateau. He was running towards the front of the Amateur class but the problem was that there had been a slow, steady stream of other riders who had worked their way to the front of the field and graduated to the Expert class. Every time one rider moved up, another seemed to drop the time needed to move to the front. He was stuck at a lap time and frustrated.

This rider had a good baseline of skills; good body position, loose on the bars and a solid set of reference points around the track. After riding with him a couple laps, I quickly realized that the problem was that he was too smooth. Simply put, the time that it took to go from fully upright to full lean was too long. At first glance, his trek through the corner sounds fine. As he neared his turn points he would slowly ease off the brakes and his perfectly composed chassis would lean over and carve to the apex. As he rolled through the middle of the corner he would finish his turn and then gradually apply the throttle as his bike stood up.

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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: QUICK MAKE THE TURNS PADS TOUCH When we look at his trip through the corner more closely the major problem is uncovered. To illustrate, let's look at two riders who enter a given corner and are traveling 67mph when a turn is initiated. That means that the motorcycles they are riding are traveling about 100 feet per second. If Rider #1 (Red) takes 0.5 seconds to go from fully upright to full lean and rider #2 (Blue) takes a full second, then rider #2 consumes 50 feet more racetrack to get to the turn done. My student was just like the rider we will call Blue. Diagram A illustrates this hypothetical entrance where this important 50 feet goes.

Each rider has a pair of black dots on their line that represents when the turn starts and stops. If Blue tries to use the same turn in point as Red, he will miss the apex. This is shown by a light blue line that misses the apex by several feet and then runs off the track at the exit.

This would be the result if Blue came into the corner and attempted to use the same turn point as Red. Since Blue does not want to miss the apex and run off the track, he will instead move his turn point earlier until he no longer misses the apex. Unfortunately, this effectively shortens the available braking zone by the distance A (about 25 feet). Since Blue still needs to slow down to the same speed as Red at the apex, Blue must now start braking 25 feet earlier in order to make the corner.

Unfortunately, the problems for Blue don't end there. Since Red gets his direction change done quickly, he is able to release bar input and get back on the throttle early. You will notice that while both riders have the same apex point, they are pointed in slightly different directions on the exit. The trajectory of Blue at the apex requires him to continue to turn until just after the apex. This delays the start of his drive down the next straightaway by the distance B (the other 25 feet), causing Blue to be several mph slower than Red for the next 1000 feet when the process starts all over again. Going back to my student, the lack of drive was the biggest thing holding him back from getting to the next level.

At the Penguin School, one of the concepts that we teach is that the fast line is nearly always the line with the lowest risk. It is clear from the previous diagram that Red spends less time on the edge of the tire than Blue. For the 50 extra feet that Blue is turning he has a lesser ability to change lines, make adjustments or add extra brake to avoid an obstacle. In addition, there is no additional risk in turning the bike more quickly when done properly.

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DIAGRAM A

get the bike to full lean as quickly as possible. Due to gyroscopic stability, the bike can also handle much greater bar inputs at high speeds. Going back to the rider that I was working with in the beginning of the story, we picked out two of the faster corners of the track to work on this skill first. Before a rider starts to work on turning quickly, it is critical that he has become proficient enough with his body position that he is able to completely relax his arms at full lean.

Without this mandatory skill, taking the next step in this process can be problematic.

Since my student was comfortable at full lean and able to ride loose, I knew that he was ready to start implementing quick turns. Since all turns are initiated with bar input, the process of turning more quickly begins simply with using a little more force in the bars when the bike is upright. There are two important points to note when you start this process; (1) it only takes a small increase in force to make the bike turn more quickly and (2) the only place that the bike needs more bar input is when the bike is nearly upright (see DIAGRAM B), and that as the bike leans in your hands must completely relax.

I counseled my rider that the first time he tried to increase his initial bar effort that he would likely apex the corner far too early. This is exactly the feedback that we are looking for. If a rider can easily get to the apex of a corner early, then that is a clear indication that the motorcycle is not near the limit of traction. With this data a rider can confidently push the turn in point deeper into the corner and also know that they can carry more entrance speed.

As with all things, there is a limit to how much bar effort is prudent.

The point of this technique is to be quick and precise with your turns, but not overly aggressive. If riders use too much force the bike will need time to settle from the input, delaying the drive. The final adjustments to entrance speed, turn point and bar effort come by analyzing the most critical point of every corner, the point of throttle SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 103

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: QUICK TURNS

DIAGRAM B

application. In a drive focused corner like the example above, the rider should be able to crack the gas on just before the apex. Riders will continue to add entrance speed and increase turn rate until they are no longer able to get back on the gas at the predetermined point.

After two sessions working on a specific corner, my student was also able to stop his bar input well before the apex. This changed his drive off the next corner dramatically and resulted in a full second drop in his times. The moral of his story came from his comment after his change, in which he noted that he not only was faster but he also felt like he was at lower risk of a high side through the entire exit. All it took was a little extra bar effort over center and then an adjustment to his turn point. Next time you find yourself having to turn through or past the apex of a corner leading to a straight, give this a try. The results can be great for both your lap times and your confidence.

