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Minimoto has gone global, but the world will never catch up to Japan. The cultur...View the full article

The regular season finale in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports takes place this weekend at Bristol Dragway as part of the Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals and there is plenty on the line. Drivers are looking to secure their spot in the “Road to the Championship” playoffs, a five-race stretch that begins later this month in Norwalk. But with a points-and-a-half scenario in place for this weekend’s race in Thunder Valley, there could be plenty of shuffling in the loaded class. This weekend’s event is the sixth of 11 races in the category during the 2026 campaign and the race is powered by Cardinal Insurance. Pro Mod’s Stan Shelton is associated with Cardinal Insurance and he’s looking to stay in the championship mix. He’s currently in ninth, but four drivers are within a round of him, which further showcases the depth in the class. “Thunder Valley is a special place for drag racing, and especially for NHRA Pro Mod,” said Mike McKinney, Agency Manager of Cardinal Insurance. “Cardinal Insurance is proud to return as a sponsor for the fourth year in a row and continue supporting a series that reflects our commitment to relationship building, networking, and first-class customer service. As a family-owned agency, we take pride in serving our customers through experienced staff and strong personal connections, and NHRA Pro Mod provides the perfect environment to build on those values.” Derek Menholt took control of the points lead with a victory in Chicago, becoming the first two-race winner in the class this year. His lead stands at 44 points over Justin Bond, with Mike Stavrinos, Billy Banaka and Stevie “Fast” Jackson rounding out the top five. But plenty could change in Bristol, where defending world champion J.R. Gray won a year ago. He’s currently in eighth place, but a repeat victory in Bristol would give him momentum when the points reset in Norwalk. Others to watch this weekend in Thunder Valley includes multi-time champ Rickie Smith, Alex Laughlin, Lyle Barnett, Jason Collins and Aaron Stanfield. The JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports features two qualifying rounds at 12:15 and 5:15 p.m. ET on Friday, and the final two qualifying rounds at 11:30 a.m. and 2:35 p.m. on Saturday. The first round of eliminations is slated for 1:40 p.m. ET on Sunday. One qualifying session from both Friday and Saturday, as well as the first round of eliminations on Sunday, will be broadcast for free on NHRA’s YouTube page. To purchase tickets to the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, fans can visit NHRA.com/tickets. For more information on NHRA, please visit NHRA.com. This story was originally published on June 12, 2026. The post JBS Equipment Pro Mod Series Hits Regular Season Finale in Bristol at Race Powered by Cardinal Insurance first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Yamaha Motor Corporation USA is issuing a Do Not Ride advisory for all 2025 Ténéré 700s thanks to a potential turn signal failure.View the full article

Leah Pruett could leave Thunder Valley with a lot of hardware. Matt Hagan is looking for a win at one of his favorite tracks on the tour.View the full article

Turning a vintage metal-bodied Honda C70 Cub into a sleeper beast might be more in reach than you think, particularly if you do it like this.View the full article

Tommy and the kids are back at it, because this beast is getting closer and closer to being a runner! The big block should be fun with all the new parts that have been going into it, and in this video some of the finishing touches are getting done. I love this project and I think this is going to be fun when it is time for big burnouts and gasser goodness at the track. Check out this newest update on the Henry J Resurrection project and let us know what you think. If you missed the other videos of Tommy Lee Byrd’s new project, you missed a lot. We’ve got a link to those videos down below, including finding it and the first round of work that got done to it after getting it home. If you know anything about Tommy Lee, then you know that he’s a historian at heart and a super sleuth when it comes to finding out the history of a specific old race car. It is his super power really, and in the last video he’s went over the hidden history behind the Henry J after adding it to the Hot Rod Hoarder collection. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE FIRST VIDEOS IN THIS SERIES! Video Description: WE DID IT! We made it to the finish line with our historic Henry J gasser project car. Although this car will never truly be finished, we’ve made it to the end of the build series. We left off on the last video with our first trip around the block, and had plenty of loose ends to tie up before taking the car to the drag strip. Over the winter, I worked toward a goal of drag racing it by spring time and did exactly that with a shakedown run at Paradise Dragstrip, and then a 3-run match race with my buddy Josh Dillon, who you guys know as Sleeperdude. This old car still has plenty of bugs to work out, but man, what an experience it has been to resurrect this car and put it back on the track. I’m so happy with the results, and I know it’ll only get better from here. I appreciate all of the support on this car. The comments I’ve gotten both on Youtube and in person have meant the world to me and my family. I’m so glad I got to share this with you. I’m sure you’ll see more of this car in the future, but I wanted to cap off this build series with some good old fashioned drag racing action. #dragracing #gasser #history The post The Hot Rod Hoarder Gasser Henry J Project Part 8: Putting a HISTORIC Gasser Back on the Track Feels Oh So Good! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Europe just got a new FIM-certified carbon race helmet, and the US is missing out once again. View the full article

