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The future of motorsports is set to roar to life with the launch of the Kanga Kids USA Junior Dragster Tour 2026, an exciting initiative dedicated to developing the next generation of racing talent. The program will see four elite Australian junior drag racers travel to the United States to compete in the prestigious Right Trailers NHRA Junior Drag Racing League Eastern Conference Finals at the historic Bristol Dragway (famously known as Thunder Valley) in Bristol, Tennessee. “This tour is about more than racing – it’s about building confidence, resilience, and creating life-changing opportunities for young drivers on an international stage,” said Michael Bennett, Kaids Coordinator. “We’re proud to give Australian racers the chance to compete in the absolute heartland of drag racing.” Junior Dragsters provide a proven professional pathway that has developed young global motorsport talent since its inception in 1992. The Kanga Kids are scheduled to race at multiple junior-exclusive major events over an intensive 9-day period at Thunder Valley. The Events These premier events regularly attract upward of 600 entrants ranging from ages 6 to 18. To provide perspective, Australia’s largest drag racing event – the Gulf Western Oil Winternationals – hosts 500 competitors total across all categories, including only 68 juniors. • Mike Bos Chassis Craft Jr. Dragster Nationals: July 10-12, 2026 • Right Trailers NHRA JDRL Eastern Conference Finals: July 13-18, 2026 Key Tour Highlights • High-stakes international competition experience within the United States. • Direct track placement alongside premier global junior drag racing events. • Multi-age and high-performance bracket classes reaching speeds up to 85 mph (136 km/h). • Strict structural focus on mechanical safety, driver development, and elite sportsmanship. • Clear structural pathway toward top-tier professional motorsport opportunities. Our Drivers The four (4) drivers selected are: • Zayne Condello (3x Australian National Champion) • Piper Bennett (2024 NSW Junior Champion) • Luca Lamattina (Mult-time National Runner up) • Savanna Condello (Mult-time National Runner up) Kaids would also like to thank their supporters: Greg at Simpson Race Products Australia, Nicole and Lily at the National Drag Racing Championship (NDRC), Dennis from NHRA Division 2, Aaron & Scott from the Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA), Jaime at Halfscale Dragsters, Trevor at GetM Performance, Nic at Nic Woods Racing, and Richard at Peyton Racing. The post Australian Youth Drag Racers Ready to Take on America’s Best in the Inaugural Kanga Kids USA Junior Dragster Tour 2026 first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Steve Johnson will bring his historic 40th anniversary tour to Tennessee’s iconic Bristol Dragway, June 12-14, seeking to add another Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals “Wally” to his trophy case. Pro Stock Motorcycle’s longest tenured competitor will be looking to guide his Suzuki to his first national event victory since reaching the winner’s circle at Bristol in 2023. “We still have plenty of work to do,” offered Johnson, when asked about the team’s current direction. “I’m always trying to lose weight and ride perfectly. The engines still need developing every day. But no matter what power you have it means nothing if you can’t drive the bike perfectly. You don’t just hang on and ride these motorcycles; we drive our motorcycles. You try to ride a bull, but you drive a Pro Stock Bike.” As the NHRA continues their spectacular year-long 75th anniversary celebration, Bristol Dragway will be recognizing their milestone 25th anniversary of holding an NHRA national event. The NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, the sixth race on the 14-race NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle schedule, will take place on a completely new concrete racing surface that was installed at Bristol Dragway earlier this year. The new concrete surface runs to the eighth-mile and was completed in April. It’s the first time the racing surface has been redone in almost 20 years, and the flatter track should provide one of the finest racing surfaces on the NHRA tour. “Right now, when we look at the trends and how the tires respond to racetrack grip, this could become our favorite track due to the smoothness,” said Johnson. “When it’s smooth off the starting line you can really apply the power.” Johnson is the only current racer in Pro Stock Motorcycle to have competed at the Winston Showdown at Bristol Dragway in 2000. Since Pro Stock Motorcycle began competing at the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals in 2021, there has yet to be a repeat winner in the class. As Johnson enters his all-time class-leading 525th career national event, he hopes to make history as the first two-time winner at Bristol. “I believe we are the only team that raced Pro Stock Motorcycle here during the Top Fuel vs. Funny Car Winston Showdown,” recalled Johnson from his Alabama-based shop. “Bristol Dragway is always so engaged with their fans, and as a former winner there is always lots of media to do every year. It’s a blast to promote Pro Stock Motorcycle on television, radio, podcasts and with suite visits.” Johnson recently explained on NHRA announcer Joe Costello’s Hidden Horsepower podcast the complexities involved in wrestling a 200-mph Pro Stock Motorcycle through the quarter-mile and the shutdown area. “I wear a heart monitor, and one time on the starting line at the U.S. Nationals my heart rate monitor was at 214, right when I was staged and ready to crank the throttle. There is a lot happening on the starting line during staging. “When you let go of the clutch on the starting line, the rear wheel moves a little bit then the front wheel comes up,” Johnson said as he visualized a run. “Now with the front wheel in the air, the10-inch square rear wheel becomes like the front wheel, steering the bike and its driving. If it’s driving to the left, moving the handlebars does nothing because the front wheel is not on the ground. You have to push hard on the right foot peg to steer the bike back to the right. “Within one second after launching off the starting line a red shift light comes on and you have to push the shift button,” continued Johnson. “The engine revs up so fast and you can’t miss the shift, or you’ll be on the rev limiter chip or too low. I’m shifting five times to reach sixth gear and when the front end finally comes down near half-track you feel a little pound. The adrenaline is so high with everything going on; you have to push the buttons and scoot to the second part of the seat, you have to aim for your target and you have to make sure you shut it off at the finish line to keep it off the rev limiter, which is what breaks parts. It’s a lot. “And then in the shutdown area, one of the most important things is just hanging on. The bikes are bouncing all over as they slow down. At the end of the run, when you’re in the shutdown area, the adrenaline is flowing and it’s just so exciting,” Johnson enthused. “It’s extremely thrilling and a lot of fun, especially when you’re winning.” The post Steve Johnson Ready to Rock in Bristol at NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Last year, Pro Stock Motorcycle’s Richard Gadson and Pro Stock’s Greg Anderson both enjoyed historic moments at Bristol Dragway, which puts