SportBikes Inc Magazine August 2013 (Volume 3, Issue 11)

ROAD RACING . DRAG RACING . STUNT RIDING

CUSTOM BIKES . Moto tECH

August 2013 Vol 3 Issue 11

SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM

Rickey Gadson

KING

the drag issue

martinez’s “awareness” | The Youngest in Charge | Capo’s Cut | the best race that you’re not watching | power of elemental proportions

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the best race that you’re not watching

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the most important second

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THE USUALS

august 2013 - VOLUME 3, ISSUE 11

10 EDITOR’S LETTER 14 THE PRESS ROOM 20 SHOP SPOTLIGHT - analog motorcycles 34 THE GRID NEWS 48 THE INSIDE TRACK - By Corey Alexander 56 The youngest in charge - By Dystany Spurlock 58 CAPO’S CUT - By Ashon CAPO Dickerson 84 VIOLET STARS & HAPPY STUNTING - By Leah Petersen 96 FEATURED CLUB - bloc burnaz mC 98 KNOW YOUR ROLE - By Kim “Lady Kim” Roper 102 The lion’s den - By Lion James 108 FEATURED RIDERS 114 MOTO TECH - Ask the pro wrench http://issuu.com/action/page?page=124 124 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=130 130 FOCUSED ON FASHION - By Kiana Gadson http://issuu.com/action/page?page=136 136 SPORTBIKES INK!!! http://issuu.com/action/page?page=138 138 THIS LIFE - By Tyson Beckford http://issuu.com/action/page?page=142 142 THE NEW ISH http://issuu.com/action/page?page=148 148 STAFF STUFF

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Feature story

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Rickey Gadson

KING

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EDITOR’S LETTER industry of ours, I believe our friendship began. I mean that in the sense of being more than just two people that passed each other at events and gave the respectable nod of ack n owl e dg ement. . .

Sidebar: The respectable nod of acknowledgment is rampant in our industry!

Next time you’re at an event, take note of how many head nods occur.

It’s staggering!

otorcycles have an uncanny method M of bridging gaps and bringing people together. Most of all my greatest life’s moments

have some how beendirectly or indirectly related to motorcycles.

Perhaps the coolest part about my career is that it presents opportunities to meet incredible people from all over the world and in some cases those opportunities give birth to real friendships. Case in point, my friendship with Rickey Gadson.

I’ve told the story of how Rickey became a mentor to me and is actually part of the reason that I am where I am today in the industry and as a publisher a number of times. He and his wife Kiana truly are part of my foundation. When I say that they are my family and that I love them, I mean it. I salute them!

But then I discovered that my friendship with Rickey was rooted a lot deeper than motorcycles or being from Philly or a mentorship. It was deeper than anything that I could have imagined and my imagination is vast...

Who would have thought that my connection to What’s funny about our friendship is that we are the most winningest of all time, 10 time drag bike both from Philadelphia and were pretty active champion, Mr. Rickey Gadson... is the TGIF’s in the bike community, different aspects of it but Strawberry Shortcake Cocktail! none the less, still pretty active. Of course I knew who he was but he had no idea who I was. Not That’s right! I said it! Rickey Gadson and I are that he should have either. But eventually, through real men, real riders and we drink Strawberry mutual friends and chance encounters, Rickey Shortcakes! and I began to socialize. I think once he realized that I was perhaps a “little bit out there”, “odd”, ‘Nuff said! “strange...” You get the point! I am a visionary! Best, Once he saw that I was really dedicated to this Allan 10 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

THE TEAM Publisher/Editor in Chief: Allan Lane

Contributing Writer: Brice Cooper

EDITORIAL

Broadcast Correspondant Jillian Titus

Lifestyle Director: Tyson Beckford Fashion Editor: Kiana Gadson

Staff Writers: Dystany Spurlock Michael Lawless Kim “Lady Kim” Roper Lion James Lisa Macknik

Drag Racing Editor: Ashon “Capo” Dickerson

Executive Administrative Assistant: Inneabelle Florez

Drag Racing Advisor: Rickey Gadson

Copy Editor: Angela Lane

Road Racing Editor: Corey Alexander Moto Tech Editor: Thomas Campion Riding Editor: Eric Wood Rev Limiter Editor: Leah Petersen International Correspondent Billy Morrison

ART & DESIGN Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain Graphic Designer: Baz Contributing Photographers: Meekail Shaheed Brian J. Nelson Robin Spurlock Kwame Olds Brendan Patrick Coughlin Keith Antonio Davis Cover: Meekail Shaheed

SportBikes Inc Magazine - August 2013 Volume 3, Issue 11 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2013 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 Clint Ewing attempts to set new Guinness World Record in Sturgis

Rider by trade, adrenaline junkie at heart, professional freestyle stunt rider, Clint Ewing attempted to ride his 2009 Honda CBR through a 300 foot tunnel of engulfing flames on August 7th at the 2013 Sturgis Motorcycle rally. His hope was to beat his world record from 2008 when he rode a fiery distance of 200ft, catapulting himself into a raging war of flames and heat reaching above the last recorded run of 1,625 degrees!

Now this type of feat is never attempted without adequate preparation and thought. Riding motocross since the third grade, Clint is fully in tune with the sounds of the engine, and the language of the bike, “The bike is really part of me.”

Gaining valuable advise from his father who had no background in anything related to the industry, he heeded it by putting his leg over his bike everyday, perfecting his stunting and overall riding skill. Ewing admits, “Once I put 14 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

that helmet on, I become the person I really am.”

Clint has always pushed the limit. Whether he was riding triples that no one else could, riding his street bike like he did in MX for lack of becoming “bored” or living Young and Reckless, Ewing is always remaining in sync with his machine. His skill and ability to focus on his dream caught the attention of Dunlop Tires CEO, who brought him on board as a sponsored rider. Now with several sponsors behind him, he is full speed ahead in every avenue of his life.

Unfortunately, Ewing’s record attempt was cut short when it appears that the heat was a bit too much and the tunnel collapses on itself. Ewing sustained several injuries and he was rushed to a local hospital. The dare devil will live to ride another day, but for now is recovering from his injuries.

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The press room Suzuki releases 2014 Limited Edition GSXR 1000 SE To commemorate their 50th anniversary in the US, Suzuki announced that they will be producing a very limited run of the their 2014 GSXR 1000 SE. Only 50 bikes will hit selected US dealers, one bike for each year that Suzuki has been in business. Each bike will have a numbered serial plate located on the triple clamp to indicate it’s position in the run.

ICON Motosports releases fall line up and a new video featuring Jason Britton

The team at ICON have been pretty busy these last few months prepping for the release of their Fall 2013 line.

Their usual visually intense aesthetic, once again bonds the concepts of form and function with menacing... borderline intimidating style.

To showcase a centerpiece from the line up, ICON released a new short video starring Jason Britton and The Overlord Resistance Collection... doing what else?

Getting it in on the streets of Los Angeles.

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Yamaha Bolt recalled for wiring issues

The 2014 Yamaha Bolt has been recalled to repair a slack in the wiring harness that could come in contact with the exhaust manifold. The heat from the exhaust could cause the damage to the wiring, resulting in the bike malfunctioning.

Dealers have been instructed to rectify the problem at no cost.

Kawasaki recalls Ninja for stalling problems An incorrect setting in the ECU is at the root of the problem that may cause the 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 300 to stall while decelerating. Over 10,000 Ninja’s have been recalled by the manufacturer to have the problem fixed by the dealer network.

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Shop Spotlight: analog motorcycles

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Analog Motorcycles

CONTACT:

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Shop name: Analog Motorcycles Location: Gurnee, IL Hours: by appointment Year established: 2007 Brands serviced: Vintage Japanese, British, Europeans

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ony Prust of Analog Motorcycles is very clear...

“I do not do service work. I customize and tailor motorcycles.” His bikes are a prime example of what happens when artisan gets a hold of a proper wrench... nothing shy of vintage magic.

Prust’s strengths lay in his attention to detail. He’s old school and it shows. Nothing is rushed and his craftsmanship is noted on all of his builds.

Focusing mostly on vintage Japanese, British and European bikes, Prust’s “less is more” approach to customizing a machine for an owner takes the bike down to what is necessary giving his customers a near glove like fit to their machines.

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

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Give aways Live Music food & drink specials Parade laps on the track meet & greet with AMA Pro racers!

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Lea martinez’s “awareness”

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words: allan lane images: Leon Brittain SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25

THE SHOW: lea martinez’s awareness

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he drag strip is a place of business. Racers get down to brass tacks: roll up, smoke up, line up, watch the tree then go get that. That’s not to say that showmanship or showwomanship doesn’t have its place on the quarter mile.

When Lea Martinez envisioned her 2007 Suzuki Hayabusa as a means of business on the strip, she was aware that the bike would serve more than one purpose. Martinez is a cancer survivor and is very active in the fight to spread breast cancer awareness. Her Busa is a testament to her passion and dedication to the worldwide goal of researching methods to eradicate the cancer epidemic.

Built for war, Martinez’s aptly named, “Awareness” is well strategized drag bike that can very easily roll to the local bike night to claim a best in show trophy... that is, after dominating the brackets on the straight line, of course.

Power, strength, resilience... true elements of a survivor. You add in a spice of good looking, and you got yourself a winner.

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THE SHOW: lea martinez’s awareness

lea martinez’s “awareness” 2007 Suzuki Hayabusa Engine/Power Upgrades: 1397 Engine Exhaust: Tsukigi Wheels: Suzuki GSXR 1000 front and rear Tires: Shinko Hook Ups Suspension: JRI Re-Valved OEM Rear Shock SWINGARM: Evil Swing Arms Custom/One Off/Accessories: Exoticycle Cycle Triple Tree, GPR Stabilizer Bar, EK Pink Chain Built By: Williford Racing Paint By: Garwood Custom Cycles owners: Victor and Lea Martinez

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THE SHOW: lea A tale martinez’s of two busas awareness

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THE GRID

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THE GRID: news SBI Drag Racing Editor Ashon Capo Dickerson wins the Final Orient Express Top Street Bike Points Series

Ashon Capo Dickerson has locked up the points MIRock Superbike Series in three classes on race by winning the last two out of three events, three different bikes. There are three races left earning him the 2013 championship title. in the season... What’s that they say about the number three? Ah yes... three is the magic Capo is still in the top ten standings for the number. Go get ‘em Cap!

Cal Crutchlow to Ducati in 2014 Ducati has announced that they have signed 27 year old Cal Crutchlow for the 2014 and 2015 seasons. Cal Crutclow joins Italian, Andrea Dovisioso on the factory team. Crutchlow was the 2006 British Supersport Champion, the 2009 Supersport World Champion and the 2011 MotoGP Rookie of the Year.