A street-legal flex-fuel motorcycle for less than an iPhone might make sense in more places than just India.View the full article

Killing the Roadless Rule won't give you more OHV trails.View the full article

Whether you love the sound of a great American V8 at full song, the shreak of a V12 Aston Martin, or the songs that Ferraris and F1 cars make, you’ll love this video. This is nothing but on track action, with great engine sounds, from Goodwood’s Member’s Meeting 2026. Plus in car footage, sideways action, and more. This is one of those videos that makes you want to turn the sound up in your office, or put on your good headphones, because the sounds are as good as the sights. Check out all these great sounding race machines below and let us know which one is your favorite. Video Description: Turn it up – you’re trackside at Goodwood, and it’s pure, unfiltered sound. No commentary. No distractions. Just the roar and rush of racing. The bark of ’90s Super Tourers at full tilt. The wail of classic touring cars from eras past. The earth-shaking thunder of Edwardian monsters, still ferociously loud over a century on. And that’s only a taste – decades of motorsport come together in one symphony across this unforgettable weekend. This is Goodwood Members’ Meeting at its most raw and immersive. Close your eyes and feel the engines – this is what Goodwood sounds like, trackside. The post Music To Your Ears: Watch, And Listen, To The Best Sounding Cars From Goodwood’s 83rd Members Meet Right Here! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

It’s time for the 2nd Formula Offroad race of the 2026 Season in Iceland and here’s the video coverage. If you haven’t watched this kind of racing before, you are in for a treat. It’s all big power, big noise, crash and burn, and high flying action in an environment unlike any other. If you are new around there then you might not know that we seriously dig Formula Off-Road racing here at BANGshift.com. This is high flying, loud, and intense racing that involves what look to be impossible hillclimbs, usually on giant courses made from pea gravel or something similar. It’s intense, the cars often end up upside down or rolling over down a hill. They end up rightside up on their own sometimes, but regardless the action is fun and kind of nuts. These drivers do some stuff that I’m not sure most people could. Check it out below. The post EPIC FORMULA OFFROAD RACING VIDEO FROM ICELAND’S STANGARHYLUR 2026! COURSE 4 and 5 RACING ACTION appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Which livery are you choosing?View the full article

We’ve got live drag racing coming to you from Division 6! It’s Lucas Oil Drag Racing at it’s finest and every pair that goes down the race track is right here live. If you like Sportsman Drag Racing, where wheels-up action is the norm, then this is the racing for you. We’re talking Stock, Super Stock, Comp, Alcohol classes, and more right here from Mission Raceways! Check it out and let us know what you think. Start at the bottom and work your way up to see all the racing from this weekend. The post NHRA Division 6 Divisional Drag Racing Livestream: Catch All The Racing Action LIVE From Mission Raceway appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Exploring the gorgeous trails in the Sonoran Desert will make you fall in love with our public lands.View the full article

Offered for sale on Collecting Cars, this extensively modified Yamaha XV750 showcases a distinctive reinterpretation of Yamaha’s early-1980s V-twin cruiser architecture. Retained under long-term ownership and transformed through a series of carefully executed custom modifications, the motorcycle blends the reliability of the Japanese manufacturer’s proven engineering with the stripped-back aesthetics of a modern café racer. At its core is Yamaha’s 749cc air-cooled V-twin engine, a powerplant renowned for its durability and accessible character. The engine sends power to the rear […] The post FOR SALE: 1983 Yamaha XV 750 Custom appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Small block Chevy builders have another cylinder head option. Check out these CNC-ported SBC heads from Power Products. View the full article

