ROAD RACING • DRAG RACING • STUNT RIDING • CUSTOM BIKES • LIFESTYLE
SEPTEMBER 2017 VOL 7 ISSUE 12
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM
SUZUKI'S
2018
GSX250R
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY PART II | THE WOMEN'S SPORT BIKE RALLY | FEATURED RIDERS | ON THE COME UP | DUS WILLIAMS: THE COMEBACK | IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: GETTING OVER A CRASH
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UNTIL NOW, WE HAVE BEEN ASKED TO TA K E S I D E S. T O C H O O S E B E T W E E N W I C K E D O R V I R T U O U S , B R U TA L O R S O P H I S T I C AT E D , R E F I N E D O R W I L D , G E N T L E M A N O R B A S TA R D . Y O U D E S E R V E B O T H.
© Ducati North America 2016
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CONTENTS
SEPTEMBER 2017 - VOLUME 7, ISSUE 12 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14
14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=34 34 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=38 38 THE GRID LIFE - By Patricia Fernandez http://issuu.com/action/page?page=44 44 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=52 52 THE NUMBERS - By Toni Elias http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60 60 ASPHALT AND OPPORTUNITY - By Brian and Julian Glascoe 78 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=84 84 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=106 106 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=112 112 STAFF STUFF http://issuu.com/action/page?page=78
FEATURED RIDER: KELLY YAZDI http://issuu.com/action/page?page=78 PAGE 78 4 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
TARMAC W A T E R P R O O F
R I D I N G
W A T E R P R O O F
J A C K E T
F O R
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// $ 2 5 0
T H E
H Y P E R C O M M U T E R
B R E A T H A B L E
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FEATURES
SEPTEMBER 2017 - VOLUME 7, ISSUE 12
THE FIRST RIDE: SUZUKI'S 2018 GSX250R
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MOTOGP WITH B.T.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: GETTING OVER A CRASH
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THE GRID LIFE: THE WOMEN'S SPORT BIKE RALLY
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ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY: DUS WILLIAMS - THE COMBACK
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STATE OF THE INDUSTRY: PART 2
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http://issuu.com/action/page?page=60
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STAFF
Publisher//Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
ART & DESIGN
Drag Racing Editor: Rickey Gadson rickey@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson kiana@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com
Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion tommy@sportbikesincmag.com
Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com
Riding Editor: Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com Staff Writers: Patricia Fernanzdez pf@sportbikesincmag.com Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com
Cover Photography: Allan Lane Contributing Photographers: Brian J. Nelson Asphalt & Opportunity MotoGP.com Enrico Pavia
Copy Editor: Angela Lane angela@sportbikesincmag.com Contributors: Adam Waheed Toni Elias
SportBikes Inc Magazine - September 2017 Volume 7, Issue 12 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2017 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.
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EXH I LARATION COM ES STAN DAR D SPORT TUNED TO STICK You'll want to charge every corner and never let off.
S LI N G S H O T ®
SLI N GSH OT SL ®
SLI N GSH OT® SLR
Always wear helmets, seat belts, and don’t drink and drive. Drivers may need a valid motorcycle endorsement. Don’t drink and drive. SLINGSHOT® is a registered trademark of Polaris Industries Inc. ©2017 Polaris Industries Inc. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM |9
FEATURE STORY
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SUZUKI'S
2018
GSX250R PAGE 18 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=18
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FROM THE EDITOR
W
hen you meet legends, and I do mean Legends… Things can go one of two ways. I’ve met some individuals that are considered legendary and they were actually quite the asshole. Those interactions have been few and far between. On the other hand of fortune, I’ve been in the company of Legends who are remarkably humble, generous and kind. Case in point, Wayne Rainey. I met Wayne a couple of years back during the first season of MotoAmerica. As a fan of the sport of motorcycle racing, it was awesome. As a motorcycle industry professional, it was awesome. Racing Legend, Wayne Rainey… I thought to myself how wonderful my job/life is that I get to be surrounded by iconic people that laid the foundation for this industry of ours. I have a habit of letting my personality really come to the forefront, in addition to my physical presentation… I’m trying to modestly say that I make the effort to be unforgettable. So over the next couple of times when Wayne and I were in the same space, I thought it was cool that he remembered me and my whole deal that I have going on. Austin, Laguna, New Jersey, Orlando… He always greeted me with personal salutations and a firm handshake. That’s part of the reason that I have so much respect for this man, but not the only reason. 3 Times World Champion, Wayne Rainey suffered a career ending crash in 1993 at Misano while
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chasing a fourth title. The sport that he had given so much to, took something back from him. Wayne remained involved in the sport for several years as a team manager, consultant, etc… Cementing his place in the history books. But the 1999 Hall of Fame Inductee was not done with the sport. Wayne saw that the sport of motorcycle racing in the US needed him and he decided to give of himself again. Wayne along with the Krave Group would revamp American road racing with the launch of a new series that we all know today as MotoAmerica. I know a lot of people that would have stopped when they were stopped. Wayne didn’t. Not only did he continue to move forward, he prospered. Wayne continues to give to that which took from him because he loves it so. And he remains one of the nicest humans that I’ve ever had the pleasure of shaking hands with. That’s real inspiration and a call out to anyone that has ever said that they cannot do something. The saying, “Never meet your heroes…” is often a misnomer. Case in point, Wayne Rainey. And if I may keep 8 more than 92 with you, I didn’t realize how much of a Legendary Hero he is to me until I shook his hand. Best, Allan allan@sportbikesincmag.com
ANYWHERE BUT MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. MAKE LIFE A RIDE. You’ve always blurred the lines between the possible and impossible. Now it’s time to ride it. With the power and performance of the 2017 BMW S 1000 RR, you can live life at the leading edge. Find out more at bmwmotorcycles.com
©2017 BMW Motorrad USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks.
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THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS MV AGUSTA AND LEWIS HAMILTON TEAM UP FOR THE F4 LH44 Three time F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton and Italian manufacturer MV Agusta have released their latest collaboration, the F4 LH44. Hamilton and MV Agusta have teamed up before on the Dragster RR LH but using the F4 RC as a design base takes the vision to another level. The F4 LH44 is powered by a four cylinder engine with an impressive 79mm bore and 50.9 stroke and punches out
205 horses. However, this machine comes with a titanium silencer and dedicated control unit that bumps up the horsepower by 7, giving a maximum output of 212 horses. The livery of the bike itself is an aggressive representation of Hamilton’s persona: candy apple red, enhanced by black slashes resting on a pearl white frame. Note the exclusive Pirelli Diablo Supercorsas SP tires that feature red sidewalls and the LH44 logo. 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
YAMAHA CONTINUES THE SPORT HERITAGE LINE WITH THE 2018 XSR700 The 2018 Yamaha XSR700 is a neoclassic throwback equipped with modern technology that delivers on style and performance. The XSR700 features a two cylinder engine that shines with Yamaha’s “cross plane concept” 270 degree crank that provides linear torque response to the twist of the throttle. The style and power of the XSR700 are heavily complimented by the bike’s sporty and compact chassis that tips the scales at a wet weight of 410 pounds. The XSR700 has an MSRP of $8,499 and is available in two colorways, Matte Gray and Aluminum as well as Raspberry metallic.