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

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TOURING ON A SPORTBIKE

WORDS AND IMAGES: JOANNE DONN

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’ll be honest, it’s not the most comfortable way to ride long distance. A better idea would be to tour on something like a BMW F800GS. But some of us can only afford to have one motorcycle in the garage. For me, that means riding a mostly stock, 2006 Suzuki SV650. Since it’s not what you would call the best option for long distance touring, there are definitely some things you may have to do in order to achieve the most comfortable ride.

You might be wondering, why? Why on earth would I ride for so long and go somewhere I’ve never been? I guess the simple answer is why not? If there’s one thing I’ve learned about motorcycling, it’s the fact that you should be constantly evolving as a rider. Always learning, exploring, and trying to better your riding skills. But not only your riding skills, but your experiences as well. I can’t tell you how awesome it is to ride on a totally new road, meet new people and ride somewhere you haven’t ever been before.

Although I’ve yet to ride across country, I’ve mostly done a lot of 800 to 1,200 mile weekends since that’s all I’ve had time to plan for. I think I will need a completely different bike to tackle that kind of cross country trip. In the meantime, I’m still planning on riding as much and as far as I can on my SV. If you’re thinking about taking a few days to ride further than you’ve ridden before, here are a few tips to make the trip a little better.

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FRICTION ZONE: TOURING ON A SPORTBIKE 1. PLAN OFF HIGHWAY ROUTES Try to spend as little time as possible on the Interstate. Pull out your AAA map, or open Google Maps online and figure out what backroads or highways you can take instead of just ‘slabbing all the way in a straight line. Figure out a route that gives you a nice balance of Interstates and curvy, country roads so you won’t be bored, but so you’ll have more fun.

When I plan a route I try to balance the overall distance and time with the least straight roads so I spend more time in the curves and twisties. It might take a little longer but breaking things up will not only make the ride more interesting, but a little less back breaking as well.

2. GET A TANKBAG Unless you’re a crossfit instructor, or have the most incredible abs of steel, you will need a solid tank bag. This will give your back a break while you’re slabbing down the Interstate to get to the twisties. And since I’m old school like that, I appreciate the map pockets that tank bags have on top so I can put my hand written ride route in front of me.

Be careful not to buy one that’s too big either, because it can get in your way when you finally reach the twisties and need to lean forward and reposition yourself. My tank bag size of choice is 10 to12 liters, just enough space to put my map, snacks, water, sunscreen, wallet and phone.

The nice thing about tank bags such as the Cortech option is that they’re available for magnetic or plastic tanks, so there are always options. Make sure you find one that matches the slope and angle of your tank for a more stable fit.

3. WEAR A SNUG FITTING JACKET After many years of wearing mostly textile gear, I finally started wearing a very snug, sport cut leather jacket. What this did for me was support my torso much like the tank bag, to keep me from slouching as much. It doesn’t have to be leather, but you certainly want something that isn’t too loose or big around the middle so it hugs you. Make sure that jacket comes with 108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

shoulder and elbow armor so all you have to do is upgrade or add a back protector.

If you’re not sure how your sporty jacket should fit, here are my fit tips: •Leather should fit snug so when it breaks in and stretches out, it fits perfectly. If you start too loose, it’ll only get looser from there and then you’ll have a jacket that doesn’t quite fit you anymore.

•Remember to try the jacket on while sitting on your motorcycle.

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FRICTION ZONE: TOURING ON A SPORTBIKE only until you zip the jacket up and sit on the motorcycle. If it fits better off the bike and not on, then it’s not the right size or fit so keep looking. Make sure there isn’t too much bunching around the chest and torso. And you don’t want the jacket to ride up higher than your neck into your helmet, either. Everything should lay fairly flat against your body and hug you.

•Keep in mind that it might be hard to zip the jacket up at first.

Make sure you bring your shoulders forward, and your torso backward and then when the zippers touch they should zip.

These kinds of jackets are meant to fit the best while on the motorcycle, so it makes sense that the front zippers barely meet each other at first.

Although it’s impossible to prepare for everything, you can at least cover some basics to make sure that you’ll have a more comfortable ride. And gearing up properly will also help you stay focused on the ride and be safe.

4. REPLACE OR ADD ACCESSORIES Here are a few accessories that can make your ride a little easier as well: •Tank grip pads: Tank Gripper Pads can give your knees somewhere to grip so you’re not fully leaning into the tank.

•Handlebar risers: There are a ton of options for either increasing the height or decreasing the reach between you and your handlebars.

•Frame sliders: I frequently use my frame sliders to rest my feet on long stretches of highway riding.

•Refoam or replace the seat: There are a lot of options for custom seats with fancy space foam, gel and other materials to make for a more comfortable ride.

