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When Takuya Aikawa of SURESHOT unveiled “Magami” at the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show, it represented a surgical reconstruction of the Buell S1 White Lightning. Named after a Japanese wolf deity, the Magami addresses the inherent mechanical limitations of the original chassis while elevating the platform to world-class performance standards through advanced metallurgy and custom geometry. Aerospace Metallurgy: The 7N01 Frame The structural integrity of the Magami relies on a hybrid frame utilizing 7N01 aluminum alloy. This material is primarily […] The post “Magami” Buell White Lightning by SURESHOT appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Nitro Funny Car driver Spencer Hyde is set for a rare double-duty weekend at South Georgia Motorsports Park, competing in both his Jim Head Racing Nitro Funny Car and Stan Shelton’s ’67 Mustang Pro Mod in a substitute-driver role. It has been a long time – if ever – since a nitro driver has taken on two very different horses in the same weekend, but Hyde will do exactly that in Valdosta. From the raw power and precision of a Nitro Funny Car to the fierce, unpredictable world of Pro Mod racing, Hyde’s weekend is shaping up to be one of the most unique storylines in the pits. Hyde will step into Shelton’s Mustang after Shelton became unavailable due to a family obligation. For Shelton, the decision came down to confidence, composure, and proven Pro Mod experience. “Unfortunately, I’m not able to be behind the wheel this weekend, but I wanted to make sure the car was put in the right hands,” said Stan Shelton. “Team Shelton Motorsports has been working hard to continue improving our program in NHRA Pro Mod, and missing a race with one of our cars was not an option. We are thankful the class has a substitute-driver platform in place for situations like this. “Spencer is not just a talented driver; we consider him a friend and a fierce competitor. He brings a level of energy and enthusiasm that matches our team’s dynamic perfectly. He may drive a Nitro Funny Car, but he has Pro Mod blood running through his veins. “I would also like to thank Jim Head for allowing this opportunity to happen,” Shelton added. “We would like nothing more than to see Spencer double-fisting two Wallys on Sunday – one in Nitro Funny Car and one in Pro Mod.” Hyde’s double-duty effort will give fans at South Georgia Motorsports Park a unique opportunity to see one driver compete across two dramatically different platforms in the same weekend: a Nitro Funny Car and a Pro Mod ’67 Mustang. The Shelton team will continue working through its normal race-weekend program, with Hyde joining the effort as the substitute driver for the Valdosta event. Kevin Rivenbark will also wheel the team’s second entry, the ’71 Ford Mustang. Fans can catch Team Shelton Motorsports and NHRA Pro Mod in action this weekend at South Georgia Motorsports Park in Valdosta, Georgia. This story was originally published on April 29, 2026. The post Spencer Hyde Set for Rare Double-Duty Weekend at South Georgia Motorsports Park first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

