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Vespa Is Recalling All Its Officina 8 Scooters In US Over a Mirror Mixup
If you bought a Vespa GTV 310, Primavera 150, or Primavera 50 in the 2026-only Officina 8 colorway, they were accidentally shipped with Euro-market mirrors.View the full article
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Buell Super Cruiser Cafe Racer Shows Off the Platform’s Custom Potential
The Buell Super Cruiser platform has already attracted attention for its aggressive performance numbers and modern American V-twin engineering, but the company’s latest custom build reveals just how versatile the platform can become in the hands of talented builders. Buell Motorcycles recently unveiled a one-off Super Cruiser Cafe Racer concept, transforming the already potent performance cruiser into a low-slung, track-inspired machine that blends modern superbike engineering with classic cafe racer styling. The custom project was developed internally by Buell’s factory […] The post Buell Super Cruiser Cafe Racer Shows Off the Platform’s Custom Potential appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article
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Arai Just Turned Peak Superbike Nostalgia Into A Snell-Rated Motorcycle Helmet
Arai’s Haga Dark Rapide-Neo combines old-school superbike vibes with modern SNELL-certified protection for a perfect motorcycle helmet for a bygone era.View the full article
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Channing Tatum’s Isle of Man Movie Is Filming During the Race, and He’s in Full Race Kit
Channing Tatum was spotted on the first day of practice for the 2026 Isle of Man TT, shooting for the upcoming feature film, "Isle of Man", which is also being produced by Brad Pitt. Here's what we know from his appearance.View the full article
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KTM hits back over European enduro emissions reports
KTM AG has issued an unusually direct response to European media reports alleging enduro compliance issues, insisting all KTM, Husqvarna and GASGAS enduro models leave its factory road-legal and homologated. The post KTM hits back over European enduro emissions reports appeared first on MCNews. View the full article
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Royal Enfield | The Legend Continues: Meet the Bullet 650
Royal Enfield has opened Australian pre-orders for the new Bullet 650, with the twin-cylinder model due in June and priced from $10,990 ride away. The post Royal Enfield | The Legend Continues: Meet the Bullet 650 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article
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Dean Harrison sets fastest ever opening TT qualifying lap
Dean Harrison set the early TT 2026 benchmark with a 133.925 mph lap in the first timed qualifying session, while Josh Brookes topped Superstock and Michael Dunlop led Supersport. The post Dean Harrison sets fastest ever opening TT qualifying lap appeared first on MCNews. View the full article
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Antron Brown Brings Momentum to Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented by JEGS
The inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS marks the second of four new events on the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour, and Top Fuel veteran and four-time world champ Antron Brown is ready to take on a new track this weekend at Maryland International Raceway. Brown finished runner-up two weeks ago in Chicago in his 12,000-horsepower Matco Tools Eagle Experience Top Fuel dragster, marking his best result of the young season. Hailing from New Jersey, the four-time world champion says an East Coast race will serve as his home track event and he is confident in the team’s momentum as the series moves into a busy stretch of three straight race weekends. “After our runner-up in Chicago, the confidence is definitely a lot higher,” said Brown. “The team is definitely on the mend and looking for a really good race out in Maryland, especially since it’s the East Coast hometown track. “After Chicago, we got a lot more confidence built up after we made four runs in a row down the racetrack in race trim, and even dropping low elapsed time of one elimination round. It really was a huge confidence builder going in knowing that we can run and be competitive. We just let the race get away from us – we just got a little bit aggressive in the final (against points leader Shawn Langdon), but you have to be that way when you’re racing those cars.” Brown and the NHRA stars will try to win the NHRA 75th anniversary Diamond Wally during the first-ever race at Maryland International Raceway. Along with the thrilling on-track action, a host of 75th anniversary events include: An appearance from NHRA legend and three-time Top Fuel world champion Shirley Muldowney and a tribute to Muldowney’s trailblazing history