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Greg Ventura relies on K&N, Lucas Oil, Taylor Freezers, Carroll Shelby Goodyear, RaceTrans, Autometer, Aeromotive, Edelbrock, Total Seal Piston Rings, T&D Rocker Arms and Brodix

Greg Ventura, a Material Lifecycle Analyst for K&N air filters, has been drag racing for over 22 years. Having been born into a drag racing family, Greg practically grew up at the drag strip. Greg’s father, Al Ventura, was a well-known figure in the local Southern California drag racing scene. Sadly, Al Ventura lost his battle to cancer in 2012 and his son Greg continues to struggle with the loss. “My father was my best friend, and without his leadership and being the great example he was, I wouldn’t be racing today,” said Greg Ventura.

“Since my dad passed I have struggled a bit with issues with the car and psychologically as a driver. When you’re racing you have to be 100% focused. I’ve gone a few rounds but ultimately I was eliminated due to a bad light or lack of focus,” said Ventura. Greg relied heavily on Al’s experience since the beginning of his drag racing career. With his father’s guidance Greg built his first race car out of a rough Chevy II Nova originally intended to be his daily driver after he was actually old enough to get a driver’s license. Greg said, “My father was my engine builder and did the majority of the mechanics work on our cars. Since he left us, there was quite a big learning curve with the engine and other areas of the car.”

Greg Ventura, a Material Lifecycle Analyst for K&N air filters, has been drag racing for over 22 years but he hit a dry spell after his father Al Ventura lost his battle to cancer in 2012

Luckily Greg has been able to lean upon fellow racers with several of those racers also filling prominent positions in K&N air filters’ research and development departments. One such K&N employee/drag racer who has lent a hand to Ventura on more than one occasion is Kevin McClelland who serves as K&N’s Director of OEM business. In a manner of speaking, Kevin comes from drag racing royalty as many people refer to his father Dave McClelland as “The Voice of NHRA.” “I have leaned on Kevin for a lot of engine building advice, and I know I’ve worn him out with questions at times. But Kevin has been a really big help getting me pointed in the right direction,” said Ventura.

Ventura recently entered a Division 7 NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series event at Auto Club Dragway in Fontana, California. NHRA division 7 covers a large geographical area and consisting of California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. At this particular race there were 74 entries, which resulted in seven rounds of eliminations for the Super Gas class that Greg Ventura competes in. Ventura made quick work of rounds one through four taking out competitors from around the region. However, going into round 5 Ventura knew things were going to get a little tricky. There were still two K&N employees, Steve Williams and Kevin McClelland, as well as one of Greg’s good friends, left in the Super Gas competition and Ventura knew he’d eventually go toe to toe with one of them.

K&N Employee, and longtime drag racer, Greg Ventura earned an emotional win at Auto Club Dragway and dedicated the win to his father and racing mentor Al Ventura

As luck would have it Greg Ventura found himself lined up against his friend and mentor Kevin McClelland in the Super Gas quarter-finals. As Ventura prepared to stage against McClelland at the starting line disaster struck as Ventura’s battery was completely dead and the car would not start. Kevin, as any good friend would, agreed to wait while Ventura got his car jump started. Following that round it was Greg Ventura who got the win and a straight shot into the final round of eliminations. “I know Kevin wasn’t happy to lose. I don’t know any good losers. But I think he was proud to see that I held it together and the car ran well. With his assistance of course,” said Ventura.

As Greg headed to the final round of Super Gas eliminations behind the wheel of his father’s 1966 Chevy II Nova, which he and Al built together in 1998, the fact that complete focus is necessary while racing was never clearer. This time, however, it was Greg’s opponent Dave Mezier who left early with a red-light foul start essentially dropping the race trophy into Ventura’s lap. “Since my dad passed, I’ve struggled while racing. This was a great race to get this rough streak off my back and finally get a win,” said Greg. “I would like to thank K&N for their help and support of my racing efforts as well as Lucas Oil Products, Taylor Freezers, Carroll Shelby Goodyear, RaceTrans, Autometer, Aeromotive, Edelbrock, Total Seal Piston Rings, T&D Rocker Arms and Brodix for their support. I want to dedicate this win to my father Al Ventura.”

