So, you think you have a fast bike, huh? Always talking smack with your buddies, screwing around on the street, light to light, bar to bar? Well, eventually, you’re gonna get pinched, and it will cost you…trust us!
Why not take it to the drag strip and put an E.T. and MPH number with your bragging and have some real data instead of just bench racing! The American Motorcycle Racing Association, AMRA, gives you a chance to do just that, in a safe and sanctioned environment. There are many regional events, and the entry fees are extremely reasonable. The easiest way to get into drag racing is in the E class (E for Eliminator). Any bike can compete if it is safe and can pass tech inspection. You can read the rules on the AMRA website, but basically, it goes like this: the bike must be safe and in good operating condition; tires, brakes, forks, shocks, wheels, and hand controls will be inspected during the tech inspection. The chainguard will also be inspected. Bikes must have a fuel shutoff valve, a working kill switch, and front and rear fenders and brakes. Riders must have proper safety equipment. All riders must wear a full helmet, meeting posted standards. Eye protection is mandatory. Gloves, a leather jacket, above ankle boots, eye protection, and protective clothing that meets the discretion of the track officials are also required. More information can be found on the website, where you will find a downloadable rule book.
Bracket racing is great fun and really helps build rider skills. You will be launching your bike on a sticky, well-prepped surface, which adds a whole new dimension if you’ve never experienced it. You will learn clutch control, reaction time, dial-in strategy, and so much more. After every run, you will be given a printed time slip which includes your reaction time, 60’ time, 330’ time, 1/8th mile ET & MPH, 1000 ft E.T., and ¼ mile E.T. & MPH. Once you have a time slip in hand, the bullshit stops!
Everyone gets their start in bracket racing! Bert, James, and Scott all cut their teeth here. Maybe you’ll go further and build a class-specific machine, or maybe you’ll just wet your whistle and get it out of your system, but we urge everyone to try it. Drag Racing is about the most fun you can have with your clothes on!
If you aren't ready to hit the track yourself but love watching these two-wheeled machines push their top speeds to the limit, don’t miss a second of the action. Catch the full, live race coverage on Motor Mania TV’s YouTube channel and see the best in the business battle it out!
