How Bad Do You Want It

The Off season is well under way. Bikes are being prepared for the 2011 racing season. While we have had enormous success in 2009 and 2010, we are making some radical changes to the race package of our ZX-6rr and ZX-10R. If you don't continue to try new things, you get left behind in the dust.

It looks good financially for TLN and 2011. We think we have found what we need for the racing season budget. Until the money is in our account it isn't a done deal though. KWS gets both bikes in a couple of weeks. The suspension and Aero work is near completed. It will all be in the hands of Kevin and the KWS crew soon.

We were unable to secure a 2011 ZX-6 or ZX-10 for this racing season. The good news is our ZX-6rr is still a multi Wprld Record holder and our ZX-10R was the fastest normally aspirated 1000cc motorcycle on the East Coast, except for 0ne. The KWS BMW. We were faster than the other BMW's, but KWS had us by a couple mph. We have our work cut out for us, but I do love a challenge.

As for the rider I am determined to be ready for the season opener. I am struggling with an ACL/MCL tear in my right knee. I have had multiple operations for the same issue in my left knee. I'll be spending 5-6 days a week in the gym working to strengthen the knee and my core, not to mention the 60-90 mins of cardio to help drop some weight so I can be in the best condition since 2009 when the season starts. I am determined to have strength and stability in the knee and be ready.

Land Speed racing requires a lot of lower body strength. Ridding with toe pressure. Doing all you can to keep the bike aimed down the course without moving the front wheel. Any movement in that front tire causes friction which slows you down. Maxton is unique with the curve at the beginning and end of the course. I ride wide through the beginning curve trying to wind out the bikes as much as possible. That may all change as the new race packages may require new gearing for both bikes. Then it all changes with wind speed and direction.

The question is, as always. How bad do you want it? How committed are you to being the fastest there is? How much are you willing to give, in time money, blood, sweat and tears. The answer for TLN is clear. We as a team will do whatever is required to be on top. I as a rider will work as hard as it takes to be ready and at my best in 2011.

Stay tuned as I have that old feeling again. I can taste the Chase. I see records out there and I want them. God of Speed, we are coming.