CanyonChasers Podcast // The Braking Zone

Enter to win the Ducati Monster Plus at https://fanathem.com/canyonchasers Are parallel twins taking over on the track, or is there still no replacement for open-class power? In this episode, we compare the street and track-only versions of the rare KTM 990 RC R. We test how its unique 1,481 mm wheelbase and aggressive rake alter cornering stability, contrast the street bike's wide TFT dash with the streamlined track layout, and break down why the race-prepped version feels so radically different out of the crate. Plus, as Brian looks to transition away from our Aprilia RSV4 track bike, we evaluate our top contenders—including the BMW S1000RR, Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, and Ducati Panigale V2. To wrap up, we share real-world feedback on the Bridgestone S23 tires after pushing them through the canyons. What you'll learn in this episode:KTM 990 RC R Street vs. Track: How suspension travel, mapping, direct brake lines, and clip-on ergonomics completely transform the track model. Chassis Dynamics: Why a long wheelbase paired with steep rake geometry creates high-speed stability without losing sharp turn-in. Choosing the Next Track Bike: The pros, cons, and costs of open-class power versus lightweight middleweight agility. Real-World Tire Performance: Breakdown of the Bridgestone S23 vs. Pirelli Rosso IV on high-torque street bikes. Chapters 00:00 - Intro & Childhood Motorcycle Memories 03:40 - Re-Introductions & YouTube Backstory 05:25 - Ducati Monster Giveaway Update 07:44 - Replacing the Aprilia RSV4 Race Bike 11:20 - Litre Bike Contenders: BMW S1000RR & Honda Fireblade 15:00 - The Case for Middleweights & Ducati Panigale V2 20:55 - Introduction to the KTM 990 RC R 24:35 - KTM 990 RC R Street Ride Impressions 36:39 - KTM 990 RC R Track Model Test Ride 44:00 - Exhaust Tuning, Suspension & Ergonomics 48:44 - Chassis Physics: Long Wheelbase Handling Explained 56:15 - Clip-Ons vs. High Bars on Track Days 01:00:00 - Canyon Rides & Bridgestone S23 Tire Review Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers

Enter to win this incredible Ducati Monster: https://fanathem.com/canyonchasers In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about motorcycle tires, comparing Pirelli, Dunlop, Bridgestone, and Michelin. We dive into why Pirelli uses soft carcass construction while Dunlop and Bridgestone rely on stiffer carcasses, how altitude changes affect your tire gauge pressure, and how to properly manage heat cycles on track day slicks. We also explore why designing a single motorcycle headlight costs $1 million to pass NHTSA approval, discuss the significance of the last Desmodromic Ducati Monster, and analyze the MotoGP round at Silverstone. Video Chapters00:00 - Moto YouTuber Schedules & EICMA Prep 02:33 - The Last Desmo Ducati Monster 05:10 - Why Motorcycle Headlights Cost $1 Million to Approve 09:52 - MotoGP Silverstone Recap & Tire Pressure Drama 15:09 - Maverick Vinales & Moto2 Race Breakdown 20:36 - Major Tire Brands Comparison Overview 23:23 - Michelin: Wet Performance & V-Profile Characteristics 27:23 - Bridgestone: Stiff Carcass & Front-End Grip 34:42 - Pirelli: Soft Carcasses & Forgiving Pressure Windows 48:42 - Dunlop: Pointy Front Profiles & High-Pressure Setup 01:01:58 - Can You Mismatch Front and Rear Tire Brands? 01:05:42 - Heat Cycling, Tire Warmers, & Slicks Longevity 01:09:11 - Tire Pressure Masterclass: Elevation Effects & The 10% Rule Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers

Enter for a chance to win our 2024 Ducati Monster Plus: https://fanathem.com/canyonchasers We’re back to talk all things motorcycle racing, tech, and riding culture! We kick off with Dave finally taking his dialed-in bike out for a real ride. Then, we dive into the latest MotoGP silly season rumors surrounding Jack Miller’s potential move to World Superbike. From there, we take a deep dive into the state of motorcycle racing: How to fix World Superbike and MotoAmerica Why British Superbike (BSB) electronics-free rules create superior racing How modern tire technology allows Moto2 bikes to beat 2006 MotoGP lap times What to expect with the 2027 850cc MotoGP regulations reset Debunking the myth that Marc Marquez "ruined" Honda How would YOU fix World Superbike or MotoAmerica? Let us know in the comments below! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more motorcycle chatter every week! YouTube Chapters 00:00 - Catching Up & Dave’s Bike Setup 06:48 - MotoGP News: Jack Miller’s World Superbike Rumors 11:27 - How to Fix World Superbike & MotoAmerica 28:36 - Why British Superbike (BSB) Rules Get It Right 34:18 - Are Tires the Secret to Modern Lap Times? (Moto2 vs 2006 MotoGP) 53:18 - Comparing Tire Brands, Heat Cycles & Grip 01:03:40 - The 2027 MotoGP Regulation Reset & Engineering vs. Riders 01:12:08 - Did Marc Marquez Really Ruin Honda? 01:19:54 - Outro & What’s Next Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers

We're back from our summer break with a packed show! We start off with a deep dive into an epic riding trip through Iceland aboard the Norton Atlas. Why should you skip expensive Gore-Tex for gear like Alpinestars Drystar? We put waterproof ratings to the ultimate test in soggy North Atlantic weather. Plus, we discuss the brutal reality of dealership floor-space requirements keeping boutique bikes like Norton off showroom floors, and how CFMoto exploited a genius World Superbike homologation loophole. Then, we shift gears into complete 2027 MotoGP "Silly Season" chaos! We break down every major team move and rumor on the grid: Marc Marquez & Pedro Acosta joining forces at Ducati Lenovo Fabio Quartararo’s shock jump to Honda The stark contrast in riding styles between Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura at Yamaha Why Moto2 leader Manu Gonzalez might be robbed of a MotoGP seat due to passport politics What's next for Jack Miller, Maverick Viñales, and Brad Binder Video Chapters00:00 - We’re Back! (And Yellowstone Remote Fail) 01:10 - Riding the Norton Atlas in Iceland 02:50 - STOP Buying Gore-Tex! (Alpinestars Drystar Iceland Test) 05:14 - Norton Atlas Engine & Styling Breakdown 12:15 - The Real Reason You Can't Buy a Norton in America (Dealership Floor Space) 19:25 - Modern Sportbike Aesthetics vs. Classic Design 24:20 - CFMoto’s Genius WorldSBK Exhaust Loophole 29:20 - 2027 MotoGP Silly Season Grid Breakdown Begins 31:18 - Ducati Lenovo & Aprilia: Marquez, Acosta, Bagnaia & Bezzecchi 34:40 - Factory KTM: Alex Marquez & Di Giannantonio Jump Ship 38:00 - Factory Honda: Quartararo, David Alonso & Diogo Moreira 41:35 - Factory Yamaha: Jorge Martin vs. Ai Ogura (Aggressive vs. Smooth) 45:10 - VR46, Gresini & Trackhouse: Aldeguer, Bulega, Mir & Bastianini 51:10 - Tech3, LCR & Pramac Yamaha Updates 54:40 - Who’s OUT? Miller, Viñales & The Manu Gonzalez Injustice 59:00 - Why Japanese & American Brands Struggle to Adapt Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers📨 Join our email list: https://www.canyonchasers.net/email/☕️ Buy me a Coffee; https://ko-fi.com/canyonchasers💬 Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/MrFMKFVBAH

We dive headfirst into the chaotic waters of the MotoGP rider market and question whether upcoming technical rule changes—specifically the banning of front ride-height devices—are going to completely ruin the opening-lap action we all love. But first, Dave is packing his bags for a brutal weather forecast in Iceland, where he’ll be riding the highly anticipated Norton Atlas across black sand beaches. This trip serves as the ultimate real-world test for his latest gear configuration, sparking a deep dive into why he’s officially over Gore-Tex waterproofing membranes and what he’s using instead. We also break down the fallout from the Sachsenring, look at why Trackhouse is out-performing the factory squads, dissect Fabio Di Giannantonio’s Saturday night aero disaster, and look back at the historical design DNA of the original Ducati Multistrada. Chapters 00:00 – Trident Winner Announced & The Dirtiest Giveaway Bike Ever 01:55 – Heading to Iceland: The Brutal Reality of Video Embargos 08:13 – What is the Norton Atlas? (OG Ducati Multistrada DNA) 11:28 – Why I’m Done With Gore-Tex Gear (Testing Waterproof Membranes) 13:44 – MotoGP Silly Season: The Shocking 2027 Rider Market Chaos 15:27 – Sachsenring Breakdown: Losing the Front & The Tight Title Race 18:38 – Trackhouse Culture vs. Factory Teams 20:05 – VR46’s Saturday Night Aero Disaster: The Diggia Crash Analysis 22:06 – Morbidelli’s Penalty Streak & Alex Marquez to Factory KTM? 25:02 – Gresini’s Epic Retro Movistar Throwback Livery 27:20 – The Moto2 Pirelli Advantage Entering MotoGP 30:18 – Are MotoGP Starts About to Get Boring? (Ride-Height Device Ban)