Thunder Valley high on their favorite track lists. Returning to Bristol for this weekend’s Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, both reflected fondly on those moments heading into the race, and each was hopeful they would get to experience another memorable moment in Bristol. For Gadson, Bristol Dragway represented a significant turning point in his Pro Stock Motorcycle career. He had come close to wins and success on his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki, but had never found the winner’s circle as Gaige Herrera was enjoying a record-breaking run in the class. All that changed in Thunder Valley, as Gadson picked up his first career victory in the NHRA Mission Food Drag Racing Series, putting together a series of impressive performances and defeating Herrera in the final round. It was an emotional moment Gadson won’t forget and it spurred a remarkable finish that included three more victories in 2025 and, ultimately, the Pro Stock Motorcycle world championship. “Bristol really kind of changed things. It really all happened in Bristol,” said Gadson, who is the current points leader in the category entering the weekend. “When I say Bristol was a turning point, it legit was a turning point. I think we’ve been a model of consistency since then. Momentum can go both ways and I think I’ll take steady does it. That was kind of the mentality shift in Bristol and that’s been working all the way up until now. So, last year in Bristol was a big turning point in so many different ways.” This year’s annual visit to Thunder Valley combines the NHRA’s 75th anniversary celebration with the 25th annual race at Bristol Dragway. It is the ninth of 20 events during the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season and will feature several highlights throughout the race weekend, including: An appearance from NHRA fan-favorite Top Fuel driver Clay Millican, as well as NHRA legend Darrell Gwynn. Millican’s memorable 2017 Bristol win on Father’s Day weekend will be celebrated as the race’s historic moment, a theme that will take place at all races in 2026. On Sunday, a free, limited-edition NHRA pennant will be given to the first 4,000 fans in attendance to take in eliminations. In 2025, Steve Torrence (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Anderson (Pro Stock) and Gadson (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won in Bristol. This season’s Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals will be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations starting at 3:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 14. Of course, Bristol has always been special for Anderson, the six-time Pro Stock world champion. It’s the site of his first career victory in the category (2001) and last year, Anderson continued to add to his remarkable legacy at the facility. He picked up his 1,000th career round win in eliminations in his HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro, joining John Force as the only drivers in NHRA history to reach 1,000 round wins. Anderson went on to win the event and, this year, he comes to Bristol with 114 career victories, which is the most among active drivers and second only to Force. Anderson is as good as ever, winning twice in 2026 and currently sitting second in points to KB Titan Racing teammate Dallas Glenn. “I don’t follow the stats too closely, so I didn’t realize anything like that,” Anderson said about the 1,000 career round wins. “When they finally brought that to my attention, it was like, ‘Oh wow, that’s kind of a big number.’ It’s pretty darn cool. I’ve got a helmet with a 1,000 on the back of it in big bold letters that I get to look at every time I put that helmet on. “It just added to the Bristol lore for me and what it’s meant for me to go to Bristol every year. Who knows what the next milestone will be, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it happened at Bristol.” The Top Fuel final from Epping will take place on Friday in Bristol and feature dominant points leader Shawn Langdon and surging Leah Pruett. Other marquee names include reigning world champ Doug Kalitta, racing legend Tony Stewart, Josh Hart, rookie sensation Maddi Gordon, Antron Brown, Justin Ashley and Clay Millican. The Funny Car final from Epping will also take place on Friday in Bristol and features John Force Racing teammates Jordan Vandergriff and Jack Beckman. Ron Capps, whose eight wins at Thunder Valley are the most in NHRA history at the facility, is the current points leader, with J.R. Todd, Matt Hagan and Chad Green all close behind. The event will also feature the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports and Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown. After final qualifying on Saturday, fans can attend a special autograph session at the Bristol Dragway Welcome Tent in the midway. Bristol race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk and congratulate the 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. They can 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 5 and 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, June 12, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, June 13 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Eliminations will begin at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 14. Television coverage includes qualifying action at 8:00 p.m. ET on Friday and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday on FS1, leading into eliminations at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday. To purchase tickets to the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, fans can visit NHRA.com/tickets. For more information on NHRA, please visit NHRA.com. The post Richard Gadson and Greg Anderson Return to Bristol After Milestone Moments a Year Ago first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Due to potential inclement weather, NHRA announced an earlier start on Friday for NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying at the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway. The revised schedule moves NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying earlier in the day, with Pro Stock Motorcycle and Pro Stock opening Friday qualifying, followed by Nitro Qualifying at 2 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. in Funny Car and Top Fuel. Friday’s schedule also includes the completion of the final rounds from the NHRA New England Nationals presented by bproauto in Funny Car and Top Fuel. Parking lots will open at 7:30 a.m., with gates opening at 8 a.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early and stay tuned to NHRA and Bristol Dragway social channels for the latest schedule updates throughout the day. Single-day Friday tickets start as low as $35 for adults. Saturday adult tickets start at $60 and Sunday’s tickets start at $50. All grandstand tickets for kids 12 and under are free on Friday and $12 each day on the weekend with a paid adult. Discounted weekend packages and limited premium seating are also available. To purchase tickets to the 2026 Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, fans can visit NHRA.com/tickets or call Bristol Dragway at (866) 415-4158. For more information about NHRA, visit NHRA.com. This story was originally published on June 11, 2026. The post NHRA Announces Earlier Start for Friday Qualifying at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