This is so awesome! The Monaco Historic Grand Prix is one hell of an event, and it’s back after a few years off! If you dig old race cars, you are going to love this. And the way that it is organized at Monaco is something special. They organize the F1 races based on years, and they livestream the entire weekend. We shared the livestream already, and if you missed it then use the link below. But if you just want to see the independent races, we’re going to share those as well, and the first one is down below. This is the 1966-1972 Formula 1 race and just look at how sexy these race cars are! Video Description: Monaco Historic has returned! It’s been a couple of years since we experienced the magic of historic racing around the streets of Monaco, but it’s just as evocative as we remember. Time to enjoy a full race of 1966-1972 Formula 1. The post Watch The Entire 1966-1972 Formula 1 Race at the Monaco Historic Grand Prix 2026. Epic Sexy Vintage F1 Cars Racing. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Since its inception in 2009, Overland Expo has grown exponentially, expanded to five events across the United States, each featuring hundreds of vendors, over 100 presenters, trainers, and VIPs, and nearly 500 session hours of education. With so much to do during the event, it can be both exhilarating and a bit overwhelming for the first-time attendee to an Overland Expo. Here’s a brief introduction to what we have going on, along with some tips to get you going, whether you’re an Overland Expo veteran or a newcomer experiencing all the excitement for the first time. Things to Do Before You Arrive First things first. If you haven’t bought your tickets yet, head over here and do that. With your tickets in hand, be sure to download the Overland Expo app from your phone’s app store (links below). The official app gives you access to the event map, event schedule, and an easy way to find the vendors or classes you are looking for. Once you have the app, be sure to select “Overland Expo West 2026” as the event and let it download the event-specific data. In addition to the official Overland Expo app, we’ve teamed with onX Offroad to bring you a complete venue map with point-to-point navigation instructions via the onX Offroad app. Discounts for onX Offroad subscriptions will be available at the event. apple ios ANDROID OS Once you arrive, the overland world is your oyster. Here are the highlights to get you on your way: Education One of the highlights of Overland Expo is the quality (and quantity) of overland education offered all weekend. The programming spans 12 different education areas and nearly 200 session hours of classes. There is no shortage of opportunities to learn a new skill, get inspired by your fellow travelers, brush up on your fundamentals, or engage the experts at a roundtable. You can learn more about the weekend’s classes, including descriptions of all 12 areas, suggested classes, and the jam-packed schedule here. Exhibitors No doubt, the exhibitor area is one of the most popular parts of Overland Expo. This year, the West event will have more vendors than ever with hundreds of exhibitors showcasing thousands of products to support your vehicle-based adventuring. Just about anything overland-related you can imagine can be found for sale, but the most enjoyable thing may be just wandering around and discovering new and interesting kit. You’ll find some in-booth demos, giveaways, and demonstrations going on in the vendor area – a further reward for wandering about a bit. The complete list of vendors can be found here. Relax at the Bivvys With all the activity that the event brings, sometimes you just need to find a place to sit, rest for a bit, recharge your phone, fill your water bottle, and plan your next move. If that’s what you are looking for, the bivvys are the place for you. There will be three bivvys set up around the venue, sponsored by Hankook Tire, OPENROAD4wd, and Kumho Tire. Here you’ll find smaller, less formal classes all weekend long. Daytime Events Saturday Woman Who Wander Networking Event Sponsored by MAXXIS Tires – 10:00 am to noon Aimed at providing women-oriented education, networking, and training, The Women Who Wander program has grown to be one of the most exciting and popular parts of Overland Expo. Don’t miss this great event happening at the Oasis Bar & Food Court sponsored by Nexen Tire America. In addition to the Women Who Wander education opportunities offered throughout the event, there will be a Women Who Wander networking event and brunch sponsored by MAXXIS Tires. Come for some mimosas and a great lineup of speakers. Breakfast with Firestone – 10:00 am to noon Stop by the Firestone booth at Q56 to get your morning coffee and nosh with the Firestone reps and your fellow attendees, checking out the latest the company has to offer the adventure traveler. Camp Subaru LIVE! – 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm