Skip to main content
search
Tag

5-Ball Racing Shop

Apr 19
Love2

Indian Motorcycle & Jared Mees Chasing 9

By General Posts

In a year with Indian Motorcycle holding three number one plates, 2023 marks a year in which Jared Mees could add to the 122 year history with a record-tying ninth American Flat Track championship. On his journey to make history, Indian has created a video chronicling his experience at the season opener in Daytona.

Ahead of his next AFT race in Dallas, we share the video below. Enjoy

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Gear up to ride to your favorite Motorcycling Events – Click Here to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop.

Mar 25
Love0

AHDRA Opens Motorcycle Drag Racing Season at North Florida

By General Posts

event: AMA/AHDRA Don “DJ” Johnson Spring Nationals
when: March 17-19, 2023
where: North Florida Motorplex, Fountain, USA

The AMA/AHDRA All-American motorcycle drag racing series opened the 2023 season with the Don “DJ” Johnson Spring Nationals presented by MTC Engineering at Fountain, Florida’s eighth mile North Florida Motorplex.

While all gasoline classes ran to completion, Top Fuel and Hawaya Racing Pro Fuel will finish at the next event in Rockingham after a series of shutdown area incidents were a cause of concern for AHDRA’s Bill Rowe.

The deciding moment was when “Jimmy Mac” McMillan ran off the end of the track in his Top Fuel semi, skipped completely over the sand trap and into the woods when his throttle stuck partially open and his chute failed to deploy. McMillan suffered two broken vertebrae and two broken ribs in the accident.

Waiting at the ready line was 2021 champ Ryan Peery for a bye to the final. Peery had his own shutdown drama in the first round of qualifying when his front tire exploded as soon as he touched the brake. His chute also didn’t deploy and Ryan dug deep into the sand.

Peery will face current champ Tracy Kile—who thundered away to an advantage that he held to the stripe for a 4.25 to 4.38 win against McMillan—when the final is run at The Rock.

The Hawaya Racing Pro Fuel final will also run at Rockingham, with champion Sam White facing “Bad Apple Mary” Dangrow. White’s 4.61 against Jason Leeper gave him lane choice against Mary, who ran 4.91 while beating her teammate Walter Halonski.

Nitro Funnybike was able to run to completion, as champion Michael Balch never had an opponent that could fire the bike and stage.

“It was a good weekend for me and a good weekend for the AHDRA,” said Balch. “There were some great looking and well-running machines there, there was just not a big turnout in my class.

“Nitro is an expensive class to run and it was a far drive for most, so I can understand the turnout. Diesel is expensive. But make no mistake—no matter how far the race is, my team will be there. You will not beat me while sitting home watching (videos on the internet.)

“My crew was there, all hands on deck. My crew chief Steve Rominski worked closely with my mentor John Red Rhea and Eli mixed the fuel to the percentage they deemed necessary. The tune-up was great but we did battle an air leak this weekend.”

Still, the team Autolite/Millenium Industrial Services Nitro Funnybike went home with a win. “The other Funnybike that was there broke in the water box, so it was an easy win for us. I would much rather have stiff competition and compete, but I feel we can and will win every event.

“We broke the intake scoop in the last qualifying round and Jay Turner Racing was nice enough to loan me one so I could continue racing. I truly appreciate the sportsmanship.

“It was a scary ending with my good friend and a man that I look up to, Jimmy Mac, going off the track. But that man is a gladiator and a warrior and I have faith that he will heal up 100% and be back as soon as he can be.

“I thank my sponsors, the track photographers, Billy Rowe and the entire AHDRA staff. Also the crew at North Florida Motorplex for doing a fantastic job, and I look forward to the next race.”

There were a few classes that seemed to be starting too early in the spring for some competitors to be ready, including GMS Racing Engines Xtreme Outlaw. Mike Motto turned the event into his own record-setting session, shattering the eighth mile, no-bar, street tire Harley-Davidson record but falling short of the 4 second pass he was looking for.

“Our goal was to set another record,” said Motto. “We reset the eighth mile record on Saturday with a 5.06 at 146 mph. Then Sunday we had a slightly better track and reset the record again at 5.03 at 147.

“What a weekend for the season opener. Despite Mother Nature (cold, cloudy, windy weather) we got it done! We will be in Rockingham next to see if we can better what we have started.

“I want to thank everyone at GMS Racing Engines. Not only have we developed great friendships but we have put together the GMS Racing Team, which will be unstoppable!

“Gregg (Dahl of GMS) said I rode like an animal, but that’s because Gregg and Damon gave me a BEAST to ride! Every single person at GMS has contributed to this project and I would like to thank them all.

“Also I would like to shout-out to the others who help make this machine what it is. Thank you Energy One Clutches, R&D Racing Transmissions, Renegade Fuels, NGK spark plugs, Bandit Belt Drives, and MTC Engineering.

“Most of all we had a couple friends go down this weekend, so let’s keep them in our prayers for a speedy recovery. See you all at the races!”

In addition to McMillan’s injuries, John Cabral wheelied over backwards on his turbo Bagger during qualifying. Cabral was back at the track on raceday with no broken bones.

Motto’s GMS teammate (and brother-in-law) Chris Hoppe won Zippers Performance Pro Modified handily as final round opponent Kimberly “K-Charm” Deshields is learning her way around her Pro Mod bike. Hoppe thanked GMS Racing Engines.