When BANGshifter Neal Sabo said he was going to head down to Buckeye Skips 2025 Drag and Drive, to snap pictures and check out the cool stuff going on, we were like “Hell yeah!” He hit all three days, at Darana Dragway at Dragway 42, Quaker Dragway, and Kuhnle Motorsports Park and got all kinds of cool photos. He hit the checkpoints and the tracks and said it was an epic trip. The weather was pretty good, if not a bit cold at Kuhnle, but the racing was hot for sure. And then Neal got home, went through the photos, and sent me files on our dropbox. And that’s where yours truly dropped the ball. For some reason all these great photos never got posted and when we talked to Buckeye Skip himself about coming to cover the 2026 event, he asked what every happened to our 2025 coverage. Luckily Neal has no fear of throwing me under the bus when I deserve it, and I don’t have trouble taking responsibility, so we’re making up for it now! If you want to check out the photos, here is our first gallery from Day 1 and we’ll have more coming over the next several days as we’ll have a few galleries for each day of the event. Check them out, and get ready because Buckeye Skips 2026 drag and drive will be here before you know it. The post Lost Buckeye Skips Drag and Drive Photos! Check Out The On Track Action and Checkpoint Photos Right Here! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Benchmade Bugout has long been a favorite among overlanders thanks to its lightweight design, dependable AXIS Lock, and ability to disappear into a pocket until needed. For 2026, Benchmade has taken that proven formula and pushed it further with the new Bugout Vapyr 534BK. Designed to be lighter, thinner, and more durable than the original, the Vapyr is aimed squarely at those who appreciate premium gear that performs without adding unnecessary weight. At the heart of the Vapyr is a 3.25-inch CPM MagnaCut drop-point blade finished in black Cerakote. MagnaCut has quickly become one of the most sought-after blade steels on the market thanks to its combination of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Whether you’re cutting paracord around camp, preparing food on the trail, or tackling everyday tasks, the steel is designed to stay sharp longer while standing up to wet and demanding environments. photo by Benchmade photo by Benchmade photo by Benchmade photo by Benchmade The biggest change comes in the construction. Benchmade replaced the traditional liner system with a linerless 6061-T6 aluminum chassis, creating a knife that is approximately 33 percent thinner than a standard Bugout while weighing just 1.72 ounces. The result is a remarkably slim profile that virtually disappears in a pocket, pack strap pouch, or vehicle organizer. Finished in black with subtle Taiga Green accents on the thumb studs and backspacer, the Vapyr delivers a refined, understated look that feels right at home in an overland kit. While its $375 price tag places it firmly in premium territory, the combination of MagnaCut steel, ultralight construction, and Benchmade’s proven design makes it one of the most advanced Bugout models to date. For overlanders looking to upgrade their everyday carry setup, the Bugout Vapyr is a compelling blend of packability, performance, and durability. View the full article