POLARIS THROWS SOME SHADE ON THE SLINGSHOT The Slingshade made its debut recently as an accessory for the Polaris Slingshot. Designed to offer protection from weather, be it sun or rain, the Slingshade is color matched and continues to follow the lines of the Slingshot, thus giving an overall unified look. The Slingshade features gull wing opening panels with tinted windows and a dual closure system with magnets and securing latches. The Slingshade is a complete kit that should be installed by your local dealer and has an MSRP of $2499.00 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15
THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS DUCATI’S NEW STRADALE V4 ENGINE making their way around the social media portals, Ducati has not confirmed that these images are in fact of the now confirmed, first V4 production bike from the Bologna factory. What Ducati did release were images of their new engine that will carve the future of the manufacturer's overall vision. The Desmosedici Stradale is a four cylinder engine arranged in a compact 90 degrees V formation with a maximum horsepower output of 210 horse with a maximum torque in excess of 120nm. The engine is based on the features and technology offered in the Desmosedici that are highlighted by Desmodromic timing, a counter rotating crankshaft, twin pulse firing sequence and a wet multiplate anti patter servo clutch. The new bike will be unveiled in early November. Ducati announced the arrival of the Panigale However in the meantime, if you’d like to hear 1299 R Final Edition and the motorcycle world the new Straddle V4 in action, click HERE for a paused in anticipation of what was coming next. nice little teaser video from our friends at Ducati. Although several alleged spy shots have been
HELMET RECALL FROM ICON MOTOSPORTS ICON has issued a recall on the specific models of their Alliance and Alliance GT helmets. The recall is based upon potential faulty stitching nylon webbing attached to the D rings that may not remain secure within the webbing and the D rings could separate from the chin strap. ICON is replacing the defected helmets with new helmets of the same model and style to owners of the affected helmets. The complete list of affected models and instructions on how to return your affected helmet and receive your replacement helmet, please visit their site HERE. 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
| 17 F i n d your favorit e loc al de ale r on w ww.t a wp er f or man ce.com/d SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM ealer s
Better late than never, Suzuki joins the small displacement sportbike class with the GSX250R.
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SUZUKI'S
2018
GSX250R WORDS: ADAM WAHEED IMAGES: ENRICO PAVIA
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2018 SUZUKI GSX250R
J
UST DON’T CALL IT A GSX-R. That’s what Suzuki says when riding its new entry-level
motorcycle, the GSX250R. Confused? Don’t be. Although it looks like a bonafide three-quarter size Gixxer, this 250cc powered Parallel-Twin is all about bang for the buck offering an $4499 MSRP that no other Japanese bike brand can touch for a twincylinder sportbike. For less than the cost of some name brand bicycles, you can own a quality and purposeful around town sport motorcycle.
Neither a GSX-R or a GSX-S, Suzuki Motors of America deems that this Chinese-made 250R most closely aligns with the Katana family— a genre of sportbikes from the ‘80s and ‘90s offering a more 20 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
optimum blend of everyday road performance.
Available in either black or white, this 2018 Suzuki is certainly a looker with a puffed chest stance that’s more athletic than others in the class. The LED tail and position lights are nice touches and something you don’t typically see on motorcycles in this category.
While the nomenclature and market positioning might be a little off, the ride certainly is not. Despite employing a smaller sized engine (in face of the 300-plus cc competition) the four-valve liquid-cooled powerplant is surprisingly peppy.
Low final drive gearing (small countershaft sprocket and large drive sprocket) help it accelerate to its approximately 90 mph top speed quicker than you think a quarter-liter bike should. The manual
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2018 SUZUKI GSX250R
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2018 SUZUKI GSX250R transmission shifts between each of its six gears as smoothly as a $10,000-plus Suzuki and complements the engine’s modest power output aptly. The engine and exhaust note are neither rowdy nor bland offering adequate aural excitement. It was enough to put a grin our face.
The manual cable-actuated clutch isn’t as wispy feeling as some of the competition and we appreciate its quality big bike-like tension and feel. The GSX250R is far from a toy.
Some natural engine vibration is present at the controls however it isn’t overpowering. Not enough to cloud the view from the generously sized rearview mirrors anyway.
Small displacement bikes typically get a bad rap for being “small” — not so with this one. Although petite as compared to a 600cc or larger displacement bike, the cockpit and ergonomics, in general, are well proportioned. If you’re a taller person, you’re going to love the way this motorcycle fits.
Yet, the 30.1 in. seat height is in line with the competition making it a friendly mount for smaller folks, too. Slim through the mid-section, with a relaxed bar position, the rider triangle is well thought-out and exceptionally cozy for workweek commutes. The windscreen shields the rider from road debris and is well-suited for highway 24 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
and/or freeway riding. There’s also room for two with a raised passenger seat.
The fuel-sipping Twin is fed from a big-bike-like fourgallon fuel tank extending the range to 250 miles according to Suzuki. During the course of two days, we logged over 200 miles without witnessing the low fuel indicator.
Speaking of instrumentation, this little Suzook features SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25
THE FIRST RIDE: 2018 SUZUKI GSX250R
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2018 SUZUKI GSX250R SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE: 248cc liquid-cooled Parallel-Twin, SOHC, four-valve BORE AND STROKE: 53.5 x 55.2mm COMPRESSION RATIO: 11.5:1 FUELING: Electronic fuel-injection CLUTCH: Wet, cable actuation TRANSMISSION: Six-speed FINAL DRIVE: Chain, 14/46 gearing FRAME: Tubular-steel FRONT SUSPENSION: KYB 37mm fork; 4.5 in. travel REAR SUSPENSION: KYB shock with spring preload adjustment; 4.9 in. travel FRONT BRAKE: 296mm disc with Nissin double-piston caliper REAR BRAKE: 240mm disc with Nissin single-piston caliper WHEELS: 10-spoke cast aluminum TIRES: IRC, 110/80-17; 140/70-17 CURB WEIGHT: 392 lbs. WHEELBASE: 56.29 in. RAKE: 25.6 deg. Trail: 4.1 in. SEAT HEIGHT: 31.1 in. FUEL CAPACITY: 4.0 gal. MSRP: $4499 WARRANTY: One year, unlimited mileage
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2018 SUZUKI GSX250R
ALTHOUGH PETITE AS COMPARED TO A 600CC OR LARGER DISPLACEMENT BIKE, THE COCKPIT AND ERGONOMICS, IN GENERAL, ARE WELL PROPORTIONED. IF YOU’RE A TALLER PERSON, YOU’RE GOING TO LOVE THE WAY THIS MOTORCYCLE FITS.
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2018 SUZUKI GSX250R
the new and improved 2017 GSX-R1000. It offers all the prerequisite info a rider desires, including a horizontal bar graph style tachometer, speedometer, and handy gear position and fuel level meter. It’s easy to read day or night, and affords a more high quality look and feel than you’d expect considering its MSRP.
It rolls on 10-spoke cast aluminum wheels shod in 17-inch tires from IRC. Yeah, the tires are on the cheaper end of 30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
the rubber spectrum, but they work well at a modest pace offering above average grip. The calibration of the suspension is equally positive filtering bumps while maintaining composure through turns when riding full throttle.
A pair of hydraulic disc brakes keep speed in check and the front brake lever is five-position adjustable to better accommodate different hand sizes— nice work, Suzuki. However, the brakes don’t employ ABS meaning some degree of caution needs to be exercised during quick stops.
For some, it won’t be a deal breaker, but considering its would-be clientele, it would have been nice if ABS was standard. Function-wise, the front brake is a tad mushy, which isn’t a bad thing considering its meager acceleration force and modest 392 readyto-ride curb weight. The rear brake on the other hand is nice and crisp.