2022 Pingel Modified champion Deshields raced her way unopposed to the winners circle of the brand new Axtell Cylinders Super Modified class.

Pingel Modified fared a little better, and saw Kentuckian Jeff Workman take out Nate “St. Patrick’s Day” Carnahan. Workman’s .132 light was enough despite Carnahan’s .056 as Jeff put up a 6.14 to Nate’s 6.28.

“Everyone was struggling to find the right tune and traction for the conditions we were in,” said Workman. “I got lucky on this one to hit the better tune.

“Like to give thanks to Powermist Racing Fuel for their continuing support, DBR Fabrication for an amazing frame and exhaust, and Pingel for sponsoring the Modified class.”

Tim Whitehead and AHDRA champion Scott Tomsu shared the bagger bounty at North Florida, with Tomsu beating Whitehead in the Pro Bagger final and Whitehead reversing the outcome in the Bagger Streetbike final.

Tomsu ceded the tree by .039 to Whitehead in the Pro Bagger final, but drove around for the win. “Took home a first and a second in the bagger classes on my foot-shift bike while tweaking on the new turbo bike (pictured). It (the turbo) is going to be a rocket when we get it where we want.

Get the Extraordinary History of Motorcycle Drag Racing on a DVD at 5-Ball Racing Shop. Click to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop.

“I want to thank my sponsors—STFU Motorcycles, Ward Performance, Gardner Racing Concepts, Lyndall Brakes, and all my supporters in the STFU Crue.”

Whitehead bit back in Bagger Streetbike, despite once again getting left on (.162 to .214 ) by Tomsu. This time Whitehead drove around, taking the win with a 7.37 at 98.21 to Tomsu’s 8.46 at 80.16.

“Wow, what a weekend!” said Whitehead. “I was in four different classes and took third in Eliminator ET, runner-up in Pro Bagger, and won Bagger Street.

“Was in the Street finals with Scott, who has a really fast bagger. STFU had a little trouble and I was able to make an A-B pass for the win.

“This is my second year running AHDRA. I was runner-up in Hot Rod Bagger in 2022, so to start the season off with a win is pretty dad-gum amazing!

“I’d like to thank the good Lord above for watching over all of us, my mom and dad, and rest of my family and friends for all the support.

“Also Area 51 Customs, Cherry&Irwin Trial Lawyers, Renegade Virtual Trade, The Glass Doctor, #itsallgood, Xtreme Shotz Productions—XSP, and Harley-Davidson of Dothan.

“I dedicate this win to my late grandmother ‘Mama Bobbie’ that we lost last June. Never give up on your dreams and always stay humble!”

Ken Strauss’ .014 starting line advantage was enough to push Chris Hoppe out the back door in a double breakout 5.95 Top Eliminator race.

Brian Harris seemed to have Super Pro 6.60 in hand until he crossed the centerline against Mike McManus.

“Luck of the Irish on St. Patricks Day racing weekend,” said McManus. “I got lucky every round!

“My bike runs low 6 seconds, so trying to slow down to 6.60 is really hard. So first round I won ‘cause my opponent had a motor or shift issue. I went 8.99 at like 48 mph in the semi’s but got lucky again. My opponent broke out with a 6.599 on my 6.70ish —wow could not believe it!

“So on to the the finals. I get lane choice and take left lane. So my opponent gets the winlight, but as he is chicken winging me he crossed centerline and takes out the eighth mile cone and MPH cone, gets DQed and I get the win. Wow, luck of the Irish weekend!

“I want to thank Eatmyink, 41 Performance, Mac Tools, and St. Patrick!”

AHDRA champion Brad Croneberger nailed a 7.02 to 7.10 against Casey Smith in the Universal Fleet and Tire 7.00 Pro Eliminator final. “Spun the tire leaving and couldn’t make the distance up,” reported Smith.

“It was a real challenging race weekend with the changing weather conditions,” said Croneberger. “The cold and the strong tailwind made it real difficult to stay in the index all weekend.

“Then they had some issues with the qualifying, so we ended up having to draw chips for first round matchups and right off the bat I had to race Chris Phipps—who I usually end up racing in the finals.

“Then things didn’t get any easier, and I had to race Bryce Creek followed by Donnie Huffman—always a tough matchup. Then to top it all off I had to race Casey Smith in the finals, and it seemed like he was in every final this weekend, so it was a very difficult road to get this win.

“Would like to thank North Florida Motorplex for giving us a top notch facility to race at. It’s a long drive from Pennsylvania, but definitely worth it to race here.

“Also Bill and Chrissy Rowe for putting on top notch events, my dad for helping me make some repairs to the bike in the off-season, and last but not least—my wife for helping get to the race and helping out at it.”

While Smith didn’t win that 7.00 Pro Eliminator final, he did pretty well elsewhere after deciding to make the trip to Fountain from Macon, Georgia, at beyond the very last minute.

“I was in the shop working on some customers bikes and got a call that they didn’t finish qualifiers on Saturday,” said Smith. “So per the rules, I called Bill Rowe and asked if I could still get in the runs on Sunday morning. He said ‘Yes sir, registration is still open. We start at 11:00am.’ So I finished the shop work and packed up to head south. Drove all night and got to the track about 7:00am. All I can say is some people just love racing!

“Signed up for four classes and then went to work. Made one small change after two passes and dialed her in.”