Momentum across the global racing industry continues to build toward the 2026 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show, scheduled for December 10-12, 2026, at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium, as exhibitors complete booth space selection and secure placement across the show floor. Following priority booth selection, more than 920 exhibitors have committed over 360,000 net square feet of exhibit space across every major segment of the racing industry. The strong early participation underscores continued confidence in the PRI Show as the premier business event for motorsports professionals and companies worldwide. “The strength of this year’s booth selection process reflects the overall health and direction of the racing industry,” said PRI Managing Director Doug Bresnahan. “Companies continue to invest in PRI because this is where the industry comes together to launch products, connect with customers, and move business forward.” The PRI Show brings together the full breadth of the racing ecosystem, including engine builders, chassis manufacturers, performance parts companies, distributors, fabrication specialists, and service providers. This diversity across the show floor continues to reflect a global industry that is actively innovating and investing in new technologies, competitive advantage, and business expansion. Returning exhibitors have secured priority placement to maintain or expand their footprint, while new companies joining the show underscore continued growth and opportunity across the racing marketplace. Collectively, these commitments reinforce strong confidence in the PRI Show as the central meeting point for the motorsports industry.The PRI Show serves as a critical business hub for the global racing industry, where product launches, purchasing decisions, and partnership development take place under one roof. Exhibitors and attendees rely on the show floor to identify new technologies, build supplier relationships, and connect directly with decision-makers shaping the future of motorsports. “The PRI Show is where the racing industry comes to do business at scale,” said PRI Show Director Karin Davidson. “From discovering new products to strengthening long-term partnerships, the show floor is designed to maximize meaningful connections and drive real business outcomes for exhibitors and attendees alike.” New for the 2026 PRI Show, the Motorsports Engineering Symposium will bring together engineers, designers, and technical leaders from across the racing industry for a focused program dedicated to advancing performance, innovation, and applied engineering in motorsports. The symposium will provide a forum for sharing technical knowledge, exploring emerging technologies, and highlighting the engineering breakthroughs shaping the future of racing. Attendee registration opens in July. To register and book hotel accommodations, and learn more about the 2026 PRI Show, visit PRI2026.com/Attend. The post Strong Exhibitor Demand Fuels Momentum for the 2026 PRI Show first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