Greg Ventura’s 1966 Chevy II Nova is powered by a 565 cubic-inch Chevrolet big block engine. Greg relies on the superior airflow and superior performance of K&N filters both on the track and off. Greg uses K&N Pro Stock Hood Scoop, number 100-8506, in conjunction with K&N Hood Scoop Racing Air Filter, number 28-4210. Additionally, Greg uses K&N wrench-off premium oil filter, number HP-3002, and K&N inline billet aluminum reusable fuel filter, number 81-1005. Find K&N performance parts for your drag racer, grocery getter, or lawn mower at KNFilters.com.

K&N Aircharger air intake system for the 2015-2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L Ecoboost eliminates restrictive factory parts for more HP and torque

Not since the Fox Body Ford Mustang SVO has Ford offered a turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine in its legendary Pony Car. Contrary to most auto makers’ engine line ups, due to an increase in horsepower, torque, and fuel economy, the 2015 and 2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost four cylinder engine is an upgrade over the standard 300 horsepower V6. Ford engineers managed to squeeze an impressive 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque from the 2.3L EcoBoost engine while also earning an EPA estimated 31 highway MPG for the 2015 and 2016 Ford Mustang. Despite the already impressive power numbers of the 2015 and 2016 Ford Mustang EcoBoost, owners searching for an extra boost in horsepower, torque, and acceleration can easily do so with the installation of a K&N Aircharger air intake system 63-2589.

The Ford Mustang has always had a solid live axle rear suspension, however all 2015 and 2016 Ford Mustangs feature new independent rear suspension

Typically, the factory air intake tubing, stock air filter box, and disposable air filter is a significant point of restriction in modern fuel injected cars or trucks, especially those with turbochargers. Because of this fact, K&N has developed an Aircharger air intake system for the 2015 and 2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L Ecoboost to eliminate restrictive factory components by replacing them with a roto-molded HDPE air intake tube coupled to an open element K&N reusable air filter for superior airflow and superior performance. Additionally, the K&N reusable air filter RC-2960 included with the 2015 and 2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost intake is protected by an application specific air filter heat shield to help keep inlet air temperatures (IAT) within factory tolerances.

The K&N reusable air filter, number RC-2960, included with the K&N 2015-2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost air intake is protected by an application specific air filter heat shield

The K&N 2015 to 2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L Ecoboost air intake system 63-2589 is an easy to install performance upgrade that can be completed in about 90 minutes or less using basic hand tools, and by following K&N’s simple step-by-step instructions. It maintains all necessary factory connections and does not require any additional modifications be made to the vehicle for increased performance. In fact, when installed on an otherwise stock 2015 Ford Mustang 2.3L Ecoboost, K&N air intake 63-2589 was shown to make impressive performance gains in horsepower and torque throughout the entire RPM range. On the dyno, K&N observed an estimated peak horsepower gain of 15.72 HP at a very usable 4224 rpm. Even more impressive was the estimated additional 19.85 pound-feet of torque at a low 3,778 rpm. Increased power will require the engine to expend less energy to cruise down the highway, improve acceleration, and allow the Ecoboost engine’s turbocharger to spool up faster.

K&N managed to squeeze out an estimated additional 15 HP and 19 lb-ft of torque from the already fast 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft torque 2015 Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost engine

K&N backs its air filters and air intake systems with a 10-year/million mile limited warranty so owners can rest assured that their intake system can stand up to the most demanding drivers. Whether 2015 oro 2016 Ford Mustang Ecoboost owners use their pony car as a fun to drive, fuel efficient daily driver, or for taking on V8 powered cars on the track, the K&N 63-2589 Aircharger Air Intake system will provide increased performance with better engine sound for years to come.