His .041 light against Chris Phipps’ .146 set the stage for Phipps to go way too quick in a double breakout, 7.35 Super Eliminator final.

“In Super Eliminator I faced Chris Phipps in the finals. I cut a better light and we had an awesome race looking at each other all the way. Straight up whack-fest, double breakout. He just went a little more than I did past the index.”

Smith caught a break in Saturday’s Eliminator, leaving .022 after final round opponent Chris Ussery, who’s transmission then broke and allowed Smith to drive around.

“Was able to win the Eliminator class racing against some awesome competitors, including 2022 Eliminator champ Chris Ussery in the finals,” said Smith. “Great race.

“I do a lot alone at the track, but the guys in the background that make it possible are Chad Hart at XLXBHORSEPOWER and the guys at Harley-Davidson of Macon making sure I got all the parts I need.

“GEN2 Smith Racing starting off the year the right way. Long way to go ahead of us.”

Racin’ Ray Robinson raced his short wheelbase, bucking Buell to the Sunday Eliminator win, beating the great Donnie Huffman when Donnie had an uncharacteristically bad reaction time.

“I would like to thank AHDRA for putting on a good race weekend despite the weather and accidents,” said Robinson, who sadly is adding a swingarm and shock to his handful Buell. “And to my crew at Universal Fleet and Tire—couldn’t have won the ET class without all their help and motivation. And to my family, thanks for supporting me while I chase my dreams. Love y’all!”

Huffman my have blown the race against Robinson, but delivered for the win against AHDRA champion Cody Hayworth in Vreeland’s Harley-Davidson 6.35. Huffman put a killer .019 light up against Hayworth’s .158 and stayed close to the index with a 6.38

“It was freaking cold, I was ready to go back to Florida,” laughed Huffman.

Michael Hines Jr. took the tree .022 to .203 against his brother Jaden to set up the Junior Dragbikes win, running 9.96 to Jaden’s 10.56.

“Michael broke into the 9s for the first time ever,” said proud dad Michael Sr. “And all day Sunday, he was so happy!

“They loved seeing all the big bikes, and they got to meet Tii Thorpe this weekend. They loved that too. Can’t wait for The Rock in April!”

That’s right, AHDRA’s next stop is the brand new, but still legendary, Rockingham Dragway—the spiritual home of Nitro Harley drag racing. Bill and Chrissy Rowe can’t wait to welcome the AHDRA family back to The Rock on April 28-30.

The AMA/AHDRA website is at http://raceahdra.com/

For more information, email AHDRA’s Bill Rowe at bcrowe92891@gmail.com

AMA/AHDRA thanks Vreeland’s Harley-Davidson, MTC Engineering , Hawaya Racing, Pingel Enterprise, GMS Racing Engines, Zippers Performance, Horsepower Inc., Vanson Leathers , Universal Fleet & Tire, IHDRA, V-Twin Powersports, Daryl Coffin Motorsports, All-Harley World Shootout, Axtell Cylinders and Racers For Christ.

This report was prepared by Tim Hailey. Enjoy everything there is to read, see and watch about motorcycle drag racing and more at https://www.eatmyink.com ;

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Get inspired by World’s Fastest Panhead book for upcoming Bonneville Salt Flats Land Speed records this season !!! Click to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop.

 

Mar 20
Love0

A Breakthrough Top-Five Finish for Monster Energy rider Chris Blose

By General Posts

A Breakthrough Top-Five Finish for Monster Energy®/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider Chris Blose

Foothill Ranch, Calif. (March 19, 2023) – The Motown music echoed through snowy streets as Monster Energy® Supercross raced into the Motor City for Detroit SX, Round 10 of the Monster Energy Supercross Championship. In the 250SX Class, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider Chris Blose led the Team Green® charge with his first top-five result of the season. In the 450SX Class, Adam Cianciarulo led laps early in the Main Event until mid-race adversity relegated him and his Monster Energy Kawasaki teammate Jason Anderson to eighth and ninth place at the checkered flag.

The opening laps of the first free practice session revealed that the Detroit SX track was set to give the top riders in the world all they could handle. The sharp whoop section and abundance of tight switchback turns proved further complicated by the unique terrain of deep ruts and a hard packed base layer. Blose was quick to assert his competence in the whoops as he mastered the most challenging section of the track and began to rival near the top of the leaderboard. In the final qualification session, Blose executed the track with precision and strung together several race simulated laps to log the seventh fastest lap time of the morning (53.393).

At the start of 250SX Heat 2, Blose emerged from the first turn in fifth with his sight set forward until an early-race mistake shuffled him back to eighth place. Blose regrouped by the end of Lap 2 and began to work his way up the running order. With superior whoop speed and consistent laps, the No.57 Kawasaki KX™250 rider overtook his rivals in rapid succession. Blose advanced through the field to challenge for fourth on the final lap before securing a fifth-place place result and earning a direct transfer to the Main Event.

When the gate dropped for the 250SX Main Event, Blose again launched out to a fifth-place start and quickly found his rhythm. With the championship points leaders ahead, Blose latched onto the pace of the front group and began to separate himself from the rest of the class. The veteran rider logged steady laps and was one of the few competitors continuing to blitz through the increasingly challenging whoop section in the late stages. With just four laps remaining, a near collision with a lapped rider forced Blose to get hard on his brakes and allowed former two-time MX2 World Champion Tom Vialle to close the distance between them. Blose proved his determination in the closing laps of the race as he fended off the world class pressure and earned his first top-five finish of the 2023 season in impressive fashion.