After months of silent stop-drives and stop-sales, Team Green has a fix for its go-fast UTV. View the full article

To celebrate the one-year anniversary of 6-time Pro Stock world champion Greg Anderson joining 16-time Funny Car world champion John Force in the most exclusive club in motorsports, the 1000 Round Win Club, Werner Communications, is releasing the first licensed autograph product celebrating this achievement. Signed by both Force and Anderson, this limited edition, 1 of 1,000-piece collectible features the iconic photos from the top end of the racetrack moments after each driver recorded their 1,000th round win in professional drag racing with the date and location of the accomplishment. Each piece comes in a clear acrylic desktop frame with a certificate of authenticity. “I wanted to celebrate the anniversary of Greg’s accomplishment and link two of the greatest drivers in drag racing history into one amazing collectible,” said Elon Werner, president of Werner Communications. “The photos capture the historic moment and having the two signatures on the same piece of memorabilia makes this a one-of-a-kind collectible that any motorsports fan would love to add to his or her collection. The fact we are only producing 1,000 pieces makes this and even more desirable piece of sports history.” Fans can pre-order the signed collectible here for $75 plus shipping and handling. Prior to the 2025 Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Awards Ceremony Force and Anderson were installed as the first two members of the 1000 Round Win Club. They each received custom embroidered tuxedo jackets as well as framed certificates of membership into arguably the most exclusive achievement club in motorsports. “The 1000 Round Win Club recognizes the elite of the elite in NHRA drag racing,” said Werner, following the presentation. “Turning on 1,000 win lights is a testament to more than just longevity, it represents dominance, excellence and perseverance. I was present at the top end for each of these drivers to achieve this milestone. I will never forget the emotion and sense of accomplishment John and Greg exhibited.” The framed certificate of membership presented to each driver in November highlighted the spirit of what it means to be a member of the 1000 Round Win Club. “This remarkable milestone places you amongst the elite of elite in motorsports. The world of motorsports celebrates this achievement with you and your team, as it is a testament to your enduring excellence, perseverance and legendary career.” Force was the first driver to achieve this milestone when he won his 1,000th round of professional racing on May 4, 2008, during the 12th annual O’Reilly NHRA Midwest Nationals presented by Castrol at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. Force ultimately won 1,460 rounds of professional racing before officially announcing his retirement prior to the 2025 In-N-Out NHRA Finals. Last year at Bristol Dragway Anderson joined Force when he turned on his 1,000th round win light of NHRA professional racing on June 8, 2025, during the 24th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals. Anderson has continued to add to his total amassing 1,040 round wins through the 2026 New England Nationals this season. “We are opening up this special collectible for sale now, and will ship the pieces in early July,” said Werner. “Getting to properly celebrate the anniversary of Greg’s accomplishment was a priority for us. As a father myself, I also think this would make a fantastic Father’s Day gift for the racing-obsessed dads in your life. I am genuinely excited for the future of the 1000 Round Win Club, I think we have the potential to continue to release other cool collectibles as more drivers enter the club.” As the caretaker of the 1000 Round Win Club Werner Communications will continue to explore unique opportunities to celebrate these two drag racing legends. Currently the closest professional driver to be eligible for membership to the 1000 Round Win Club is 3-time Funny Car world champion Ron Capps who has 954 round wins though the first eight national events of the season. The post 1000 Round Win Club Releases First Licensed Product Honoring John Force and Greg Anderson first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Japanese custom scene sets rather than follows trends. Japan's top builders...View the full article