Spaniard Pol Espargaro will take Cal Crutchlow’s place on the Yamaha Tech 3 team beginning in 2014.

It was announced a few weeks ago that Nicky Hayden would not be re signed to Ducati in 2014, thus ending his five year relationship with the team.

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Jake Zemke joins Riders Discount Triumph Racing for the rest of 2013 Well seasoned rider and fan favorite, Jake Zemke has joined the Riders Discount Triumph Racing Team alongside Joey Pascerella in the AMA Pro Racing Daytona SportBike Class for the final three races of the 2013 season. Zemke will make his debut for the team this weekend in Utah at Miller Motorsports Park.

“I was thoroughly impressed with the Riders Discount Daytona 675R in a recent test and am anxious to mix it up on the track during a race weekend,” said Zemke via a press release issued by Riders Discount.

“Racing motorcycles is my passion and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the team’s success.”

Tomas Puerta secures SuperSport National Championship With his performance at Miller Motorsports Park this past weekend, Tomas Puerta has earned the AMA Pro Racing National Championship as well as the West Division Championship.

waiting to go New Jersey Motorsports Park to race in SuperSport one last time and then I plan to move to Daytona SportBike. We’ll see what happens after that.” – Tomas Puerta.

“I’m really excited about this championship. We worked really hard with the RoadRace Factory team all last year and this year to make it happen. My goal was to be consistent on all of the different tracks and it has been an awesome season. I’m just

There is still one race remaining to determine the East Division Championship. Fighting the for the title is SBI’s own Road Racing Editing Corey Alexander, Stefano Mesa, Hayden Gillim, Miles Thornton and Travis Wyman. Next up is the Devil’s Showdown at New Jersey Motorsports Park.

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THE GRID: news MOTOGP RETURNS TO BRAZIL IN 2014

Dorna announced the series’ return to South America as MotoGP prepares to return to Brazil’s Autodromo Internacional Nelson Piquet Brasilla in 2014. Pending FIM homologation, 2014 will mark MotoGP’s first visit since 2004 which was known as the Rio Grand Prix. This makes two South America visits on the 2014 calendar with the addition of the round in Argentina.

LAGUNA’S OUT...

INDY IS IN!

While the official 2014 MotoGP is yet to be released, Dorna has officially announced that the Red Bull Grand Prix will be returning to the Indianapolis Speedway in 2014.

This announcement was made amidst the rumors that 2013 would mark the end of the relationship between Dorna and the IMS. Dorna and the IMS had come to an agreement 36 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

for 2014 and are also working on a longer contract that will span a number of years.

Again, while the official calendar is yet to be released, it appears as though at this point the Red Bull Laguna Seca Grand Prix will be no more. We’ll keep you posted...

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the best race that you’re not watching words: Brice Cooper images: Meekail Shaheed SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 41

THE GRID: The best race...

B

etween the flickering blue lights of late night infomercials and the approaching dawn is the time slot that was allotted to AMA Pro Racing Superbike coverage during the 2012 season. At the beginning of the 2013 season, the paddock was abuzz with promise of a new era in American road racing coverage.

Once the television package finally came to fruition, CBS Sports network emerged as the new broadcaster our beloved sport.

Although the broadcast team consisting of Next Moto Champion’s Danielle Teal, “Mr. Daytona” Scott Russell, and “The English beat” Jonathan Green have definitely added a much needed cohesive team approach to the broadcasts with in depth behind the scenes coverage of featured teams and riders, I cannot help but feel a loss as only two of the four weekend races are broadcast with only a hint of recap coverage for the fiercely contested Super Sport with no mention of what could just be the closest racing in America right now, The Vance and Hines-Harley-Davidson Racing series.

If NASCAR is an indication of the American appetite for fuel fed excitement, the XR

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series should be the most popular series on two wheels. With an average of twenty-five identically prepared loud, heavy, and wiggly XR1200 motorcycles piloted by top riders from across the globe competing for the largest cash pay day in American road racing, you would think the big show would air right before the Kardashians.

It seems that despite the draw of the HarleyDavidson name and intense racing action, the XR series has been thus far left to go it alone with only live stream coverage making all of the work that teams and sponsors visible in real

time. At least 2012 left teams with the ability to show sponsors that there was potential in rebroadcast. This lack of definitive coverage, coupled with lack of plans going forward has some teams less than interested in continuing on to the 2014 season.

If the age-old adage of the chicken and the egg applies to needing fans to broadcast vs. creating new fans with television coverage, I would say that a two-tiered approach could be the incubator with both television coverage as well as in-dealer activation around the country.

During weekend track walks, fans approach SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 43

THE GRID: The best race...

the Japanese OEM factory riders with zeal in hopes of an autograph for the garage wall to hang above their adored steeds of the tarmac.

Most of this fan recognition is accredited to the massive PR machine the manufactures utilize to build brand and athlete awareness at a grass roots dealer level.

When you wonder why you as a viewer are being deprived of the best the world of racing has to offer, take some time to leverage the power of social media and openly ask @AMAPROSBK and @HARLEYDAVIDSON what you can do to help get the rolling thunder of the XR1200 series broadcast on a channel near you…after Honey Boo Boo of course.

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THE GRID

The inside track

Words: Corey alexander IMAGES: kiana gadson

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Connect with Corey...

N

ow, you're probably wondering what I'd possibly have to say about drag racing particularly because I'm a roadracer and this is a roadracing column. Plot twist: I'm actually a roadracer by day and a drag racer on the streets by night...

Just kidding! Though, that would be cool though. I actually took my homie Rickey Gadson's Drag Racing School when I was struggling with my starts. Throughout the 2011 and 2012 seasons, my biggest issue seemed to be the start of the race. I'd always go backwards no matter where I started. Anybody that knows anything about road racing knows how crucial it is to get a good first lap in. The first lap can either make or break your entire race based on how you react when those lights turn off and forty riders head down into turn one.

When I took the school Dane Westby and I both headed down to Atco Raceway in a pickup accompanied by two GSXR 600's and met up with Rickey Gadson. Up until this point in time I'd really only heard of and seen Rickey but never really interacted with him. From the second I met him I could tell he genuinely cared that both of us were throwing away each and every race with crappy starts. So, he broke down the steps and procedures he goes through

that has led him to numerous drag racing championships. Over the course of the day Dane and I had to have run about 50 starts each, sometimes racing head to head and sometimes not. After each run we'd analyze where we needed to improve and who had the bragging rights in each segment.

Those of you that didn't know, drag strips have timing segments down to the millithousandtrillion second! That's a made up word because it's so ridiculously small and precise I'm unsure how else to describe it. Thus, you have the ability to get super analytical with your reaction time, your 60 foot time and so forth.

Overall, by the end of the day the results were obvious. Now as I sit here writing this I have been intervened of my starting struggles, I have my own routine all thanks to the advice of my new homie, Rickey Gadson. I highly recommend taking his school if you're curious of what your motorcycle is really capable of! I race a street bike all the time but it was really interesting to see what it was capable of in a straight line and how influential the person behind the handlebars is within that short period of time.

Thanks Rickey!

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THE GRID: ON THE COME UP

Images: Brian J. Nelson

Miles Thornton

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NAME: Miles Thorton HOMETOWN: West Point, GA AGE: 19 Association/Affiliations/Series: AMA Pro Road Racing SuperSport East, Supermoto East Coast Goals: My main goal presently is to have a financial sponsor so I can race all the rounds and to take all the pressure and stress off of my dad. He is my mechanic, team manager, coach, equipment guy…. Well, he is the whole team with me as the rider. My short term goals are to win the SuperSport East Championship this year and ride for a team in the AMA Pro SportBike Class next year finishing in the top 5. My long term goals are to race World Superbike and/or MotoGP. Accomplishments: 2012 - Finished 7th in the AMA Pro SuperSport East point standings. Made 14 starts and accumulated six top 10 finishes.

2011 - Contended SuperSport East, finishing 5th in the point standings, scoring a pole at the opening round at Daytona and earning four Top 10 finishes, including season-best seventh-place finishes at Mid-Ohio and New Jersey.

2010 – Debut in AMA Pro SuperSport series.

Had ten top ten finishes with a season high finish of fourth place three times. Finished 5th in East Division.

2009 - Won AMA Road Race Horizon Award and WERA Formula 2 National Champion.

Wild Card Rider in 125cc FIM MotoGP at Indy.

2004- First year road racing. Represented the United States in the World Mini GP (Metrakit) in Spain.

Define your passion in one sentence: Not a single thought in my head except getting the job done….just me and the bike working together for the win.

Contact:

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

the youngest in charge Words: Dystany Spurlock IMAGES: robin spurlock

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his is the Drag Racing issue Ladies and Gents. Get ready.

This is going to be one of the best issues of the year. Of course all of our issues are fire but this one is what I do. Everyone knows I have a deep passion for drag racing. In this month’s column I am going to share a little bit of how I got into the sport and my journey all the way up to this point in my life.

It all started at the age of 14 when I started going to the racetrack with him. He is the person that got me interested in the sport. I have always been around motorcycles and cars since I was a little tot. I use to sit in my poppy’s (grandfather) and mom’s lap when I was barely one and tried to drive the cars. I had every type of Barbie power wheel they made before I could even walk. Needless to say I was a little road runner out the womb. When I turned six that is when I started riding on the back of the motorcycle with my mom. I know six years old is very young but I was a true mommy’s girl.

Wherever my mom went I was glued to her hip as if we were Siamese twins. I could be sleep but if I heard that motorcycle start up I had my clothes and shoes on faster than Bolt in the 100 meter dash.

Speed has been embedded

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Connect with Dystany...

in me ever since I was born.

Once my 17th birthday came around my mom got me my first motorcycle. When I made my first pass down that track that was it. I immediately fell in love. I knew that drag racing was what I wanted to do. The following year I got the opportunity to race the BMW Performance Center bike and set the record on it in Valdosta, GA. I think my mom knew that once I rode that bike, I was going to want it. So for my 19th birthday my mom surprised me with my current bike, 2010 BMW S1000RR. I was super excited. I wanted to ride my bike 24/7. Once I got my bike lowered, stretched and put the pipe system on it, I took it to the track. I was like a kid in a candy store, every Friday I was so ready to go to the track and race.

At this point sponsors started contacting me. I could not be more thankful. It is truly a blessing how things work. At the end of the 2011 season I finished top 10 in Crazy 8s and in the 2012 season I finished top 8 in the 5.60 index. I work hard at anything that I do. I do race for fun but I also race because this is what I love to do. It is a passion, but I will tell anyone, Drag Racing is only the beginning.

Dystany Spurlock goes beyond the stars.

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THE STRAIGHT LINE

Capo’s cut

Connect with Capo...