Performance air intake system 63-2589 is guaranteed to increase horsepower and torque on the Ford Mustang models listed below:

2016 Ford Mustang 2.3L
2015 Ford Mustang 2.3L

Find additional products for your 2015 or 2016 Ford Mustang, such as Ford Mustang Air Intakes, or another vehicle, using the search by vehicle tool on KNFilters.com. To find a dealer near you, please use the K&N Dealer Search function.

K&N replacement air filter, number CM-1314, is precision engineered to replace the factory disposable air filter of 2014-2016 Can-Am Spyder RT 1330 models

Up until 2008 there existed a gap waiting to be filled between traditional two-wheeled motorcycles and other four wheeled vehicles on the road. There are many folks out there who would have enjoyed an open-air riding experience without the hassle of manually shifting the transmission or the threat of toppling over on two wheels. Can-Am, a division of Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), introduced its unique Spyder three-wheeled motorcycle which offers the kind of superb stability and handling two wheels can't, yet still includes all the thrills of an in-the-elements, wind-in-your-face, riding experience. With its distinctive Y-architecture - two wheels in front, one in back - the Can-Am Spyder is a one-of-a-kind way to experience the freedom of the open road.

K&N replacement air filter, number CM-1314, is designed to provide excellent airflow without sacrificing filtration efficiency for 2014-2015 Can-Am Spyder RT 1330 models

At its introduction the Can-Am Spyder was designed as a fun to ride Roadster set up for a spirited afternoon ride. It wasn’t long before Spyder owners began searching for more storage space in order to enjoy their trike on longer rides. Can-Am responded with the Spyder RT series as a touring version of the Roadster, with integrated saddlebags and top case. 2014-2016 Can-Am Spyder RT 1330 owners who enjoy being in the saddle for the long haul can appreciate the superior airflow and superior performance of a reusable K&N air filter. K&N replacement air filters are designed to increase airflow, and reduce restriction for extra performance when fully loaded or riding two-up.

In addition to improved performance, the high-flow pleated design allows for K&N air filters to go longer than stock filters before servicing is required. Plus, the ability to wash and reuse a K&N replacement air filter will save money on parts and maintenance over time. K&N replacement air filter, number CM-1314, is precision engineered to replace the factory disposable air filter of 2014, 2015 and 2016 Can-Am Spyder RT models with simple installation in the factory air filter box and no need for modifications. Dropping in a K&N replacement air filter is one of the most straight forward and easy performance enhancements that 2014-2016 Can-Am Spyder RT 1330 owners can perform.

K&N designs its replacement air filters to achieve a balance of superior airflow, filtration efficiency, dirt capacity, and performance. K&N replacement air filter CM-1314 is designed to provide excellent airflow without sacrificing filtration efficiency. By following ISO 5011 testing protocols during in-house filtration testing, K&N has rated the 2014, 2015 and 2016 Can-Am Spyder RT 1330 replacement air filter at 98.38% efficient overall. Additionally, K&N replacement air filters are backed by a 10-year/million mile limited warranty to ensure that 2014-2016 Can-Am Spyder RT owners will receive superior airflow and superior performance for years to come.

K&N replacement air filter CM-1314 is designed to fit the following Can-Am Spyder models:

2016 CAN-AM SPYDER RT-S SM6 1330
2016 CAN-AM SPYDER RT-S SE6 1330
2016 CAN-AM SPYDER RT SM6 1330
2016 CAN-AM SPYDER RT SE6 1330
2016 CAN-AM SPYDER RT LIMITED SE6 1330
2015 CAN-AM SPYDER RT-S SM6 1330
2015 CAN-AM SPYDER RT-S SE6 1330
2015 CAN-AM SPYDER RT SM6 1330
2015 CAN-AM SPYDER RT SE6 1330
2015 CAN-AM SPYDER RT LIMITED SE6 1330
2014 CAN-AM SPYDER RT-S SM6 1330
2014 CAN-AM SPYDER RT-S SE6 1330
2014 CAN-AM SPYDER RT SM6 1330
2014 CAN-AM SPYDER RT SE6 1330
2014 CAN-AM SPYDER RT LIMITED SE6 1330

K&N replacement air filter, number CM-1314, is designed as a direct cross reference replacement filter for Can-Am part number 707800483.