Some will likely consider the GSX250R’s entry into the originally 250, and now 300, and likely to be 400 class as being “a day late, and a dollar short”. The fact of the matter is: this machine is an attractive and exceptionally high-quality unit for the dollar. Whether you’re just getting into motorcycling or seeking an intimidating around town mount for your kid or significant other this Suzuki is a worthy option. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 31
CORNERING LEARN THE SKILLS DISCOVER THE ART
Would you like to improve your riding skills? The California Superbike School trains riders at tracks worldwide in 14 countries. Its 38 year history has produced 140,000 graduates. Most riders have no clear idea of how good they really can be. Sign up for the California Superbike School and find out. www.superbikeschool.com 32 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS
YOUR 2017 MOTOAMERICA SUPERBIKE CHAMPION, TONI ELIAS
Toni Elias was crowned the 2017 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion after winning race one at the New Jersey round making him the first titleholder from Europe. The former Moto2 World Champion captured the title with his ninth victory of the season and a total of 265 championship points. This was Elias’s 15 race win of his career. Elias’s championship win also gives Suzuki their first championship title since 2009 when Mat Mladin won the crown.
FOLGER TO REMAIN WITH YAMAHA TECH3 TEAM FOR 2018 The Monster Yamaha Tech3 team has extended 2018 MotoGP season. Next season, he will their contract with Jonas Folger through to the continue with his current teammate, Johann Zarco.
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AMERICAN FLAT TRACK WILL KICK OFF THE 2018 SEASON AT DAYTONA On the heels of the inaugural Daytona TT in 2017, AFT has announced that they will be returning to Daytona to kick off the 2018 season. The second annual Daytona TT will happen on March 15, 2018. Scheduled to happen during the annual Spring Daytona Bike Week, the flat track circuit will be redesigned for a more exciting evening of racing
for the racers and the crowd of fans. “I’m delighted that American Flat Track will feature again as a highlight of Bike Week,” said American Flat Track CEO Michael Lock. “The world-class facilities and a new, as yet secret, track design is sure to serve up a great evening’s racing for our fans.”
MOTOGP’S PROVISIONAL 2018 CALENDAR The FIM Grand P rix Wo rld Ch a m p i o n s h i p provisional calendar has been released for the 2018 MotoGP season. Please note the Grand Prix of Great Britain’s circuit has yet to be announced. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35
THE PRESS ROOM: GRID NEWS MATT SCHOLTZ MAKES HISTORY AT BARBER MOTORSPORTS In the second race of the final round of the 2017 MotoAmerica season, the 2017 Bazzaz Superstock 1000 Champion, Matt Scholtz rode his Yamalube/Westby Racing YZF R1 into the history books as the first rider to win a Motul Superbike race on a SuperStock spec 1000 at the famed Barber Motorsports Park. Scholtz, coming fresh off earning the 2017 Bazzaz Superstock 1000 Championship at the New Jersey round, took the victory with newly crowned Superbike Champion Toni Elias taking second and four time Champion, Josh Hayes rounding out the podium. This was Scholtz’s first AMA Superbike race win and also the first time that a South African competitor won an AMA race in the series 41 years.
PIRELLI REMAINS TIRE SUPPLIER FOR WORLD SUPERBIKE THROUGH 2020
Dorna has confirmed that Pirelli will remain the official tire supplier of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship for the 2019 and 2020 seasons, extending the current agreement another two years. The partnership 36 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
began in 2004 and is currently in its 14th consecutive season making Pirelli the longest running control tire supplier in the history of international motorsports.
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THE GRID: THE GRID LIFE
THE GRID LIFE
WORDS: PATRICIA FERNANDEZ IMAGES: COURTESY OF PATRICIA FERNANZDEZ 38 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
THE WOMEN’S SPORT BIKE RALLY I
had the privilege of attending my first Women’s Sport Bike Rally just one week ago, woohoo! I have never attended an all-female rally like this before and I was very impressed. I don’t ride much on the street because most of my time is on the race track, not that I am complaining, but I had so much fun I didn’t want to leave. From the group activities, scheduled rides, workshops and raffle, there was a constant flow of information and fun for your choosing. I initially was invited to attend this event by a friend of mine Anna Rigby, many of you know her on social media as RedSpade Racing. It's sometimes very hard for me to attend events when my race schedule is so hectic. The stars aligned and I was able to make it. The event was located in Deals Gap, N.C., more famously known as the “Tail of the Dragon.” 318 curves in 11 miles, street bike heaven. The location could not have been more beautiful, all the roads surrounding the rally were curvy and smooth. There were multiple options to choose from, and all the other drivers/riders were courteous to one another. If another vehicle was behind you, they would pull over and allow the faster vehicle to pass. I have never ridden anywhere where there was so much respect for one another no matter what the vehicle, car SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39
THE GRID or motorcycle. If for a moment, you could stop enjoying the twists and turns to pull over on the endless amount of look out points the background was incredible. Mountains covered in trees, lakes, rivers, and some of the most beautiful scenery. The check-in for the event was Friday, the main location was at a resort village that provided all the amenities one would need which made traveling that much easier. Friday night was a bonfire and s’mores. We played a game which allowed everyone to get to know each other by asking questions related to riding. It was so amazing to see so many women from so many different backgrounds, skill levels, and disciplines. Just for the record I won my team a point by being the person who crashed the most! Saturday started with a group photo of all the ladies on their motorcycles, so many bikes! Immediately there were multiple rides one could choose to participate in, making sure that no rider felt pressured to ride above their skill level. I choose to ride with Anna and some friends that I had made. We had so much fun we were gone for almost 9 hours! I was only disappointed that I did not get to attend the multiple workshops that the event offered. I liked that they had a variety to choose from including learning about gear, body position, how to load your motorcycle, maintenance, preparing for a long-distance motorcycle journey and more. The night ended with an ice cream social and raffle. I liked that the organizers of the event took the time to ask everyone who attended their likes/dislikes, and any suggestions they had to help improve the event. I loved this. Anyone willing to accept constructive criticism for the good of growing in a positive direction shows how willing they are to work hard. I absolutely loved the event and plan to attend another one. I know they offer a rally on both the east coast and the west. I hope all ladies interested in this type of event decide to join me! 40 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
FROM THE GROUP ACTIVITIES, SCHEDULES RIDES, WORKSHOPS AND RAFFLE, THERE WAS A CONSTANT FLOW OF INFORMATION AND FUN FOR YOUR CHOOSING.
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THE GRID
PUTTING IN THAT WORK!
MOTOGP WITH B.T.
WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM 44 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
R
emember that Monday after Spring Break? You had time to recharge your batteries, no homework, you partied with no repercussions of class the next day. Basically, you balled out! But Monday came and you were like, "Let's do this, Monday... I'm ready!" That was the feeling when MotoGP came off holiday and entered back to back race weekends. With an eighteen race schedule, can you blame the boys and girl if they want a little break? Man and woman do not live by motorcycles alone. Sometimes you have to step away, go swimming, sleep late, eat a donut and hopefully you can pinpoint what it is you need to do to get you to win a championship. Apparently, Marc Marquez did all these and maybe even had two donuts because the babyfaced assassin came back not skippin' a beat. But I'm getting ahead of myself. First things first. Moto3. The only reason we're not talking more about Joan Mir is simply that he's in MOTO3. He stands to be the most successful Moto3 rider since Valentino Rossi raced 125s, the class Moto3 replaced. He is skilled beyond his years. He's the Benjamin Buttons of Moto3. Smooth, smart and always under control. Joan Mir took both races, Brno and the Red Bull Ring like it was taking candy away from a baby with no fingers. There is no one that will challenge him until March 2018 when he races Moto2. Speaking of Moto2... This class is back! The last couple of years have been a little lackluster but Franco Morbidelli, Alez Marquez, Tom Luthi 46 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
JOAN MIR
THOMAS LUTHI
and Matthias Pasini have changed all that. Every week these guys are banging fairings and we the fans are the beneficiaries. Franco Morbidelli is tops in this class but a stumble out of the gate in Brno and a Tom Luthi victory have made the Championship not as clear cut as believed. But just as soon as I typed this, Morbidelli must've heard these keys rattling because he showed why he's moving to MotoGP by taking victory at the Redbull Ring. Only twenty six points separate Morbidelli and Luthi and we should see a battle all the way down to the last round in Valencia with Alex Marquez, Pasini and Miguel Oliveira
playing key roles in ruining someone's Christmas. The questions coming out of the break would be which MotoGP team would benefit the most. Who slept in and who put in that work. From the first race in Brno it was apparent Repsol Honda had done their homework as Marc Marquez and company timed a flag to flag race to perfection and Marquez had the most dominant race victory of the season, winning by over fifteen seconds. But Honda wasn't the only ones putting in that work. Ducati unveiled a funky SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 47
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
JOHANN ZARCO
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MAVERICK VINALES
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
MARC MARQUEZ
fairing that skirts the rules of banned winglets. But Brno, keeping this championship a five man battle. trust me, that's a winglet! I know a winglet when I The pressure now seems to be on Rossi. He see a winglet and damn it, that's a winglet. needs a victory like President Trump needs class. This new fairing seems to be working as Andreas Otherwise, he could see the championship slip Dovizioso beat Marquez in a last corner, last lap from his grasp. thriller at the Red Bull Ring in Austria bringing him to within' sixteen points of the championship This year, the championship is truly more up for lead. If Ducati can make this new fairing work, grabs than at any time in MotoGP history. The this championship could get even more interesting difference is who can make the Michellins work as Jorge Lorenzo looks to finally have gotten on a given weekend. The tyres are more sensitive to temperatures than a pregnant woman with her comfortable on his new Red Rocket. hormones. I, again, predict that the championship Notice how I didn't mention Yamaha? Exactly. will come down to the last race of the season in After blowing it in Brno during a flag to flag race, Valencia, in a winner take all, involving four riders. the factory Yamahas were nowhere to be seen at the end of the Austrian GP but Satellite Sensation Fingers crossed, books open, school... Er, uh, rider Johann Zarco managed a 5th place finish MotoGP second half of the season is in session ahead of both Rossi and Maverick Vinales. But to and we, the fans, could not be happier! be honest and fair, Vinales did grab a podium in 50 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE GRID
THE NUMBERS EVERY MONTH, WE ASK PROS AND AMATEURS WHY THEY CHOSE THE NUMBERS THAT IDENTIFY THEM ON THE GRID...
IMAGES: BRIAN J. NELSON 52 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
TONI ELIAS
#24
"I didn’t want that number but I was part of the Telefonica Movistar Junior Team and that team was Raul Jara #23, Toni Elias #24, Joan Olive #25, Dani Pedrosa #26 and Casey Stoner #27… Nice, eh? Then I started to win races with #24 in the world championship, 125, 250, MotoGP, Moto2 and up until now. Everyone associates #24 with Toni Elias like Jeff Gordon in Nascar… And I like it! I also have it as a tattoo."
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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
JEREMY COOK
ADRIAN HACKETT
56 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Jeremy Cook HOMETOWN: I live in Pasadena, MD but I always claim Texas! AGE: 36 years old. SPONSORS: Bob's BMW Motorcycle, BMWMOA, Liqui-Moly, Schuberth Helmets, HELD, Sidi, K-TECH, Chic kenhawk , VETM, Andrew Swenson Designs, DrippinWet, Vortex, BMW Motorrad USA, SpeedMob, Arrow, and Motorcycle Xcitement Trackdays. SERIES: MotoAmerica Superstock, ASRA, and CCS. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Several top 10 MotoAmerica finishes, Former AMA Grand National Supersport 1000 Champion, Former Lockhart Phillips Privateer of the Year, Former Summit Point, NJMP Track Champion, Former Atlantic Regional Unlimited Supersport Champion, along with several regional championships. GOALS: To look back at my life and regret as little as possible, to not pass on opportunities that I'll remember forever, and to help those I can, in anyway I can, for as long as I can. In road racing I've already achieved the things I wanted to achieve, things I never imagined possible; now it's just about having fun and helping others. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion is to seek "fast". It's hard to achieve, it makes you doubt yourself, but it's the most fun you can have, and once you achieve it, your world changes. Plus, I like it!
IMAGES: COURTESY OF JEREMY COOK SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 57
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
T
ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
WORDS//IMAGES: BRIAN AND JULIAN GLASCOE 60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
DUS WILLIAMS:
K C A B E M O C E H T
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
DUS WILLIAMS
HOMETOWN: Hillsborough,NC HOME TRACK: Piedmont Dragway, NC
SBI
: Some people don’t know, but you went through something that most people would have a very difficult time coming back from. About two years ago, I remember receiving the message that you were involved in a motorcycle accident and people didn’t know if you would ever walk again. It was a complete shock to many people in the racing world. Tell us about the accident? DUS WILLIAMS: June 12, 2015, Piedmont's Kings of Grudge event was the next day and the night before we had some money runs locked in. The accident was completely freakish, however. I bounced back pretty good, but I still have a ways to go. I had to have Lisfranc surgery. I broke both of my legs, fractured an ankle and suffered some broken bones on my neck and my back. SBI: There are statistical odds which cannot be defied and individual odds which can. You defied the individual odds of life. I remember seeing you at the Kings of Grudge six months after the accident, back on the track. What was it like to get back out there knowing that people were concerned with you getting back out there so soon? DW: When I was down, I heard people say, "Oh, he’s done." I thought that I was done, too. 62 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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WHEN I WAS DOWN, I HEARD PEOPLE SAY, "OH, HE’S DONE." I THOUGHT THAT I WAS DONE, TOO.