Words: Ashon capo dickerson images: Terrence Belton

A

s you all know this is the drag issue and time has flew full speed since I graced the cover of the first drag issue last year with “Capo Decoded”. It was truly a honor. A lot has happen since then and guess what I’ll be kicking it about is good ol’ drag racing!

Drag racing is a very competitive sport, for those who don’t know I grew up all my life around it. So you can say I was bred to be a racer and it is in my bloodline. When I was I kid growing up at the racetrack with my parents I used to dream about taking a pass on my 50cc little Honda down the dragstrip. Personally, I’ve been drag racing since 1999. Here’s some knowledge for those who don’t know much about the sport... A basic overview definition “drag racing” is a competition in which specially prepared automobiles or motorcycles compete, usually two at a time, to be first to cross a set finish line. The race follows a straight course from a standing start over a measured distance, most commonly a quarter mile or 1320 feet, with a shorter 1,000 feet for some top fuel dragsters and funny cars in NHRA, while 660 feet or one eight of a mile is also popular in some areas in the south. Electronic timing and speed sensing systems have been used to record race results since the 1960’s.

Not gonna flood you with too much technical info but another part of racing we do is called “Bracket” or “Index” racing. Besides the Pro class Real Street, I run with my bike “Goldie” that is a “Heads up” class as described above first to the finish line wins, I also run two Index classes for the MIRock SuperBike Series Crazy 8’s with my bike the “Hurricane” and 5.60 a 1/8 mile class with “Baby Boy”.

My first love and where I earned tons of wins and strips is bracket racing. You run on a “dial in” versus

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Capo’s DIAL IN ticket.

your opponents “dial in”. The computer calculates a handicap start for the slower opponent..For instance, two seconds of difference means bike “A” will leave the starting line two seconds before bike “B”. Bike “B” must catch and pass bike “A” but not go quicker than the projected “dial in”. Therefore, 8.78 versus 11.28 means my opponent got almost a three second head start... I ran a perfect 8.78 on a 8.78 dial to take the win.

headwinds, track conditions, etc... All these factors will change and possibly affect the performance of your machine. You must factor all that in.

We also have to always have to factor in reaction time! Yes, we make this stuff look easier than it actually is. Reaction time is how quick I react to the green light .000 is a perfect reaction time. So on my ticket in that race my reaction time was .077 versus his .067 which is was slightly better than mine but not enough to get the win and hold me off because I ran dead on my dial in.

I felt like I needed some “shooting in the gym” time, a phrase I use when I’m going to practice and get some seat time. Mom doesn’t live too far from the track so we went up on Friday and got it in with some tough competition and veteran top dog bracket racers.

Get it?

Its a total art form because your not only racing your opponent your racing yourself and your projected dial note throughout the race day, tailwinds,

And since I showed you the ticket I am pleased to say on that day I actually won the bike event and took runner up in the King of the Track race in the mountains at Island Dragway in Great Meadows, N.J.

Through the grace of God, hard work and dedication I left the mountains victorious. I feel like I’m a machine and doing some of my best riding.

Better yet... I’m focused man!

Loyalty is Everything!

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Rickey Gadson 60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

KING words: Allan Lane images: Meekail shaheed

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H

is father’s name was Suicide, a maverick of a man that mastered motorcycles in a manner perhaps thought inconceivable at the time.

Throughout his life, his mother made her mark on the Philadelphia Motorcycle community and was aptly titled, The Matriarch. To say that his bloodline is that of legend, is not saying enough.

Rickey Gadson is the most winningest motorcycle drag racing champion in the sport’s history. It’s undeniable, indisputable and borderline... uncanny.

If struggle’s offspring is success then surely tragedy breeds champions. Gadson has experienced the collective of life’s roller coaster of emotions, trials and tribulations. He lost his father at young age in a motorcycle accident. That was followed by the death of his brother who suffered from Diabetes. Most recently, the death of his mother, Victoria Gadson, from cancer has sent shockwaves throughout the family as she truly was the glue that held them together.

One day on a ride with several buddies, Rickey took his mother as a passenger on his 1998 Kawasaki ZX9 while all the others were riding solo. On the open highway, flat out with his mother holding on, Rickey blazed and she didn’t mind it, not one bit. Not even when he put one wheel up in the air and stretched it out. He recalls that time as the most exciting ride that he shared with his mom. He reflects, “My Mom had heart, she let me wheelie with her.”

SportBikes Inc Magazine: Do you miss her?

Rickey Gadson: Absolutely. I’ll tell you what I know I am guilty of... What probably a lot of people are guilty of. I say this with all the love in my heart, I took my Mom for granted. The way that she was always there, I could call her, I could go see her whenever I wanted, I could talk to her about whatever I wanted. Because I can’t now it, I feel like I took her for granted. I say that I took her for granted because I could pick up the phone and call her anytime. Right now, I’m doing stupid stuff like leaving my cell on, so I can call her to hear her voicemail, call her house so I can hear her answering service. Yeah, I miss her. But at 62 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

the same time that I feel as sad as I am about the whole thing, I feel really blessed about the fact it only took six weeks to live thru it. She didn’t have to drag it out. Some people say their dad had it, their mother had it and they went down to 67lbs, it lasted for two years, they were bedridden, etc...

They had to do everything for them. My Mom was so independent, she wouldn’t want it like that.

So I’m glad she didn’t have to go thru that. There was no weight loss. When we laid around the casket, she looked like herself. I’ve been to a lot of funerals, where people had ailments and I couldn’t identify with the person in the casket. I would say “Does that look like her to you?” I feel blessed but traumatized because it happened so fast. I’d rather it be that way so my Mom didn’t suffer. It was incredible how it (the cancer) overcame her.

Incredible how fast it was, But its what she would have wanted. It got to the point on the last day, that it seemed like she kept trying to take the mask off. It was pushing oxygen down her lungs. I said to my wife and sister, “I already told her it’s okay, she doesn’t have to fight.” So why am I making her put the mask back on? If I’m telling her that that’s what’s keeping her alive, how do I know when I should stop and let her do what she wants. I didn’t know if she was doing it in her conscience mind, but I think so.

SBI: Define courage.

RG: Courage to me is being able to come back, no matter what the adversaries are like. Courage is taking on a new meaning as I get older. As I get older, I start to worry more about things than I did when I was younger because I have been doing this for so long. Courage now has to do with me going out there and when something goes wrong in the run, generally you wouldn’t want to cut the gas, you just want to stay in it and get to the finish line. Now when you can crash at 180mph, you think about not leaving your wife and kids , you tend to ease up on the power for a minute and evaluate what’s happening. When I was younger, I was off the wall. Whatever happened is what happened. I took the oath that my brother gave me to face death at high speed. Now, I don’t feel that way. Courage to me is being balanced, taking on

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: King

whatever the drag racing world throws at me with the exception of giving life.

SBI: You are speaking of courage and there’s a hint of maturity and wisdom talking. It’s a different level of courage, a different mindset of courage than in your younger days RG: It’s definitely different. I look at it as wisdom.

You don’t want to hit the ground any more. There was one point in time that you didn’t think about.

Now when you are running land speed and you know you are reaching 220 miles an hour and you have time to think about it... you do think about it.

SBI: You are a husband, father, uncle... How important is family to you?

RG: I’m glad I waited until later to have my children. I don’t know if I would’ve been as much as a family man if I had my kids in my younger twenties. Although my kids would have been grown, I wouldn’t have had that time to enjoy 64 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

them. Right now, if I have to leave home without my wife, without my kids, I don’t want to go. I tell my wife if you are not going I don’t want to go. I mean that from the bottom of my heart and I think that she (Rickey’s wife, Kiana) has a lot to do with that. It’s not anything that she forced down, but the love I have for her makes me not want to be away from her and the family. If I walk in the house and she’s not there, the house is empty, you know. If me and her are in the house with no kids, the house is empty. I’m most content when I got my whole crew.

I use to look at people and say, “They got four kids!

That’s crazy! That’s too many kids!” But now, I feel content. The four of us sitting around on a Friday night watching a movie, I’m as happy as I could be. It’s the same when we are at the campground in the RV. When I go out racing, my youngest daughter doesn’t want me to go anywhere without her. I think family right now is the most important thing to me. I ain’t ashamed of nothing, I ain’t ashamed of the size of my family, I’m not ashamed

only son, “You have to carry your pop’s name.” I don’t care if he never jumps on a racetrack. If he wants to, I’ll be there for him. I feel like my nephew Richard is going to carry that torch. And he’ll carry that torch long enough for his son to come along.

So if my son decides not to do it, that’s fine with me.

SBI: It’s safe to say that Kiana is your backbone?

RG: Yes. SBI: How long have you two been married?

RG: We’ve been married for four years. Been together ten years.

to say that my wife is my partner. There was a time I didn’t want that to be known. That time has come and gone. I’m so much better for it. I feel that in this sport, a family man gets further than a single man because his values. Sponsors and fans appreciate it. But it's truly not for them. Its for me. I don’t want to go racing without my family there with me. If they are not there, I feel like I’ve got no one to race for.

I’m only racing for them.

SBI: Do you think any of your children are going to follow in your footsteps?

RG: Well, my oldest girl is getting to be like my partner at the race track. She wants to be in the staging area. She wants to video tape, take pictures for me... She’s part of my racing and she want to race. She says, “I’m short pop, but like what can we do to get the bike lower?” So she’s looking into it. But I don’t necessarily want my kids to follow in my footsteps. If they do, they do but that’s not what I am encouraging. I’m not saying to my son, my

SBI: Before Kiana, who was Rickey Gadson, the drag racer?

RG: Rickey Gadson was a drag racer. Meaning anywhere, at anytime... anything that had to do with motorcycles with no real boundaries or no thoughts of what tomorrow was gonna bring. I was fly by wire. Basically, I wanted to be out there by himself in the public’s eyes for the wrong reason.

So before Kiana, I can say that I wasn’t as stable as I am now. Stable as a person as I am. Stable as a capable rider, but very different as a person all together. Back then, you would see me by myself or not by myself or with a different person...

SBI: It seems to be that you’ve been refined as a person?

RG: Absolutely. It took the Rickey Gadson I had been to be the Rickey Gadson that is a family loving man, that I am right now. Kiana can appreciate how I’ve been totally refined by going though that. I don’t regret it. I might have been content with where I was. I might have not taken the next step forward. I might have been content with where I was and not trying to get to that next level.

SBI: As a teacher, how did you develop your trackside manner?

RG: I’ve been to other schools. I’ve watch Roy Hill curse his driving student out at a track school when the student made the same error twice. Hill said, “If you do that again, I’m gonna throw you out the car!” The dude made the same error next time up SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65

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and Hill said, “What are you? A fucking idiot?”