“The support of the Monster Energy®/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team has been awesome as we’ve focused on building with each week of racing. I’ve improved my main event finish by one position at each of the last three races, so I’d say that process has been going really well. It was great to break into the top-five and show the hard work of this whole squad. Now, with a few weeks to prepare for Atlanta, we should be even more ready to challenge at the front of the pack.” – Chris Blose

Gear up to ride to your favorite Motorcycling Events – Click Here to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop

* * * *

The Monster Energy® Kawasaki duo of Anderson and Cianciarulo took to the track with a clear purpose for the opening 450SX Free Practice as they quickly dialed in the course and began experimenting with alternate rhythms. As the qualification sessions progressed, both Kawasaki KX™450SR riders honed in on the ideal racing line and ramped up their intensity. Anderson, the second fastest qualifier of the morning (51.491), was edged out for pole position by less than a tenth of a second, and Cianciarulo followed close on his heels with the fourth fastest lap (51.927).

When the gate dropped for 450SX Heat 1, Anderson rocketed out to the holeshot and immediately extended a gap from the field by tripling through the opening section. Cianciarulo emerged from the first turn in ninth but thrilled the crowd as he made quick work of the competition and passed his way into third before the end of the second lap. While Cianciarulo continued his pursuit of second place, Anderson set sail out front to lead every lap of the race and secure a commanding heat race win; the 33rd 450SX Heat Win of his career. Cianciarulo’s charge through the pack earned him third at the finish.

The Kawasaki duo lined up for the 450SX Main Event with first gate pick for the No. 21 of Anderson. When the gate dropped, the KX™450SR was out to the early lead, but this time it was Cianciarulo at the tip of the spear. The No.9 Kawasaki rider commanded the start of the race with the championship contenders all hot on his trail. Anderson, racing ahead from an eighth-place start, was pushing the pack forward while Cianciarulo fought to defend his lead. The intensity of the front battle increased and Cianciarulo was shuffled to sixth on Lap 4. Cianciarulo and Anderson matched pace for several laps in sixth and seventh until Anderson crashed exiting the whoop section and dropped back to 10th. Meanwhile, Cianciarulo was pushing his way forward and inching back into contention for the top-five battle until he too made a mistake and crashed over the rutted step-on-step-off section. The Monster Energy® Kawasaki teammates both continued to charge to the finish and reclaimed positions late in the race for respective eighth and ninth place finishes at the checkered flag.

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’m a little frustrated about my fall in the Main Event, but there are so many positives to focus on from the day that I know we’re making progress. This dirt was tricky to find comfort on, but I had a solid run in qualifying this morning and backed it up with a good ride in the Heat Race. In the Main, I led some laps early and, once I settled in behind Kenny (Roczen), I was able to stay right there with those guys. Unfortunately, that one mistake cost me a few positions, but we’ll focus forward to Seattle and aim to tie it at all together.” – Adam Cianciarulo

“My day started out strong with good times in qualifying and I knew my KX™450SR was in a good spot to be competitive on this track. I grabbed the holeshot in my Heat Race and led start to finish, so the goal was to carry that into the Main Event. I started a little further back in the top 10 and then, while trying to battle my way forward, I got close with Adam in the whoops and just lost it. After I got up from the crash everything was pretty tweaked, so I focused on making the most of it and salvaged what I could for a top-10.” – Jason Anderson

* * * *

Get inspired by World’s Fastest Panhead book for upcoming Bonneville Salt Flats Land Speed records this season !!! Click to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop.

Mar 15
Love0

Sons of Speed 2023 gets massive attendance

By General Posts

by Rogue – Misled – Christy

Sons of Speed 2023 has started Bike Week Off With Record Attendance

Sons of Speed has always been an enjoyable event for me to attend and cover. I really like that people have taken the time to keep these classic motorcycles running and even more to the point, actually racing them. This event is exploding.

I am not the only one who feels that way, the event was packed. Attendance was up and so were the new classes and number of riders racing.

Click here to read the wonderful photo feature report only on Bikernet.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Gear up to ride to your favorite Motorcycling Events – Click Here to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop

 

Mar 11
Love0

The Life and Times of Hal Robinson

By General Posts

The Master of the Line Drawing for Early Easyriders Magazine
By Ann Robinson Hal2 with illustrations by Hal Robinson

Click here for this enlightening article about an artist only on Bikernet.com

I am writing this because I want people to know about the things Harold (Hal) Robinson went through in his life; things that led up to his greatness as a Cartoonist of the late ‘60s, ‘70s and the ‘80s. Hal Robinson did not have an easy life. However, he called his own shots and did things his way.

He needed this freedom to think and do the magnificent works he created. I loved my husband, Hal Robinson. I loved his drawings also, and I loved him because he was a great human being.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Click to Visit and Shop for the delightful Hal Robinson Collection only on 5-Ball Racing Shop

Mar 06
Love0

H-D Factory Team Set to Open King of the Baggers at Daytona

By General Posts


HARLEY-DAVIDSON FACTORY TEAM SET TO OPEN 2023 MOTOAMERICA KING OF THE BAGGERS SEASON AT DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY

Factory Team Riders, Kyle Wyman and Travis Wyman, Ready to Chase a Championship

MILWAUKEE (March 6, 2023) – The Harley-Davidson® Screamin’ Eagle® factory racing team is prepared to open the 2023 racing season March 9-11 at Daytona International Speedway, site of the first two rounds of the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers roadracing series. Kyle Wyman and his brother Travis Wyman return to ride the team’s race-prepared Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycles powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Performance Crate Engines. The Harley-Davidson factory team will leave nothing on the track as they fight to bring the championship title back to Milwaukee.