We are completely all over the map in today’s episode, balancing heavy dose ADHD energy with some deep-dive motorcycle nerdery! First, we unpack the absolute chaos shaking up the MotoGP paddock. From Ai Ogura’s historic, emotional victory as the first Japanese rider to win in the dry in over 20 years , to the mind-boggling news that Pecco Bagnaia turned down a massive $10 million contract with Yamaha to sign a 4-year factory deal with Aprilia. We also look at Jorge Martín's genuine shock over how completely different the Aprilia chassis handles compared to his previous rides , and we debate a wild fan conspiracy theory: Has Yamaha secretly been running an 850cc bike all season? Beyond the track, we dive deep into the garage. We discuss a hidden factory maintenance rule that mandates replacing your rubber brake lines every four years , and why unique firing orders mean a Ducati Panigale full exhaust system costs up to $8,000 compared to a $4,000 Aprilia setup. Finally, we share exclusive details on the ultra-rare KTM 990 Track bike landing in the US and look to the community to help us pick our next giveaway bike under $10,000! Timestamps & Chapters 00:00 - Ripping defeat from the jaws of victory & Ai Ogura's emotional, historic win. 01:55 - Deconstructing Bezzecchi’s Assen crash & Aprilia's aerodynamic downforce threshold. 04:49 - A historically tight championship standings & Pedro Acosta’s battle with carpal tunnel. 06:46 - Trackhouse racing's phenomenal 1-2 sprint weekend & Raul Fernandez's contract leverage. 08:59 - Pecco Bagnaia leaves Ducati: Turning down $10M from Yamaha for a 4-year Aprilia seat. 13:16 - Marc Marquez's retirement timeline & Jorge Martín’s mind-blowing first impressions of the Aprilia. 16:32 - Eurosport demo days: Why the upright Aprilia RS660 is outselling the V4 by a massive 5-to-1 ratio. 22:32 - The modern reality of motorcycle reliability vs. the "Big Four" Japanese bias. 26:10 - The 4-year rubber brake line rule & navigating boiled fluid past catalytic converters. 32:43 - The toothbrush trick for cleaning brake calipers & the rebuildable Brembo Mark II master cylinder. 38:43 - Exhaust dyno shootouts: Why full race systems barely change a BMW but unleash a Panigale V4. 44:14 - Firing orders, 70-degree pin offsets, and the manic "machine gun" feel of a KTM V-twin. 51:12 - Factory weapons: The 25 ultra-rare KTM 990 Track bikes coming to the US & Norton's Atlas GT. 54:35 - The BMW GS "SUV of motorcycles" & the conspiracy behind Toprak's 850cc Yamaha test times. 01:01:33 - Help us pick our next under-$10K giveaway bike: RC51, R nineT, or Honda 1000? Help Us Pick the Next Giveaway Bike! Our Triumph giveaway didn't lose money, which means we get to do it all over again! We are looking closely at a budget under $10,000. Should we hunt down a tidy BMW R nineT GS , a square-bike classic Honda 1000 with a single-sided swingarm , an Aprilia 660 , or a legendary, clean Honda RC51? Let us know what you want to see in the garage next!

The Triumph Trident 660 giveaway ends on June 26, 2026. Watch now to secure your entry before the clock runs out at midnight. https://fanathem.com/canyonchasers Ever wonder why a seemingly "easy" corner causes the most dramatic lowsides? In this episode, we break down the exact riding mistake that causes riders to run out of road, why "lazy" corner entries might be ruining your corner entrance, and the quick fix to keep you on two wheels. We’re also breaking down the massive MotoGP drama at Brno, including the controversial marshal-slapping incident that got a rider banned from the grid, the mind-boggling cornering physics of Pecco Bagnaia vs. Marc Marquez, and an exclusive update on our upcoming adventure bike test in Iceland! TIMESTAMP CHAPTERS 00:00 - Last Chance to Win the Triumph Trident 660 02:45 - MotoGP Brno: The Bezzecchi Marshal Incident & Grid Penalty 04:00 - Smooth vs. Fistfight: Ai Ogura vs. Jorge Martin Riding Styles 08:20 - Tactical Genius: How Marc Marquez Tracks Pecco Bagnaia 28:00 - The Physics of "Backing It In" & Center of Gravity 31:40 - The Counter-Leaning vs. Visibility Trap on the Street 35:30 - Body Position Fixes: Scooting Back & The "Belly Button Flashlight" 42:45 - Why Everyone Crashes at "Blackrock" Corner 54:02 - Recapping Our Mind-Blowing Interview with Norton CTO Brian Gillam 57:40 - Planning an Epic (and Very Rainy) Adventure Ride in Iceland WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE The "Blackrock" Mistake: Why tight, increasing-radius, banked corners trick riders into turning in too early, eating up their exit space, and causing unnecessary crashes. The "Belly Button" Trick: A hilarious but highly effective mental cue to instantly fix your body alignment and face your upper torso into the apex. Stop Being a Passenger: Why track-day riders get lazy with their braking zones and how to actively take charge of the bike to drop your lap times safely. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers

Mastering motorcycle design requires prioritizing the human element. Learn why integrating ergonomics and vehicle dynamics early changes everything. Building a world-class motorcycle from a blank sheet of paper is an audacious goal, mostly because nobody has successfully attempted to do it from scratch in a very long time. Why? Because the engineering isn't just difficult; it’s a high-stakes game of endless compromise where changing one single variable forces you to redesign the entire machine. In this episode, we sit down with Brian Gillen, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Norton Motorcycles, to unpack the mind-bending reality of modern superbike development. Bringing decades of elite industry R&D experience, Brian pulls back the curtain on everything from vehicle dynamics that closely mimic a fighter jet to the industrial chess match required to resurrect a legendary legacy brand. If you’ve ever wondered why motorcycle design is secretly lightyears ahead of the automotive world, this masterclass with one of the industry's top engineering minds is for you. The "Airplane" Physics of Two Wheels: Brian breaks down why motorcycles are dynamically far more complex than cars, dealing with shifting contact patches, telescoping forks, pitch, roll, and yaw all at the exact same time. The Anatomy of Frame Flex: Why traditional Japanese aluminum frames dominate the status quo, and how Norton is experimenting with slender, tube-like spars to change how a bike handles at the limit. A deep dive into the brutal compromises of engine packaging, throttle body angles, and split-bank technology to optimize torque delivery. How the historic revival of Norton Motorcycles is being fueled by TVS’s massive industrial might, giving Brian's engineering team the leverage to compete with OEMs that have a 50-year head start. Timestamps: 00:00 - The Overlooked Element in Motorcycle Design 14:40 - The Problem with Modern Hyperbikes on the Street 21:00 - Why Norton Chose a 72-Degree V4 Engine Architecture 29:35 - Smart Manufacturing: Milling Down Pre-Assembled Castings 40:15 - Weight Distribution, Fork Profiles, and Braking Forces 50:25 - Split-Bank Throttle Bodies & Frame Flex Secrets 54:10 - Resurrecting Norton: The Power of 15,000 Bikes a Day #MotorcycleDesign #SuperbikeEngineering #NortonMotorcycles #BrianGillen #V4Engine #MotoTech #VehicleDynamics Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers

Is MotoGP rider behavior costing the team? We start with 2026 Balaton Park MotoGP race, dissecting Jorge Martín's explosive Turn 1 "bowling ball" crash and the track design flaws that caused it. We celebrate Marc Marquez’s historic 100th Grand Prix win and marvel at Pedro Acosta's heroic flat-tracking style on the KTM. Ultimately, this analysis focuses on the reality of professional racing conduct and the expectations placed on top-tier athletes. Seeing how these outbursts affect long-term brand reputation provides a clearer picture of what it takes to succeed at the highest level of MotoGP controversy. Then, we transition to an ultimate motorcycle safety gear masterclass, answering a burning community question: Do you really need top-shelf, ultra-expensive track gear for everyday street riding? We rank the most critical gear pieces based on real injury data, expose dangerous online counterfeits, and debate the physical and psychological reality of riding with electronic motorcycle airbag vests. Finally, we reveal an exciting insider update about our unexpected [possible] cameo in the upcoming Brad Pitt and Channing Tatum Isle of Man movie, alongside the bizarre Formula 1 aerodynamic glitch that canceled the sidecar races this year. 00:00 - MotoGP Balaton Park: Jorge Martín's Turn 1 Crash 03:18 - Ban the Holeshot Device? MotoGP Regulation Changes 03:56 - Track Design Flaws: Why Chicanes Are Causing Major Crashes 08:06 - New MotoGP Starting Grid Rules & Spacing Disadvantages 09:14 - Pedro Acosta vs. Marc Marquez: Corner Dynamics & Mutual Respect 14:03 - Marc Marquez’s 100th GP Win & Old Man Celebrations 16:42 - Motorcycle Gear Masterclass: Track Kit vs. Cheap Alternatives 21:00 - Helmet Safety Standards, Comfort, and Carbon Fiber Realities 23:26 - The Permanent Injury Ranking Study: Why Gloves Are Priority #2 29:01 - Foot Injury Data & The Evolution of Protective Riding Boots 32:48 - Alpinestars SM-Series vs. $650 Super Tech Track Boots 39:27 - Choosing the Right Riding Jacket: Climate Control & Microclimates 41:56 - From Catcher Pads to Non-Newtonian Armor: Impact Protection 49:57 - Leather vs. Textile: The Truth About "One-Hit Wonder" Gear 53:48 - Riding Pants & The Carhartt Double-Front Safety Hack 55:56 - Electronic Airbag Vests: Why You Feel "Naked" Without One 01:01:51 - How to Score Gear Deals Safely & Avoid Counterfeit Armor 01:03:15 - Don't Be That Guy: Support Your Local Bike Shop & Fit Helments Right 01:04:58 - Hollywood Exclusive: Our Logo Cameo in the New Isle of Man TT Movie! 01:07:21 - Why F1 Aero Underbody Diffusers Canceled the Sidecar Races 01:11:54 - Triumph Trident 660 Giveaway Progress & Outro