The Subaru area at map location A8 will see the return of Camp Subaru LIVE! where you’ll find live music, snacks, and special programming you won’t want to miss. Plus, Saturday morning Camp Subaru LIVE! is hosting a puppy adoption event, so if you’re considering a new four-legged adventure pal, be sure to stop by. Sunday Dogs and Donuts Sponsored by Far Fetched Adventures– 10:00 am to noon Join Dr. Stacey Thomas, a shelter veterinarian, search and rescue EMT, and longtime Overland Expo instructor, for a session aimed at getting you the knowledge and hands-on skills you need to deal with pet emergencies while adventuring. The session will cover the 10 Essentials you need to carry to keep your dog safe on the trail; how to understand common trail injurious, illnesses, and toxins, plus how to respond appropriately; and what you need in a dog first aid kit and when to use it. Instruction will be complemented by hands-on breakout sessions where you can put your newly acquired first aid skills to work with supplied materials. In addition to great instruction, there will be first aid games, dog trivia, and giveaways to inject some fun into the otherwise serious subject. You can learn more about Dr. Thomas and Dogs and Donuts here. Evening Festivities While you will spend your days attending classes, visiting our amazing vendors, and dreaming about your next overland adventure, we’ve got plenty in store for you in the evening. Thursday Start off the weekend right at the Welcome Happy Hour sponsored by Barebones. The happy hour takes place at the Oasis Bar and Food Court sponsored by Nexen Tire America from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. There you can join us for drinks, sample what the food trucks have to offer, and get amped up for a fun weekend alongside your fellow overlanders. Friday Friday night, 5-7 pm, come back to the Oasis Bar & Food Course, sponsored by Nexen Tire of America, for Happy Hour sponsored by TOPS Knives. Mingle with your new-found overlanding friends and expand your circle before the rest of the evening activities ramp up. Following the happy hour, there are several great opportunities vying for your attention. From 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, the Oasis Bar & Food Court sponsored by Nexen Tire of America will host the Overland Expo Film Festival sponsored by Remote Vans. The start of the Overland Expo Film Festival season will get off to an exciting start with the much-anticipated premiere of XOVERLAND’s Milestones: Global Expedition Season Finale, Episode 10: To the Final Mile, along with a panel featuring the cast, as well as a brand-new episode from Richard and Ashley Giordano’s From Desk to Glory series. For the adventure motorcycle enthusiasts in the crowd, come to the world-famous Moto Party and Dinner sponsored by Rider Justice at 7:00 pm. Taking place at the ADV Skills Area Sponsored by Quad Lock, experience a night of dinner, entertainment, great conversation, and an impressive set of raffle prizes. Tickets for the Moto Party can be purchased with your ticket to the event, or email info@overlandexpo.com to add on a Moto Party and Dinner ticket to your current order. Also starting at 7:00 pm is Toyota Game Night at booth A2. Join the folks at Toyota for an evening of fun and games alongside light appetizers, mocktails, and raffle prizes. READ MORE:Moto Programming at Overland Expo West: Skills, Stories, and Inspiration Saturday Saturday night, start off at 5:00 pm with the Happy Hour sponsored by BRS OFFROAD NORTH AMERICA. Enjoy refreshments, live music, and a chance to get to know thousands of your fellow overlanders at the Oasis Bar & Food Court sponsored by Nexen Tire America from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. After Happy Hour winds down, stick around for the Overland Expo Foundation Raffle, which kicks off at 7:00 pm. The mountain of raffle prizes grows bigger and bigger every event, with some truly impressive gear that just might be going home with you. It’s no exaggeration that this is one of the most popular parts of the event. Raffle tickets go toward the Overland Expo Foundation’s work in the community. Purchase raffle tickets on the website and on site at the Overland Foundation booth. You’ll also want to check out a very longstanding Overland Expo tradition, the AT Overland / Equipt / XOverland Party at map locations Q35, Q37, Q19, and Q20 (yes, it’s that big!). This is the original evening party going back to the early days of Overland Expo and will be bigger than ever. Come grab a beer and be a part of the tradition from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Ready to Join Us? Now that you know what to expect and what can’t be missed, click the link below to make sure you join in on the fun in just a few short weeks at the Fort Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff, Arizona. BUY TICKETS View the full article

