Interview with our own Ross “gsxrnut” - racing, riding and repair guru
Hang around motorcycle forums for a while and you’ll likely notice a few members who seem to rise to the forefront of most discussions about riding well. We’re proud to call Ross one of ours. He consistently offers sound advice stemming from his personal experience in motorcycling, both as a racer and as a motorcycle enthusiast. He’s also darned funny. We’ve asked him a few questions that we thought would help new motorcyclists understand what it’s about and entertain experienced riders with snapshots of the real world of motorcycling. Here’s what Ross has been up to in motorcycling…
Roadracing:
- Looking at CMRA this year. Still an active member of the AFM - #710
- Tracks: Infineon, Thunderhill, Buttonwillow
- Bikes raced: Ninja 250, GSX-R 1100
- Accomplishments: 3rd Place Super Dinosour, 2004
Dragracing:
- Non-affiliate racer, but had a LOT of fun
- Tracks: Bandimere Speedway, Carolina Dragway
- Bikes Raced: Interceptor 750, GSX-R 750
- Sponsors: International Cycle Salvage
Hi Ross, thanks for speaking with us. What improvements in motorcycle technology have most affected the way people ride today?
Stiffer frames, different geometry, more than adequate tires, better suspension.
You’ve had lots of track time in the past two decades. What are the most important skills riders learn from track days that translate into street riding?
Anticipation of events unfolding ahead of you, all aspects of BIKE CONTROL, and respect for the road.
Why have you avoided getting a late model sportbike, instead choosing to stick with early generation GSXR’s?
Because I am crazy. Had a passion for those bikes since the beginning. Am looking at getting into something newer finally….
It should be mentioned that Ross collects old Sizzler and Matchbox cars, as well as vintage guitar amps. We’d guess he’s a bit nostalgic.
What advice do you have to offer beginner sportbike riders?
a. Start small, master the machine, then move up.
b. Set your suspension and tires up FIRST before modding ANYTHING else.
c. Always wear your gear.
No too long ago you broke your back in an accident at the track. What is it about racing that brings you back after such a serious accident?
Racing is like a drug, a SERIOUS high. If you’ve never done it, you’ll never understand.
Can a determined, adequately skilled rider make a living at racing or is all the money going to the best of the best?
Money? You actually get money for racing?!
I was never good enough to get much more than contingency money from time to time. You gotta be either wealthy, know someone who is wealthy who will sponsor you, or be extremely talented and willing to sacrifice everything to try and make it into a factory or corporate ride. Very few racers do.
Who got you into racing?
Years ago, local drag racing phenom and buddy Ken Imus (no, not the radio commentator). More recently, ex-teammate Rick Williams and racing legend Dale Walker.
To what do you contribute the boom in motorcycle sales in the past few years?
FINANCING, FINANCING, FINANCING… seriously. Superb quality and more acceptance into “mainstream” society of the two-wheeled beasts.
There are more likely others who have a lot more experience than I on the track, but I always continue to learn and compete against myself to become a more smooth and consistent rider.
Thank you very much for your time, Ross.
Interview by Kevin A. Case, contributions by the moderators of Motorcycle-Journal