Why is Pecco Bagnaia completely destroying his rear tire grip while the Aprilia RS-GP handles corners like a dream? In this episode, we break down the engineering war tearing up the MotoGP championship, from the ruthless Marc Marquez vs Pedro Acosta track battle to the hidden physics of motorcycle chassis design. Topics Covered: Ducati Rear Tire Wear: Why Bagnaia's point-and-shoot riding style puts maximum stress on the rear tire, and how Aprilia found a more balanced, nimble cornering flow. MotoGP Aerodynamics & Aero Wars: The controversy surrounding Aprilia's seat wings, the "scream" logo designed to mock Ducati, and how downforce affects top speed records. Motorcycle Chassis Engineering: A deep dive into frame flex, aluminum frame fatigue (the SN Curve), and why production bikes are moving toward carbon fiber chassis and 3D printed motorcycle frames. Ride Height Devices Ban: The safety risks of holeshot systems and why the paddock must eliminate mechanical launch devices. Liberty Media & Street Circuits: Our unfiltered take on the push for street courses in 2027 and whether it kills the soul of traditional road courses. Triumph Trident 660 Giveaway: How to get bonus entries on Patreon for our custom build featuring active blind spot monitoring and 77GHz radar tech. 00:00 - Focus Issues & Pecco Bagnaia’s Rear Tire Crisis 04:42 - Aprilia’s Petty "Scream" Aero Wing Controversy 06:40 - Paddock Politics: Aprilia Family vs Gigi’s Ducati Dictatorship 1 4:34 - Marc Marquez’s Defensive Mind Games Against Pedro Acosta 23:13 - Real-World Track Test: Ducati 848 vs Aprilia V4 31:45 - The Material Science of Aluminum Frame Fatigue (The SN Curve) 35:46 - Why Motorcycles Heavily Resist Carbon Fiber Frames 46:21 - 3D-Printed Chassis & Aerospace Laser Powder Technology 54:45 - How 100°F Desert Track Heat Mutates Your Bike's Frame 01:00:38 - Toprak’s Massive Fork Lock Crash & Banning Launch Devices 01:08:43 - Liberty Media & The Foolish Push for Street Circuits 01:16:25 - Triumph Trident 660 Custom Radar Build Giveaway

Enter to win the Triumph Triton 660! https://www.fanathem.com/canyonchasers/ Norton Motorcycles V4 Deep Dive: Built for the Road, Imagined at the Isle of Man TT! Looking for the ultimate Norton V4 review? In this episode of the CanyonChasers Podcast, we sit down for an exclusive technical deep dive into the stunning new Norton V4 superbike. Fresh off the exclusive press launch in Spain, we break down everything you need to know about the legendary British brand’s newest 1200cc V4 engine platform and its striking, stripped-back "cyberpunk" aesthetic. Forget the hyper-aggressive track weapons built for racing—Norton has built the ultimate gentleman’s superbike. We analyze the engineering brilliance behind their 72-degree liquid-cooled V4 motor, the integration of premium Marzocchi adaptive suspension, and the incredible real-world street handling that sets this boutique British bike apart from the competition. From the custom top triple clamp design to the unique Knight Rider-inspired LED headlight startup sequence, discover why this hand-built premium motorcycle feels completely different in the flesh. Finally, we transition into a philosophical conversation on motorcycle track safety and risk management. Prompted by the start of the Isle of Man TT practice week , a recent club racing crash , and watching a 13-year-old nephew excel on the big track, we tackle the psychological side of riding. We discuss the dangers of adult riders constantly pressuring youth racers to chase lap times , the shift into a "flow state" or limbic system decision-making under stress , and why the most important goal for any rider should always be precision, safety, and having fun. 00:00 - Triumph Trident 660 & Entering the Motorcycle Giveaway 05:58 - Debunking Track Drama: Radial vs. Axial Mounted Brakes 08:24 - Inside a Global Press Launch: Spain, Embargos, and Airplanes 09:45 - The Heritage of Norton Motorcycles & TVS Financial Backing 13:47 - Aston Martin on Two Wheels: Testing the "Gentleman’s Superbike" 19:58 - Norton's Proprietary 72-Degree V4 Engine & Adaptive Suspension 24:48 - Reductive Cyberpunk Design & US Dealer Network Expansion 34:00 - Club Racing Crash Analysis: Risk vs. Consequence 35:20 - The Isle of Man TT & Decision Making in the "Flow State" 45:26 - Stop Chasing Lap Times: Protecting Youth Racers & New Riders 56:24 - Ride for Yourself: These Are the Good Old Days