The premier gasser drag racing of the Southeast Gassers Association drives forward into the heart of Dixie for race two of 2026. It has been almost five years since the last SEGA championship race was contested in the state of Alabama. A first-ever visit to Holiday Raceway in Woodstock, AL, will host the SEGA action that is The Bama Brawl presented by Superior Performance Transmissions. The last SEGA visit to Alabama was at Lassiter Mountain Dragway. This time, Holiday Raceway will play host. It is a long-awaited inaugural event as the weather hindered visiting the location in 2025. Though the weather didn’t cooperate last year, Holiday Raceway itself fits nicely into the line-up of SEGA-visited tracks. The dragstrip has a history dating back to 1968 and is a family-owned and operated facility. With SEGA at Holiday Raceway, fans will be able to enjoy a nostalgic gasser holiday at the dragstrip. NASCAR had the Allisons, Bonnett, and Farmer making up their Alabama Gang. SEGA is no different, having its own Bama Bunch, who are some of the toughest and winningest competitors in gasser competition. Dean, Oden, and Rainwater are some of the fiercest and feared racers in SEGA with numerous championships to their credit. From Super Stock to A/Gas, in each SEGA championship category, Alabama is represented. The Bama Bunch intends to hold the line in their home state. The Bama Brawl for 2026 will ring the bell for action on Friday at 5:00 PM Central with a SEGA-only test and tune (gates open at 4 PM CT – $20 admission). Saturday has qualifying scheduled for 1:00 PM Central with championship eliminations to follow (gates open at 11 AM CT – $25 admission – $35 weekend pass). Southeast Gassers Association competition will go through heads-up eliminations to the point of crowned event champions during an authentic 1960s racing experience. Can the Bama Bunch sweep all the championship categories? Or do out-of-state SEGA competitors claim the prize of event champion at this inaugural Holiday Raceway event? For more information, you can visit www.southeastgassers.com or www.holidayraceway.com – also check out the social media outlets for both the Southeast Gassers Association and Holiday Raceway on the major platforms such as Facebook. This story was originally published on April 29, 2026. The post Southeast Gassers Association Returns To Alabama For The Bama Brawl At Holiday Raceway first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