•Bluetooth Intercom: A bluetooth system such as ones offered by Sena and Cardo Systems are really useful when you need turn by turn directions, or want to listen to background music while you’re riding down the highway.

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an upright riding position! Now I can rock that 300 to 400 mile riding day without a problem.

Bikes like the Yamaha FZ-07, Triumph Speed Triple R, my personal favorite, and Kawasaki Ninja 1000 are rated just as highly as their fully faired counterparts.

Many aftermarket accessories are available for these bikes for you to customize as much as you want and for most people, they have plenty of power and performance for a long stretch of Interstate or a nest of twisties.

6. DON’T BE AFRAID TO TRY SOMEPLACE NEW For ride ideas and routes here are a few resources: •Pashnit.com: Ride Routes and detailed maps of California’s best roads. If you live in California, Pashnit is your best friend.

•Greatest Road app for iPhone: Ride routes based on where you live, contributed by fellow riders. You can see ratings, reviews and submit your own.

•MadMaps.com: MadMaps offers road trip maps across the country, by region. They also have a mobile app for iPhone and Android.

•MotorcycleRoads.US: “Over 3200 roads in all 50 states” And if you search online for motorcycle rides in your area, I’m sure you’ll find regional blogs and websites with motorcyclists sharing their favorite routes too.

It’s okay to get lost, but remember to check your bike and make sure that everything is ready for a long distance ride. You can even visit your friendly moto mechanic and see if your bike is road worthy. They will look everything over including tires, fluids, cables, etc. to make sure you will have a safe, worry free ride.

Last, but not least, remember to have a great time, even if you get lost and end up somewhere you didn’t expect to. That’s also part of the adventure.

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Clutch Control 2014 the Illy in PhilLY

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FRICTION ZONE: CC2014: THE ILLY IN PHILLY

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C

lutch Control 2014, the Illy in Philly marked the return of one of the most popular motorcycle lifestyle events in the mid atlantic region. The free one day event was complete with vendors, food, music, stunts and stars.

Enthusiasts descended upon Philadelphia’s Penn Landing to be entertained by Jason Britton’s Team No Limit. Jason Britton and Eric Hoenshell rocked the crowd with three amazing stunt shows throughout the day that were followed by autograph sessions and photos with fans. In between shows, attendees enjoyed music by DJ Vader as they checked out the numerous vendors that displayed new bike models and gear. Event sponsors ICON and Flemington Circle set up the ICON hot spot where all the new gear was available for purchase. Flemington Circle’s free Dyno Shootout was a huge hit as competitors went head to head for bragging rights.

Garwoods Custom Cycles and Myrtle West displayed their custom bikes along with new swingarms, wheel and tire kits and other items. Crossroad Powersports and Fun Center Powersports showcased the new offerings from Kawasaki and Yamaha. Vince from Philadelphia Cycle Center rolled in and literally stopped the show with the all new Polaris Slingshot and parked it right in front of the main stage.

Special guests Ice T and Coco arrived at midday and enjoyed the love and support from their fans in what came to be known as the never ending autograph session as they posed for pictures and chatted with the crowds. The power couple made time to check out the final No Limit Stunt Show where they enjoyed front row viewing along with other onlookers.

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FRICTION ZONE: CC2014: THE ILLY IN PHILLY

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FRICTION ZONE: CC2014: THE ILLY IN PHILLY to compete for top honors in a selection of categories. Wild paint schemes, fat tires, huge front wheeled baggers... it was fair game for all. The bike show further proved that the custom bike scene is alive and well.

The highlight of the day was the national debut of the Philly Hot Boyz, a team of local dirt bike riders that were given the opportunity to perform in front of their home crowd.

Tustroke Prince, Chow, Mont and Dirt Bike Rell represented the streets of Philadelphia with a routine that set the crowd ablaze.

Clutch Control 2014, the Illy in Philly successfully showcased the strength of the motorcycle industry and the community that fuels it by providing an arena for everyone to embrace and celebrate their love for all things two wheeled with an engine.

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FRICTION ZONE

DIRTY LITTLE SECRETS

WORDS AND IMAGES: BILLY MORRISON

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ou have to understand just what it’s like being a motorcyclist in the UK. Growing up in England and being on two wheels from a young age, you get used to the grey, damp conditions, lane splitting everywhere, the bitter, down to the bone cold that permeates every inch of your being despite layer upon layer of clothing. And so when I arrived in sunny California and first swung a leg over a bike, I simply couldn’t believe that riding like that existed.

Long balmy days spent on smooth tarmac that wound through beautiful mountains and coastal scenery and went on forever.

The whole point of riding for me is to feel free. And while you can tell yourself that you are free while you’re hunched behind a sport bike fairing on a rain soaked motorway, somewhere in the middle of England, the true meaning of the word explodes when you are comfortably cruising up the Pacific Coast Highway in 70 degrees with the ocean on your left, and rolling hills as far as you can see on your right.