Was the 2026 Catalunya MotoGP the most chaotic, stressful, and controversial race of the season? In this episode, we break down the insane emotional toll of the Catalan GP, a race overshadowed by two massive red flags, horror crashes, and high-stakes garage drama. We dive straight into the terrifying Alex Marquez crash after Pedro Acosta's KTM suffered a sudden power loss, and the disturbing Turn 1 multi-bike collision that left Johann Zarco tangled in Pecco Bagnaia’s Ducati wheel. Plus, we analyze the post-race fallout: from Jorge Martin’s furious garage blow-up and sarcastic clapping after his collision with Raul Fernandez, to Pedro Acosta showing elite high character in his post-race interviews despite a brutal final-corner take-out by Ai Ogura. Beyond the trackside drama and Fabio Di Giannantonio’s hard-fought victory, we shift gears into the human brain. How do these young MotoGP riders manage extreme limbic system emotional triggers under pressure? We also dive deep into motorcycle engineering, explaining how a seamless transmission actually works, why track days demand a predictable mindset, and the logistical nightmare of flying internationally with Alpinestars Tech-Air airbag suits and TSA regulations. 00:00 - The Most Violent MotoGP Crash in Years? 01:03 - Alex Marquez & Johann Zarco Injury Updates 03:15 - Pedro Acosta's Defensive Masterclass & Last-Corner Heartbreak 04:21 - The Emotional Toll of MotoGP: High Character vs. Pitlane Tantrums 07:43 - Deconstructing Jorge Martin's Garage Blow-Up 09:21 - The Psychology of Riding: Limbic Brain vs. The Cortex 13:36 - Street Riding Strategy: Why You Should Aim to Be Invisible 17:33 - The Track Day Paradox: Why Being "Easy to Pass" is High Praise 19:28 - Tech Deep Dive: How Seamless Transmissions Actually Work 35:49 - Pneumatic Valves & Desmo Trickle-Down Tech 41:14 - Driving 15 Minutes Out of Seville: Racing in Spain 44:12 - First Look: The Reductive Design of the Secret New Norton 52:23 - The TSA Nightmare: A Complete Guide to Flying with Airbag Suits 01:02:42 - Wrapping Up & What’s Coming Next Week #MotoGP2026 #CatalunyaGP #MotorcycleTech Thumbnail photo credit; © Gold and Goose

Marc Marquez retirement rumors, MotoGP injury updates, and the return of the legendary Norton V4 headline this episode. We dive deep into Marc Marquez’s latest crash, his struggle with radial nerve damage, and whether the "King of COTA" is finally finished. Plus, Dave reveals his "dream gig" traveling to Spain to test the ultra-exclusive Norton Manx. We also discuss motorcycle riding tips for tingling hands, our Triumph Trident 660 giveaway, and why even motor police are attending our advanced rider training. Chapters 00:00 When is it time to hang up the helmet? 03:19 The "fuzzy" front brake: Radial nerve damage explained 06:49 Rider Advice: How to fix numb hands and "shrimp" posture 09:32 The 7 Horsemen of Aging and staying strong for life 12:31 Building stability: Overcoming back pain and sciatica 16:11 GIVEAWAY ANNOUNCEMENT: Win our Triumph Trident 660! 19:45 Trident 660 vs. Honda CB650: A 60-year rivalry 24:35 Track School Recap: From cruisers to Ninja 500s 35:12 Teaching the Police: Why motor officers need track training 42:53 Could we see a "Sport Touring" specific training program? 47:21 Dream Gig: Heading to Spain to test the new Norton V4 51:57 Why exclusive "poster bikes" still matter for innovation 59:13 Special guests and what's coming next

Master trail braking, understand motorcycle physics, and learn advanced riding techniques to stay safe when the "edge of grip" finds you. In this episode of The Braking Zone, Dave sits down with Chip, CEO of Yamaha Champions Riding School (YCRS), to challenge the dangerous "just slow down" safety myth. We break down the motorcycle control secrets of World Championship racers, including chassis geometry, tire load sensitivity, and cornering physics, and explain why these pro-level skills are even more critical for street riders facing unpredictable road conditions. Whether you want to improve your track day lap times or survive a Sunday canyon ride, this deep dive into motorcycle braking, body position, and traction management will change how you approach every corner. 00:00 – Meet the CEO of Yamaha Champions Riding School 01:57 – The Problem with Pedantic Training 03:47 – Psychological Cues: Braking when Nervous 06:14 – Overcoming the Fear of Corner Entry 15:20 – Why Rain is the Ultimate Teacher 19:57 – The Danger of "Just Slow Down" Advice 23:03 – Trail Braking: Not Just for the Racetrack 28:00 – The "Slowest Point" vs. The Apex 49:07 – The Truth About ABS and Cornering 56:48 – Priority One: Front Brake Control 01:04:31 – Analyzing Moto2 and MotoGP Telemetry