THE WES BUCK SHOW – EPISODE 423 “OUTLAWS, NITRO, AND FIGHTING FOR THE SPORT” SOME WEEKS YOU TALK RACING. SOME WEEKS YOU TALK BUSINESS. THIS WEEK? WE’RE TALKING ABOUT THE WHOLE DAMN THING. This week on The Wes Buck Show, we’ve got a lineup that hits every angle of what makes this sport tick. First up, Michael Poland. You already know what you’re getting here. Energy. Opinions. Stories. The guy lives in the middle of the action and never shies away from it. Whether it’s small tire, big personalities, or whatever chaos is brewing, Michael is right there in it and bringing the heat with him. Then we bring in Clay Millican, one of the most respected names in NHRA Top Fuel. Veteran. Fan favorite. And a guy who has seen just about everything this sport can throw at you. From wins to wild rides to grinding it out year after year, Clay is the kind of guy you want in the room when you’re talking about what it really takes to survive and succeed at the top level. And rounding it out, Madelyn Marconi, who is fighting for the future of motorsports off the track. Working with local and state government in Florida, she is helping protect, support, and grow racing in a time when that is more important than ever. This is the side of the sport people don’t always see, but it matters just as much as what happens on race day. Three guests. Three perspectives. One sport we all care about. LET’S GO. Each week on The Wes Buck Show, Wes Buck, JT “Murder T” Hudson, and Mike Carpenter bring their unique insights and analysis to the most electrifying moments and storylines from a packed weekend of drag racing. SUBSCRIBE for the latest in drag racing: @dragillustrated GRAB YOUR MERCH: dragillustrated.store STAY CONNECTED: @thewesbuckshow @dragillustrated RACERS CLUB MERCH: racers.club Wanna sponsor the show? Contact us: wes@dragillustrated.com dragracing #wesbuck #MichaelPoland #ClayMillican #MadelynMarconi #NHRA #TopFuel #Motorsports #FloridaRacing #WBS #DI #RacersClub This story was originally published on April 29, 2026. The post The Wes Buck Show | Ep. 423 | Michael Poland, Clay Millican, & Madelyn Marconi! first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

If you see a Honda NX650 Dominator on Bike EXIF, there is a statistically significant chance that it originated in a specific workshop in Husum, Germany. Holger Breuer, the man behind HB Custom, has effectively become the global patron saint of the Dominator.While other builders flirt with different... View the full article

John Force Racing is ready for the Southern Nationals. See what the teams have planed for this inaugural event at SGMP.View the full article