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wondered what your favorite roads have been so far in your two wheeled shenanigans. Now don’t get me wrong, there are some amazing small twisty country back roads in England. And if you are lucky enough to grab one of the nine days of sunshine a year, you’ll have a pretty amazing experience sweeping through them.

For me, a similar vibe was captured a few years back while I was on the road with Billy Idol in Southern Germany. A couple of us rented some Triumphs and we set out on a beautiful day, discovering sets of sweepers with zero traffic on them, through undulating countryside very reminiscent of England. Southern Germany holds a special place for me that’s for sure.

We also did a similar thing in Spain, riding a good proportion of the length of the country instead of taking the tour bus to the next show. These roads were nice as well, but the stifling, oppressive summer heat took it’s toll that day. Again the temperature plays such a huge part in experiencing the ultimate two wheeled experience.

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Thailand was interesting. The rental bikes looked like they had been bolted together from eight similar looking machines, by a blind, one armed mechanic.

Held together with super glue and tape, these 400cc sport bike replicas had slicks for tires, zero brakes, and the process of rental was, ”Mister, you can ride bike?” ”Yes, of course I can!”

“OK you take this one, give me money!” No paperwork or insurance waivers. Just a handshake and a look that said “Good luck, mate! You’re gonna need it on these roads!” From Bangkok to Pattaya, I buzzed my way through the humid landscape spending more time avoiding being hit by trucks, other bikes and elephants. Yes, elephants. Not something you have to worry about on the Pacific Coast Highway! I found myself chalking up another unique motorcycling event, but glad to reach my destination!

But for me, the memories of our trip from Los Angeles to Seattle over the course of eight days with a couple of friends on what were, at the time, the first Multistradas in America, was two wheeled

Nirvana. The roads were just perfection. From the aforementioned P.C.H. up the coast and then through stunning woodland and forest, all on smooth black tarmac, in mostly perfect sunshine. I was in awe of the beauty, amazed at the conditions and speechless at the view on a daily basis. Even riding in the snow around Mt. Shasta happened with clear blue skies.

The trip took eight days, as we were playing shows in a few of the towns and cities we hit along the way, and the P.C.H. became my all time favorite road to ride, so far.

That feeling of freedom that I talked about was as strong as it’s ever been as I put hour upon hour behind me and stared at postcard-like vistas and picture-perfect ocean and mountain moments. Even less than an hour from my house there are mountain roads, coastal highways, desert stretches, lakes, forests and mile upon mile of biker friendly tarmac. I’m lucky indeed to now have this kind of riding available to me. It’s a far cry from the torn up surface, traffic infested, caravan towing, bitterly cold and wet riding that masqueraded as freedom back in the homeland all those years ago.

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FRICTION ZONE

LAWLESS

WORDS AND IMAGES: MICHAEL LAWLESS

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I

needed the road to find balance. Indy seemed like the perfect excuse to climb on my murdered out big block Suzuki and burn down the night getting there by hopping from one Waffle House to the next. Yeah I could do a 650 mile ride in one shot.

My status on facebook was "Everyday is Superpole". Lots of thumbs ups but some of my friends knew the dark side. I found split custody to be an emotional rollercoaster for me. I miss my daughter. Dropping her off stings. The pain goes away as the visor comes down. Riding is the release. Even on the humble Ninja I was dragging the pegs and exhaust. The harder I pushed, the faster I went, the less I felt. I knew in my heart I was not dealing well with it.

Maybe a few days around my motorcycle friends, really more like family, would help.

The upside to my new found aggressive riding?

When I got back on track or the first time, my team manager looked at the time sheet and said I should get divorced more often. My X said her people told her I was over the limit and I would hurt myself. When Jake Shoemaker said "I was not as slow as I use to be..." I took it as a compliment.

her off a few days early because I was riding to the Indy Motogp to do some work for SBI, help racer Jake Shoemaker in the pits at the Indy Mile and to see my friend Nico, engineer for the Tech 3 team. “Dad, I want to go..." Olive says. I explain it's a long trip to Indianapolis. I told her I would think about it. She replies "Dad, I just want to be with you." This was the knockout punch. I told her I would look into a few things and would call her soon.

What the heck? Why not just remove the roof off my vintage jeep and drive out? Adventure for sure.

Cooler, bags, blade scooter packed... I pick her up at 5 A.M. It's a cold August morning with no roof. I cover her with a blanket. We drive in dark silence for an hour. I spot a yellow and black Waffle House sign. Breakfast?

She smiles over tea, laughs over cheesy eggs.

I knew everything would be ok. My daughter had never crossed Pennsylvania before. We climb up into the mountains, through clouds and rain sprinkles. She's fascinated by the tunnels.

West Virginia, Ohio and Indiana roll under our wheels as the day goes by we reach our destination.