Motorcycle Geometry, Anti-Squat Physics, and Handling High Winds Motorcycle Track Day success isn't just about speed; it’s about mastering the physics of your machine. In this episode, we break down why Motorcycle Geometry changes, like dropping your forks just 4mm, can solve front-end vagueness in fast sweepers. We also dive into Suspension Tuning, explaining how Anti-Squat forces prevent your bike from "chopping out" and running wide under acceleration. Whether you're dealing with high crosswinds on a naked bike or trying to fix your corner entry discipline, these technical insights will change how you approach your next ride. 00:00 - Handling 20mph winds on a Motorcycle 04:43 - Why I refuse to use aftermarket air filters 07:46 - The "Relaxation" paradox: How gripping tighter makes it worse 09:46 - Debunking the "Bad Weather Makes You Better" myth 14:24 - The "Perfect Day" trap: Why more riders crash in good weather 18:52 - The most dangerous thing you can do in a slow group 21:09 - Why your eyes are sabotaging your corner entry 24:49 - Can you track a Cruiser? (The chamfered license plate story) 32:39 - "The Line is Past Tense": A better way to plan corners 37:16 - The Dead Moose Test: Adapting when your line is blocked 41:43 - Roll Axis Physics: Why "Low Mass" isn't always better 48:40 - Anti-Squat Explained: Why your bike "choppers out" on exit 52:23 - Fork Geometry: How 4mm of height affects front-end grip 58:59 - The "Security Blanket": Why I can't ride without a thumb brake 01:06:11 - Our Secret Giveaway Bike: "I don't want to get off of this thing" 01:09:50 - 45 Days to Win: Legal details and entry odds

Is the MotoGP paddock about to explode, or is everyone just waiting for a bigger paycheck?In this clip, we’re taking a detour into the messy world of MotoGP contracts. While the rumors are flying—Jorge Martin to Yamaha, Fabio Quartararo to Honda, and Pecco Bagnaia’s "2+2" deal—there’s a massive reason why nothing is "official" yet.We dive into the "Concord Agreement" style gridlock between the manufacturers and the series organizers (Dorna/Liberty Media). The teams are locking arms, demanding a fair share of the TV revenue, and using rider signings as their ultimate leverage.In this video:The Rumor Mill: Where Martin, Quartararo, Marquez, and Acosta are actually headed.The Financial Standoff: Why MotoGP teams are "unionizing" for a better revenue split.The Liberty Media Effect: Is a "Ride to Survive" series actually in production?Aprilia’s Dilemma: Would they take Martin back after last year's drama? (Spoiler: Wins solve everything).What do you think? Should the teams hold out for more money, or is this gridlock hurting the fans? And more importantly... would you finally buy a Netflix subscription for a MotoGP "Ride to Survive" series? Let us know in the comments!#MotoGP #SillySeason #JorgeMartin #FabioQuartararo #TheBraking Zone #LibertyMedia #MotoGP2026 #racingnews Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers

The Physics of Traction Management: Why Your Tire Grip is Dynamic. Motorcycle traction management , tire physics , and MotoGP race analysis take center stage in this deep-dive episode. We break down the friction equation (F=μ⋅N) to explain why contact patch is dynamic and how trail braking and load transfer actually create grip. We also dissect the chaotic Jerez Grand Prix weekend, including Marc Marquez’s controversial crash-and-continue, Jorge Martin’s brake failure, and the "slow burn" success of Alex Marquez . Plus, we introduce Apex Plus , our new coaching program at Utah Motorsports Campus , and discuss the Order of the Sport : why hitting apexes and precision matter far more than body position and dragging elbows. 00:00 Jerez MotoGP Race Highlights 08:21 The Risks of Visor Tear-offs 14:31 Explaining Jorge Martin’s Brake Failure 18:18 Marc Marquez: Injury, Retirement, and Performance 22:21 MotoGP Silly Season and Contract Leverage 28:51 Traction Management: The Physics of Grip 32:41 The Impact of Tire Pressure and Deformation 41:33 Developing Rider Feel in Low-Grip Environments 50:26 Applying Racetrack Physics to the Street 55:53 Prioritizing the Order of the Sport: Hitting Apexes 58:15 Why Corner Exit is Your Top Priority 01:07:11 Launching Apex Plus: Evidence-Based Coaching 01:13:23 The Reality of Body Position and Modern Gear 01:21:13 Conclusion and Wrap Up #MotorcyclePhysics #MotoGPJerez #TractionManagement