in the sport. On Sunday, a free, limited-edition NHRA pennant will be given to the first 4,000 fans in attendance. The 2026 NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS includes action in all four Mission Foods Drag Racing Series classes and coverage of the event will be broadcast on FOX, with elimination coverage beginning at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 31. It is also the seventh of 20 races during the 2026 milestone campaign. With his runner-up finish in Chicago, Brown will be slotted into the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, where he will take on Leah Pruett. The other side of the ladder will feature Chicago winner and current points leader Shawn Langdon and Gainesville winner Josh Hart. The rest of the loaded field includes reigning world champion Doug Kalitta, racing legend Tony Stewart, Clay Millican, Justin Ashley and rookie Maddi Gordon. “We’re looking poised and we’re ready to have some more of the same that we did in Chicago, and we’re really looking forward to the hotter summer months coming up, where we think that we have a package that we can compete with,” said Brown. “We’ve always been really strong in the hot weather, so we’re really looking forward to this next three-race stretch in a row and looking forward to seeing what our AB Motorsports team and Matco Tools team can do.” As part of NHRA’s 75th anniversary season, Brown was added to the Top 75 Driver List, joining other active NHRA greats including Tony Schumacher, Ron Capps and Greg Anderson. Brown’s impressive performance both on and off the track earned him a spot on the highly prestigious list. “To be named to the Top 75, honestly, it’s overwhelming in the best way,” Brown said. “I was just a kid from Chesterfield, New Jersey, with a dream, and to now be mentioned alongside some of the biggest names in drag racing is something you never take lightly. This is one of those moments you reflect on, appreciate and carry with you forever. I’m truly honored to join this class.” The Funny Car class continues to be ultra-competitive, with Ron Capps earning two wins in 2026. He’s tied for the points lead with past world champ J.R. Todd, with four-time champion Matt Hagan in third. Other standouts include Chicago winner Chad Green, Jordan Vandergriff, Alexis DeJoria, Jack Beckman and Spencer Hyde. Reigning Pro Stock champ Dallas Glenn currently leads the points with two wins in 2026. Matt Hartford also has two victories this year, while six-time world champ Greg Anderson picked up the win in Pomona. Fans at MIR will also see six-time champion Erica Enders, Chicago winner Aaron Stanfield, Jeg Coughlin Jr. and T.J. Coughlin. Pro Stock Motorcycle world champ Richard Gadson is the current points leader, while others to watch include Gaige Herrera, six-time champ Matt Smith, Angie Smith, John Hall, Jianna Evaristo and Maryland native Kelly Clontz. NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying will feature two rounds at 1:30 and 4 p.m. ET on Friday, May 29 and the final two rounds of qualifying on Saturday, May 30 at 12:30 and 3 p.m. Final eliminations are scheduled for 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, May 31. Television coverage includes qualifying on FS1 at 7 p.m. ET on Friday and 9 p.m. ET on Saturday, with eliminations action on Sunday at 3 p.m on FOX. To purchase tickets to the 2026 NHRA Potomac Nationals presented by JEGS, 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 May 26, 2026. The post Antron Brown Brings Momentum to Inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals Presented by JEGS first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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SEMA Announces 2026 Hall of Fame Class
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) today announced its Hall of Fame Class of 2026, recognizing four industry icons who have influenced and inspired the $52.6 billion automotive specialty equipment industry. The Hall of Fame inductees are Doug Dwyer, Jay Leno, Ellen McKoy, and Dennis Overholser. The esteemed group will be recognized as part of the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala on Friday, July 24 in Newport Beach, Calif. Tickets can be purchased here. “These four individuals have poured their time, talent, and passion into building this industry. Their contributions have shaped what the aftermarket is today, and we’re proud to recognize the impact they’ve made, both on the businesses they’ve led and on the people who have been lucky enough to cross their path,” said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. Doug Dwyer With a career spanning 60 years across wheels and tires, motorsports marketing, media strategy, and brand development, Dwyer’s industry contributions reflect a rare combination of technical insight, professional integrity, and service to others. He started his career working for Carroll Shelby Enterprises/Goodyear