The Porsche 911 is one of the most iconic sports cars in history. Regardless of the country, they are respected, revered, and admired. Since their inception, the 911 Porsche has been a performer, and with technology and time these cars have gotten quicker and faster than any of their original designers could have imagined. But because humans tend to romaticize anything old, a trait that automotive enthusiasts are particularly bad about, we often think that the older models of our favorite performance vehicles are superior to the new ones. But are we wrong? Analytically I think we are. But there is only one way to find out, and that’s with a good old fashioned drag race. In the video below, every generation of Porsche 911 Turbo from the last 50 years is going head to head on the quarter mile to see which one is the quickest. Video Description: It’s time for the ultimate Porsche 911 Turbo showdown! We’ve got our hands on every generation of 911 Turbo, and we’ll be putting them head-to-head over the quarter-mile to see which is the greatest (and quickest!) of all-time. So let’s take a look at the contenders… 911 930 Turbo: 3.3-litre Turbo Flat-6, 300hp & 412Nm, 1310kg 911 964 Turbo S: 3.3-litre Turbo Flat 6, 381hp & 490Nm, 1290kg 911 993 Turbo: 3.6-litre Twin-turbo Flat 6, 408hp & 540Nm, 1500kg 911 996 Turbo S: 3.6-litre Twin-turbo Flat 6, 420hp & 560Nm, 1540kg 911 997 Turbo: 3.6-litre Twin-turbo Flat 6, 480hp & 680Nm, 1585kg 991.1 Turbo S: 3.8-litre Twin-turbo Flat 6, 560hp & 750Nm, 1605kg 992.1 Turbo S: 3.8-litre Twin-turbo Flat 6 650hp & 800Nm, 1640kg 992.2 Turbo S: 3.6-litre Twin-turbo Flat 6 Hybrid, 711hp & 800Nm, 1740kg So will the all-new 992.2 walk it? Or could one of the older generations snatch the win? There’s only one way to find out… LET’S RACE! The post What If You Could Put On A Drag Race Where EVERY Porsche 911 Turbo Went Up Against Each Other? Watch This! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We’ve all pulled our car into the driveway and broke out the car washing stuff and thought “man this thing is dirty”. It’s those wash days that make you smile because of the transformation from horribly dirty to clean. In fact, those are the washes that make you realize you should wash your car more often because it looks so good. But what about a car that has been sitting in the barn for a decade? How about nearly two decades? This 1964 Impala SS 409 car has been doing just that and in this video it is getting detailed at a whole other level. It transforms right before your eyes. Video Description: Grandpa Cries Seeing His 1964 Impala SS 409 Cleaned For The First Time in 18 Years! Today, we tackle the interior & exterior of an abandoned 1993 Camaro Z28 that are covered in dirt and debris that haven’t been detailed in years that will require us to pressure wash the entire exterior, followed by a wash, clay bar and then polishing the paint to bring back its shine and a full interior detail including mold removal! If you find our videos satisfying or motivating make sure you hit subscribe! #barnfind #carcleaning #detailing #cleaning #restoration The post Incredible Transformation: Grandpa Cries Seeing His 1964 Impala SS 409 Cleaned For The First Time in 18 Years! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Jordan Vandergriff may be an NHRA Funny Car rookie, but the list of opportunities for success he and his John Force Racing Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car team have lined up in front of them during the June 12-14 Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol (Tenn.) Dragway is something any veteran racer would envy. “I’ve always thought Bristol is a beautiful facility and I’ve always wanted to race in Thunder Valley in the trees. It’s one of the places on the schedule you have to experience,” Vandergriff said. “I’ve heard the old racing surface was a little bumpy here and there but I saw some pictures of the repave and wow, it looks beautiful. It levels the playing field for everybody. It’s a new track for me but also new surface for everyone in the series. And, based on our last two efforts on new racetracks for me, in Georgia (win) and Maryland (semifinals), we have had decent success. If we can hit the ground running in Q1 at Bristol and lay down a solid lap, I think we’ll be set up for the weekend.” Rain washed out last week’s Funny Car final at New England Dragway so Vandergriff will face teammate Jack Beckman during qualifying Friday evening in Thunder Valley. The Atlanta area resident will be going for his second event win of the season, after earning his first Diamond Wally in May at South Georgia Motorsports Park in Valdosta. A win by Vandegriff in the final would move him to second place in the point standings. “I’m trying to keep my mind in race day mode this whole week,” said Vandergriff. “We were left with a cliffhanger at the end of Sunday. I thought about it Sunday night and I was like, ‘Well, I’m going to have to hit the ground running on Friday and be ready to race.’ So I’m trying to really keep my mind in race mode. I haven’t really allowed myself to think that Epping is over so I’m just staying ready for Friday night that way.” He’ll then compete for his second Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge title during Saturday’s qualifying sessions, after having earned his first during the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals in Charlotte. Sunday’s sole focus will be adding the Thunder Valley Nationals trophy to his growing collection. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 5 and 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, June 12, and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, June 13 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Eliminations will begin at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 14. Television coverage includes qualifying action at 8 p.m. ET on Friday and 2 p.m. on Sunday on FS1, leading into eliminations at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday. The post Jordan Vandergriff Faces Trifecta of Opportunity at Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