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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"The best part was making it that far on my Dad’s birthday and seeing his excitement. To see how he was pulling for me and how happy that it made him was the best part." I ain’t gonna lie. I had family and good people behind me and they keep pushing. Like I said, this is what I love to do and I did it for the people that are going to go through that. Some more people are going to go through it and they are going to be wondering what’s next. But they’ll remember that Dus bounced back from it thinking that he’s a regular guy just like I am. That was the real point of me coming back so early. At the Piedmont race a lot of people were trying to talk me out of it, but I really wanted to do it. I went through a lot and anyone else can do the same. I’m not quite the rider that I was, but I’m almost back! My family didn’t want me to come back so soon. But personally, I just felt like it was something that I needed to get done. I wanted to do it. I remember sitting on the bike in the burnout box and I immediately wanted to get off of the bike. I have never been so nervous in my life but once I cranked the bike up, I calmed down and I was good from there. I love this stuff. I love the competitive nature. It’s what I was brought up on and there’s nothing like racing to me. SBI: When you went down, you had a lot of racers and people that are in the racing industry pulling for you to come through. DW: I know. I know and it was cool to see that. Stuff happens to people every day, but you never
expect or think that it’ll happen to you. I’ve seen plenty of people wreck and I always thought, "Hey, that’s them." But in reality, it can happen anywhere at any time. I’m grateful and humbled by it and truly thankful for the second opportunity because I could easily not be here. I look at life differently now. But I love it. I loved the support that everyone showed and I still got my t-shirt with everyone’s signature on it. SBI: You opened the 2016 MANCUP season with a Pro Street Bike debut? DW: It was my first time on a Pro Street Bike and I made it to the semi-finals, which was pretty cool. I’m really hard on myself. I wanted to make it to the finals. I wanted to win it but the people talked to me and said, "Do you know how many people have been racing for years and never made it that far?" The best part was making it that far on my Dad’s birthday and seeing his excitement. To see how he was pulling for me and how happy that it made him was the best part. SBI: So what’s in the near future for Dus Williams? DW: People are working on a few bikes and they want me to ride so I’m just grateful for the opportunities. Stay tuned… You’ll see us out there. I got some stuff up my sleeve. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 67
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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP
RANDALL CROSS
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Randall Cross HOMETOWN: Stone Mountain, GA AGE: 29 years old. SPONSORS: Cross Performance Shop, Multi Print of Stone Mountain GA, J2 Plumbing in Decatur GA, Joe's Bar and Grill, Rob Bush Motorsport, Hardcore Cycle, Cross Heating and Air, Turner Bullies of Atlanta. SERIES: Manufacturers Cup, South Interstate 65 Ultra 4.60 Shoot Out, Kings of Grudge, Southeastern Dragracing, CSRA Pro ET. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Two Time Champion Bracket Racer for CSRA . I've won 6 races, 4 runner ups and at least 10 third places just this year and counting. I currently race 4 classes, Ultra 4.60 , Crazy 8s, Super Comp and Street ET. GOALS: To win multiple championships in one year and run a successful business DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: My passion for dragracing is unreal, I travel the world meeting great people and leaving with new family... It's awesome.
IMAGES: COURTESY OF RANDALL CROSS
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Distributed by:
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 73 www.VooDoomoto.com
THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP
JULIEN WELSCH
ADRIAN HACKETT
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Julien Welsch HOMETOWN: Lyon, France AGE: 32. SPONSORS: Freegun, Avon Tyres, Ipone, Neken, CL Brakes, Jokeriders, Kutvek. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Pro rider for 7 years. I was a factory rider for Triumph for 5 years. I released lots of different videos on internet. Travel the world for shows and just restarted a vlog so that people can follow my crazy life. GOALS: Make crowds happy and travel the world to meet cool people that are sharing my passion. DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: Go big or go home. You crash a lot but your motivation makes you stand up all the time and try again and again.Â
IMAGES: COURTESY OF JULIEN WELSCH
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Kelly Yazdi LOCATION: Los Angeles, CA OCCUPATION: Model and Events Coordinator. YEARS RIDING: 9 years. RIDING STYLE: Mostly street, some dirt, and hopefully flat track soon! BIKE/S OWNED: 2017 BMW R nine T Pure. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: I love the heated hand grips and the opposed twin engine that gives a good roar. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My favorite piece of riding gear is my Roland Sands Design Riot Jacket. I have it in every color. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Riding along the Northshore of Oahu! The beauty of Hawaii and the adrenaline of being on two wheels with waves crashing at your side. It is unlike anything I've ever experienced. 78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Emile Lafond LOCATION: Montclair, NJ OCCUPATION: Entrepreneur. YEARS RIDING: 17 years riding. RIDING STYLE: Street and track. BIKE/S OWNED: Yamaha R1 and Honda VFR 800. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Suspension, Steel Braided Brake Lines and Akropovic Exhaust. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Clover Track Suit and Dainese Flash II Jacket. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: I spent the weekend teaching an advanced riding class in NY. I headed back home to NJ and it started pouring. I got my rain gear on. Finally made it to the next exit, all the while being pelted by torrential rain barely able to see through my fogged visor. Got off on some back roads and was totally lost. It was pitch black and the rain was unrelenting. A ride that normally takes me 1.5 hours took 3. It was the most terrified I've ever been on a bike. I arrived home soaked, chilled to the bone and exhausted. My hands were useless. It took 30 minutes to get my gear off. And then I had the best shower of my life.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Zachary Holler LOCATION: Glenside, PA OCCUPATION: Collision Repair Painter. YEARS RIDING: Going on 2 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Yamaha R6S FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Custom Yoshimura Exhaust and LED Underglow. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Alpinestars riding jacket. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My most memorable ride was the summer right after I got my bike and I rode to the Jersey Shore. It was the most freeing experience. Just me and my bike. I went 140 for the first time on a bike and it was the biggest adrenaline rush I've ever had.
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Nia John LOCATION: Â Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: Health Services. YEARS RIDING: 9 years but bought my first bike in 2011. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2003 Honda CBR 600RR. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Two Brothers exhaust. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Myrtle Beach fanny pack. Yes, I own one and so what?! MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: In March 2012, I rode my first bike with a few Philly Ruff Ryder members to a NC Ruff Ryders chapter for a hood ride. We left around 6am and didn't get there until about 4pm. Some of us rode back up to Philly around 8pm and didn't get home until 6am the next morning. We made many pit stops that night coming back to Philly. I thought I was going to get frostbite. It was my first long distance ride and I loved it, despite the weather. This is where my love for riding long distance began.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
GETTING OVER A CRASH
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM 84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: GETTING OVER A CRASH
I
love riding and racing motorcycles. There is no other sport on Earth that offers or presents such a fantastic combination of mental, physical and emotional challenges. To achieve their optimum lap time around a track, riders must master both the timing and magnitude of dozens of physical inputs while simultaneously assessing the way that their machine handles, brakes and accelerates - all in the search of the traction and feedback needed to go faster. The emotional part of our sport comes into play when we need to balance our need for speed with the realization that we can (and eventually will) fall down. When they do fall down, I’ve seen many riders allow one emotion (fear) to cause them to take a big step back in their riding. This article will address some ways to overcome that fear and get back to riding to your full potential. Emotion is a wonderful thing. It gives us passion, motivation and often provides us with the courage to step outside our comfort zones into a world of uncertainty. Without this motivation, we as riders would never trail the brake off sooner, hold the gas on longer or pull the brake lever harder than we do right now. However, riding on emotion alone robs us of the ability to achieve the precision that is needed to perform at a high level. The closer we get to the limit of traction, the more accurate we need to be. This need for accuracy requires us to become technical riders who focus on honing our techniques and engage in constant self-evaluation to ensure that the timing of these actions is as perfect as possible. After a crash, the most common problem for a rider is to dwell on the emotional effects of the fall and to let this fear dominate their thoughts on the track. By focusing on the technical aspects of riding, riders can quickly overcome the 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