Hill threw him out of the car. I said to myself, that man paid his tuition for that? I knew I wasn’t going to be that way. The only way to teach people is to build their confidence. If you shoot them down, they’re already going through a mental thing... They can’t recover from that. I’ve had students and I told my wife, “I don’t think they’ve got it. I worry about them getting hurt. I’m gonna have to take them off the bike.” But then I sat them down and say, “I want you to watch, just watch because you are not the only one going through this... Just watch.

This person went through it and they’re getting better and better. Just watch for a little bit. Then get yourself together. We are gonna go to lunch and come back and start fresh...” That dude was so happy at the end of school because things worked out. That’s my reward. I don’t make a million of dollars off the school because I can’t make it big enough. I have to be hands on, on everybody and I won’t put anybody in my shoes. I think people come to the school for a reason, and one of the reason is to just be there with me. So my only reward out of the school is watching people do better and smile. I love it when people say to me, “You did that!” And I say to them, “No! you did that! I’m not riding that motorcycle. I gave you the tools, you finally started using them. You picked up that hammer!”

SBI: You’re like the ultimate confidence booster without gassing their heads up.

RG: I don’t have any expectations from my students.

But I want them to be better so once I get their confidence in the motorcycle... That’s it!

SBI: You’ve been working with professional road racers for some time now, teaching them launch techniques. Is there a difference in the curriculum?

How do they differ as students?

RG: I think I see more road racers on the average than I do regular students. When those guys come to me, they come to me because they know who I am and what I do. You got to get your race start together and when you say the word start... that’s drag racing. Drag racing deals with tenths of seconds in 300 feet. Corey Alexander’s downfall

was his start. His uncle Richie Alexander told me that Corey could ride but couldn’t start worth a damn. Same thing with Wolverine (Dane Westby).

He could ride but said to me, “One time, I nailed it... And the next time, I suck!” So I had to get them to get routine together and right away it worked. These guy realized that my schools are not just about drag racing the quarter mile, it’s about improving everything. I don’t need the rest of the race track. All I need to do is get them to second gear. When I worked with Eric Bostrom, the same thing. And what I tell them afterwards is, “Don’t forget what you learned and don’t let anyone try to talk you out of launching like this!”

SBI: Have you been with Kawasaki for your entire professional career as a drag racer?

RG: No, I was professional six or seven years before I got with Kawasaki. But Kawasaki is the only manufacturer that I’ve been with and that relationship is great. You know things change, because times change. I say that meaning the way they do things have to change as a corporation.

They can’t stay the same. So I’m getting use to how things change. They are changing for the better. I hope Kawasaki continues to realize that together, we can reach a lot more of the riding community, the everyday street riders because of my street riding credibility. I think they realize that I always worry about becoming just a number with Kawasaki and most racers are numbers, but I can change that perception. Most people’s perception is what they can get from the sponsors.

My perception is, to be successful... It’s what can I give to my sponsors to give them a great return on investment. Right now it’s all about how much they give you and how much to give back. Once you figure out how to give them more than they give out, that’s it right there. My whole career, my goal has been to be that bargain of the year to my sponsors and say, “You give us this and we give you all of that.”

SBI: Being able to deliver to the masses, from the corporate level down to the street riders is not something that comes natural to everyone. To be effective, one must be the real deal, one hundred SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 67

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“I

t took the Rickey Gadson I had been to be the Rickey Gadson that is a family loving man, that I am right now.”

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: king percent... Authentic. It’s not a comparison but when you look at some rappers... Your 50 Cents or Jay Z... At one time they were drug dealers or whatever, doing illegal activity but they made that transition into the business world while maintaining their authenticity. Has your sensibility of dealing with the racing in the streets helped you?

RG: Absolutely. I know that. I know that my street racing days are solely responsible for me not letting any pressure get to me. You going the to finals and are one point away from the championship and there is a sense of being nervous, that type of nervous because you want something and you hope it works out. But it could never be as much pressure on me than racing for $40,000 on the street. It’s not a lot of people that can say they have raced for that much money. What that means is, you know as a rider, you are responsible for ten people or one person that has put that money. If somebody has that much confidence in your riding ability that they are willing to wager $40,000 on your ability... It got to a point when people were offering me big money to throw a race because nobody could beat me. Big money.

SBI: You ever take them up on it?

RG: Never. Never, ever would I consider it. My name meant more to me. My reputation meant more to me than that money. As soon as they found out that I did something like that... I’m done. And it goes that way in racing today. My name means more to me, than any money that anybody gives me on the racetrack today for racing. When I use to be young boy the reason I use to feel that I was so good was because I had the mentality of everything to gain and nothing to lose. Now I feel totally the opposite. If I race somebody that I have nothing to gain with, I’m not gonna let somebody talk trash to me. I’ve been challenged by guys, saying why won’t you race so and so...

SBI: You have people gunning for you?

RG: Out of sight, out of mind. I feel like right now, I’ve been through that stage and I was upset about it. Now I know what it’s about. I haven’t been out there this year and I’ve been dealing with my Mom’s situation. Nobody expects me to win. How 70 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

do you be a champion and be the underdog? I like that. At this point, I don’t have nothing to lose with racing. I’m back to having everything to gain.

SBI: How was your recent trip to Dubai for their first international motorcycle race?

RG: The thing that surprises me is that people in other countries show me more respect than people in our own country. Over there, when I walk around people, people want you to touch them, probably because I’m from another country. But they know me without my helmet on overseas more than they know me here. I guess because they YouTube a lot!

Everybody always says, “Man, I was on youtube! I saw you on youtube.”

Now, they don’t have a drag strip so we were on a private airport runway. We made it look much like a dragstrip as possible. I had them set up the bikes.

The way I would set up a bike over here. But it’s different over there so the set up made it like riding on water. They don’t lower their bikes because they are used to no traction. I figured that I was gonna go over there and school them: lower the bike, gear it up, etc. Basically, we had to undo everything we did to the bike and put it all the way back to stock.

But finally got one of the fastest times ever. It was a great experience. It was exciting what we got to see, do. Their passion is ridiculous! It’s almost like soccer, you know outside of the U.S., soccer is big.

We have football or basketball here... That’s how racing is over there.

SBI: In the U.S., the industry is troubled and is still struggling. In contrast to other places around the world, like Dubai, how do you see things?

RG: I think that the sport of motorcycle period is finally starting to rise. We went through a slump.

Motorcycling was at a high in the early 2000’s and peaked in ‘07. In 2008, the economy hit the toilet and so did everybody else. People got scared of spending money. But now, the economy sends to me seems to be and turning around. I seems to be on the rise. It’s not back, but it’s certainly headed in that directions. I think that it has got a lot to do with our President Obama. He’s giving the people the confidence, changing things around making things easier. Sponsors aren’t scare to put

out, to spend money but they are not just throwing it away. Sponsors are strategic, yet motivated to do things. The industry is starting to come back.

SBI: Are you the best?

RG: Absolutely. Do I need to say that again?

Absolutely. Am I the best? Am I the best drag racer?

Am I the best motorcycle racer? Am I the best person in the industry? When I say that I feel like I am it is because I’m able to successfully do in my position what no other drag racer can do. I don’t know if they never tried it or they tried and was unsuccessful, but no drag racer has been able to go as far as I have gone in this sport, to touch more people outside of the country, outside the industry of drag racing, to broaden the horizon. So I’ve been able to with the help of my wife, the sponsors, with the knowledge I have, basically branch out Ricky Gadson is building a brand so that whenever I’m done the mark I will leave on this industry.

SBI: You’re talking about legacy.

RG: Yes. I’ve always been the minority everywhere,

I’ve gone in this sport. But I have gone from an unknown minority to now a known minority.

Today, Rickey stands at the head of his family as husband, father, uncle... role model.

Throughout his life, Gadson has remained a constant. Staring down the familiar face of agony time and time again, in a position where one might be given an “okay” to fall apart if only for a moment... Gadson never has. In fact, he’s done the opposite of what could have been expected and more than likely accepted or understood for anyone else preserving the stormy clouds above their head.

And perhaps that’s the elemental factor. Rickey Gadson is not like everyone else, therefore what befalls him would possible crush the average man.

Gadson chooses victory and triumph over tragedy because of the cloth that he was cut from. It’s what his father would do. It’s what his mother would do...

A King does not simply carry on. A King carries upward.

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“N

obody expects me to win. How do you be a champion and be the underdog?

I like that. At this point, I don’t have anything to lose with racing. I’m back to having everything to gain.”

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Takashi Brice Lloyd Nakamura

Takashi Nakamura

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NAME: Takashi Nakamura HOMETOWN: Sendai HighLand, Japan Association/Affiliations/Series: J D-STER Define your passion in one sentence: Drag race is still begun. The day is shallow.

Contact:

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Kwame CourtesyOlds of Brice Lloyd

Edythe Decker AKA Creme

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NAME: Edythe “Creme” Decker HOMETOWN: Elizabeth, NJ AGE: 36 Association/Affiliations/Series: Atco Raceway, Atco,NJ; Oldbridge Raceway Park, Englishtown,NJ; MIR Budds Creek,MD Goals: To become a professional drag racer.

Accomplishments: I race at MIR where I have participated in Paint the Quarter Pink for three years now and I won my first win in 2010 for the Mickey Thompson Tires MIRock Fast by Gast Spring Bike Classic Schnitz Racing Streetbike. A month later, I won at Atco Raceway for fastest female.

Define your passion in one sentence: My passion for racing is the rush, adrenaline and speed each and every time I go down the track. I love bike racing.

Contact:

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Tony Brice Yeager Lloyd

Tony yeager

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NAME: Tony Yeager HOMETOWN: Helena, AK AGE: 30 Association/Affiliations/Series: Magic Bullet Advanced Fuel Treatment, Route 21 Racing Apparel, Graffiti Graffix, Mr. HID Lighting, VP Fuels Goals: To be on the road and racing in the big leagues, to take Yeager Racing, Magic Bullet and all my other sponsors to the highest level possible.

Accomplishments: Several wins in Heads Up Index, Crazy 8, multiple grudge wins, Joplin Raceway Superbike Champion.

Define your passion in one sentence: First, being a dedicated father and the second would be “tearing up the asphalt!”

Contact:

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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Brian Brice Lloyd A. Stephens

Brian A. Stephens

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NAME: Brian A. Stephens HOMETOWN: Lafayette, NJ AGE: 26 Association/Affiliations/Series: This 2013 season I ran the Sunoco Super Challenge Series at Raceway Park. Current Rank fifth in Points with one points race left in the season before bracket finals. This is my sixth year running this series at Raceway Park. Also was running in same series at Island Dragway for five years up until they closed last year, now they have reopened it was to late in the season for me to join points with them.

Goals: To follow in my father’s footsteps. Become a multi time track champion, then Race Pro Stock Motorcycle and ProStreet, 200+mph in the 1/4 mile and make a six second pass.