John Force Racing has one heck of a race shop. We take you along on a special VIP tour of the team's massive Indiana facility. View the full article

Here’s the Rocky Mountain Race Week 2026 Day Three video and boy is it a fun one. We’re talking on the road, on the track and more! Day Three AND Four are both at Pueblo Motorsports Park and I can tell you that the action is hot, the drive was big, and there are a lot of folks who have some catching up to do. Check it all out below and use the link to watch LIVE right here on BANGshift.com. It’s go time for Rocky Mountain Race Week 2026 and we’ve been live each race day afternoon and into the night so you can follow all the great racing action. But while we’re streaming, the crew at High Speed Media are catching the behind the scenes stories, the thrashing, the joy and the tears to share with all of us. They also catch killer on road action, amazing fixes, and fun stops, so we love their highlight videos. We started LIVE at SRCA Dragstrip in Great Bend Kansas on Saturday, then headed to Kearney Nebraska Sunday, and today we are going to enjoy an amazing but tough drive to Pueblo Motorsports Park, where we will race Tuesday and Wednesday, with a Rocky Mountain cruise in between, and then Thursday is a true test to see who’s junk will make it all the way back to Great Bend for the big money and bragging rights! It’s time for Rocky Mountain Race Week folks, and that means 5 days of drag and drive action going on LIVE right here at BANGshift.com. We’ll be bringing you the action from all 5 days of racing, PLUS on road streaming action as well throughout the week. Racing starts each day around 3pm Central and will go until the last car makes a pass around 10 pm each night. If you aren’t subscribed already, please do that now, and ring the bell so you’ll be notified when we go live from various checkpoints and trailer burnout spots on the route! And if you want to know what those routes are, just visit the / rockymountainraceweek page to see them all! CLICK HERE TO WATCH ALL THE ACTION LIVE AND FREE! The post Drag and Drive Fun Continues! Rocky Mountain Race Week 2026 | Race Day Three | Pueblo Motorsports Park appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

NHRA Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars depend on the people who dive beneath 12,000-horsepower machines moments after a pass to prepare them for the next run. To recognize those often-overlooked crew members, NHRA and VizionOne Hand Cleaner, the Official Hand Cleaner of NHRA, are excited to announce the “Grunt of the Race” award program. The initiative rewards the bottom-end mechanics whose work is critical to the success of Top Fuel and Funny Car teams. Under the program, the divers on the winning Top Fuel and Funny Car teams at each NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event will receive a $250 bonus courtesy of VizionOne Hand Cleaner. Working in tight quarters around hot engine components, clutch assemblies, fuel systems, and driveline parts, the bottom-end mechanics perform some of the most demanding work in professional drag racing. Owned by veteran racer and businessman Rodger Brogdon, VizionOne Hand Cleaner is an American-made, all-natural hand cleaner created by Texas emergency room physician Dr. Ashton “Doc” Hudson. The product was developed to remove grease, oil, clutch dust, fuel residue, and racing grime while helping protect the hands of those who depend on them every day. “Those guys — and girls — are the unsung heroes on the nitro teams,” Brogdon said. “When that car comes in and it’s steaming and sometimes dripping after a run, the divers are the ones who jump in there and make stuff happen where few want to. I’ve always had a fond appreciation of what they do, and we at VizionOne Hand Cleaner believe they deserve to be recognized.” The program debuted earlier this season and has already produced multiple recipients. Top Fuel diver Travis Vandermell has been the program’s biggest beneficiary to date, collecting three Grunt of the Race awards while helping Shawn Langdon and the Kalitta Motorsports team put together a three-race winning streak. V Funny Car winners have been spread among multiple teams, with Aaron Kelley helping Jordan Vandergriff’s team earn recognition and Caden Gibson collecting the award with Chad Green Racing. Most recently, Narciso Bravo picked it up for Tasca Racing with Austin Prock’s victory. “It’s always exciting to see unique programs like this and VizionOne has done a great job recognizing a vital crew member in this fashion,” NHRA Senior Director of Advertising Jeff Morton said. “These bottom-end mechanics are crucial to the success of any top team, so it’s a huge thrill to see VizionOne provide this special bonus. They’ve already been a tremendous partner to NHRA and our race teams and we look forward to seeing this relationship continue to grow.” VizionOne Hand Cleaner products are available on the NHRA Midway at national events as part of the company’s ongoing partnership with NHRA and commitment to racers, crew members, and industry professionals throughout the sport. For more information, visit www.viziononehandcleaner.com. For more information on NHRA, including the full 2026 75th anniversary schedule, visit www.nhra.com. The post NHRA and VizionOne Hand Cleaner Spotlight Nitro Crew Members With “Grunt of the Race” Award first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