It's the end of my week with my daughter, Olive. I'm starting to get that heavy feeling.

Riding to the drop zone we stop for ice cream. I tell her that our next week together I would drop I did not tell anyone I was bringing Olive. My

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Nicky Hayden

friend Nico Reynier is delighted to see her. It has been several years since Nico stayed with us. Olive is bewildered and amused when Nico kisses her on both cheeks, but that's what the French do when they are glad to see you!

All men should be blessed like my friend Nico.

Athletic, tall and handsome. Did I mention he is French?

Nico is crew chief and engineer for the Tech 3 Moto2 team. He takes us into the Tech 3 garage. Seeing a Motogp crew in operation is an awesome experience. Everyone has a job and just does it. No screaming or yelling. No fluids spilled or tools stune about. Smooth silent French efficiency at its best. The crew shows no emotion when working. It’s all business. When the work is completed they relax and joke with Olive.

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down, I guess most fans might think he is not getting good drive onto the straight but data shows otherwise. The team makes the normal adjustments with only minor gaines. Looking deeper they realize Schrotter is more fit, slightly larger than his teammate. Changing fairing mounting to keep Marcel out of the wind would give the top speed needed. These are a few of the benefits of having a strong team behind you.

The Speedway at Indy is huge with an impressive infrastructure and museum, as well.

I swear they must screen the staff because everyone who works there is so nice. We even get offered a ride into the Speedway from the parking area by a staff member in a golf cart.

Between sessions we walk the vender area.

Olive spots the Yamaha Kids Rider program.

“Can I do it, Dad? Please?” She asks.

Absolutely!

Yamaha has smart people working for them.

They will teach your child to ride in a safe area

with instructors for free. They are building the riders of tomorrow. What will these riders say?

“The first bike I rode was a blue Yamaha.” Very clever. Thank you Yamaha for supporting the sport.

Across town from the Speedway is the Indiana State Fair. The Legendary Indy Mile AMA Flat Track race is held at the state fair grounds on the MotoGp weekend. Olive and I did both State Fair and flat track race.

The fan walk is a great way to get a close look at the machines and meet the riders. Even revered MotoGP tuners like Guy Coulon are impressed by the mechanical artwork prepared by teams like Zanotti Harley Davidson or Villa Esparza, Crosley Radio Kawasakis.

Olive brings her blade scooter to play with the other kids in the paddock. I help Jake Shoemaker out in the pits while his girlfriend, the lovely Ms. Megan Miller keeps an eye on Olive while caring for her baby Mya. Its a family affair. I'm blessed to have such The Legendary Indy Mile is one of the greatest spectacles of motorcycle racing. Our own Tyson great friends. Jake pulls off another great night Beckford said, “The Mile should be on the must of racing too. do list!” Many MotoGP racers also come to After an amazing weekend , we get on the watch this uniquely American form of racing. highway home. Top down in my old jeep, sun in our faces and wind in our hair. I ask Olive, Seeing the big, booming twins enter the first “On a scale to ten, how do you score your turn inches apart sliding sideways at close adventure?” to 140MPH leaves the MotoGP boys slack jawed.

She holds up both hands... Ten.

Nico Reynier

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FRICTION ZONE: SBI AT FIVE YEARS

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PORTBIKES INC MAGAZINE is celebrating our fifth anniversary and we give thanks to the people who make this magazine possible, the Motorcycle Community and the many supporters, advertisers and staff from the last five years!

Much respect goes out to all of the staff and writers that make the publication a success! SBI shows love to everyone and provides an outlet for all motorcycle enthusiasts and motorcycle clubs to be seen and heard. We have had some awesome bike rides and events across the U.S. that include Clutch Control, filming for TV, cheesesteak runs, bike night and parties. SBI has helped pave the way for many others. At the same time we take time out and give thanks to all those who gave us the culture, traditions and opportunities.

“Thanks for your two wheel support over these last five years. It has been a pleasure and an honor to get to know you all and create articles for a magazine about the motorcycle community we all love so much! The relationships that have been built over time would not have happened without the SBI team. I met a lot of people in the community and the industry who I would never have met if it were not for SBI. I knew from the first issue that I would be in for a ride. Keep up the good work and I wish you continue success and longevity into the future. Keep the throttle twisted and Ride Safe!”

- Kim “Lady Kim” Roper, SBI Editor

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“Congrats on five years!

I love the non traditional coverage of sportbikes and the sportbike world. It’s also great that Allan’s not that fast so I can relate to his riding.

Happy fifth and many more!”

- Alonzo Bodden, Comedian

“As a one time contributor (Women in the Paddock), for SBI am truly greatful for the experience Allan gave me. Being able to show the racing fans a woman’s perspective of behind the hot pit lanes,hospitality, autograph session and home life of the few but very passionate women of the paddock.

Congratulations on five years and many many more to come! All the best!”