Racing Tires at age 16, served in the Army, and went on to build a strong leadership career at Appliance Industries, Weld Wheels, and TrueSpoke Wire Wheels. As a partner in Bryson Dwyer Inc., he continued to strengthen professional standards and build lasting brand identities, always emphasizing honesty, craftsmanship, and respect for both the product and the customer. As a SEMA volunteer, he organized and participated in numerous events and programs and was inducted into the 2023 Wheel & Tire Council – WTC (now the Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council – WTSBC) Hall of Fame for his industry impact. Jay Leno A passionate advocate for the automotive community and a high-profile car collector and enthusiast, Leno has utilized his platform to promote automotive culture since the early 1980s. From spotlighting automotive craftsmanship through his weekly automotive show on YouTube – Jay Leno’s Garage – and launching his own line of detailing products – Jay Leno’s Garage Advanced Vehicle Care – to being a perennial guest, keynote speaker, and award presenter at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Leno has amplified the stature of the aftermarket industry and SEMA’s global presence. He’s also supporting car culture and enthusiasts with government policymakers, working with SEMA leadership and the SEMA Action Network (SAN) to champion California Senate Bill 1392, known as “Leno’s Law,” – legislation aimed at modernizing the state’s smog-check process by creating a rolling 35-year exemption for collector vehicles. Ellen McKoy McKoy has devoted nearly five decades of leadership and service to the automotive aftermarket, beginning as co-owner of Skycoach Customizing in Long Island, New York in 1975. Throughout her career, she has served as an entrepreneur, journalist, consultant, and industry advocate. Through volunteer service, she served on the SEMA Board of Directors, created and advanced the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), and founded the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN). McKoy was a SEMA executive from 1994-2009. Skilled in institution building, she volunteered for SEMA following her tenure with the Association, consistently identifying and addressing opportunities where members needed stronger organization, education, or representation. Today, she continues to provide editorial, marketing, and public relations services to aftermarket companies as founder of EMK Marketing. Dennis Overholser Overholser founded Painless Performance Products in 1990 to provide racers, hot-rodders, and automotive enthusiasts with easier and safer wiring solutions. His career is marked by a deep-rooted passion for automotive technology and a commitment to delivering superior products, backed by years of industry volunteerism and legislative advocacy. Overholser served on the SEMA Board of Directors from 2001-2006, chaired the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), volunteered for HRIA’s precursor – the Street Rod Marketing Alliance (SRMA) – and was inducted into both the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (now the Motorsports Products & Media Council – MPMC) and HRIA Hall of Fame in 2013 for his industry involvement and contributions. To learn more about the SEMA Hall of Fame, visit www.sema.org/hof. The post SEMA Announces 2026 Hall of Fame Class first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Nitro Joe Morrison Makes 2026 NHRA Debut At Inaugural Potomac Nationals
Nitro Joe Morrison is heading back to the NHRA. Morrison will make his 2026 NHRA debut at the Potomac Nationals this weekend.View the full article
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Mopar and Dodge Named Title and Powered By Sponsors of NHRA’s Countdown Race in Las Vegas
NHRA officials announced today that Mopar and Dodge have been named the title and powered by sponsors of the annual fall race at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The 26th annual NHRA Las Vegas Nationals event again serves as the penultimate event of the 20-race season during NHRA’s 75th anniversary campaign. The Mopar NHRA Las Vegas Nationals powered by Dodge takes place Oct. 29-Nov. 1 at the standout facility in Las Vegas and plays a pivotal role in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs. It’s the fifth of six races in NHRA’s postseason, which means plenty of intrigue, excitement and intensity at one of the biggest and most important races on the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series tour. “The NHRA Las Vegas Nationals has always been a standout race for the series, and Mopar and Dodge are proud to help continue the tradition as title and powered‑by sponsors,” said Darren Bradshaw, senior vice president of Mopar North America. “This race embodies the performance standards and competitive spirit that define our brands and we are thrilled to be part of the experience. From the