Accomplishments: 2013 Raceway Park King of The Track, 2012 National Dragster Challenge Winner at Island Dragway, 2012 Stock ZX14R Stock Wheelbase Stock Height 162mph record.

Define your passion in one sentence: No words can describe my passion better then I was born from a thirteen time Track Champion, two time World Champion...

It’ss in my blood from birth, he has been one of my greatest teacher’s and inspirations I could ever ask for... my Father Barry Stephens.

Contact:

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The Rev LIMITER

violet stars and happy stunting Words: Leah petersen images: courtesy of aaron twite

Hypermotard Hype!!!

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The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

I

t might seem like a paradox and perhaps it’s just my stunt background, but the sportbike industry can be a bit… buttoned up. Sure, it’s an action sport and motorcycles are inherently wild and fun, but sportbikes in their classical environment of standardized tracks and full leather suits, concerns over tenths of seconds, etc., can be hard to relate to for an average consumer. So how can brands reach the masses and make sportbikes fun and cool? It’s a simple formula... Just add stunts!

This summer, Ducuti created a fresh video series featuring two professional stunt riders and one classic game. Ducati created their own version of “HORSE” aptly named “HYPE” pitting XDL Champion Luke Duke against fellow XDL rider Aaron Twite. The boys flew out to Los Angeles for

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nearly two weeks to prepare the Hypermotards, design the “challenges” and shoot five video episodes.

The first order of business was preparing the Hypermotards for the stunt challenges. Aaron and Luke worked with Moto-Heaven who created “7-up” rear sprockets for the Ducati’s, allowing the riders slow the motos down for the small spaces they had to ride in. Both the riders mentioned the stellar suspension on the bikes, Luke Duke said, “The suspension is really amazing on the Ducatis these bikes have a huge stroke in the forks and make for plush stoppies.”

After the bikes were ready to roll Aaron and Luke had to work with the crew to scout locations and

develop exciting and extreme challenges that would work in the space. The videos feature the boys on an abandoned freeway, a rooftop and an obstacle-filled container yard. Without a doubt the abandoned freeway was the easiest location to ride, with a clean, flat surface and more space than any stunter dreams of. On the other end of the spectrum, the container yard, while providing a cool space visually, was covered in debris and gravel, making anything on one wheel sketchy, to say the least. At least Ducati had two extremely seasoned stunters piloting the Hypermotards.

Finally with bikes raring to go and locations established, the boys put in a few days of work with the cameras rolling. I won’t give too much away, you’ll have to watch the videos yourself, but

I will just say, words were exchanged, challenge was accepted then Luke and Aaron depart on a wild obstacle course, battling for the number one place in this game of HYPE. The videos are fun, impressive and being shared like wild fire on the social media outlets. Aaron points out, “This campaign focused on introducing the basics of what we stunt riders do in an entertaining manner to the mass public. We cannot do this without help from established brands in the industry like Ducati.”

And this is a good point, most stunt riders don’t have a revenue flow that would allow them to rent locations, stunt on brand new Ducati’s or spend a week with a professional film crew.

Using stunt riding like this, to present a motorcycle to the public is a great mediator between showing

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The Rev LIMITER: VIOLET STARS...

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off the technical advantages of the machine and keeping things relatable and fun for any level of rider. When you watch the videos, you might not think “I should go stunt a Ducati” but you certainly think, “That bike looks like a blast to ride”.

Aaron continues on the subject of stuntriding as a marketing tool, “I believe we are one of the best forms of marketing and when a big brand like Ducati recognizes this it opens another path into our future as a sport. They were incredibly positive and very optimistic about what we do. It was refreshing to be greeted with a sense of curious appreciation from them. I have high hopes for the future of our sport and its positive integration into popular motorcycle appeal.”

We still don’t know the outcome of the Game of Hype, but congratulations to the winner! It’s a big project for the sport as a whole and all the riders and companies breaking ground to move stunt riding into the future. Hopefully we will see more and more brands taking advantage of our sport, like Luke Duke says, “Look at any non stunt motorcycle magazine. Somewhere in between the front cover and back cover someone will be doing a wheelie! I think much of the non stunt industry are understanding that stunt riding is badass and takes a lot of skill. Top stunt riders have more bike control than any other riding discipline period! More and more companies are seeing our ability to move product and that means good things for guys pushing the sport and are barely able to hang on financially.”

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The Rev LIMITER: ON THE COME UP

Images: Courtesy of Eric Trimmer

Eric Trimmer

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NAME: Eric Trimmer HOMETOWN: Raleigh, NC AGE: 21 Goals: I hope to be able to travel around the world and ride with all the killers out there.

Accomplishments: Everything I’ve done so far. Two years ago I would have never thought I’d be where I am today.

Define your passion in one sentence: The journey is the reward.

Contact:

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http://sportbikesincmag.com

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THE LIFE: FEatured Club

Words: Allan Lane Images: Courtesy of Bloc Burnaz MC

Rocker Interpretation: Keeping it one hundred percent and authenticate, the Bloc Burnaz’ logo showcases what the club does best... A rider on one wheel, burning down the block.

History/Origin of Club: The all male club was founded in 2005 by their original president, Templar.

Templar was a member of the club’s mother chapter from Atlanta. Templar relocated to the Fredericksburg area then teamed up with several like minded individuals.

Club Milestones/Memorable Moments: The Bloc Burnaz put it out there...

bloc burnaz MotorCycle club REGION: Fredericksburg, VA FOUNDED: 2005 MEMBERS: 12 ELECTED OFFICIALS: President: Shy V Vice president: Chain Reaction Sergeant at arms: Sir D SECRETARY: Dirty Digits Treasurer: Stunner ROAD CAPTAIN: Da Joker

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They ride.They ride. They ride. The club’s celebrated moments come from their road trips to support their club community, charity events and of course... their families.

Future of the club: As a club, the Bloc Burnaz are focused on enjoying their brotherhood and continuing to show love to those that show love to them.

Want to see your club featured here?

Drop us an email!

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THE LIFE: know your role

What’s in a name?

Words and image: Lady Kim

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I

am having a blast this summer traveling and networking with other riders from state to state but have you ever wondered what the meaning of their biker names are for example Blade, Mad Dog, Poison and Legs?

For those of you new riders that don’t know, a majority of bikers use a nick name or road name. It is traditional not to use your “government or legal” name when meeting other riders. If they wear a club vest, a custom name patch is displayed on the front of their vest. Riders don’t choose their road name. Normally after you prospect for a club, they give you your club vest and then give you a riding named based off of something you did during your prospect time. Most of the time, they pick a name based off of your habits, looks, things they like to do, subjects they talk about, their profession, riding style or character trait that stands out. Sometimes you can figure out the meaning if you hang out with them long enough.

Here are some of the stories behind the names: Dirty Red: This guy is light skin and has red hair.

Smoke: This guy leaves riders in a puff of smoke doing burnouts or winning a drag race.

Heels: This lady rider likes to wear high

heels when riding her horse.

Mike Lawry: This name is from the Movie “Bad Boys” for Will Smiths character.

What’s funny is that people think its his real name.

Tiny: This is a common biker name but most of the riders with it are tall.

Skittles: This lady biker always has a bright hair color like green, pink, blond.

Undertaker: This lady is a funeral director.

Clark Kent: This guy likes to stunt and do the superman pose while riding.

Vicious: This lady rider has and can drag a knee in the curves at the track.

I know my club will ask if you have a nickname and if not… let the name games begin! There is no formula to coming up with a cool biker name. Some riders will use their real names and not opt to have nickname created. One rule we have is that you cannot have the same name as a member in the club already. It has to be unique. I picked my biker name Lady Kim because I am a genealogist and I descend from King and Queens in Europe from 30 different countries. In royalty times, they addressed you as “My Lady” such and such…hence my road name “Lady Kim” the Queen of Honda and all that wear red!

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THE LIFE: The Lion’s Den

why do i still ride?

Words: lion james images: taz sellers, brax One of the tenants of Jujitsu that has always resonated with me in all aspects of my life is “if you fall down seven times, get up eight.” It has been as much a personal mantra of mine in the past 14 years as it was when Sensei Ben Delich taught it to me at Seito Kemmei Kai in 1999. In fact I have recited this tenant to my three year old son regularly since he started walking at eight months old.

A long time ago after a bad motorcycle accident, my first motorcycle accident which coincidentally was by far my worst but unfortunately would not be my last... my father asked me why will I still ride and why don’t I get rid of my motorcycles and get myself a boat. Sidebar, my father is as fanatical about boats and fishing as I am about motorcycles and riding. At the time my reply to his query was a frustrated “because I don’t like boats like I like motorcycles!” Further fueled by frustration, after an accident you tend to hear many questions and comments like this, I supplemented my rebuttal by asking him why he doesn’t get rid of his boat and get a motorcycle.

Motorcyclists are often bombarded with concerned questions like these whenever the ugly side of this sport becomes evident. Motorcyclists have on occasion given up the sport all together after surviving a bad accident, witnessing a bad accident or even knowing someone who has been in a bad accident. My first crash back in 2006 was such a defining event in my life that I have frequently contemplated my father’s question over and over then reevaluated my response based on my ever evolving frame of reference. For a while I thought this sport/lifestyle (I know for some it may be considered a hobby as well but for me it is a sport and a lifestyle) must be looked upon by nonmotorcyclists in much the same way that outsiders view abusive relationships. From the outside looking in, it is difficult to conceive why a woman or man would remain romantically involved 102 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

with a partner that intentionally or unintentionally hurts them frequently. The abused will make excuses for their partner, make claims that outsiders don’t see the good in their partner or the benefit they themselves choose to focus on in the face of the bad, hold onto the hope that things will change or somehow be different “next time,” take responsibility for what happened “last time” and accept the blame thus vindicating their partner of all malice, wrong doing or assault. For anyone who has been the victim of or affected by abuse, these excuses and such will sound very familiar. For anyone who’s ever had a two wheeled “off” and hopped back on as soon as they are able, these same excuses and such are eerily familiar to things they’ve… I mean we’ve said ourselves.

If crashes and accidents are such a major part of motorcycling and can be expected or anticipated at some point, why do we still ride? We may not have been dissuaded from still riding when last we got hurt. We may understand about the crash what non riders don’t, that is that we did something wrong leading to the crash and that it could have been avoided. We choose to focus on how great it is to ride and know that despite the injury to ourselves, our motorcycles, our wallet and, most painfully, our pride, the good outweighs the bad when it comes to this two wheeled lifestyle.

We know that focusing on the last time we went down is the fastest way to go down again.