- Carrie Aquino, SBI Contributor

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FRICTION ZONE: SBI AT FIVE YEARS “What can I say? Five years of Sportbikes Inc Magazine and I’ve enjoyed the ride. I started out as a friend to the staff and a fan and reader of the magazine who later became a staff writer and part of the SBI family. I am as proud of the magazine and my fellow contributors as I am honored to be a part of it. I want to thank all those involved with the magazine as well as all those who read the magazine each month. Let’s make the next five even more amazing. There are so many memorable moments and events over the past five years but the one that sticks out most recently for me was October 2013’s Shut The City Down Ride. I can’t

remember how many STCD rides and group rides I have been on with the SBI gang but last year’s October ride was incredible. I rode side by side with my big brother Allan and we set the pace for one of the most exhilarating rides thru the City of Brotherly Love that I have ever been on. For some in attendance it may have been just another “cheesesteak run” but for me it represented a celebration of my full indoctrination into the Sportbikes Inc Magazine family. I look forward to what’s next from this great magazine and am pleased to bring you all The Lion’s Den each month. May you enjoy the ride as much as I do.”

- Lion James, SBI Columnist

“I would like to say congratulations to SBI on how far they have came In a short amount of time. I like their approach. They do it their own way and cover bikes in a different way that really sets them apart. It’s cool to see that there on there way up!”

- Nicky Hayden #69

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�In light of celebrating its five year success, Editor in Chief of Sportbikes Inc, Allan Lane deserves many thanks.

Congratulations is in order for dedicating this first class online publication to the ever growing Sportbike community of enthusiasts. We at Team Pro Motion are proud to be an integral part offering the track as an outlet to ride.�

- Glen Goldman, TPM President SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 139

ZONE:: ERIK BUELL FRICTION ZONE SBI AT FIVE YEARS “Congratulations to Allan and SBI on the five year anniversary! From its inception, SBI has had a strong vision for the future of motorcycling and telling the story of motorcyclists from every angle within the industry.

The passion, hard work and enthusiasm of Allan and his team resonate through the pages of the magazine and every activity that they do. I look forward to seeing what the next five years look like for SBI. Keep up the good work.”

- Arrick Maurice, Marketing Director, Ducati North America

“Woo! Five years! I have been so proud and so excited to be a part of this project and a member of this community since issue number one!

This is such an incredible resource of information and inspiration from all walks of the Sportbike culture. I love seeing so many great women grace the pages in both content features and as content creators. I feel like this is the go to place for a modern take on riding in the modern world.

Looking forward to many more years of great content!”

- Elizabeth Raab, Photographer

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“Wow! Five years of SBI! I am so proud to say that Rickey and I have been around to see this baby turned beast from day one!

As I look back over the years, I can honestly say there has been a lot of awesome SBI moments. The turn up has been serious!

But the first thing that comes to mind when I think best moment would have to be...

Domination of the 2014 Biker Choice Awards. Thanks to our readers and fans, Sportbikes Inc Magazine and its staff won award after award including Best Motorcyce Maazine! To stand there and accept those awards with my brothers and sisters and niece, Dystany Spurlock, of SBI was an amazing feeling.”

- Kiana Gadson, SBI Editor “In an increasingly fractured motorcycle world, SportBikes Inc has always stood apart for representing each part of the motorcycle world equally, from street to track and in between. What SportBikes Inc has accomplished, and continues to accomplish, is give a voice to motorcyclists on the fringe, and spread the gospel of two wheeled passion by any means necessary.

It’s no easy feat, and we value our relationship with SportBikes Inc, Allan and the community that has evolved.”

- Justin Knauer, General Manager, ICON Motosports

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FRICTION ZONE: SBI AT FIVE

“It’s hard to believe we’re celebrating our five year anniversary! It feels like only yesterday when we were developing the initial artwork and layout and launching that anxiety filled inaugural issue coming out swinging with exclusive coverage with Michael Jordan Motorsports, mototech, featured riders and the alluring moto photogaphy with Ducati and Elizabeth Raab.

of Nicky Hayden to Ben Bostrom, Rickey Gadson to the stunting issues, the Ladies issues to rocker Billy Morrison, SBI has reached a broad spectrum of Riders unlike any other.

It’s hard to pin down a favorite issue or moment, but if I had to it would certainly be hanging at the Bike Week Expo in Myrtle Beach, S.C. with fellow SBI mate Lady Kim. We were jokingly talking about stressing Publisher Allan Lane out with pushing our Five years is no small accomplishment. In deadlines to the max,w ith deadlines due an age where even those most recognized that weekend, when all of a sudden a media outlets are falling off and new ones come and go as fast as a hot lap with Marc lurking shadowy figure appeared behind us who heard it all, Mr. Black Moses AKA Marquez, five years is huge. Factor in the Allan Lane. Needless to say, deadlines got accomplishments SBI has made in those quick five years and this milestone becomes shortened after that event.”