negative emotional effects of a fall and regain the confidence needed to continue forward progress. There are always those crashes that are out of your control (like hitting oil or having another rider slide into you) but those events are not our focus because we can’t change them. Let's look at the steps we can follow after falling down due to our own mistake and focus on how to get back on our game as quickly as possible. Step 1: Analyze the fall - The first step to regaining confidence is to establish what went wrong in the first place. Most falls can be put in one of a few different categories. 1. Abrupt Inputs. Tires need time to react to any change in loads. Grabbing the brakes, snapping the throttle open, jerking the bars and even shifting your weight abruptly can cause traction problems. If you think you might have been guilty of one of these misdeeds, that’s probably your culprit. 2. Not releasing one load as you add another. Even the smoothest rider must follow the laws of
load replacement. The most common culprit is when a rider is nearing the exit and picks up the throttle without releasing lean angle at the same time. Adding throttle reduces front grip. If you were using 100% of your tire to turn with midcorner, you must reduce lean angle together with the application of throttle. The Penguin motto of "gas on, bike up" applies every time you exit a corner. The same goes for braking and turning. If you are heavy on the brakes, you must release lever pressure as you start to tip in. The more lean angle increases, the more the brakes come off. 3. Lack of a knowledge/lack of focus. It’s very difficult to analyze your actions in a corner if you have not first established the goals in that corner. What is your trajectory supposed to be at the apex? Is this corner exit, entry or roll speed focused? Why? Based on the type of corner, where is the point where you should let off the brakes and get back on the gas? Did you have a plan before you went out or did you just roll onto the track aimlessly? 4. Overconfidence. This one ties a little bit
into #3 but is common enough to warrant its own category. Were you focused, accurate, using proper techniques and full of confidence? Sometimes when everything is going perfectly you can lose sight of the fact that you are not actually Superman and that you still need to be mindful of tire condition, traction levels and how much sliding around you can get away with. When trying to figure out the root cause of your fall, details are important. Had you released the brakes or were you still trailing them? Was your inner arm relaxed and your legs engaged? Did you completely release your bar input as you rolled on the Gas? Once you identify the exact location of your crash and the actions that immediately preceded it, you should have a pretty clear picture of the cause. If you did not feel any warning signs before the crash, then it’s often a good bet that you were simply holding on too tight. The #1 reason why a rider can’t feel the 2-3 pounds difference in the SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 87
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: GETTING OVER A CRASH
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Doing 1 thing at 100% always yields better results than trying to do 100 things at 1%.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: GETTING OVER A CRASH
PUT IT BEHIND YOU. THE WORST THING THAT YOU CAN DO IS TO FOCUS ON THE MISTAKE ITSELF. EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT 100% SURE OF THE CAUSE, YOU WILL AT LEAST HAVE IDENTIFIED THE LOCATION AND ACTIONS THAT HAPPENED BEFORE THE FALL. 90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
bars that warns them of danger is that they are list of a few checkpoints to have: holding on to with 50 pounds of force. 1. Knowledge (pre-ride): Can you explain why When in doubt, find a seasoned coach and the corner is, for example, an entrance or exit describe your details of what went wrong with focused corner? Can you describe exactly what the details above. If possible, have that coach reference points you are going to be scanning for? follow you for a couple laps and help you identify Do you know exactly where you should release the issue. the brakes and apply the gas? 2. Precision: Can I arrive at the apex pointed in Step 2: Put it behind you. The worst thing that the right direction every lap. If not, am I using my you can do is to focus on the mistake itself. Even eyes properly? Am I scanning constantly to see if you are not 100% sure of the cause, you will as many points as I can to give myself the most at least have identified the location and actions information possible (and the greatest possibility that happened before the fall. Now you must for success)? use a little personal psychology to move past 3. Inputs: Are my initial inputs to the motorcycle your mistake. smooth and repeatable? Do my initial brake application, throttle application and bar input 1. When you make your pre-ride plan and when allow me complete control and the ability to you talk to yourself out on the track - always phrase adjust on the fly? Do I finish those inputs (close things in terms of what you want to make happen. the throttle, trail off the brakes, release the bars) as If you say “don’t turn in early for turn3” your brain smoothly as I started them? Am I reducing lean only hears “turn in early for turn 3”. Instead, you angle as soon as I start to accelerate? should locate your exact turn in point and focus on 4. Body Position and Timing: Do I move my that. “I will confidently turn in at the 2nd to last body after I apply the brakes? This is a common cone and hit my apex with the proper trajectory” mistake. Do I engage my core as the throttle is is not something your brain can misinterpret. applied? Am I using my lower body as effectively 2. Make a commitment to have perfect technique as I can? Are my arms, shoulders and hands in the corner that you fell. Write down the details relaxing more and more as the bike leans over? of what a perfect trip through the corner is. What type of corner is it? What are your reference Focusing on technique is the absolute best way points? How can you prepare your body position to overcome a fall. A common saying at Penguin early to make your corner easier? Where is the for years has been “Motorcycles don’t fall down. slowest point of the corner? When should you We drag them down”. Break out your track map, release the brakes and apply the throttle? How work with a coach and come up with a detailed many points can you see at once by scanning? strategy to lead yourself back to success. A well How early can you pick those points up? The thought out plan, proper technique and consistent more detail the better. checkpoints will get you back up to speed in no 3. Remember that your bike only cares about the time at all. An easy way to ensure that you don’t inputs you give it. If you are smooth and accurate, get overwhelmed trying to do everything right is to it’s not going to get emotional and break down, keep your main focus in a specific corner. Doing as riders sometimes do. 1 thing at 100% always yields better results than trying to do 100 things at 1%. Step 3: Focus on technique and have checkpoints that let you know if you’re doing it right. Anytime Until next time... Ride fast. Ride safe! you are scared, go back to technique. Here is a SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 91
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There will alwa motorcycles and p who want to ride th a quote I’ve heard
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aysI be just love people INDUSTRY motorcycles hem” is I many period. I S TAT E
OF
THE
PART II
N PART 1, the conversation stemmed from individuals that are heavily woven into the fabric of the business of motorcycles. In Part 2, we have mixed it up a little bit by including riders from the consumer side, in addition to a few notables. Their thoughts only begin to give insight on the state of the industry from their perspective. The key word is “begin”. The elements of what moves, accelerates and inspires this industry are much more than skin deep…
ple put in power with y new and exciting thi
love the fact SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 97
FRICTION ZONE: STATE OF THE INDUSTRY PT. II Safety is a big concern of mine. Seems people are unnecessarily injured and even dying due to lack of knowledge. They are not taking safety courses, wearing safety gear, or properly maintaining their bikes. Taking the DMV test on a scooter is a joke. They’re giving licenses to people that can not fully handle 250, 500, 600, 750, 900,1000cc motorcycles. People put more value on their bikes with lights, music, rims, chrome and not in themselves. They don't have insurance, even supplemental coverage like AFLAC, in case of accident or worse. I'd like to see more safety classes for new and experienced riders. Many times it's only once per season. Adjust the fees. Having to pay $300-350 is a lot. So much experience out here so let's help and keep people safe. I'd like to see maintenance classes offered at the local tracks. More female riders need to be featured! The ladies are out here and not going anywhere. Have a ladies track day, for example.
POOKIE
The Industry has brought people together, regardless of race, gender, religion and that is an awesome accomplishment. We travel, laugh, eat, live and sorrowfully mourn the loss of fellow riders together. Some bonds will never be broken. I’m thankful for that.
RUFF RYDERS// NATIONAL P.R.O. My biggest concern is a lack of safety awareness. While some manufacturers have attempted to control the power output on their bikes there has still been a significant rise in motorcycle related deaths over the last few years. This can be directly linked to speed and inexperienced riders. I would like to see stricter guidelines around motorcycle safety and possibly age requirements as well as a stricter more complete motorcycle riding class.