Furthermore we understand that the motorcycle is a tool and does what the nut at the controls tells it to do, only responding to inputs as opposed to actually causing the accident. Sound familiar right? Why would we still ride? Why would we pursue the thrill that only two wheels can offer if there is even the smallest possibility that we could get seriously injured or worse? If there are only two types of riders in this world, those who have been down and those who are going down, why would

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THE LIFE: The Lion’s Den

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you still ride? Why would I still ride? Because there’s nothing quite like the feeling of being in control of a machine that was designed to do what we all secretly wish we could do without it.

There’s an indescribable euphoria that accompanies the speed, performance, sounds, fear and excitement of blasting up any road, USA on two wheels. There’s a sex appeal to the lines, shape, look and cool factor of a motorcycle regardless of make and model. There’s a freedom that as far as I can tell is only attainable when throwing a leg over, turning the key, opening the throttle and riding a motorcycle. There’s a synergy that occurs between man and machine that puts you and the bike on the same path towards two wheeled enjoyment. The motorcycle offers a form of therapy that no Doctor of medicine, Psychology, Psychiatry or drug pusher could ever prescribe.

The motorcycle provides a two wheeled vacation that requires no passport, flight, luggage, reservation or other such consideration short of having a direction in which to ride, gas in the tank and the desire to take off. The dizzying highs and terrifying lows both have their place in the motorcycling experience. Riding a motorcycle is the true living that we initiated into the two wheeled fraternity do on a regular basis. This living takes intention, attention, desire, will, technique and endurance. To live is what we should all strive to fill our days and nights with because dying takes no effort at all.

I am a type one rider and yes I have been down before. Several times in fact but I wear my scars, both literal and figurative, like a badge of honor because I cherish the lesson in them. I still ride because after I fell down I was blessed or lucky, whichever the case may be, enough to be able to get back up. I still ride because of all the previously mentioned wonderful reasons there are to ride. I still ride because my desire to ride, my enjoyment of riding and my will to still ride are all stronger than the bikes I’ve crashed and the bones I’ve broken. I still ride because every time I decide to still ride I become better at it. I still ride because every time I decide to still ride I like it more. I still ride because the ride is just as much a part of who I am as the

scars I bear from riding. I still ride because a sense of loyalty to the sport. I still ride because unlike some, I am not satisfied with video games, playing golf, collecting stamps, rock climbing, baking, fantasy football, body building or mastering the yo-yo.

I still ride because my son thinks it’s cool. I still ride because women love bikers. I still ride because not everyone can do it. I still ride because I want to learn all I can about the sport, lifestyle and these awesome machines. I still ride for the camaraderie.

I still ride because I still like motorcycles more than boats.

The more I examine the reasons why I still ride despite the times I’ve fallen or the horror stories I hear about others who have gone down, the less I am reminded of an abusive relationship. An abusive relationship involves an aggressor and a victim. An abusive relationship involves a dynamic where the strong preys on the weak. Motorcycling is not like that even when a motorcyclist crashes his or her machine. On second thought, deciding to still ride after an accident is more like the decision a citizen makes to enlist into the armed forces or the decision a soldier makes to reenlist after a tour. A soldier who faces war, gets wounded or has seen things that would otherwise motivate most people to put distance between themselves and combat is more akin to the motorcyclist who has been down and gets back up. A non-rider can no more understand the reason I still ride than an outsider to an abusive relationship can understand why the abused would choose to stay or a civilian can fathom why a soldier decides to go back to war.

The allure of the unknown, scary and sometimes dangerous is something that few of us understand ourselves so trying to explain it to our peers who don’t share the same interest and passion is an exercise in futility. For those who understand, no explanation is necessary. To those who don’t understand, no explanation will suffice. I will most likely continue to discover reasons why I still ride and if I do fall down that proverbial seventh time, you can bet your bike’s title I will get up an eighth.

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*

Northern California | October 25-27 San Mateo County Events Center

Dallas | November 8-10 Dallas Convention Center

Atlanta | November 15-17 Cobb Galleria Centre

Southern California | December 6-8 Long Beach Convention Center

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New York City | December 13-15 Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

Michigan | January 3-5

Suburban Collection Showplace

Washington, D.C. | January 10-12 Washington Convention Center

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Minneapolis Convention Center

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Phoenix | January 24-26 University of Phoenix Stadium

Ohio | January 31 – February 2 I-X Center

Chicago | February 7-9 Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

*

Seattle | February 14-16

HOME OF THE

Minneapolis | January 17-19

Washington State Convention Center

*New dates **New city

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FEatured THE LIFE FEatured LIFE:rider FEatured riderS riderS

Aria Mailand location: Santa Barbara, CA. Occupation: Getting paid to ride... In my dreams!

Unemployed.

Years Riding: 2.5 years.

Riding style: Street, canyons and soon to be track!

Bike/s owned: It was a 2007 GSXR 600, but I did an engine swap so now it’s a 2007 GSXR 750. favorite bike modification/accessory: My new custom 750 engine.

Favorite piece of riding gear: Everything! I love being fully geared up! most memorable ride: About a month ago when I was running the Snake. I finally got my knee down! I’ve been working on it since I got my two piece suit in February.

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Flash location: Pittsburgh, PA. Occupation: Artist, Photographer, Teacher.

Years Riding: 8 years.

Riding style: Street and track.

Bike/s owned: 1975 Honda CB750, 1995 Honda CBR600 (track bike), 2001 Kawasaki ZR7, 2011 Kawasaki ZX10. favorite bike modification/accessory: M4 Slip On Exhaust.

Favorite piece of riding gear: White and neon green Alpinestars boots.

most memorable ride: My wife and I riding side by side in the rain from Philly back home to Pittsburgh after the AMA Races at NJMP a few years ago.

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FEatured THE LIFE FEatured LIFE:rider FEatured riderS riderS

Rose Gonzalez AKA Mz Busa location: Boston, MA. Occupation: Premier Escalations Representative.

Years Riding: 7.5 years.

Riding STYLE: Street.

Bike/s owned: 2012 Suzuki Hayabusa favorite bike modification/accessory: The entire custom work done on my Babez!

Favorite piece of riding gear: My Jordans! most memorable ride: Run for the Roses 2012.

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Chrissy Feliz location: Boston, MA. Occupation: Central Processing Technician.

Years Riding: 3 years.

Riding STyle: Street.

Bike/s owned: 2006 Kawasaki Ninja 636. favorite bike modification/accessory: My paw prints and multi color leds.

Favorite piece of riding gear: My black Strength and Speed riding jacket with the leopard print lining. most memorable ride: Last year, on my birthday, I did a memorial ride for a friends father who passed away. At the end of the ride we all went out to eat and the guys from Twelvision Ryderz and Straight Up Riders surprised me and got my a little chocolate cake and sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to me.

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wake up. ride. keep riding... *

Northern California | October 25-27 San Mateo County Events Center

Dallas | November 8-10 Dallas Convention Center

•world class service, maintenance & repair •parts, apparel and accessories •visit us online at www.nolimitms.com

Atlanta | November 15-17 Cobb Galleria Centre

Southern California | December 6-8 Long Beach Convention Center

*

New York City | December 13-15 Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

Michigan | January 3-5

Suburban Collection Showplace

Washington, D.C. | January 10-12 Washington Convention Center

Save On Admission!

Use Promo Code: SBKINC14

Minneapolis Convention Center

**

Phoenix | January 24-26 University of Phoenix Stadium

Ohio | January 31 – February 2 I-X Center

Chicago | February 7-9 Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

*

Seattle | February 14-16

HOME OF THE

Minneapolis | January 17-19

Washington State Convention Center

*New dates **New city

Jason Britton’s No Limit Motorsports 14726 GoldenWest Street, Unit H Westminster CA 92683 www.nolimitms.com 714.891.8600 SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 113

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

Ask the pro wrench Words: thomas campion

Q

: What are the benefits of running a power commander? If I Change my exhaust, Do I have to install one? Are there any other options?

A

: Power Commander’s are a piggy back tuning device. Meaning it get’s installed to the harness between your engine and your ECU (engine control unit).

Giving you the ability to alter the values in your ECU. The benefit of this is your actually changing the values in the ECU. It is still sending out the stock settings. So if you ever go back to stock you can just disconnect the PC (power commander) and you’re good to go. PC’s let you change fuel mapping and Ignition mapping, there is also add on’s for quick shifters and auto tune devices that use a wide band O2 sensor to figure out air/fuel. Now I gotta pull myself back in because I’m getting a little off subject.

simply choose what exhaust and air filter you have and download the map. Even with this map you can get better power delivery and HP with a custom map. Custom maps can be done at most shops with a dyno. Although I would recommend going to a race shop. The techs at these shops have the most experience on building a custom map.

Now if you’re doing a full exhaust, headers back, most definitely get a power commander or something like a power commander on your bike. There are a bunch of tuners out there. The two main companies I can think of are Power Commander and Bazzaz. There are other I would install a PC on anything I own. Even piggy back tuners out there, some brand if it is 100% stock. Is it necessary... No. But specific...EMpro (Suzuki). almost guaranteed I’ll be able to get some extra HP and smoother power delivery with Now if you’re going to be racing your a custom map, even being stock. Now bike there are also kit ECU’s you can I don’t think it is absolutely one hundred get that are tunable without needing any percent necessary to install one if you’re power commander. For example, for a just doing a slip on or bolt on exhaust. You Yamaha you can buy a ECU from YEC, won’t blow up and you can go on loving Yamaha’s race department. Now there are your bike without a PC. Granted, like I said requirements for buying race specific ECU’s even a stock bike can get “better” with a because they are for off-road use only. On custom map. That reminds me, PC has map a side note I suggest everyone support their recommendations. They have an online local race shop! Everyone have a great ride database with thousands of maps. You and be safe!

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DYNOJET’S POWER COMMANDER V

BAZZAZ PERFORMANCE Z FI UNIT

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

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full spectrum batteries

power of elemental proportions words: lisa macknik images: courtesy of Jason levitt

W

hen you devote your life to a passion, over time it begins to consume you. You begin to live through your work and your work through you. For pioneer and chief executive, Jason Levitt of Full Spectrum Power, his ideals of straight shooting and honest, hard work is incorporated into every lithium ion battery he creates. This innovative technology that he has harnessed, has opened another door for activists and adrenaline junkies alike to explore and test the boundaries of speed and power; space and time.

Former racer and Department of Defense consultant, Levitt had an innate passion for speed and gained a crucial understanding of the chemical and mechanical components needed to create it. The idea of lithium ion batteries was first introduced in 1970, but wasn't available for commercial use until the 21st Century. In 2008, Levitt began developing his own lithium battery for motorcycles and now practically every SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 117

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

"moto" type out there. Brilliantly, he devised a prototype allowing for a 7lbs weight loss, while still maintaining optimum power and energy potential. Welding together his first model which he used on his own RC51, brought him a Championship almost immediately.