Norton Atlas and Atlas GT break cover Reborn brand gets adventurous MCNews.com.au has already spent plenty of time looking under the skin of Norton’s latest rebirth. That story started in earnest with the new Norton Manx R, a 206 horsepower V4 statement bike that we rode in Spain, and continued through a series of interviews […] The post Norton Atlas spearheads next phase of TVS-backed rebirth appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Drag Illustrated Event Hub presented by RACERSCLUB · Bristol Dragway · June 12-14, 2026 The 25th annual Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals rolls into Bristol Dragway, June 12-14 — the ninth of 20 races on NHRA’s 75th-anniversary Mission Foods schedule and the third leg of the three-race Eastern Swing that opened at Potomac and continued at Epping. Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle are all on the championship clock. JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod presented by Elite Motorsports and Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown round out the card. And it kicks off with two finals still to settle — the rained-out Epping Top Fuel and Funny Car final rounds run Friday at Bristol before regular Thunder Valley qualifying begins. Langdon vs. Pruett. Vandergriff vs. Beckman. Then qualifying starts. Jump to: Event Update · By the Numbers · Storylines · Quick Hits · Schedule · TV Coverage · Records · Photo Gallery · DI Coverage Event Update Friday Qualifying Moved Earlier — Weather WatchDue to potential inclement weather, NHRA has moved Friday’s Mission Foods qualifying earlier than the original schedule. Friday also hosts the makeup TF and FC finals from the New England Nationals at Epping. Storylines, qualifying results, and round-by-round eliminations post throughout the weekend. Refresh for the latest. By the Numbers 2026 NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals 25thAnnual Bristol Event 9of 20 on NHRA Schedule 75thNHRA Anniversary Year 8Capps Bristol Wins (Most Ever) 3rdActive Legend of Thunder Valley 4Pro Classes + Pro Mod + FSS 3.667TF Track Record (Torrence, 2021) 1,475Feet Elevation Storylines Ron Capps Named Legend of Thunder Valley Ron Capps arrives at Bristol carrying the Funny Car points lead and, this weekend, gets recognition for what he’s already done at Thunder Valley. Bristol Dragway is inducting Capps into its Legends of Thunder Valley — making him only the third active driver ever to receive the honor. Capps’s case is unimpeachable: his eight Funny Car wins at Bristol are the most in NHRA history at the facility. He’s the defending Bristol winner. He’s the current points leader. J.R. Todd, Matt Hagan, and Chad Green are all close behind, but Bristol is Capps’ building. Aaron Stanfield Adds Pro Mod Double Duty Starting at Bristol Fresh off his $150,000 win at the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod in February, Aaron Stanfield is making the Pro Mod commitment official. Modern Racing, Inc. and Elite Motorsports announced this week that Stanfield will add Pro Mod driving duties for the remainder of 2026 in the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod series, starting at Bristol. That means double duty all weekend in Thunder Valley — Stanfield in his Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage / Melling Performance Pro Stock Camaro AND in a Modern Racing-built Pro Mod entry. Watch for two qualifying schedules running in parallel. Epping Makeup Finals Friday — Langdon/Pruett, Vandergriff/Beckman The Top Fuel and Funny Car finals from last weekend’s New England Nationals were rained out and pushed to Friday at Bristol. They run before regular Thunder Valley qualifying gets underway. Top Fuel: Points leader Shawn Langdon vs. Leah Pruett. Langdon goes for his fourth final-round win of 2026 and the chance to extend his points lead. Pruett goes for her first win since returning to the seat for Tony Stewart Racing. Funny Car: All–John Force Racing. Jordan Vandergriff vs. Jack Beckman. Vandergriff is the No. 1 qualifier from Epping and the rookie sensation of the season. Beckman runs his Vandergriff-twin Toyota for the win. Either way, JFR adds a Wally. Greg Anderson Returns to Bristol — Site of 1,000th Round Win Greg Anderson rolls into Bristol with 114 career national event wins — most of any active driver, second only to John Force. Last year at Bristol he made history again: his 1,000th career round win, joining Force as the only drivers in NHRA history to reach the mark. “It just added to the Bristol lore for me. Who knows what the next milestone will be, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it happened at Bristol.”— Greg Anderson Anderson sits No. 2 in Pro Stock points behind KB Titan Racing teammate Dallas Glenn. He’s won twice in 2026 already. Bristol is where he won his first Pro Stock event back in 2001 — Thunder Valley remains the throughline of his career. Richard Gadson — Reigning Champ, Points Leader, Defending Bristol Winner Bristol was the turning point for Richard Gadson‘s career. After coming close all season as Gaige Herrera ran away with the class, Gadson broke through at Thunder Valley in 2025 — first career win, in the final round over Herrera. Three more wins followed. So did the world championship. “Bristol really kind of changed things. It really all happened in Bristol. When I say Bristol was a turning point, it legit was a turning point.”