The slow start to the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season for Jack Beckman took a sharp turn in the right direction last Sunday with his runner-up finish in the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals and it’s the spark from that strong showing that the PEAK SQUAD will carry to South Georgia Motorsports Park on May 1-3 for the renewal of the NHRA Southern Nationals. “There’s only one first but, in many cases, we’ve had a whole bunch of ‘last’ races,” said Beckman. “But you know for a fact if you win the inaugural, that never changes. I won the inaugural race at zMAX Raceway in 2008. It’s an awesome trophy that can never be taken away. There’s only one first.” The 37-time NHRA Funny Car winner finished third in his second-round quad at zMAX Dragway near Charlotte, N.C. Dave Richards crossed the finish line second but was disqualified for his car making contact with the retaining wall before the finish line. That moved Beckman into the final round, where he had a 0.058 reaction time and ran 3.917 seconds at 329.50 mph to Ron Capps’ winning run of 3.905 seconds at 334.90 mph (0.054 reaction time). The final-round appearance extended to 19 the number of consecutive seasons Beckman has raced in at least one final round in every season he has competed in the Funny Car class beginning in 2006. Despite not taking the victory, the performance moved Beckman from 10th to eighth in the Funny Car point standings; 10 points behind Spencer Hyde in seventh place, 22 behind John Force Racing teammate Alexis DeJoria in sixth and 52 behind JFR teammate Jordan Vandergriff in fifth. The 2012 NHRA Funny Car World Champion’s runner-up finish last Sunday qualified the PEAK SQUAD to participate in this week’s Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge. The race-within-qualifying event will take place Saturday, May 2, at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. ET during the third and fourth rounds of Funny Car qualifying. In 13 previous NHRA Southern Nationals starts (2007-2019 at Atlanta Dragway in Commerce, Ga.), Beckman earned two wins (2009, 2011) a runner-up finish and No. 1 Qualifier in 2016, and an 18-11 overall round record. “We have our tracks specialist, Lanny Miglizzy. When he gets to a track, he’s probably been there 20 times or more so he usually starts off with the notes he had last year,” Beckman said. “But we don’t have notes on Valdosta so the great thing about that is it’s equal for everybody. We’re going to roll in to South Georgia and it’s gonna be new to all of us. For the first time in NHRA’s 75-year history, we have four national events on tracks that we have not raced NHRA national events on before so it’s going to be really interesting.” The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 3 and 5:30 p.m. ET on Friday, May 1, with the final two rounds Saturday, May 2, at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 3. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 from 9:30-11 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 2, a second qualifying show Sunday, May 3, from 1-2 p.m. ET and eliminations from 7-10 p.m. ET. The post Jack Beckman’s Season on the Way Up Heading Into NHRA Southern Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Leah Pruett has enjoyed a strong start to her return to the Top Fuel ranks and appears as close as ever to her first win of the 2026 season in the NHRA Mission Drag Racing Series. Heading to South Georgia Motorsports Park for this weekend’s NHRA Southern Nationals, Pruett is also one of a handful of drivers with experience at the new track on NHRA’s national-event circuit. She’s tested in a variety of cars at the facility and while none of those were in a Top Fuel dragster, there is some familiarity for Pruett at SGMP, which could bode well for the standout as she remains on the verge of her first win during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. Pruett advanced to the final quad last weekend in Charlotte, finishing third, marking her second final round in the past three races. Add in a No. 1 qualifier from Pomona and Pruett, who is currently third in points, is feeling good in her 12,000-horsepower American Rebel Beer dragster for Tony Stewart Racing heading into this weekend’s SGMP debut. “This year, with my return to driving, I get to reestablish myself in front of everyone and every single eyeball,” Pruett said. “I feel that things are moving very well and in the right direction for me back in the car and working with the team again. This team can definitely battle for a championship like the past three years, with myself and Tony (Stewart) in the driver’s seat. I’m anxious to get to (South Georgia Motorsports Park) now. I got my Funny Car license there and tested Pro Mod and Factory Stock at that track.” This weekend’s NHRA Southern Nationals marks NHRA’s historic first visit to South Georgia Motorsports Park and the first of the four new facilities added to the 2026 NHRA season. The race will be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations coverage at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday. It is the fifth of 20 races during the 2026 season and this weekend will feature a host of 75th anniversary events, including: An appearance from NHRA legend and three-time Top Fuel world champion “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, as well as NHRA legend Darrell Gwynn. A celebration of Garlits’ historic career and his passion for innovation, engineering and advancing the sport of drag racing. On Friday, a free, limited-edition NHRA pennant will be given to the first 3,500 fans in attendance. A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and more. Pruett brings a wave of momentum to the first back-to-back race of the season. She’ll be trying to slow down points leader and reigning world champ Doug Kalitta, who picked up his second win of the season last weekend in Charlotte. But he’s hardly the only standout in the category, as Pruett will also have to deal with the likes of Shawn Langdon, her husband, racing legend Tony Stewart, Justin Ashley, Clay Millican, Tony Schumacher and four-time champ Antron Brown. But after not racing the past two years, Pruett has jumped right back into the thick of things, performing at a high level right off the bat. That bodes well for the rest of the season as Pruett continues to get more and more comfortable in the seat again. “Our TSR team continues to show strength every single weekend,” Pruett said. “I have to sit back and take a look at my personal performance since Gainesville when we started the season. Then, there were slight improvements at Phoenix and Pomona. I have made the biggest gains (in Charlotte). I tried something new (last) weekend that I used a long time ago. It didn’t go as well as planned this time, but I have many benefits from the weekend for my reaction time toolbox. We are very happy with the car and we are No. 3 in points now.” Ron Capps is the Funny Car points leader, but he’ll be challenged by a loaded field that includes four-time world champ Matt Hagan, J.R. Todd, Gainesville winner Chad Green, Cruz Pedregon, Daniel Wilkerson and Spencer Hyde. Reigning Pro Stock champion Dallas Glenn currently leads the points over his KB Titan Racing teammate and six-time world champion Greg Anderson. The two have wins on the season, while Matt Hartford has two wins from Gainesville and Charlotte. Pro Stock Motorcycle reigning champ Richard Gadson leading the way after winning in Gainesville. Charlotte winner Gaige Herrea is second, while others to watch will be John Hall, Chase Van Sant, Jianna Evaristo and six-time world champ Matt Smith. The race festivities kick off at 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, with a “Rev & Rally” race weekend preparty and fanfest from Visit Valdosta at the Rainwater Conference Center. Fans can meet a host of their favorite NHRA drivers, enjoy live music, enter a free raffle with prizes including a pair of tickets to the NHRA Southern Nationals and much more. The NHRA Southern Nationals will also feature the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and the Summit Racing Equipment Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout. Race fans at South Georgia Motorsports Park can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. They are also invited to congratulate the event winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 2 and 4:30 p.m. ET on Friday, May 1 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, May 2 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, May 3. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 at 9:30 p.m. ET on Friday and 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, with eliminations action to follow at 7 p.m. To purchase tickets to the 2026 NHRA Southern Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information about the NHRA, visit www.nhra.com. The post Top Fuel’s Leah Pruett Closing in on Win Approaching NHRA Southern Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Ron Capps enters the NHRA Southern Nationals as points leader. Maddi Gordon is ready to run at SGMP for the first time in her NHRA career. View the full article