- Leon Brittain, SBI Creative Supervisor even more significant. From cover features

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“We are just getting started. Ride with us... You know we got it.”

- Allan Lane, SBI Publisher and Editor in Chief SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 143

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.

Jason Nonemaker! What’s on your hit list?

“Monkey Wrench” by the Foo Fighters.

I’m a huge Dave Grohl fan ever since he was drumming for Nirvana and this song gets me outta bed everyday to got workout before I head to the 10Designsinc.com shop.

“Pretty With Her Eyes Low” by Diplo.

It took me a while to learn to love EDC kinda music but I love the beats in this song. When I’m traveling with fifteen Red Bull models they always have the freshest and newest jams for me and it doesn’t suck to see the models dance when this bad boy comes on!

“Sail” by Devil Diver. Another hard and fast jam that found searching iTunes.

If you’ve ever watched the Red Bull “Signature Series” this is the song from it with a metal twist to it! This song reminds me it;s ok to be different. Have fun with everything that you do in life.

Jason Nonemaker Owner/CEO, 10 Designs Inc. 144 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE NEW ISH BST WHEELS • CARBON FIBER WHEEL AND TIRE PACKAGE FOR THE HONDA GROM BST Carbon Fiber Wheels can save between 40 to 60 percent in weight when compared to the factory wheels. This package for the Honda Grom includes the front and rear wheel, Michelin Power Pure tires mounted and balanced as well as nitrogen inflation.

The set up also includes BST’s 90 degree aluminum valve stems and caps.

Price: $1,500.83 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com

SPORTBIKE LITES • SBL 4 GEAR BARENDS Add some style to your bike’s handlebars with these 4 Gear Barends from SBL. Made from aluminum and available in seven colors, the 4 Gears are designed to be a universal fit for motorcycles handlebars that have a 22mm diameter. The colors selection are in harmony with popular stock sportbike models for easy coordination.

DEFY ALL ODDS • 01 TEE SHIRT The Defy All Odds apparel brand has positioned itself as a positive force in the motorsports lifestyle movement. The 01 Tee Shirt has a motivational message for all riders from the pro level down to the street rider. The simple and classic helmet over the chest is branded to remind you to “defy” all that oppose you. An “01” is emblazoned on the back just in case anyone has any doubts that you are a champ. The shirts are super soft 100% combed ring spun cotton.

Sizes: XS - XXL Colors: White, Army Green, Heather Grey Price: $24.00 Contact: http://defyallodds.co 146 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Colors: Black, Red, Orange, Blue, Green, Silver, Gold Price: $35.99 Contact: http://sportbikelites.com

K TECH SUSPENSION • 20SSK FRONT FORK PISTON KITS Upgrade your factory fork set up with the 20SSK Front Fork Piston Kit. The kit includes new compression and rebound piston assemblies to breath new life into your OEM forks. All components are CNC machined and offer significant differences in feel and feedback from the bike’s suspension system. Fully adjustable, the piston kit also includes new rebound valves and flow control needles that extend the range of adjustment. There are applications for most late model sportbikes for street and track use.

Price: $250.45 - $899.95 Contact: http://orientexpress.com

ICON MOTOSPORTS • AIRMADA THRILLER BLUE HELMET

With intense graphics and elevated industry standards, the Airmada Thriller features an injected molded polycarbonate shell and proper venting via a recessed twin channel supervent. The Thriller is highlighted by special glow in the dark graphics for visibility in darker riding conditions.

The helmet comes with fog free ICON Optics face shield installed but also shipped with a dark smoke screen that can easily be interchanged via the rapid release shield change system.

Sizes: XS - XXXL Price: $280.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com DANIESE • HYDRA FLUX D-DRY JACKET

The Hydra Flux D Dry is jacket is both light and versatile. It includes a removable waterproof internal membrane with an outer shell composed of boomerang an quick dry fabrics. The Hydra Flux D Dry also features an internal pocket that can be used to house the Dainese Wave G1 or G2 back protector to compliment certified armor found on the shoulders and elbows.

Sizes: 50 - 58 (Euro) Colors: Nero/Nero/Bianco, Nero, Rosso, Bianco Price: $289.95 Contact: http://dainese.com

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THE NEW ISH YOSHIMURA RD • R77 FULL EXHAUST SYSTEM FOR THE 2014 HONDA CBR650F This full system for the 2014 Honda CBR650F features a stainless steel header and tail pipe with a carbon fiber muffler. The muffler has a removable baffle and a trapezoidal design that allows for more packing material. It has a sleek and attractive look that compliments the lines of the bike and the distinct sound that only comes from a Yoshi pipe.

Price: $1,149.00 Contact: http://yoshimura-rd.com

MOTION PRO • CLIP ON HANDLEBAR ALIGNMENT TOOL

ZERO GRAVITY RACING • DOUBLE BUBBLE WINDSCREEN FOR THE MV AGUSTA F3 Add some style and improve the aerodynamics of your bike with the Double Bubble windscreen from Zero Gravity. Made in America and designed for easy install with no modifications to your bike, the Double Bubble improves airflow over you as you ride at speed. Available in clear, light smoke and dark smoke.