— Richard Gadson Gadson returns as current PSM points leader on the RevZilla / Motul / Vance & Hines Suzuki, looking to defend his Bristol Wally. Pro Mod, Factory Stock Showdown Also Running The JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod presented by Elite Motorsports series runs alongside the pros — and as noted above, Stanfield joins the entry list this weekend. Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown also runs, with Stephen Allegrucci going for three FSS wins in a row at Bristol after sweeping Charlotte and Maple Grove. Quick Hits 75th + 25thThe 2026 NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals is unique — combining NHRA’s 75th anniversary year with the 25th annual race at Bristol Dragway. Special pre-race recognition Sunday. Millican + Gwynn AppearNHRA fan-favorite Top Fuel driver Clay Millican and NHRA legend Darrell Gwynn appear at Bristol. Millican’s 2017 Father’s Day Bristol win is being celebrated as the race’s historic moment of recognition — a 2026 NHRA tradition at each race. Free NHRA Pennant for First 4,000 Fans SundayNHRA is giving away a free, limited-edition pennant to the first 4,000 fans through the gates Sunday for eliminations. Get there early. Bristol’s Rebuilt Racing Surface DebutsBristol Dragway’s newly rebuilt racing surface meets championship-level competition for the first time this weekend. The track gamble gets its reality test. Allegrucci Goes for Three in a RowIn Flexjet NHRA Factory Stock Showdown, Stephen Allegrucci has won Charlotte and Maple Grove back-to-back. Bristol could make it three straight. SealMaster Track Walk SaturdayThe fan-favorite SealMaster Track Walk happens Saturday after final qualifying. Free with general admission. Race Weekend Schedule Note: Friday’s Mission Foods qualifying schedule moved earlier due to weather. The rained-out Epping TF and FC finals run Friday at Bristol BEFORE regular qualifying begins. Check NHRA.com for the latest start times. Friday, June 12 · NHRA Lucas Oil Series qualifying and time trials begin 10:00 a.m. ET · Factory Stock Showdown qualifying 2:15 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. ET · JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod qualifying 3:45 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. ET · Postponed Epping TF and FC Finals run before Mission Foods qualifying · Mission Foods qualifying begins 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. ET (subject to weather adjustments) · FS1 televises 90 minutes of qualifying at 8:00 p.m. ET Saturday, June 13 · Lucas Oil eliminations 8:30 a.m. and 5:25 p.m. ET · Factory Stock Showdown qualifying 11:15 a.m., eliminations 5:10 p.m. ET · JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod qualifying 11:30 a.m. and 2:35 p.m. ET · Mission Foods final qualifying 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET · SealMaster Track Walk + special autograph session at the Bristol Welcome Tent Sunday, June 14 · Pre-race ceremonies 11:00 a.m. ET · Mission Foods eliminations begin Noon ET · Free limited-edition NHRA pennant for first 4,000 fans TV Coverage All times Eastern. FS1: · Friday, June 12: 90 minutes of qualifying at 8:00 p.m. · Sunday, June 14: 1 hour of qualifying at 2:00 p.m. · Sunday, June 14: 3 hours of eliminations / finals coverage at 3:00 p.m. Track Records to Watch ClassBristol Track RecordHolder / Date Top Fuel ET3.667 secSteve Torrence, Oct. 2021 Top Fuel MPH336.49 mphJustin Ashley, June 2023 Funny Car ET3.884 secRon Capps, June 2016 Funny Car MPH330.31 mphMatt Hagan, Oct. 2021 Pro Stock ET6.613 secGreg Anderson, June 2022 Pro Stock MPH209.26 mphBo Butner, June 2016 Pro Stock Motorcycle ET6.759 secMatt Smith, June 2024 Pro Stock Motorcycle MPH200.05 mphMatt Smith, June 2024 2025 Bristol Winners · Top Fuel: Steve Torrence · Funny Car: Ron Capps · Pro Stock: Greg Anderson (also: 1,000th career round win) · Pro Stock Motorcycle: Richard Gadson (first career win — launched championship season) Photo Gallery — Thunder Valley Atmosphere and action at Bristol Dragway. Photos: NHRA / Auto Imagery. Click any image to enlarge. DI Coverage Hub Drag Illustrated’s coverage of the 2026 Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals lives here. Storylines, qualifying results, eliminations round-by-round, photos, and the final story drop in this hub as the weekend unfolds. Refresh through Sunday. presented by RACERSCLUB · Where Drivers Belong This story was originally published on June 11, 2026. The post 2026 Super Grip NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals: Schedule, Storylines & Coverage first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

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.” This story was originally published on June 11, 2026. 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

Chad Green is having one heck of a season. Green wants to use a victory at Bristol to launch him deep into the Funny Car title hunt.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

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