Find more K&N performance products for your Can-Am Spyder, or other vehicle, using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Brandon McReynolds, in the NAPA Auto Parts Toyota for Bill McAnally Racing, became only the second NASCAR K&N Pro Series West driver in 12 races to win the combination race at Iowa

Brandon McReynolds battled NASCAR K&N Pro Series East points leader William Byron for the lead in the last few laps of the Casey's General Store 150 at Iowa Speedway

Brandon McReynolds earned his first NASCAR K&N Pro Series victory in the Casey's General Store 150 at Iowa Speedway. This race is the first of two annual combination races between the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East and West. McReynolds joins a list of NASCAR K&N Pro Series racers that includes defending NASCAR XFINITY Series champion Chase Elliott, Cole Custer and Brandon Jones as drivers who have won their first NASCAR race in the K&N Pro Series at the Midwest track whose slogan proclaims, "Stars Are Made Here" on their way up to the national series.

Brandon McReynolds, driving the No. 16 NAPA Auto Parts Toyota for Bill McAnally Racing, became only the second NASCAR K&N Pro Series West driver in 12 races to win the combination race at Iowa. McReynolds led twice for 22 laps, including the final eight. William Byron led a race-high 128 laps and finished second overall. Byron will be credited with a victory as the highest finishing NASCAR K&N Pro Series East driver at the Casey’s General Store 150. This was Byron’s second win in four races for the 17-year-old, who won his first career 21 Means 21 Pole Award earlier in the day and is the series points leader.

Brandon McReynolds finally got the first NASCAR career win that eluded him for 34 K&N Pro Series starts in the Casey’s General Store 150 at Iowa Speedway

One autographed K&N Pro Series mini Bell replica helmet will be given away through K&N’s official Twitter feed twitter.com/knfilters after all 28 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East & West races

After the race McReynolds said “It was definitely hard. Me and the 9 battled back and forth. I knew whoever could get a good jump on that last restart would come away with the victory.” Ronnie Bassett Jr. finished third, followed by Jesse Little and McReynolds' BMR rookie teammate Christopher Bell. William Byron extended his K&N Pro Series East points lead to 14 over Austin Hill and 19 over Kyle Benjamin. In the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, Noah Gragson leads Chris Eggleston by a mere four points and Gracin Raz by nine.

It was the 34th career series start for Mooresville, North Carolina, driver Brandon McReynolds, the son of NASCAR on FOX announcer Larry McReynolds. In his first full season last year, McReynolds finished fourth in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West on the strength of five top three runs in 14 races. McReynolds finally got the first NASCAR career win that eluded him in the Casey’s General Store 150 at Iowa Speedway.

Brandon McReynolds is an alumnus of the NASCAR Next program which is an industry initiative designed to spotlight the sport's rising stars. In fact, four of the top 10 at Iowa, William Byron, Jesse Little, Kyle Benjamin and Austin Hill, were recently named to the 2015-16 NASCAR Next class. The next NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race will be the NASCAR Hall of Fame 150 at Bowman Gray Stadium on May 30th. Casey’s General Store 150 race winner Brandon McReynolds and the rest of the NASCAR K&N West series racers will hit the track again during the Shasta 150 at Shasta Speedway also on May 30th.