pits to our interactive displays, we’re bringing the kind of presence that reminds everyone why performance is in our DNA.” Mopar and Dodge continue to be heavily involved in the NHRA ranks, serving as a partner for Tony Stewart Racing and their star Top Fuel and Funny Car drivers, Matt Hagan and Leah Pruett, as well as racing legend Tony Stewart. Pruett has impressed in her return to the Top Fuel ranks, while Hagan, the defending event winner in Las Vegas, is a four-time world champion and once again in the title hunt in 2026. Stewart, who won the regular-season championship a year ago, already has one Top Fuel win this season. Mopar and Dodge will continue to have a strong presence in the midway at Las Vegas with an interactive fan display. “It’s exciting to have Mopar and Dodge as the sponsors for such a huge race in our Countdown to the Championship,” said Brad Gerber, NHRA vice president and chief development officer. “This race always plays a huge role in the championship chase and you can feel the energy at the track all weekend. Having amazing brands like Mopar and Dodge sponsor two of our Countdown to the Championship races, including the event at Martin, Michigan, in September, only raises the excitement level and we’re proud to have their support for what will be another incredible event in Vegas.” Brittany Force (Top Fuel), Hagan (Funny Car), Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) each won the fall race in Las Vegas last year. This season’s race will be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations on Sunday, Nov. 1. Pro Stock’s Erica Enders has dominated The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway over the years, as her 10 wins at the fan-favorite facility are the most in NHRA history. Tony Schumacher’s eight wins are the most in Top Fuel, with reigning champ Antron Brown right behind with six. Ron Capps’ and Hagan’s six victories in Funny Car is tied for the most at the track with John Force and Robert Hight. Reigning Pro Stock world champ Greg Anderson has eight wins at the standout facility. The Mopar NHRA Las Vegas Nationals powered by Dodge will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, which includes some of the sport’s top drivers, and the Summit Racing Series presented by Hoosier E.T. Finals, where world champions will be crowned. The event also serves as the season finale in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports. To purchase tickets to the Mopar NHRA Las Vegas Nationals powered by Dodge at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, please call 800-644-4444 or visit www.lvms.com. For more information about NHRA, visit www.nhra.com. For more information on the Dodge brand, visit Dodge.com. The post Mopar and Dodge Named Title and Powered By Sponsors of NHRA’s Countdown Race in Las Vegas first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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PowerEdge Joins Paul Lee Racing As Primary Sponsor On Nitro Funny Car
Veteran Funny Car racer has a new marketing partner. PowerEdge is joining Lee's program and will allow him to run more events in 2026.View the full article
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Drag Illustrated Launches the DI Power 100, Recognizing the 100 Most Influential People in Drag Racing
Drag Illustrated, the independent voice of drag racing, today announced the launch of the DI Power 100, an annual editorial franchise recognizing the 100 most influential people in the sport. Nominations are open immediately at DragIllustrated.com and will be accepted through July 3, 2026. The DI Power 100 is the most comprehensive recognition program in drag racing history – spanning every corner of the sport. Racers, builders, engine builders, promoters, track operators, sanctioning body leaders, parts company executives, media figures, sponsors, and anyone else who genuinely moves the needle will be considered. There is no age limit. There is no single category. The only criteria is influence – and whether drag racing would look noticeably different without this person in it. “This has been building in my head for a long time,” said Wes Buck, Founder and Editorial Director of Drag Illustrated. “We’ve been doing the 30 Under 30 for twelve years, and it’s been one of the most powerful things we’ve ever built – because recognition matters in this sport. People don’t do what they do out here for the money, God knows. They do it because they love drag racing. And when the sport acknowledges that, it means something. The Power 100 is that concept at full scale. Every corner of this sport – NHRA, no-prep, bracket, Pro Mod, outlaw, grassroots – every single one of them has people in it who are making a difference that most folks never see. This program exists to shine a light on all of them.” The inaugural DI Power 100 class will be selected by an editorial committee representing the full breadth of drag