We explore the evolving landscape of motorcycle culture, from new legislation protecting our racetracks to the technical mastery required to stay safe and fast on two wheels. We discuss the growing movement to shield motorsport facilities from urban sprawl, the rise of Chinese "gateway" motorcycles, and Honda's decision to open their HRC parts catalog to US consumers. The technical segment features a comprehensive deep dive into trail braking and front tire feel. We break down why an under-loaded front tire is a primary cause of crashes and how proper posture, such as maintaining a "softball" of space at the tank, can transform your riding. Finally, we address the critical safety risks of timing yourself on public roads and provide an update on the motorcycle giveaway. Episode Chapters 00:00:00 Intro and Motorcycle Geometry Recap 00:00:34 Moto GP News and Rider Market Stalemate 00:01:28 MotoAmerica Round 1 at Road Atlanta 00:01:50 Racetrack Protection Laws and Urban Sprawl 00:04:13 Utah Legislation and the Lake Stink Challenge 00:07:33 New Chinese Bikes: The QG Motor SRK 421 RR 00:09:26 Gateway Motorcycles and Entry Point Accessibility 00:13:24 Direct to Consumer Models and Service Pitfalls 00:19:15 Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, and EuroSports Utah 00:20:37 Honda HRC Catalog and Factory Kit Bikes 00:24:36 KTM RCR 990 and the Rise of Track Only Options 00:27:38 Spring Riding Hazards and Eye Speed 00:33:45 Riding Mantras: Wait for the Weight 00:36:35 Visual Lead and the Pac-Man Strategy 00:39:34 Track Posture: The Softball Space Drill 00:48:30 Ergonimics: Handlebars and Lever Customization 00:52:14 Suspension Blueprinting and Building Confidence 00:55:56 Pro Insights: Valentino Rossi's Phillip Island Brake Adjustments 01:00:17 Deep Dive: Trail Braking and Front Tire Feel 01:08:01 Avoiding Crashes: The Under Loaded Front Tire 01:13:06 Safety Alert: Why You Should Never Time Yourself in Canyons 01:16:35 Motorcycle Giveaway Update

Our first track day of the year at Apex Track Days was an incredible experience, feeling like coming home to my own bike and track. It was so good to be back riding bike and enjoying the thrill of motorsports. The day was filled with pure joy on track, a perfect start to the motorcycle racing season. We dive deep into the technical side of motorcycle handling. We settle the "Great MotoGP Clutch Debate"—challenging the experts on how those 300hp rockets actually launch—and break down the "quintessential number" of motorcycle geometry: Trail. Plus, a massive update on our upcoming giveaway bike in partnership with Eurosport Utah. Note on Video Quality: We want to apologize for Brian being a bit out of focus in this one. He claims he was just testing out a new "extreme anti-aging" filter that smooths out everything—including his features—but we think he’s just trying to become more aerodynamic for the next track day. Chapters 00:00 - First Track Day of the Year: Returning to the East Course 01:40 - A New Era for our Home Track: Miller Motorsports Park (UMC) 03:00 - PV3 Ownership and Future Track Investments 06:40 - The History and Heritage of UMC 08:45 - Growing the Sport: Record Attendance for New Riders 10:35 - Helping a Veteran with AlpineStars Tech 15:35 - MotoGP Tech: How Do They Launch Without Looping? 20:00 - The Great Clutch Debate: Mechatronics vs. Hydraulic Damping 31:40 - Geometry 101: Rake and the Importance of the Steering Tube 36:20 - Understanding Trail: The "Quintessential Number" 39:00 - Fork Offset and Its Direct Impact on Handling 42:25 - How Trail Changes Stability and Flickability 46:10 - Rear Ride Height and Swingarm Angle Physics 50:10 - Anti-Squat: Why Your Rear End Rises Under Power 58:35 - Center of Gravity and the "Sweet Spot" 01:06:40 - The Giveaway Reveal: Our Partnership with Eurosport Utah

Is the MotoGP paddock about to explode, or is everyone just waiting for a bigger paycheck?In this clip, we’re taking a detour into the messy world of MotoGP contracts. While the rumors are flying—Jorge Martin to Yamaha, Fabio Quartararo to Honda, and Pecco Bagnaia’s "2+2" deal—there’s a massive reason why nothing is "official" yet.We dive into the "Concord Agreement" style gridlock between the manufacturers and the series organizers (Dorna/Liberty Media). The teams are locking arms, demanding a fair share of the TV revenue, and using rider signings as their ultimate leverage.In this video:The Rumor Mill: Where Martin, Quartararo, Marquez, and Acosta are actually headed.The Financial Standoff: Why MotoGP teams are "unionizing" for a better revenue split.The Liberty Media Effect: Is a "Ride to Survive" series actually in production?Aprilia’s Dilemma: Would they take Martin back after last year's drama? (Spoiler: Wins solve everything).What do you think? Should the teams hold out for more money, or is this gridlock hurting the fans? And more importantly... would you finally buy a Netflix subscription for a MotoGP "Ride to Survive" series? Let us know in the comments!#MotoGP #SillySeason #JorgeMartin #FabioQuartararo #TheBraking Zone #LibertyMedia #MotoGP2026 #racingnews Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CanyonChasers