“In our 120th Anniversary year, we’re coming at it bigger and better than ever before, as we compete to win the championship and bring back the #1 plate to Milwaukee where it belongs,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson. “Our Screamin’ Eagle factory racing team is ready for the season – and with Kyle and Travis on the track, I’m excited for what is set to be a great season of racing for our community of racers and fans alike.”

The King of the Baggers series offers exciting competition between American V-Twin touring motorcycles prepared for competition and equipped with a fairing/windscreen and saddlebags. The 2023 season will see the King of the Baggers series expanded from seven to 14 races over seven double-header weekends held in conjunction with the MotoAmerica Superbike Series.

A fan feature for the 2023 season is the Harley-Davidson® 120th Anniversary VIP Ticket Package. Offered as a three-day or one-day package, these special VIP passes include admission with fan zone and paddock access, all the MotoAmerica races including the Mission King of the Baggers practice sessions, qualifying and racing action. Each pass also includes access to premium parking reserved for Harley-Davidson motorcycles on all three days of the race weekend, and participation in Harley-Davidson parade laps around the track on Friday and Saturday.

For the 2023 season, the Harley-Davidson factory team will be sporting custom designed livery, honoring Harley-Davidson’s 120th anniversary aboard their race-modified Road Glide motorcycles, Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Performance Crate Engine. The team bikes also feature upgraded suspension components, including Screamin’ Eagle/Öhlins Remote Reservoir Rear Shocks, plus competition exhaust, race tires and lightweight bodywork.

Harley-Davidson invites you to kick off the 2023 MotoAmerica King of the Baggers season with some adrenaline pumping action. Today, Harley-Davidson is premiering ‘Push the Limit,’ a film that shares the story of defending champion Kyle Wyman, teammate Travis Wyman and the Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle race team’s 2022 championship pursuit. Check it out on Harley-Davidson’s YouTube channel.

The Wyman Brothers
Travis Wyman, the owner of Travis Wyman Racing based in Las Vegas, finished second in points during the 2022 King of the Baggers season, with one race win (Road America) and three second-place finishes. The 31-year-old racer returns for his second full season with the Harley-Davidson factory team.

“I am excited about my second season on the factory H-D team and ready for the expanded schedule this year,” said Travis. “My consistent finishes last year put me in contention for the title going into the last round. With the two-race format, if Saturday does not go well, you get another shot on Sunday rather than waiting for the next race weekend. As other teams get these bikes figured out, I expect the level of competition to be tougher this season. Our Harley team is going to need to be on its game at every race.”

Kyle Wyman, 33, won three 2022 King of the Baggers races (Atlanta, Monterey and New Jersey) and had two other podium appearances to finish third in season points. Wyman began racing professionally in flat track aboard a Harley-Davidson® XR750 and formed Kyle Wyman Racing at the age of 21 to compete at the highest level of professional road racing in the United States. Kyle Wyman is the 2019 Daytona 200 winner. He was King of the Baggers champion in 2021, riding for the Harley-Davidson factory team.

“It will be an honor to represent the Harley-Davidson brand during this 120th Anniversary season,” said Kyle Wyman. “It is incredible to be a part of the enduring history of Harley-Davidson. I’ve spent much of the off season working with the team to further develop our Road Glide race bikes, and I have a lot of confidence going into 2023. We will continue to see lap records fall this season, and everyone on the grid will be quicker.”

Available Support
In addition to competing in the series, the H-D Screamin’ Eagle team continues to work directly with MotoAmerica to promote the series by supporting all Harley-Davison competitors. Select performance products developed for the 2022 factory team bikes are available to all qualified racers. Teams should reach out directly to their local Harley-Davidson® dealership for availability and pricing.

Top squads expected to run Harley-Davidson® bikes at the front of the field include the four-rider Team Saddlemen effort with returning veteran racers Cory West and Patricia Fernandez-West along with Frankie Garcia and class newcomer Jake Lewis, all competing on race-modified Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycles, prepared with the assistance of Hoban Brothers Racing. The Vance & Hines Racing team returns to the King of the Baggers series with proven series front runners James Rispoli and Hayden Gillim, also campaigning race-prepared Road Glide motorcycles.

MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Contingency
Harley-Davidson will offer more than $185,000 in cash contingency for qualified Harley-Davidson racers competing in the Mission King of the Baggers series, with a contingency payout from first to 10th place in all 14 races and a $35,000 series championship bonus. Terms and conditions apply; please see www.MotoAmerica.com for full details, eligibility requirements and deadlines.

About the Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight® 131 Performance Crate Engine:
The Screamin’ Eagle® Milwaukee-Eight 131 is a powerful street-compliant performance engine offered by Harley-Davidson. Built from the bottom up in Milwaukee, this 131-cubic-inch (2147cc) Screamin’ Eagle® crate engine delivers 131 ft-lb of torque to the rear wheel, and may be installed in 2017-later Harley-Davidson Touring models.