racing. Nominations will be accepted across eight categories: Racers & Competitors, Builders & Fabricators, Engine & Performance, Promoters & Track Operators, Business & Industry, Sanctioning & Governance, Media & Storytelling, and Rising Power (Under 35). Selection is based on four criteria: impact on the sport, scope of influence, consistency and longevity, and what Drag Illustrated calls the Subtraction Test – what drag racing looks like without this person in it. “The Power 100 is exactly the kind of editorial project that separates Drag Illustrated from anyone else covering this sport,” said Nate Van Wagnen, Editor-in-Chief of Drag Illustrated. “We have two decades of relationships and credibility across every corner of drag racing. Nobody else can look at this sport the way we do – from the nitro cars to the no-prep strips to the bracket programs – and make a list that the sport actually respects. That’s what we’re going to do. The editorial standards on this are high, and they have to be. The credibility of the program is the whole thing.” The DI Power 100 will be published in DI Issue 202 – the State of Drag Special Issue – which launches September 1, 2026. “When Wes first laid this out, it was immediately obvious that this is what DI has been building toward,” said Mike Carpenter, Chief Operating Officer of Drag Illustrated. “Twenty years of being in every corner of this sport – the relationships, the credibility, the reach – all of it makes DI uniquely positioned to do this right. The Power 100 is going to be a franchise that this sport talks about for years. We don’t take that lightly.” Nominations for the DI Power 100 are open to anyone and free to submit. Nominators are encouraged to submit entries for multiple nominees across different categories. The nomination form – available now at DragIllustrated.com/Power100 – asks nominators to describe what makes their nominee influential and to answer what drag racing looks like without them. Nominations close Friday, July 3, 2026. “I want to hear from everyone,” Buck added. “The engine builder who’s been putting championships together for thirty years and never got a headline. The track owner who spent his life savings to keep a drag strip open in a town that would have lost it otherwise. The promoter who built an event from nothing and made it something this sport depends on. Those are the people this list was made for. If you know someone like that, nominate them. We’re listening.” Submit nominations here: DragIllustrated.com/Power100 This story was originally published on May 26, 2026. The post Drag Illustrated Launches the DI Power 100, Recognizing the 100 Most Influential People in Drag Racing first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Jeff Ikard Races to His First Small Tire Pro Stock Victory at World Wide Technology Raceway
Despite a dreary forecast, dedicated and determined Small Tire Pro Stock racers showed up for the Nostalgia Drag Racing League Route 66 Rockabilly Reunion, May 22-23 at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. It was the first event of the year for the series for racers who run their cars with naturally aspirated combinations to mid-7s to low-8s in the quarter-mile in a heads-up format, and they were warmly welcomed by Nettie Johnson and the rest of the World Wide Technology Raceway team, and Butch Hill, Doug Duell and the rest of the Nostalgia Drag Racing League team. Among the racers who made the trip to put down plentiful power in the Prairie State were Jeff Ikard of Toney, Alabama, Dwight Ausmus of LaFollette, Tennessee and David Theisen of Highland, Michigan, who qualified in the first through third spots respectively. Ikard was strong from the start in his Mustang motivated by a 415 cubic-inch engine recently freshened by Huntsville Engine and drawing fuel from two carburetors by Gary Williams Carburetors. He led qualifying with an 8.09 and 160 mph while rowing the gears of his five-speed transmission by series sponsor G-Force Transmissions. With his focus on going all the way, he later lined up alongside Ausmus, whose Firebird features a 573 cubic-inch Pontiac by series sponsor BES Racing Engines, carburetor by series sponsor CFM Performance Carburetors and five-speed transmission by Liberty’s Gears, for the final round of eliminations. As the tree dropped, all eyes were on Ikard, who is consistently running quicker and faster, and Ausmus, who is the reigning Small Tire Pro Stock champion. Down track, the win light illuminated in Ikard’s lane, and he went to the Small Tire Pro Stock Winner’s Circle for the first time with an 8.04 and 160 mph over Ausmus’s 8.11 and 141 mph. “My car was running well, and it is a blessing and a dream for me to be racing in Small Tire Pro Stock instead of sitting at home wishing I could do it,” said Ikard. “This win just does not feel real yet, and I want to thank my Lord and savior, as well as my wife, Sherry, my team members, Ray Minor and