As most greats begin, Levitt was doubted immediately but most in the industry. The norm was using "crudely assembled" lead acid batteries which were heavier and bulkier so the idea of a compact, lightweight, lithium based replacement seemed inferior and risky to say the least. Clearly all Levitt had to do was prove them wrong. So he did just that, clinching AMA, MX and World Superbike Championships quickly began turning heads and shutting mouths. So maybe this alien change was something to look into. Not only was the power efficiency questioned, but

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Full spectrum power’s jason levitt

mostly the overall safety of using Lithium between your legs was on the forefront. So when speculations started flying Levitt had no issues with opening his battery up, creating cut views of the entire unit, cells and wiring. This gave everyone a chance to look inside the brilliancy he had created, easing their minds of what was being stored beneath the patented bullet proof and fire resistant casing.

Full Spectrum Power prides itself on its %100 American made and constructed parts, utilizing the full potential of a well made product.

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

on every aspect of the battery, they insure an impeccably made product which provides power and speed to those who seek it.

Each unit is rigorously tested and tested and tested again. Having to pass 7 tests under government regulation, UNDOT38.3 makes for a difficult task both monetarily as well as technically, which Full Spectrum passes with ease. "I stand by my product and (we) strive to sell the best." Levitt explains, "There is no confusion when dealing with our company, you speak with me directly. There's no confusion. " Customers have direct access to Full Spectrum's interactive website which allows you to find the battery that fits your exact model. And if that wasn't enough, they offer an over the phone support team answering any and all 120 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

questions regarding the fit right for you if your particular ride isn't on the site. Not only are you purchasing a solid product, but you are also receiving peace of mind in knowing you have back up.

Power is transferred from mind to creation, thought to being, guided only by motivation, tenacity and the will to fabricate something no one before has dared. Levitt admits, "I find the whole experience fascinating. I had opportunities to do other things that were more profitable but less fun." His passion exudes in his work and there is no stopping the infinite spectrum that lithium based energy and the future of Full Spectrum Power holds.

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Improve your skills

the most important second Words: eric wood IMAGES: Meekail Shaheed

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Improve your skills: the most important...

R

iding a motorcycle around a track demands a combination of physical skill, mental acuity and bravery that I have yet to find in another sport. With this also comes the endless pursuit of progress, finding those precious seconds that separate us from the riders that we compete against. It doesn’t matter if you are a track day rider or professional racer, the spirit of competition and the desire to progress is something that I find dwells within the hearts of most riders I know.

As we get more experienced, finding those seconds becomes more difficult. On most circuits in the United States, a one second difference in lap times equates to an average speed difference of only about 1mph.

We often need to search in the details to break through those plateaus and get where we want to go. In this month’s article, we will discuss one of the most valuable places that riders leave time on the table and detail

GRAPH A

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some of the prerequisites needed to get this time back.

As a rider goes through a typical corner the order of operations is nearly always the same. One of the keys to finding that next second (again, only about 1mph in average speed) is to seek out the little gaps in this process that we can eliminate. One of the gaps that is the most costly is the delay between turning the bars and the re application of the throttle. If you run through turn one at your local track in your mind, there is often a lot to do in a very short period of time. The greatest stress for most people is to make sure that they slow the bike down enough to be able to make the apex. Once a rider completes this task, there is often a momentary sigh of relief before they move on to the next mission (getting on the gas)... and this is where there is much to gain.

The advantage gained from getting back on the gas as

early as possible is substantial, especially on corners that precede a long drive. An extra couple mph off the apex here is sustained all the way down the next straight and will have a significant effect on your lap times. These segments are perhaps the single most important factor in going fast on the track, but are usually maximized last because they require the entrance of the corner to be executed properly first.

In nearly twenty years teaching riders to go fast at the Penguin School, one thing we consistently stress is the importance of finishing the major bar input in each corner before getting back on the gas. Your number one priority in a drive focused corner is to have the turn finished before you reach the apex. This will not only make you faster but will keep you much safer as well.

Once the drive has started, there should only be thumb and forefinger “guidance� on the bars. It is critical that

your arms are soft and the bike is allowed to stand up on these exits.

In order to ensure that the turn is complete by the time the bike is ready for the gas, riders must work to make their major bar input as quickly as possible without upsetting the chassis. The shorter the duration of the major bar input, the less track is consumed and the easier it is for a rider to safely get back on the gas early. In order to execute this quick turn, riders need to be able to look up and envision not only the location of the apex, but also the trajectory of the motorcycle at the apex. With the major direction change complete before the apex, riders are then ready for the next step.

The throttle needs to be opened as soon as possible after the major bar input is complete. It is in this area that tenths of a second really matter. To put it in perspective, let’s look at what happens if a rider

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Improve your skills: the most important...

“relaxes” for even a quarter of a second after the turn before cracking on the gas. Imagine rolling through a corner with a 48mph apex speed, where your motorcycle is traveling about 72 feet per second. In a quarter of a second, your bike has traveled 18 feet (almost three bike lengths). Imagine starting a drag race with another rider that allows him to get an 18 foot rolling start before you can take off. This is like having a rider who starts a row behind you on the grid get to jump up next to you before you let out the clutch. How far away are they going to be by the time you get to turn one? Further than you want them to be, that’s for sure!

happen next.

The keys to opening the throttle are “early” and “smooth”. The initial crack of the gas should be slow, and the rate of roll on increases as the throttle opens.

As a guide, we always tell students that the first 25% of throttle opening should take as long as the second 75%. It is that “slow” first 25% that will make you both faster and safer. You will have a direct connection to the rear tire and a feeling of control. When the throttle is snapped on too quickly, there is also often a “lag” between what happens at your right wrist and what happens at the rear tire.... and we all know what can

The next time you are on the track, pick out a corner that leads to a long straight and make it your mission to fill in as much of the graph as possible. You’ll do this by making your major bar input as short and precise as possible, relaxing your bar input as the bike reaches full lean, and quickly cracking the gas back on with a slow and smooth roll on. Filling in the holes in this most important gap will both drop your times and raise your confidence.

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In a perfect world, we would be applying exactly the amount of throttle that keeps the tire at the limit of traction throughout the entire drive. If we made an “HP versus lean angle and MPH” graph, you can imagine a line that would represent the limit of traction. At nearly full lean (where the initial “crack” of the gas should occur), it does not take much power to step over the limit of traction. However, as the bike stands up and gains speed, that line slopes upward more and more rapidly. Most riders use little or no throttle in the initial and most important area of this graph (see GRAPH A).

Until next time, ride fast. Ride safe!

AND ON THE SEVENTH DAY, HE KEPT RIDING. Introducing the new Pirelli Angel GT tire. Perfect for never-ending trips or just a short weekend ride, it’s engineered to give you confidence and enhanced durability, even on wet ground. More than sport touring: this is 100% Italian Gran Turismo.

N°1 for Mileage according to an independent test of Motorrad TestCenter comparing Pirelli Angel GT with Michelin Pilot Road 3, Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart II, Bridgestone Battlax BT 023, Continental RoadAttack 2 and Metzeler Roadtec Z8 Interact M/O on 120/70ZR-17 and 180/55ZR-17 set. The test took place in Spain, Marbella in November and December 2012, using six Suzuki Bandit 1250 ABS.

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FRICTION ZONE

Focused ON Fashion

Connect with Kiana...

Words: Kiana Gadson IMAGES: keith antonio davis

H

ey! It’s your girl K.G and I am proud to announce that your favorite drag racer and mine Rickey Gadson has teamed up with Speed and Strength to support the Warrior Dog Foundation. You probably have seen the picture of Rickey and our dog Blade at the race track in their shades. And you may have learned about Navy Seal Mike Ritland, trainer of the “Dogs of War”on Dateline and the Today show. But did you realize that those two were raising awareness about the same cause? Speed and Strength is now offering a line of very cool helmets and street apparel in honor of the K9’s on the frontline plus a portion of your purchase will go to the Warrior Dog Foundation.

There are special operation forces that employ a multipurpose canine program where special dogs are trained to sniff for bombs, to apprehend and track assailants. For a long time this training was and for the most part still is classified information.

Dogs have been used in combat and for medical care in war for centuries because of their keen senses. In the US the funding to use dogs for war stopped after the Vietnam War and began again after the tragedies of 9/11. The dogs that are being used for war have been bred and trained to run faster than 30mph and have a sense of smell one thousand times more sensitive than a human being. Their bites are hard enough to break bones in just a couple of seconds. In the field of battle, just like human soldiers, these dogs are equipped with state of the art bulletproof vest, night vision cameras, and global positioning tracking devices to enhance their effectiveness in the field. They fearlessly jump out of airplanes and save the lives of our soldiers tour after tour. These dogs are in a league of their own. They are in fact so well trained and effective at doing their jobs that the Afghanistan soldiers were ordered to kill all war

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dogs first before focusing on the human US soldiers. a state-of-the-art kennel facility or even help get these formal “war dogs” rehabilitated mentally and I had the pleasure of meeting Special Ops dog physically to be ready for adoption. Future plans include establishing a Scholarship fund for the trainer Mike Ritland the author of “Trident K9 families of handlers who are wounded or killed Warriors”. He refers to the war dogs as the “Colby Bryant & LeBron James’s of the working dog world.” and building a living memorial museum for special Explaining that they search all over the world to find ops K9’s to show their skills and awards received dogs that fit the bill for the special job protecting in combat in order to keep our nation safe. These dogs are truly the unspoken heroes of our country. our country.

After a warrior dog has served, they are often separated from their handlers because the handler may have to return to active duty, dogs are often left behind. The Warrior dog foundation helps transition dogs from a working environment like Iraq into

We can help these amazing animals by donating to the www.warriordogfoundation.org. Adoption information is available on the website. This is your girl K.G. and I’m focused on Fashion.

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FRICTION ZONE: Random

Image: Brendan Patrick Coughlin Location: New York, NY

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I must straddle you Before I twist your throttle Until you're screaming “Motorcycle” Haiku by Allan Lane

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FRICTION ZONE

THE HIT

LIST

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

Jason Miller! What’s on your hit list?

I would have to say “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood is still my all time favorite song. To be honest, it still stirs me more than any other song.

“Billionaire” by Bruno Mars. I love the mellow beat and boy what I could do for the sport of drag racing with that kind of money.

“Fuel” by Metallica. Always good for a rush of energy no matter what you are doing.

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Jason Miller, MIRock Superbike Series Event Director/Promoter

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FRICTION ZONE: SPORTBIKES INK!!!