We’ve got more fun junkyard inventory from our friend Chad Ehrlich at Nobody Else’s Auto in Great Bend Kansas. This week Chad is sharing these vintage GMC pickups, and you might be suprised by some of the differences between the 1953 and 1954. Since Chad knows them all, he’s going to walk us around these two, tell the story on how they came to the yard, and what makes each of them special. It’s a GMC comparison you won’t see anywhere else. Check it out below. Video Description: If you like old cars, trucks, and automobilia, be sure to check out all of my other videos! Please subscribe so you can keep up with the new videos as I post them! If you have questions about vehicles or parts, the only way to get a hold of me is to call me, 8 AM-8 PM CST, no texts, no e-mails, no messenger, no smoke signals, calls only. 620-786-4428 If I don’t answer, I’m probably on the phone with someone else and if you don’t leave me a message, I just assume you’re another telemarketer trying to sell me an extended warranty! LOL! I am located in Great Bend, KS and I am not open to the public, so if you show up without calling and making an appointment, don’t expect me to be available. Shipping is available. If you comment, message, text, e-mail, etc., don’t expect me to find it and don’t expect an answer. Thanks for watching, Chad 620-786-4428 The post New Junkyard Inventory! GMC Trucks! 1953 and a Seldom Seen 1954! Check Out The Interesting Differences Between Them! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Triumph just announced that it's revising the MSRP of the 2026 Trident 660 and, thankfully, it's going down. But it's not surprising.View the full article

A bright TFT display is just the start of the alphabet soup of features to be found on the new Wuyang Honda HooRide 125, and it does a thing more scooters should, too.View the full article

Firetrucks are awesome, and so are RVs, so when you take a retired firetruck and put a wrecked RV body on it then you’ve got something that could be really, really, cool. In the video below, we get a rull tour of this beast and find out just how it all came together. I have to imagine that it goes through some diesel, but also that it probably is indestructible. It’s also going to be the most unique rv at any rv park you can go to. So what is it like owning and driving this big beast? Find out in the video below. Video Description: Sarah and Mike spotted a decommissioned fire truck for sale in their neighborhood. Turns out someone had already bolted a wrecked RV onto the back of it. They couldn’t resist buying such an incredibly unique rig and are slowly making it their unique travel rig and home. Now they have a house in a fire truck! Watch their adventures here:‪@2AholesAndAnRV‬ 2008 Spartan chassis. Cummins engine. 31 feet. 23,500 lbs. Enjoy the tour! Would you like to share your story or show off your rig too? Please submit your interest at https://mobiledwellings.media and I’ll be in touch! The post Check Out This Killer Custom Home Built RV! They Bolted a Wrecked RV to a Retired Firetruck (Full Tour) appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

NDRC Pro Mod racer Adam Tassone walked away from a violent crash that saw his Camaro catch air and take flight.View the full article

One owner ignored the rules and painted his rare Ducati green. Arguably, they created an even better story.View the full article

Tensions are getting ever higher in Aprilia's MotoGP garage.View the full article

Most riders don’t need race leathers. This retro Dainese jacket delivers style, comfort, and protection you’ll actually wear.View the full article

It, in fact, does not disappoint.View the full article