Tommy Graham, Huntsville Engine, G-Force Transmissions and MBE Cylinder Heads. I also want to acknowledge the Nostalgia Drag Racing League for letting us join them. If you are not racing with Small Tire Pro Stock, or following us, you are missing the fun.” In the week leading up to the event, Small Tire Pro Stock proudly announced that new sponsor Sporthorse Saddlery joined current series sponsors Pen and Paper Strength App, BES Racing Engines, CFM Performance Carburetors, G-Force, Martino Racing Engines, V&J, Inc, Dolce and Clemente’s Italian Gourmet Market and 10K Technology. With Ikard leading the chase to the season championship, Small Tire Pro Stock will join Nostalgia Drag Racing League again on July 10-11 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indiana. “It was great to race against Jeff Ikard in the final round of eliminations, and I congratulate him on the win,” said Ausmus. “We are all happy for him. It was a wonderful weekend with the Small Tire Pro Stock family, though it was a little disappointing that Jeff Ikard’s wife, Sherry, did not send her famous banana bread that we all love so much. Maybe she will for our upcoming race at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.” This story was originally published on May 26, 2026. The post Jeff Ikard Races to His First Small Tire Pro Stock Victory at World Wide Technology Raceway first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Neon Discipline: A Cyberpunk Royal Enfield Continental GT From Mumbai
Defining the vision for a custom motorcycle project isn’t as easy as it sounds. You might think you have something unique penned in your mind, but when it comes time to bring that vision to life, you might find you’ve painted yourself into a corner. Aditya Deshmukh doesn’t seem to have that problem.... View the full article
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NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Action Photos From Zmax In Charlotte: Even More Nitro Burning Top Fuel Dragster and Funny Car 4-Wide Drag Racing Photos Continue!
Here’s our third nitro gallery from the NHRA Four Wide Nationals in Charlotte. If you missed our previous photos, use the link below to check out all our Four Wide photos. (Photos by David Whealon) – It was a cool, fast, and adventurous weekend for the stars of the NHRA Mission Drag Racing Series at the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at zMax Dragway in Charlotte, North Carolina. Lucky for us, we have great photos from our dude David Whealon who was on hand shooting all kinds of race cars, from nitro burners to door cars and everything in between. He was on hand for the first running of the Outlaw Street class as well, so we’ve got those photos for you to check out too! David Whealon shot these images and there are some stunners in here. From the four wide launches to the tight shots of funny cars and dragsters rocketing off into the night, if you dig drag racing, you’ll dig these photos. We’ll have even more galleries coming over the next few days, so stay tuned in to see more! CLICK HERE FOR FOUR WIDE NATIONAL PHOTOS The post NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Action Photos From Zmax In Charlotte: Even More Nitro Burning Top Fuel Dragster and Funny Car 4-Wide Drag Racing Photos Continue! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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BMW Is Recalling All Of Its C Evolution Scooters In US Over Wiring Harness Issue
The scooters were sold in our market for the 2017 and 2018 model years only, but issues seen in units outside our market prompted this recall.View the full article
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DI to DC: SEMA & PRI Rally Brings Drag Racing Leadership to Capitol Hill
Earlier this month, Drag Illustrated’s own Wes Buck and Mike Carpenter traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the annual Washington Rally hosted by the Government Affairs divisions of Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI). The duo met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill to “spread the gospel of drag racing,” as Buck often says. This time, they brought the message directly to the nation’s policymakers. Two key issues were at the focus of their conversation with legislators. The first was the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act, which would permanently restore the seven-year depreciation schedule for racetracks. The measure would allow track owners to write off the costs of major facility improvements, including paving, resurfacing, grandstand construction, and restroom upgrades, over seven years rather than the current 19- to 39-year timeline that took effect after the provision expired at the end of 2025. Buck and Carpenter emphasized that the nation’s more than 1,500 racetracks are not backed by large corporations, but are instead largely family-owned businesses operating on tight