Travis Wyman made it on the podium at Virginia International Raceway for both MotoAmerica Road Racing events in Superstock 600 in 3rd and 2nd (Photo by Brian J. Nelson)

For eldest brother Kyle, the weekend at Virginia International Raceway began with a big crash and a trip to the hospital near the end of qualifying (Photo by Brian J. Nelson)

It was a hot weekend in Virginia for the K&N air filters supported Millennium Technologies/Kyle Wyman Racing team as the trio of Wyman brothers finished strong in their respective classes for the third round of the AMA/FIM MotoAmerica Road Racing Series at Virginia International Raceway. Supersport competitor Kyle Wyman secured two top-10 finishes while Travis made it four-for-four on the podium in Superstock 600 with a 3rd and 2nd place in races one and two, respectively. Youngest brother Cody scored 16th and 14th place finishes in each Superstock 600 race.

For eldest brother Kyle, the weekend began with a big crash and a trip to the hospital. In the waning moments of qualifying, Kyle Wyman highsided his K&N filters equipped number 33 bike in the turn-two area suffering a bruised forearm and lower back contusions. "Friday was going to plan," Kyle said. "My crew chief Robin Hawley put together a great qualifying strategy and I was gaining a lot of confidence with the bike. It was in the last few moments of qualifying where I ended up crashing while trying to hold on to the back of a faster rider. I was super bummed to see my Millennium Technologies bike tumbling."

The youngest of the Wyman brothers, Cody, scored 16th and 14th at Virginia International Raceway for both MotoAmerica events in Superstock 600 (Photo by Brian J. Nelson)

X-rays turned up negative for fractures after a trip to Danville Regional Medical Center, and Kyle lined up for Saturday's race in 7th position on the grid. With two great starts and climbing as high as 4th place in race two, Kyle finished 8th place in both races for the event on his K&N filters equipped Millennium Technologies motorcycle. "I can't be too disappointed with how the weekend ended," Wyman added. "Saturday's race was really tough for me physically. My back was so stiff that it was hard to change direction of the bike, and VIR is the wrong track to have that problem, especially with the heat and a 23-lap race. Sunday's race went better for me, but I was still in conservation mode. We still made great progress with the bike, and my KWR team stood behind me all weekend. I can't wait for the next round at Road America."

Saturday's first Superstock 600 race was a hot 18-lap final with Travis and Cody Wyman starting on the grid in 3rd and 19th respectively. Travis Wyman settled into a trio-breakaway aboard the number 24 K&N equipped Superstock 600 motorcycle with series rivals Joe Roberts and Richie Escalante, whom he had shared the podium with at the opening round at Road Atlanta. "I got off to a good start in the beginning and just tried to hang on to the pace of Joe and Richie," Travis said. "Unfortunately we ran a little too low of tire pressure and my tire went off after about three laps. Those guys were riding well but I was happy to come away with another podium finish."

Following a crash in qualifying Kyle Wyman lined up for Saturday's race in 7th position on the before finishing in 8th place for both races of the MotoAmerica event (Photo by Brian J. Nelson)

Superstock 600 race two appeared to mimic race one in the opening laps, with the same trio of riders breaking away at the front. However, on lap three Joe Roberts crashed, leaving Travis Wyman and Escalante to fight it out for the win. Travis held on to Richie for a number of laps, until a big moment lost him some time. "Once Joe went down I was just following Richie, studying his lines," Travis said. "I was trying to figure out where he was faster, and where I was faster. When I had that moment in turn one it threw me out of rhythm and from there I settled into second place. I'm happy to have four podiums in four races."

Meanwhile, Cody Wyman progressed from his 16th place finish on Saturday to a 14th place finish in Sunday's final aboard his number 11 K&N filters equipped Superstock 600 bike. "We struggled early on and spent the weekend playing catch up," Cody said. "My team was working really hard with me and we improved drastically each session. I am getting more comfortable with the bike and I cannot wait for Road America."

In the MotoAmerica Supersport championship standings, eldest brother Kyle moved from 9th overall to 7th in the points after this weekend's races. In the Superstock 600 category, Travis and Cody currently sit 3rd and 19th respectively. The series heads next to Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin for the fourth round of AMA/FIM MotoAmerica road racing May 29-31, 2015.