MYSTIQUE
ONE FIST RYDERZ//P.R.O. 98 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
I have two major concerns. One, that the industry is dying. And two, that the industry does not see how it’s not really dying… We are at a crossroads where the fantasy of a kid riding a Z-50 in the empty lot across the street can still happen. This does not happen anymore except out in the countryside. The other road is a change in the perception of motorcycling as entertainment in smaller doses. The industry is shifting and in ways that OEM’s do not realize. Frankly, they are too slow to react to these changes, though their products are critical for profit and growth. Smaller displacement bikes are not the only answer - a huge issue is community and broad support that raises the tide - not staccato efforts that lose attention once an OEM’s marketing dollars run though. Equally editorial magazines and outlets need to support the newest generation of riders. It’s not all about specifications and top speed anymore - it’s about elevating the joy of riding in many many ways to many many niche audiences. Female-centric, ethnocentric, regional approaches, therapy programs etc - MOTORCYCLE FAN & INDUSTRY CONSULTANT Lots of smaller efforts will grow into a wave. have anchors of authenticity throughout. You can’t give the fox There is not one answer and anybody looking for that silver the keys to the hen house. But the fact is that yes an enthusiast bullet is delusional or lazy. The industry needs to work harder in the business should have two votes over somebody who is and with a grassroots sensibility. You cannot fake enthusiasm. just a good general marketer, sales guy or administrator. This
ROBERT PANDYA
Changes will come from the consumer. Dollars dictate the opportunities for the whole business. Used bike sales are strong. But big buck new unit (i.e.-profit centers) are falling off. Kudos to OEM’s for making cool little bikes. But they all need to step it up to create the community that supports such bikes. Boomers don’t generally accept smaller bikes today. That mindset will change if smaller bikes are seen as cool, and instead of ending their riding career with some chrome-splattered heavyweight, they will reverse course and step back down the product ladder to ride even longer. In addition, we must support youth initiatives such as the USMCA and riding access through the AMA and groups like the Trails Preservation Alliance. This is the future of riding.
industry will thrive when led by passion balanced by respect and skill. The fact is that most experienced riders can call out somebody who is a squid in one mile. It’s time to apply that same rigor to our own business practices, work hard and smart and remember that this is supposed to be fun!
If you are part of the powersports and motorcycle industry in any capacity and are getting tired of the same old thing, tired of the constant pressure, tired of the endless waves of new issues to deal with, tired of the customers, please please, please… get the fuck out. You are dead weight and you are filling the position that somebody who gives a crap and has the energy to lean forward will succeed in. Go sell something else, go anchor down some other desk, and allow this industry to survive. Yeah, The same things that will help what has been a very flat market despite you. This is a time of action, and if you are not bringing since 2009 begin to grow again. The motorcycle business must it every day, you are not part of the solution. SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 99
FRICTION ZONE: STATE OF THE INDUSTRY PT. II I would say my major concerns would be cost. In some cases, a motorcycle can cost more than a brand new car! The price of a 600cc bike is more now in 2017 than the cost of a 1000cc bike was in 2009. To me, motorcycles have always been more of a working man's prize. An outlet for the regular guy who doesn't make 100k a year but now I think in 5 or 6 more years buying a new motorcycle is going to be very very difficult for the average person to afford. Looking at parts, helmets and boots you notice even the motorcycle accessories are becoming way too expensive and that should be a big concern for us all. I think a year is a very short time in this industry so not much can change in 365 days but maybe changes to riders mindset when it comes to safety. This industry as a whole needs to just keep moving and growing and focusing on rider safety. The new changes to motorcycles with ABS and traction control are amazing and saving us from some of our silly mistakes every day. I love the innovation of this industry. They have electric motorcycles these days and that's just wild! Cameras on helmets and heads-up displays are amazing.This industry always had great people with great ideas making things better year after year. I love how the average guy can become a racer in organizations such as CCS, WERA and club races everywhere. That adrenalin rush from doing 120mph down a straight and doing your own impression of Valentino Rossi or Josh Hayes in turn 1 of a race track is like no other experience. I love the magic of the industry. So far the average man can afford a place in the motorcycle world. Prices on used motorcycles are great and very much affordable. That's where the magic comes in!! The magic of this industry is that it brings together men, women and children from all walks of life! People from all colors races sizes ages can all come to one love of motorcycles and feel a bond that most people would never understand.
QUICK
ENTHUSIAST & MOTO VLOGGER
I’m concerned about creating a safer environment for the rider. I would like to see more warnings and awareness for motorcycles during the beginning of the riding season. I think every state should require a helmet. I love the community as a whole. I don’t care what your status is in society or your choice of bike to ride. If you ride you are a brother or sister of mine. I love that more women are riding, getting their endorsement and buying their own bike. I love that gear for women is slowly becoming a must have as more companies are catering to the female rider needs.
DRRTY MARTINI
SKULL KANDY S.B.C.//ROAD CAPTAIN
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JOHN C. HENSLEY ENTHUSIAST & ACTOR
America exists as a race series, there is much more to be done. I would love to see the marketing efforts of that series take the appropriate steps to market their teams and athletes in a way that breaks endemic barriers. There is so much gold there to be mined, stars to be made, and one of the most dynamic forms of motorsports available to people in the United States to be celebrated. Yes, I know this takes money, but I’d be willing to bet that if the money already available were spent creatively, Legislation: Lane sharing should be legal in all fifty states, full the results would be surprising. stop, end of story. Life will be better on the road for all, four wheeled vehicles included. This is not just a commuting issue, There is a quality to a majority of the people that make up the it’s an environmental issue as well. Lane sharing helps alleviate motorcycle industry that I find to be truly beautiful. Personally, many, many problems facing every commuter on the road. Not I suspect it has something to do with the fact that a motorcycle to mention, if legalized in all states, you will see many more two is a great equalizer amongst those that ride them in that it will wheeled commuters on the road, if for no other reason because expose who you are, regardless of what image you choose to motorcycles cost less than cars and are so much more efficient, project to the rest of the world. That’s a beautiful thing when which means more space and room for everyone, which means a you get right down to it because it’s humbling, and it’s honest, better mindset, which means better mental health, which means and I believe there’s something in there that allows a sincerity to more productivity, which means more personal empowerment, shine amongst many who make their livelihood in the motorcycle industry. I can’t tell you how fortunate I feel to know them and which means… You get it. count many of them as my closest friends. Road Racing: While I greatly appreciate the fact that Moto My concerns for the motorcycle industry are those that I’ve had for many years now. Unfortunately, the industry often seems to be satisfied with preaching to the same choir over and over again, following trends instead of establishing them, thus making it feel like a cash crop, never fully harvested, left to slowly wither on the vine. This is evident in virtually every sub-genre of motorcycling.
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Distinction,Details and Design.
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AirTex Vented Textile Pant $109 Twist Glove $49 SIDI Canyon Gore-Tex Boots $350 Dealer Locator @ motonation.com
Toll Free 877.789.4940 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 105
THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • TARMAC JACKET Most waterproof apparel has a bulky, cumbersome fit and feel to them. The Tarmac jacket is just the opposite with it’s sleek and sporty fitment. The chassis is made of a four way stretch material that offers level 3 waterproofing working with the Aquaguard zippers to keep you dry. Protection is provided by D3o impact protection in the shoulders, elbows and back. Colors: Black, Gray Sizes: S - XXXXL Price: $250.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com
BROCK’S PERFORMANCE • ADJUSTABLE BROCKSTAND FOR THE SUZUKI GSXR 1000 This billet aluminum adjustable kickstand is specifically engineered for the 2017 Suzuki GSXR 1000 and works in harmony with Brock’s front and rear lowering set ups and uses the OEM kill switch, springs and mounting hardware. The kickstand adjusts from -4 inches to -2 inches, with 6 points of adjustments. The finish is black anodized and includes stainless steel. It shaves off just over 8 pounds, compared to the stock kickstand.