2023 Mission King of the Baggers Schedule
(Two full races each weekend)

  • March 9-11: Daytona International Raceway – Daytona Beach, Fla.
  • April 21-23: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, Ga.
  • June 2-4: Road America – Elkhart Lake, Wis.
  • July 7-9: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca – Monterey, Calif.
  • July 28-30: Brainerd International Raceway – Brainerd, Minn.
  • September 8-10: Circuit of the Americas – Austin, Texas
  • September 22-24: New Jersey Motorsports Park – Millville, N.J.

Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. Go to H-D.com to learn more about the complete line of 2023 Harley-Davidson® Grand American Touring, Sport, Adventure Touring, Cruiser and Trike motorcycles, Harley-Davidson Certified™ pre-owned motorcycles, Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories, Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® apparel and gear, and Harley-Davidson Financial Services.

 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *  * * * *

Gear up to ride to your favorite Motorcycling Events – Click Here to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop

Mar 03
Love0

Harley-Davidson Museum roars in March

By General Posts

The campus is now rolling seven days a week. Plus learn how you can get your ticket for a night with Milwaukee’s leading ambassador, John McGivern, for a screening of “Main Streets with John McGivern.”

MILWAUKEE, USA (March 3, 2023) – With the calendar turning to March, there’s even more opportunities to immerse yourself in the legendary history found within the walls of the Harley-Davidson Museum as the campus is once again open seven days a week.

Check out the new specials cooking at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant or hop into the Harley-Davidson® Shop and get set for summer’s biggest party as Harley-Davidson® 120th Anniversary Collection items are arriving daily. Hats, T-shirts, hoodies and more – some found only at the H-D® Shop – are going to be hot sellers as we countdown to July!

Speaking of the Harley-Davidson Homecoming™ festivities, tickets are now on sale for two special opportunities to bring home more memories during the Homecoming weekend. First up, a morning with a man who bleeds black and orange. Coffee & Conversation with Bill Davidson will give guests the opportunity to hear directly from the man whose name appears on the gas tanks of your favorite motorcycles. Reserve your spot now for an early morning event featuring coffee, pastries and conversation with Bill Davidson, the H-D Museum Vice President and great-grandson of a company founder (and the nicest guy you’ll ever meet!). The event takes place in the newly renovated Experience Gallery and concludes with a staff-guided tour, including a visit to the Motorcycle Vault. Offered on Friday and Saturday, July 14 and 15 from 8 – 10:15 a.m.

If you’re shy on time, the “Homecoming Tour” is right up your alley. This one-hour tour is led by a knowledgeable H-D Museum staff member who will share stories about the Motor Company’s founding in 1903 and the many accolades H-D has earned over its 120-year history. This tour includes a visit to the vaunted Motorcycle Vault, giving it a distinctively “behind the scenes” flavor. These are limited-capacity experiences and reservations are required. Book one (or both) today!

But before we get too deep into the summer fun, there’s loads to see and do at the crossroads of 6th & Canal. Mark your calendars for March 28 when the H-D Museum welcomes John McGivern to campus for a screening of “John McGivern’s Main Streets.” Be among the first to see this episode that focuses on the backbone of MKE, the Menomonee Valley. Seating is limited, so reserve your (free) ticket now.

As mentioned, the H-D Museum™ campus is now open seven days a week. Our hours of operation are as follows: H-D Museum: Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant: Sunday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Harley-Davidson® Shop & Factory Shop: Daily 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

PROGRAMMING / EVENTS
John McGivern’s Main Streets – Menomonee Valley Premiere, March 28, 6 – 8:15 p.m.
Be among the first to view the Menomonee Valley episode of “John McGivern’s Main Streets”! Join John McGivern as he explores this thriving district in the heart of the city. Milwaukee’s Menomonee River Valley features some of the most popular entertainment destinations in Wisconsin with the Harley-Davidson Museum, Potawatomi Casino Hotel and American Family Field, home of the Milwaukee Brewers. But there is also plenty of great food and drink, shopping, art, and outdoor fun for John to explore. In addition, John and his new co-host, Emmy Fink, will go behind the scenes to see what delicious goods are made only in the Valley!

Not only will you be among the first to see the Menomonee Valley episode, you’ll also get to see special scenes from extra footage created for this event! The evening will end with door prizes including an array of surprises from local businesses and Main Streets gear. You will also have the opportunity for a meet and greet with the star of the show as well as the show’s producers! This show is produced by Plum Media, an award-winning video production and editing company, located right here in the Valley.

Registration is required and limited to the first 250 people, but tickets can be had at no cost.

Doors open at 6 p.m. in Rumble (above MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant) with a cash bar available but come early and visit the H-D Museum, H-D® Shop and grab dinner at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant! The screening will begin at 7 p.m. This event is co-hosted by the Harley-Davidson Museum and Menomonee Valley Partners.

Annual Pass
Need spring break ideas? Looking for interesting things to do and ways to fully enjoy our programs and exhibits? The Harley-Davidson Museum’s Annual Pass offers individual, family and VIP levels to fit your lifestyle. Just some of the perks of the new Annual Pass include: virtual access to the H-D Museum with various Harley history topics covered in our Virtual Gallery Talk series, admission discounts, free admission for children under age 18, merchandise discounts at The Shop, dining discounts at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant and more. Visit H-D Museum.com for details and other terms and conditions.