After an eventful event in Charlotte, past Funny Car world champion J.R. Todd and the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series travel to South Georgia Motorsports Park for the facility’s first NHRA national event for this weekend’s NHRA Southern Nationals. It’s the first back-to-back race of the year, and Todd and his DHL GR Supra Funny Car team continue to build momentum with two semifinal finishes this season, including last weekend in Charlotte. Todd advanced to the final quad, but it was a wild ride to get there, as he took an unexpected trip to the sand trap at the end of the track. The team went to the spare car in the final quad, but the primary car will return at SGMP and Todd feels confident the team is on the verge of a victory. “That was unfortunate,” said Todd. “We brought out our spare car for the final (in Charlotte). I feel like if we didn’t have that issue in the semis with the primary car, I really think that we had a really good shot at winning. But we’ll go out there in Georgia and try and get it done this weekend.” This weekend’s NHRA Southern Nationals marks NHRA’s historic first visit to South Georgia Motorsports Park and the first of the four new facilities added to the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. It marks a memorable moment during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season and Todd knows being the first-ever winner at the facility during a milestone year would make for a special moment. “We don’t have any notes to go off of from there, but at the same time, it’d be nice to be the first Funny Car winner, since it’s the first time we’re competing there,” said Todd. “I’ve been there about 15 years ago to race a Pro Mod, but I’m looking forward to getting to a new venue and hopefully we draw on some new fans to the area.” Winners in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will be the first to win the highly coveted NHRA 75th anniversary diamond Wally at SGMP, making it a must-see event for every fan. From two rounds of qualifying on Friday, the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge bonus race on Saturday – as well as two more rounds of qualifying – and eliminations on Sunday, it’s a jam-packed weekend at SGMP, bringing back the Southern Nationals name to the NHRA circuit. It’s the first of four visits to new facilities for NHRA in 2026 and this one will feature a host of 75th anniversary events, including: An appearance from NHRA legend and three-time Top Fuel world champion “Big Daddy” Don Garlits, as well as NHRA legend Darryl Gwynn. A celebration of Garlits’ historic career and his passion for innovation, engineering and advancing the sport of drag racing. On Friday, a free, limited-edition NHRA pennant will be given to the first 3,500 fans in attendance. A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and 75th anniversary stage in Nitro Alley. A win won’t come easy, as Funny Car continues to be an ultra-competitive class. Three-time world champ Ron Capps has two wins on the season and is the points leader, while four-time champ Matt Hagan earned the historic 1,000th Funny Car race win in Pomona. Chad Green won at the season opener in Gainesville for the second consecutive year, while others to watch include back-to-back world champ Austin Prock, Cruz Pedregon and Daniel Wilkerson. With his semifinal finish in Charlotte, Todd and his team will be slated into this weekend’s Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge. He’ll rematch with Capps while Hagan will take on Jack Beckman, and Todd can sense the momentum his team continues to build this season. “The confidence is definitely high in our camp,” Todd said. “I feel like team morale has definitely changed this year with all the changes that we’ve made between the race cars, the tune-up, bringing Todd Smith back to work with (crew chief) Dickie Venables. Everybody’s outlook has changed and the results have shown that. “We’ve made the right changes and improvements to the team, so confidence, I’d say, is definitely high. I feel like this is the best race car that we’ve had in a long time, going back to probably 2018. With the way that it’s going up and down the track, the majority of the time with no issues, you feel good going into the busy part of the year.” Currently leading the Top Fuel division is reigning world champion Doug Kalitta, following his win in Charlotte. His teammate and Phoenix winner Shawn Langdon is second, while Leah Pruett is third after returning to full-time racing this season. Tony Stewart is fourth after his win in Pomona. Reigning Pro Stock champion Dallas Glenn currently leads the points over his KB Titan Racing teammate and six-time world champion Greg Anderson. The two have wins on the season, while Matt Hartford has two wins from Gainesville and Charlotte. Once again, this season is a battle between Vance & Hines teammates with reigning champion Richard Gadson leading the way after winning in Gainesville. Charlotte winner and two-time world champ Gaige Herrea is second. Others to watch will be John Hall, Chase Van Sant, and six-time world champion Matt Smith. The race festivities kick off at 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, with a “Rev & Rally” race weekend preparty and fanfest from Visit Valdosta at the Rainwater Conference Center. Fans can meet a host of their favorite NHRA drivers, enjoy live music, enter a free raffle with prizes including a pair of tickets to the NHRA Southern Nationals and much more. The NHRA Southern Nationals will also feature the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and the Summit Racing Equipment Jr. Drag Racing League Shootout. Race fans at South Georgia Motorsports Park can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. They are also invited to congratulate the event winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday. As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 2 and 4:30 p.m. ET on Friday, May 1 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, May 2 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, May 3. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 at 9:30 p.m. ET on Friday and 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, with eliminations action to follow at 7 p.m. To purchase tickets to the 2026 NHRA Southern Nationals, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. For more information about the NHRA, visit www.nhra.com. This story was originally published on April 29, 2026. The post Funny Car’s J.R. Todd Looks to Win NHRA Debut at South Georgia Motorsports Park for NHRA Southern Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Side-by-sides are notoriously roll-capable, and their capabilities are often too great, or sadly overestimated, by their drivers. But can airbags be the solution to the greater potential for injury?View the full article