Colors: Clear, Light Smoke, Dark Smoke Price: $119.95 Contact: http://zerogravity-racing.com

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For anyone that has installed clip ons, they know it can often be a challenge to properly align the bars on both sides. The good folks at Motion Pro have helped make it a bit easier to do so. Their alignment tool features an adjustable arm that makes exact positioning easy, a lightweight billet aluminum construction and knurled thumb screw. The tool is collapsible and compact for easy storage.

Price: $41.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com

WOODCRAFT CFM • REARSETS FOR THE HONDA GROM This complete kit replaces the stock set for the Grom, featuring a standard shift pattern constructed from billet aluminum. They are tougher and lighter than the OEM’s.

The knurled footpegs offer serious stability and traction when riding. Installation does require modification of the stock sprocket cover for proper clearance or you can replace the stock one with the Woodcraft billet sprocket cover that is made to fit this kit.

Price: $429.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com ALPINESTARS • GUNNER WATERPROOF JACKET The Gunner features a waterproof and breathable lining for complete insulation making it a great selection for varying riding climates. The thermal lining that keeps you warm on colder days can be removed when it gets warmer. The outer shell is made with 600D fabric with PU coating and water repellant surface treating. The Gunner comes equipped with armor in the shoulders and elbows and padded compartments in the chest and back if you wish to upgrade the level of protection.

JOE ROCKET • ROCKET BURNER HEATED GLOVES

Sizes: S - XXXXL Colors: Black, Black/Grey,Black/White/Red Price: $269.95 Contact: http://alpinestars.com

Hand warmth is one of the key factors in cold weather riding and the Rocket BurnerHeated Gloves from Joe Rocket are here to help. The Rocket Burners have three settings that will keep your hands warm for up to four hours. They waterproof liner is complimented by a heavy duty nylon outer construction that has conductive materials in the fingertips so you can access the touchscreen of your device without removing the gloves. The gloves are powered by two rechargeable lithium ion batteries and a dual port charging system is included so that both batteries can be recharged at the same time.

Sizes: S - XXL Price: $159.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 149

THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM TISSOT • LIMITED EDITION 2014 TISSOT T-RACE NICKY HAYDEN TIMEPIECE Swiss luxury brand watchmaker Tissot and the Kentucky Kid Nicky Hayden continue to set the circuit and fashion world a’blaze with the Limited Edition 2014 Tissot T-Race Nicky Hayden timepiece.

This stainless steel water-resistant watch is set in a patriotic blue and white color scheme with red accents and Nicky’s trademark star logo securely set within sapphire crystal glass while a silicon band provides comfort and flexibility for a variety of wrist sizes.

Encased in a MotoGP cool mini helmet, production is limited to 4,999 pieces and carries a MSRP of $925.00. Not necessarily a bargain basement price, but precision, style and quality justify the cost of such a collector’s item.

Price: $925.00 Contact: http://tissot.ch

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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 LAPIZTA • ACCENTOR L23 SERIES RACING WATCH Allan Lane

T

o most riders, every article of clothing, gear or accessory that they adorn themselves with serves a purpose. It is not often that an item is worn by happen chance. From the the jacket and gloves to the socks and undergarments, articles are strategically selected for a specific function. When it comes to time pieces, there is no difference in application of the theory. A watch to a rider should never just be something worn about the wrist. It should be functional, tactical and at the very least... good looking.

anything weighing us down. And if you think that the weight of a watch makes that much of a difference, think again. The Accentor’s profile is medium allowing it to fit underneath gauntlet gloves as well as fitting snuggly up to the cuff of wrist length gloves.

Perhaps one of the best features of the watch is it’s feel. By feel, I mean the manner in which you feel while the Accentor is on your wrist. It felt very much like part of my riding gear.

When I arrived at my destinations and locations, it functioned The Lapizta Accentor fits the bill. It has a mature aesthetic as a conversation starter. It’s a good looking watch that has styled with motorcyclists in mind. It features design a subtle power opposed to the gaudy and often overpowering components derived from a bike... The bezel is fashioned after competing watches. A Lapizta on the wrist is a great selection a brake rotor. The durable rubber band is treaded like a tire. for any rider that is looking for or has a need for a high The face of the Accentor equipped with four mechanisms but end, quality time piece that compliments their life without remains uncluttered and easy to read. The large 12 and 6 completely depleting their bank account. make great reference points for catching the time at a glance. http://lapizta.com On the wrist, the Accentor has a medium weight to it. It’s not heavy. At the same time, it doesn’t feel like it’s going Rating: 6 (out of 6) to float away. This is elemental to a rider as we don’t want 152 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Leon Brittain Location: Philadelphia, PA