margins while trying to fund capital improvements, safety upgrades, and long-term growth. “Racetracks are generational businesses, built on passion and community, not pure profit. They’re where kids learn to work on cars. Where families spend Friday and Saturday nights. Where racers cut their teeth,” Buck said. Alongside nearly 120 automotive enthusiasts and industry leaders, Buck and Carpenter also advocated for Right-to-Race legislation. The legislation, currently being introduced at the state level, is designed to protect long-standing motorsports facilities from nuisance lawsuits filed by neighbors who moved near racetracks after the facilities were already established. Several states, including Iowa, Kansas, North Carolina, and most recently South Carolina, have already adopted Right-to-Race protections to help preserve racetracks and the jobs, tourism, and sense of community sentiments they generate. “It’s happened everywhere, especially in North Carolina to probably the Charlotte area’s most well-known dragstrip, Shuffletown Dragway. That’s where my dad cut his teeth,” Carpenter said. “As the growth ensued in the ’80s and ’90s, they built houses and eventually shut that place down. If a Right-to-Race bill existed at that time, Shuffletown Dragway could still be rocking and rolling. Can you imagine?” The issue was especially personal for Buck and Carpenter, who have watched urban sprawl steadily surround Bradenton Motorsports Park, the host facility of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series. During meetings with Florida representatives, they stressed that drag racing is a very mature and economically significant industry that delivers substantial tourism and revenue to surrounding communities. “With the Drag Illustrated Winter Series alone, conservative estimates put our economic impact of those three races north of $28 million,” Buck said. “And that’s not nothing – bringing $28 million directly into a community like Bradenton and Sarasota. I stand on that and I’m very proud of it.” Fortunately for Florida racers and track owners, the Sunshine State is among SEMA’s priority states for introducing Right-to-Race legislation in the coming months. While passing such legislation will require strong support from racers, business owners, and residents, Buck and Carpenter also invited lawmakers and staffers to attend upcoming the Drag Illustrated Winter Series events firsthand. “We’ll see if we can get some of these folks out to the track. I’m looking forward to having some politicians in suits out to Bradenton Motorsports Park this winter,” Buck said. Both Buck and Carpenter agreed the trip was valuable as they joined fellow racers, manufacturers, influencers, and automotive business leaders who traveled from across the country to support SEMA and PRI’s efforts to preserve a $69 billion industry that supports hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide. They were joined during meetings by members of SEMA’s Government Affairs staff, whose full-time work centers on tracking legislation and advocating for the automotive aftermarket and performance racing industries. “I wasn’t aware that PRI and SEMA had full-time staffers located in Washington D.C.,” Buck said. “An entire team that is there to meet with lawmakers and encourage them to support car culture and protect motorsports.” Also present at the rally for the first time was a member of the President’s Cabinet. During the kickoff dinner, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin addressed attendees, outlining his priorities, and encouraging participants to continue making their voices heard throughout the rest of the current administration’s term. “We heard from Lee Zeldin, the EPA chief, which is a huge deal because the EPA is probably the number one enemy of drag racing. I got nervous at first,” Carpenter said. “But this guy comes in and tells us to give him everything. He said to tell them what we want and what we need.” While Buck and Carpenter initially approached the invitation to attend the 2026 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally with a degree of intimidation, they executed perfectly and quickly came to appreciate the importance of direct engagement between industry leaders and policymakers. Their experience in Washington D.C. is another example of the importance of advocacy and relationship-building as the motorsports industry prepares for upcoming legislative battles in states across the country. “Just to be part of that process and to see it was really cool. I think it was a few days well spent.” This story was originally published on May 26, 2026. The post DI to DC: SEMA & PRI Rally Brings Drag Racing Leadership to Capitol Hill first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article
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Are $5K Auction Cars Junk? Check Out These $5,000 Buys From Mecum Indy 2026 And Let Us Know What You Think.