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

RIDER// Christin Voros BIKE// 2008 Honda CBR600RR TATTOO ARTIST// Gary Hoag of Ace Tattoo, Ocean Beach, CA

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RIDER// Krystyna Kubran BIKE// 2006 Yamaha R1 TATTOO ARTIST// Gary “Sawdust” Ellsworth,

Arroyo Grande, CA

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This life

Laguna seca 2013

Words: TYson Beckford images: courtesy of tYson Beckford

T

his is how it all started!

Friday afternoon was a hot one in NYC and I set out to go to MotoGP in Laguna Seca. I had almost 3,000 miles to go to get there. My flight out was smooth and I slept most of the way. I had my boy Trevor roll with me, Trevor is AKA Mr. Party! So I knew it was gonna be a fun filled, no sleep type of weekend with his presence.

We land and it’s 40 degrees cooler then NYC’s strong temps near 100.

We are picked up by the hotel shuttle service as we descend upon this beautiful town filled with speed freaks! We got into our rooms, settled and then headed out to eat a good meal. One hour later, I seem to have inhaled one clam chowder, a whole lobster, and three Kettle One and Tonics. Man, I’m stuffed and I have an early day of qualifying as I was there as a Tissot Watch Pole Position Presenter.

It was set to be a serious show down so off to bed I went. Saturday morning I found myself standing on the holy land of motorbike racing and I was hyped like a 12 year old virgin! I had Trevor running along with me as we went to take photos with the Tissot girls in their booth.

Who knew I had fans at MotoGP. Not what you might think, but nonetheless, we greeted everyone with photos. We stood with the Ducati factory team as we watched our boy Nicky Hayden shoot for his best time on the track, and awaited the pole position winner for Laguna Seca 2013. Twenty minutes later, 138 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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the winner of Pole is none other than Tissot’s very own contract racer, Stefan Bradl!

After the press conference we are off to take a hot lap in the M6 pace car. I was looking forward to this all day.

What a lap and what a car! Word is they crush all the pace cars at the end of the season... Sad. The day turned out to be a tiring one but we set off for another good meal. This time with the Tissot Watch team. What a large meal it was. It was a nice walk down to Cannery Row and the history of the area.

Sunday is race day and the energy was good as we drove up the road towards the track to see the heroes of the day race hard. Morning warm up looked real strong but I had no idea how strong it was about to get!

I scored a seat on a Ducati Two Up Ride with Randy Mamola! If you ever get a once in a lifetime offer to ride on this bike, please take it... Even if you have to sign a waiver saying that if you die, it’s not their fault.

Seriously, it was an amazing ride and the G forces on braking and acceleration at world class race speeds is an amazing feeling.

Afterwards, was the grid line up. I walked out on the track proudly to support my boy Nicky Hayden and let the world know that I’m in his corner and that the race was about begin. As the MotoGP riders took off in a rumble of man and machine, the bikes were gone in a blink of an eye. They were still were heard as they disappeared on the first turn of the twisties and the famous “corkscrew”. I watched the race from the Red Bull suite and I wasn’t too disappointed with the end results.

All and all, it was a rocking day. I still had the party of the night to go to but seemed to have lost my road dog and fellow party goer Trevor! Hours later Trevor was found just in time as I was getting ready to depart for the infamous Red Bull After Party. It’s a time for racers, party goers and race fans to let loose, all in one room.

It was a night to remember! Somehow my shirt was torn off me and I ended up walking home shirtless. even still it was wild and worth it. I still had to pack and head to catch a flight which was another adventure I will spare you all from!

After making it back home safe and sound, I thanked Trevor for enduring the weekend with me, all the crazy racing people, and a lot of new friends.

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THE NEW ISH ORIENT EXPRESS • QUICK ACCESS BILLET CLUTCH COVER Quick access for clutch repair is critical. With a three bolt pattern, the quick access clutch cover from offers you minimal downtime between runs, allowing you to repair or replace your clutch components.

Uses a standard clutch gasket, features oil level sight window and applications for most lock up and slider clutches.

Price: $499.95 Contact: http://orientexpress.com

BROCK’S PERFORMANCE • BMW S1000RR ALIEN HEAD 2 FULL SYSTEM New for the 2010 through 2013 BMW S1000RR is the Brock’s Performance Alien Head 2 full exhaust system featuring a 14 inch megaphone muffler and two 12mm O2 bungs installed on headers and an additional 18mm bung for wideband O2 sensor. To ease the pop and crackle when decelerating, block off caps are included in the kit. The system will drop 15 pounds off of the bike when compared to the stock system.

CATALYST RACING COMPOSITES • HAYABUSA CARBON FIBER LOWERED TANK Factoring in the power to weight ratio, less is more. Shave some pounds off of your Hayabusa with the Catalyst Racing Composites Carbon Fiber Lowered Tank. These tanks have an internal vent tube and weigh just about 6.5 pounds measuring 3.5 inches lower and 2.5 inches narrower than stock.

Price: $1250.00 Contact: http://catalystracingcomposites.com 142 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

Price: $1145.00 Contact: http://brocksperformance.com

OHLINS • ONE GIGABYTE FLASH DRIVE Look no further for a super cool way to transfer or transport data. This little replica of the Ohlins TTX Rear Shock is actually a one gig flash drive. Pretty novel idea.

Price: $24.95 Contact: http://ohlinsusa.com

SPEED AND STRENGTH • MOTOLISA REINFORCED JEANS For the lady riders, Speed and Strength offers the MotoLisa riding jeans. Reinforced with Kevlar thread at the seams, the MotoLisa jeans feature distressed denim, articulated knee panels and a straight leg fit with a boot cut.

Sizes: 2R - 18R/6L - 14L Price: $99.95 Contact: http://ssgear.com CONVERTIBARS • KAWASAKI ZX14R CONVERTIBAR HANDLEBAR KIT

Adjusting the position and height of the handle bars on the Kawasaki ZX14R just got a lot easier thanks to the complete Convertibars Handlebar Kit. The kit includes a set of the 50mm Convertibars with V-ROC Technology and your choice of a Spiegler two or three line brake line kit that are 5 inches longer than stock. The kit offers you six dimensions of convertibility and is bike specific. Convertibars offers the Handlebar kits for most late model motorcycles and ship with all hardware needed for install.

Price: $339.95 Contact: http://convertibars.com

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THE NEW ISH JOE ROCKET • BALLISTIC TOURING BOOTS The Ballistic Touring Boots are in it for the long haul. These water resistant boots are made with a heavy duty synthetic leather that is double stitched in all the right places. Note the reinforced gear shift area and the integrated toe sliders. The boots offer safety with injection molded toe armor and reinforced shin, ankle, toe and heel areas. Not to mention the reflective back and side panels.

Sizes: 7 - 13 Price: $99.99 Contact: http://joerocket.com

VORTEX • RV3 PERFORMANCE CHAIN Vortex Racing has developed and delivered a high performance sportbike racing chain with their RV3. Their trademarked Tri Glide seal creates three pockets of lubrication on both sides of the chain and provides two stabilizers that minimize heat and friction. The result is a longer lasting chain when compared to typical O ring chains.

Size:: 520 - 530 pitch / 112 - 120 links Price: $138.99 - 274.99 Contact: http://vortexracing.com WOODCRAFT CFM • REARSETS FOR THE 2013 KAWASAKI ZX6R

Designed specifically for the 2013 ZX6R, the rearset kit comes complete with plates, adjustable footpegs and the necessary hardware for a proper install.

Made with the same craftsmanship that Woodcraft has become known for, the kit offers one inch of peg adjustability horizontally and half an inch horizontally. It functions in standard or in GP shift.

Price: $179.99 Contact: http://woodcraft-cfm.com

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STAR MOTORCYCLES • TALL HANDLEBARS FOR THE BOLT The Yamaha Bolts gives a nod to the Bobber style, these aftermarket tall handlebars takes it one step further.

Slightly over three inches taller and just over half an inch forward in comparison to the stock bars, they are precision welded, composed of one inch steel alloy tubing. You will need extended brake lines to install.

Price: $119.99 Contact: http://starmotorcycles.com

MOTION PRO • AXIS TRUING-BALANCE STAND Motion Pro always offers practical solutions and tools to aid our wrenching needs. Their Axis Truing Balance Stand features a single sided design and high quality bearing that allows for smooth and precise balancing. It’s axle is 15mm and fits most late model sportbikes wheels with a hub cone that holds the wheel in place.

Price: $109.99 Contact: http://motionpro.com ZERO GRAVITY RACING • 2013 TRIUMPH DAYTONA 675/R WINDSCREENS Zero Gravity has released their line up of aftermarket windscreens for the 2013 Triumph Daytona 675 and 675R. The SR series is a spot on replacement for the stock screen. The Double Bubble series offers a stepped profile that gives better aerodynamics when tucked in. The Corsa series if fashioned after the taller screens seen on the machines on the World SuperBike Circuit. Finally, the Sport Touring series is a full 3.5 inches taller than the stock screen and offers the greatest wind protection for longer rides or daily commuting.

Price: $109.95 - $119.95 Contact: http://zerogravity-racing.com SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 145

THE NEW ISH: Featured Item ICON MOTOSPORTS • AIRMADA BRITTON HELMET When ICON decided to give Jason Britton his second signature helmet, they brought in on the development and design of the helmet. Pushing the limits in the graphic department, the Airmada Britton features intense imagery with a bold understatement of defining character.

The Airmada Britton Helmet features ICON’s Supervent system that maximizes cooling and a fog free ICON Optics face shield that is secured by their Prolock shield locking system.

Sizes: XS - XXXL Price: $280.00 Contact: http://rideicon.com

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Staff stuff Carrozzeria • Forged Aluminum Wheels Ashon Capo Dickerson I personally received a set for my championship GSXR 1000, aka the Hurricane, and immediately picked up a solid tenth of a second, two miles per hour and almost six pounds lighter of rotating mass! These wheels have a great look and perform flawlessly. I will soon have them on my entire fleet. http://forged-wheel.com Rating: 6 (out of 6)

ICON MotoSPORTS • SUperduty 4 boots Allan Lane I’ve worn a lot of boots since I began riding.

And there is nothing as disheartening as falling subject to what I call Boot Failure. Something snaps, tears, falls off... Boot failure! When the first Super Duty boots were released several years ago, I grabbed a pair and was completely happy with them but like all good things that subject to severe asphalt riding conditions, they eventually needed to be replaced. ICON released revised versions of the shoe and they were great in function but were a departure from the original design. I just wanted my original Super Duty boots! Apparently, I wasn’t the only one. ICON dropped the fourth version of the Super Duty with a graceful nod and update to the original. They’re everything I thought them to be. I’ve found them to be both functional for sportbikes as well as the cruiser class. The boots are constructed to endure a beating and are up to the task of proving themselves, again and again. http://rideicon.com Rating: 5 (out of 6) 148 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM

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THE BACK SHOT!

Image: Kwame Olds Location: Rockingham, NC