Guided Tours
The H-D Museum’s guided-tour portfolio has been updated with new experiences and content. Choose from the Spotlight Tour, the Beyond the Gate Tour or the VIP Tour. Spotlight Tours are available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Spanish Spotlight Tours are available most weekends. Guests are invited to check out the calendar when planning their visit to sign-up in advance for an unforgettable guided experience. To book a private group tour, please call 414-287-2799 or email for more information. Reservations and prepayment required at least 2-weeks prior to tour date. Please note: Tour fee does not include General Admission.

Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 10:15 a.m. and 2 p.m.)
All scouts are welcome to come earn their Engineering Merit Badge at the Harley-Davidson Museum! This experience will be launched by our merit badge counselor. Then, scouts will explore the history of Harley-Davidson as well as the engineering of motorcycles as they complete the nine merit badge requirements. Advance registration is required. Program registration closes one week prior to the scheduled program date. Ticket includes: downloadable activity booklet used for the program, welcome and orientation by program facilitator, blue card signed by the facilitator (one blue card per scout registration) and an exclusive H-D Museum™ patch.

Scout Virtual Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.)
This new 90-minute online program is open to scouts from all over the country. Our program facilitator will guide the troops and explore the role an engineer plays while creating a Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle. Nine requirements for the Engineering Merit Badge will be discussed during this virtual, interactive program. Advance registration is required. Program Fee: $20 per Scout, which includes an activity booklet used during the program and a special H-D® patch upon completion of the program.

ROLL INTO MILWAUKEE WITH YOUR BANDIT’s BEDROLL AND GET TO THE MUSEUM QUICK —
Biker Gear Built by Bikers for Bikers : The 5-Ball Racing Shop at https://5-ballgarage.com/

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS
“My Papi Has a Motorcycle” / “Mi Papi Tiene una Moto” (on display now)
From award-winning children and YA author Isabel Quintero and illustrator Zeke Peña comes the Harley-Davidson Museum’s first-ever bilingual exhibit, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” / “Mi papi tiene una moto.” Based on the beloved children’s book of the same name, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” shares a story of family bonds strengthened by the simple act of taking a joy ride on a two-wheeled machine. With brilliant, colorful art from Peña paired with heart-warming stories from Southern Californian riding families, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” will draw smiles from kids of all ages. It’s an exhibit that focuses not only on where you can take a motorcycle, but where a two-up motorcycle ride with a loved one can take you.

Experience Gallery (on display now)
With inspiring stories from riders who have turned their dream of learning to ride into reality, a look at the epic journeys you can only experience behind the bars of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, plus the chance to throw a leg over a new Harley-Davidson #FreedomMachine, the reinstalled and all-new Experience Gallery shows the world how United We Ride!

Google Arts & Culture: Take a Trip through Time (on display now)

Lillian Hauerwas began riding in 1911 when she was 19 years old. In 1914, she and a friend took a sidecar rig on a week-long trip. Check out a photo album from their ride and find out more about this early advocate for women motorcyclists on the Museum’s Google Arts & Culture site.

Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (on display now)
The four founders of Harley-Davidson were recently inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. Learn more about this prestigious honor now on view in the H-D Museum.

Linda “Jo” Giovannoni (on display now)
This year the world of motorcycling lost a prominent voice, Linda “Jo” Giovannoni. As a co-founder of Harley Women magazine, she shared her love of the sport through articles in newspapers and magazines, and in national television interviews and documentaries. Learn about how Giovannoni inspired riders for over 40 years.

Revolution® Max Engine (on display now)
The brand-new Revolution® Max 1250cc engine powers a new generation of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. See the liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-Twin that delivers for the Pan America® adventure touring model and the performance cruiser Sportster® S motorcycle. On view in the Museum lobby.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)
In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions.
The newly reinstalled display case in the Clubs & Competition gallery highlights clothing from club members from primarily the 1930s and 1940s. The clothing selections on view include full dress uniforms, shirts, sweaters, jackets and caps, customized by the owners with their club’s name and logo, and pins or patches indicating membership in the American Motorcyclist Association. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes® apparel sold in H-D® product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)
In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared.

The Harley-Davidson® Shop + Factory Shop
Keep your eyes peeled for new Harley-Davidson 120th Anniversary Collection items. New gear is arriving daily. Get ready for this summer’s Homecoming Festival in style. Both shops are now open seven days a week from 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

MOTOR® BAR & RESTAURANT
MOTOR is ushering in March with extended hours, daily specials and our monthly menu specials, including a nod to St. Patrick’s Day with Chef Sione’s take on the classic Rueben sandwich. The days are getting longer, and we are looking forward to re-opening on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and will be offering dinner every night of the week. New hours start on Wednesday, March 1 and MOTOR is open from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

If you observe Lent or just love the Friday fish fry tradition, don’t miss out on our delicious All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry served every Friday all day long. MOTOR offers both an entrée option and a North Atlantic cod sandwich. Guests can enjoy receiving $2 off your check for Fish Fry Fridays through Lent (Friday, April 7) for diners enjoying the fry from 7 – 9 p.m. Just mention this to your server and enjoy the offer!

March Specials (while supplies last):
APPETIZER OF THE MONTH: CRISPY BRUSSELS SPROUTS ($9.95)
Sprouts, bacon, Parmesan cheese, dried apricot with dynamite sauce.