We’ve talked about cheap cars that sell at Mecum, Barrett-Jackson, RM and other big name auctions a few times in the recent past and I can tell you that while they are few and far between at some of them, there are quite a few overall throughout the year. At their 2026 Indy Auction, Mecum had a few that came across the block and are being highlighted in the video belo. Check them out below and let us know what you think. Video Description: Mecum Indianapolis 2026 is officially over, and it’s time for one of our favorite videos from every auction… the $5,000 and less video. Every vehicle in this video SOLD for $5K or less. No Bid Goes On cars in this one — these crossed the block and found new owners. And the variety is wild: Mercedes convertibles, a Cadillac Allante, Jaguar comparisons, a Hummer H3, Crown Vic Police Interceptor, Pontiac Fiero, Ford Taurus SHO, and even a 1931 Franklin Speedster. Some of these look like incredible deals… Others maybe should’ve stayed at the auction. Which one would YOU take home? The post Are $5K Auction Cars Junk? Check Out These $5,000 Buys From Mecum Indy 2026 And Let Us Know What You Think. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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Husqvarna Introduces The Brand's Latest Motocross Lineup, And It's All Throwback Colors
Throwback colorways and white frames set the new Husqvarna motocross dirt bikes apart from the rest of the field. View the full article
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Finally A Budget Drill Bit Set That Outperforms All The Rest! Which Low Buck Set Is Actually Worth Buying? 14 Brands Tested!
Drill bits suck. I mean they are great for the first few holes, but after that they just suck usually. Unless you spend big money that is. And drill bit sharpeners? They are great, but if the bit is made from crap material then it won’t last anyway. And for those of you out there saying that you just need to spend the money and get a good set of bits, I get it but that isn’t always an option for all of us. I have a set of drill bits on my want list that have the little step bit tips on them. I have used a couple of those from friends and they are awesome. But man they aren’t cheap! So if you are on a budget, can you get a set of drill bits that are actually going to give you a bit of life out of them? Let’s see. Video Description: Drill Bit sets were tested on their capability to drill through half inch mild steel, 0.38 inch spring steel, and 0.5 inch armor plating. I purchased all of the drill bits to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel. Brands: COMOWARE, Milwaukee, Irwin, DeWalt Cobalt, Viking Drill, Drill Hog, BOSCH, GMTOOLS, Drill America, CaRoller, DeWalt HSS, Warrior, Makita HSS, HIGHFIRE were tested. The post Finally A Budget Drill Bit Set That Outperforms All The Rest! Which Low Buck Set Is Actually Worth Buying? 14 Brands Tested! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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Chaos Super Nationals Results: Funny Car Chaos And Nitro Chaos Invade Summit Motorsports Park
The Chaos Super Nationals put on a show at Summit Motorsports Park. Here's a recap of all all the chaos-filled action.View the full article
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This Weird Chinese Bobber Might Actually Be Better Than Its Cringe Marketing
The Letbe Punk packs 53 horsepower, Bosch ABS, and way more style than its bizarre marketing copy suggests.View the full article
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The Hydroplane Racing League Livestream From The 2026 HRL Cambridge Classic Power Boat Regatta!
If you dig offshore powerboat racing, and especially these insane beasts that basically fly across the top of the water, then you are in for a treat. This is the replay from the Hydroplane Racing League livestream of the 2026 Cambridge Classic Power Boat Regatta. Hydroplanes are something truly special, and this is racing you won’t just see anywhere. Some of the most famous race boats in history have been hydroplanes like Miss Budweiser, Blue Blaster, and more. These things are fun to watch, and always on the edge of going all kinds of bad. Video Description: HRL is proud to present the Cambridge Classic Power Boat Regatta livestream event directly from Cambridge, MD! The HRL will offer you the complete event coverage. Join us on social medias to follow to know everything from the racing weekend. Don’t forget to subscribe to the HRL channel and also the Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages! The post The Hydroplane Racing League Livestream From The 2026 HRL Cambridge Classic Power Boat Regatta! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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I Bullied This Motorcycle Company's AI Into Recommending a 129-Horsepower Motorcycle For Beginners and New Riders
After reporting on Moto Morini's new AI sales agent powered by Ekho, we put its sycophancy and safeguards to the test. It took almost nothing to get it to recommend the company's biggest, fastest motorcycle to beginners. View the full article