Harley-Davidson kicks off its 2026 European event season with the new Spring Rally in Senigallia, Italy. View the full article

Ducati celebrates 100 years with a 228 horsepower carbon fiber superbike and a global lineup of events and experiences. View the full article

The Mountain Equipment Company just unveiled the ‘2 Kilo Project,’ an ultralight camp kit for backpackers. But can it survive a motorcycle adventure?View the full article

CFMoto just made a social media video showing a MiniGP-style motorcycle, which reports suggest will be called the Mini25. Here's everything we know so far.View the full article

A 27-year-old motorcyclist in Sandy, Utah, allegedly assaulted his 76-year-old neighbor after the elderly man asked him to stop revving his bike in the middle of the night. Here's what we know thus far.View the full article

Few modern motorcycles capture the spirit of classic British performance quite like the 2014 Norton Commando 961 Café Racer. Finished in a timeless silver livery accented by black and red pinstriping, the bike delivers understated visual drama. Carbon-fiber components, including the front fender and flyscreen, introduce a contemporary edge while reducing unsprung weight. The solo seat reinforces its purist café racer ethos, prioritising rider engagement over passenger comfort. Underneath, the chassis is built for both composure and feedback. Wire-spoke wheels […] The post Bike of the Day: 2014 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

A good knife is worth its weight in gold, as they can help you when things hit the fan. And Tops' Sidekick Diver Knife, one meant for the watery depths, could actually be the best adventure knife, too. View the full article

Last fall we shared video of Cotten installing electric air conditioning in his HEMI powered Monte Carlo, a car that was already polarizing before the A/C install. He liked the electric A/C, and we’ve known several folks who have installed them in their own cars, so we were excited to see how it all worked out on this one. It was okay, but needed some love, and in this video Cotten is going to make some changes for legit cold air, just in time for summer. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ORIGINAL INSTALL OF THE ELECTRIC AIR CONDITIONING Video Description: Welcome back!! On the last episode I installed a $500 Ebay 12 volt electric under dash ac unit. It did okkkkk. Just needed some tweaking. Follow along as we make it better. I’ve also put links to the products I bought to help ! Sit back and lets make this Monte finally cold! The post 12 VOLT ELECTRIC AIR CONDITIONER UPGRADES. Cotten Is Fixing The A/C In His Hemi Monte Carlo! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Cobra Jet 2200 isn't you're standard EV. This Mustang reset the electric vehicle drag racing record with a 6.78 at 222 mph.View the full article

I grew up in a stick shift drag racing family, so anything with a clutch pedal is near and dear to my heart. There is something about a stick shift car that just makes it more fun to drive, and even something like my Civic EG Hatch is a good time with a clutch pedal. But unlike an NHRA Pro Stocker, or any other car using a verticle gate shifter, the cars in the video below are all running H Pattern shifters which means there is some skill involved in shifting these things. Most of the folks racing in these classes are flat foot shifting, but using a little bit of clutch pedal. They are not clutchless transmissions. So running 6’s with a clutch assisted, h-pattern shifter, is hauling ass and doing things in the car to make it happen. We love it and I know you will too. Check out all the racing action below! Video Description: We were out at Street Car Bragging Rights at Rockingham Dragway, covering the top stick shift classes from Round 1 all the way to the finals. This event brings together some of the fastest H-pattern cars in the world, and this year didn’t disappoint. We saw heavy hitters like Sean Madden in both his C7 and White Betty C6, Jon Rogers’ VK56-powered 240Z, the Red Demon, and plenty more serious builds all chasing the win. The post Manual Cars Shouldn’t Be THIS FAST! 6-Second Stick Shift Drag Racing At Street Car Takeover In Rockingham. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

In the increasingly sophisticated world of bespoke motorcycles, few builders consistently balance artistry and engineering precision like Lord Drake Kustoms. Their latest creation—the BMW R Nine T “RR”—is a compelling demonstration of how modern customization is evolving beyond retro homage into what can only be described as functional sculpture. Built upon the already versatile BMW R nineT platform, the “RR” represents a deliberate shift toward what founder Fran Manen terms a “Neoracer” philosophy. This concept blends classic café racer DNA […] The post Lord Drake Kustoms Unveils the BMW R Nine T “RR” appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

David Johnson and Josh Brookes will carry Aussie interest near the front of the 2026 Monster Energy Supersport TT field, with Brookes set to race one of the most intriguing machines in the class, a Next Generation Suzuki GSX-R750. The post Johnson and Brookes carry Aussie hopes into 2026 Supersport TT shake-up appeared first on MCNews. View the full article