ENTRÉE OF THE MONTH: DEEP FRIED SPARE RIBS ($15.95)
Marinated ribs, breaded and fried with a side of jicama slaw, French fries, and a side of BBQ sauce.

SANDWICH OF THE MONTH: RUEBEN SANDWICH ($14.95)

Smoked corned beef, Swiss cheese, topped with onion strings, jicama slaw, and 1000 island dressing on toasted rye.

DESSERT OF THE MONTH: APPLE PIE À LA MODE ($8.95)
Homemade apple pie served with vanilla ice cream.

Plus, save the date for our first Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch at MOTOR on Sunday, April 9! Reservations will be available in early March.

 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Share your pic wearing your favorite 5-Ball apparel and leathers https://5-ballgarage.com/

Feb 16
Love0

Gear Up for Royal Enfield Events in 2023

By General Posts

ARE YOU READY FOR AN EVENTFUL 2023?

2023 is already gearing up for Royal Enfield and motorcycle enthusiasts! Expect another year packed full of motorcycle events, demo rides, and racing. You’ll find us all across North America; we hope to see you on the road!

Check out the start of our events this year and be sure to keep an eye out as more and more is added to the 2023 calendar.

MAMA TRIED
February 18 – 19 | Milwaukee, WI
Kick the winter blues at this Milwaukee staple. Featuring over 100 motorcycles from top builders! See more about the show & get your tickets!

FLAT OUT FRIDAY
Women’s Open Presented by Royal Enfield
February 17 | Milwaukee, WI
The Dr. Pepper syrup track is almost ready for the indoor flat track race, are you? Get tickets now!

TORONTO MOTORCYCLE SHOW
February 17 – 19 | Toronto, ON
Canada, the Toronto Motorcycle Show is back! Join us at the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place, booth 433. Buy tickets now!

FLAT TRACK RACING?
Johnny Lewis and the Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield team are back for the 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season. They’ve been busy in the off-season & are ready to show you how hungry they are this year. Which race will we see you at?

THE 2023 BTR SEASON IS HERE!
The first all-woman initiative that teaches women to build & race their own motorcycles is back & accepting applications for the 2023 season. Do you want to take part in the new season of the ladies crushing the flat track or conquering road racing? Now’s the time to apply!

NEW OWNERS STARTER KIT
Whether you’re a new owner or just looking for new gear, the New Owners Starter Kit from Royal Enfield puts safety first while providing a look that will stand out. Kit includes Streetwind V2 Jacket & Urban Hustler Gloves

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Gear up & ride to your next Wild Biker Party in style – Click to checkout the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop.

 

Jan 26
Love0

Biltwell Parts & Labor Custom Motorcycle Expo 2023

By General Posts

by Bandit and Sam Burns

The ultimate destination for motorcycle enthusiasts this last weekend

Bike builders, bike riders, and bargain hunters went to see cool shit, meet people, and score deals on the best riding gear, parts and accessories available in rain- soaked SoCal.

Click Here to view this Photo Feature Article on Bikernet.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Get to your motorcycle event in style – have a look at the leathers and bedrolls
at https://5-ballgarage.com/

Jan 17
Love0

Is Royal Enfield Releasing Major Updates To Its 650 Range For 2024?

By General Posts


by Enrico Punsalang from https://www.rideapart.com

Most interesting of all would have to be a sportier Continental GT 650.

Ever since their debut back in 2018, the Continental 650 and Interceptor 650 pretty much propelled Royal Enfield to the global spotlight. Prior to the launch of these bikes, the brand had a decent footprint in Europe and Asia, with its retro-style machines being a favorite among classic aficionados. While the 650 Twins are well and truly classic in nature, they brought fairly modern performance technology to the equation.

Naturally, a motorcycle with modern-day amenities such as ABS, electronic fuel-injection, and most of all, reliability, is something that anyone can appreciate. Throw in classic styling and an ultra affordable price tag, and what you have is a recipe for success. Indeed, in the past five years of the bikes’ existence, Royal Enfield has somehow managed to continue raking in sales by just updating colors and releasing special editions every now and then.

As such, it isn’t at all surprising that the rumor mills have once again been churning. Word around the block is that RE is gearing up to drop major updates on the 650 model range, particularly to the sporty Continental GT. These updates may indeed be foreshadowed by the components we see in the Super Meteor 650. At this point, it’s important to note that Royal Enfield has yet to release any information on the upcoming 650 range, so the best we can do is speculate. Nevertheless, multiple sources suggest that the bike will break cover in time for the 2024 model year.

So, what exactly can we expect? Well, our friends at VisorDown have an interesting prediction, and it’s that the upcoming Continental GT 650 will be equipped with alloy wheels, and possibly even the inverted front forks found on the Super Meteor. Should the new generation Cafe Racer be equipped with these components, chances are it’ll directly translate lower unsprung weight, which means better handling. Alloy wheels also mean tubeless tires, which also mean more options when it comes to replacing tires for performance purposes.

The Continental GT has long been involved in the world of motorsports, with Royal Enfield launching a one-make racing series focusing on the sporty classic. Indeed, if these updates come into fruition, they could make the new Continental GT 650 Royal Enfield’s most performance-focused model to date.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Ride to your favorite Motorcycling Events in comfort and style. Have a look at our Ballistic Nylon vest and 5/8 sleeve Jak Shirt. Click Here to view the all-new 5-Ball Racing Shop.