HOTBODIES RACING • WINDSCREEN FOR THE HONDA 2013 - 2017 CBR600RR Available in a stock replacement or in a dual radius form, the aftermarket windscreens from Hotbodies Racing offers an improvement of your bike’s front end, be it for aerodynamics or just for aesthetics. Made from a method that includes pressure and vacuuming forming, the screens are flexible yet impressively strong. They install with your stock hardware without the need for modification. Available shades include dark smoke, clear and black. Colors: Dark Smoke, Smoke, Clear, Black Price: $79.95 - $89.95 Contact: http://hotbodiesracing.com 106 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
Price: $179.95 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com
BONAMICI • FOLDING LEVERS FOR THE APRILIA RSV4 Upgrade from your stock brake and clutch levers with these Italians beauties from Bonamici. Made from an magnesium alloy that is lighter than aluminum, they are ergonomically designed to provide serious fit and feel to keep control at your finger tips. They feature a 90 degree pivot point to minimize breakage in the event of a fall. Available in anodized black perch and anodized red lever for the Aprilia RSV4. Price: $209.99 Contact: http://motodracing.com JOE ROCKET • BIG BANG 2.1 GLOVES Lightweight, breathable and comfortable, the Big Bang 2.1 includes a lot of features an impressive amount of selling points. The leather palm compliments the mesh and neoprene combination on the back of the hand while the articulation is optimized in the finger joints. The leather palm is reinforced with double stitching. The index finger houses conductive leather in the finger tip for easy interfacing with smart phones or other touch screen devices. Colors: Black, Blue, Hi-Viz Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $39.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com PUIG RACING • RADIATOR SIDE PANELS FOR THE 2017 SUZUKI SV650
Give your naked SV650 a more aggressive look while minimizing the effects of inclement weather while at speed. The ABS plastic panels mount directly to the radiator and bike frame, sans any modifications. Available in a matte black and a carbon look finish and ships with all necessary hardware. Prices: $217.60 - $228.65 Contact: http://puigusa.com
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THE NEW ISH FORCEFIELD BODY ARMOR • PRO LITE K LEVEL 2 BACK INSERTS Add, upgrade or replace the armor that came with your riding jacket with Forcefield’s CE approved Pro Back inserts. Forcefield’s Pro Lite K Level 2 back inserts feature quality kevlar threaded construction and Dri-M technology. The insert molds to the wearers shape for a custom fit while remaining breathable and lightweight. It’s designed to be reactive with the ability to absorb multiple massive impact energy. The Pro Lite K Level 2 back insert is available in a number of sizes (1 through 8) for proper insertion and fitment into your jacket. Price: $79.00 Contact: http://motonation.com
DRIVEN RACING • FENDER ELIMINATOR FOR THE 2017 YAMAHA FZ 09
Made from billet aluminum and anodized in black, this fender eliminator kit gives the rear end of your FZ 09 a much cleaner look over the bulky stock setup. Offered with and without the turn signals. Made in the USA. Prices: $129.99 - $189.99 Contact: http://drivenracing.com
ROLAND SANDS DESIGNS • TRENT JACKET
The Trent is a tough looking classical cafe style jacket with an outer shell composed of a Kevlar and Cordura blend. Featuring a full satin poly liner, CE approved armor in the elbows and shoulders, the Trent is loaded with storage options and proper ventilation. The Trent is also equipped with a removable fleece hood. Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $525.00 Contact: http://rolandsands.com 108 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
MOTION PRO • SPROCKET BOLT AND NUT FASTENING KIT
Coated with a zinc plated finish to prevent corrosion, the kit includes 6 8mm bolts that have pre applied thread locker, 6 8mm metal locking nuts and 6 8mm flat washers. Keep one of these kits in your tool box for the local track day or race and never let a missing bolt or nut end your day. Price: $10.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com VOODOO INDUSTRIES • 4 INTO 1 SHORTY FULL SYSTEM FOR THE This system is made to increase the beast in your ZX14R with an increase of 8 decibels and a boost in performance. Constructed via the CNC mandrel bending process for precision with master welding, the full system is backed by the quality Voodoo Industries brand name. All hardware for installation is included in the box and installation does not require any modifications to the frame or bodywork. Available in black and polished with applications for the Kawasaki ZX14 and ZX14R, model years 2006 through 2017. Colors: Black, Polished Price: $749.95 Contact: http://voodoomoto.com
SCORPION EXHAUST • GP CARBON FIBER SLIP ON EXHAUST FOR THE YAMAHA R1 The Scorpion GP slip on is a great buy, packed with many features that really make you wonder why you don’t see more of these pipes on the road. With a performance boost of 4 to 5 horses and an impressive weight saving factor when compared to the OEM system, the GP system for the R1 is spotlighted by its plug and play installation that requires no modifications nor does it require any adjustments with your bike’s fuel map. All Scorpion pipes did not need to be repacked and come with a lifetime guarantee. Fits the Yamaha R1, model years 2015 through 2017. Price: $692.00 Contact: tawperformance.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 109
THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ARMOUR BODIES • PRO SERIES SUPERSPORT KIT FOR THE 2017 SUZUKI GSXR 1000 You can now race prep your 2017 GSXR 1000 with Armour Bodies. Their Pro Series Supersport Kit is composed of a resin that is similar to the resin used on Kayaks that give it great strength and durability. The components arrive primed and ready for paint. Included in the kit: upper, lower, supersport tail section with seat panel, fender and front tank cover. Distributed exclusively in the US by Woodcraft CFM. Price: $699.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com
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520 Steel Q/A Kit OEM Replacement Kit Driven Steel Sprockets 520/525/530 RK Chain
Driven Steel Sprockets 520 RK Premium Chain
520 Aluminum Race
Driven Aluminum Rear Sprocket 520 RK Premium Chain
Live chat with us at RKExcelAmerica.com Tel: 760.732.3161 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 111
STAFF STUFF ICON MOTOSPORTS • TIMAX LONG GLOVES Allan Lane When the original Timax gloves were originally released by ICON in 2004, sentiments toward their arrival in the market were very polarizing. That’s what was expected and I think the team at ICON not only anticipated it, they embraced it. To say that they walk to the beat of their own drum is the understatement of the century. I remember seeing them in the Part Unlimited catalog and thinking that they were just a tad bit too blingy for me. For others, and for that time, they were right on point. They sold out and then disappeared from the general market, only to be spotted in later years, occasionally on eBay. Fast forward 13 years and the Timax return with a vengeance and much fanfare. I received my Timax Long gloves and I noticed right away that the bling wasn’t really that blingy. The titanium had a matte finish to them giving them a tactical menacing profile as the titanium is found at the back of fingers, knuckles and at the wrist gauntlets. Underneath the titanium is quality leather construction with superior stitching. The overlapping sections of leather enhance the durability, particularly in the palm section. They have a decent weight to them. You know they are there without sacrificing dexterity. And while it takes more than a second to strap them on, in part to the dual wrist closure, once they are on their fit is secure. In action, the Timax gloves feel solid on my hands. There is not a tremendous amount of airflow so they may not be the best selection for the hot summer days but what do you expect 112 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
when you are basically wearing titanium knuckled leather long gloves. I am missing the Touchtec feature that allows you to interact with your smart device without having to remove the glove considering that gloving and de-gloving takes a moment. I shouldn’t be using my phone anyway! I’m on a bike!
eye catching and formidable glove that offer the great level of protection that ICON continues to produce while leveling up the amount of badassery that can be contained in a glove. http://rideicon.com Rating: 5.5 (out of 6)
With that aside, the Timax long gloves are an SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 113
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