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Jason Johnson Rolls Into I-30 Speedway With Points Lead

Nov 20, 2012

Jason Johnson recently won his heat and qualified at the top of the field, at the ASCS Short Track Nationals, at Little Rock, Arkansas. (Photo by Corbet Deary)

Jason Johnson and his crew recently rolled into the I-30 Speedway, near Little Rock, Arkansas, prepared to battle in the 25th annual ASCS Short Track Nationals. Leading in the points race, he was eager to get the three-day event underway.

In spite of the fact that Johnson was scheduled to run on Thursday night, Mother Nature refused to alter her plans. As ominous clouds hovered low in the sky, heavy rains deluged the track. Prior to his first appearance, the call was made to postpone the races until the following day.

Jason Johnson and a field of competitors returned on Friday, with a hunger for the waving a green flag. Although the recent precipitation had left the track wet, one clear sky whipped up with more than forty drivers and a stadium full of fans was the perfect recipe for an action packed evening at the I-30 Speedway.

After winning his heat, Johnson, started fourth in the qualifying round. Taking up where he left off, the driver dominated the field, earning a fourth place starting position in the feature. Again, Johnson had no intentions of doing anything less than taking the checkered flag. That said, he embarked upon an exciting ride, leaving the spectators wound up and eagerly awaiting the final night, when he slipped around Paul McMahan in the twenty-third of the twenty-five lap race. Once taking the lead, Johnson never looked back, and took the checkered flag, assuring a spot in the championship race and a shot at the $15,000.00 awaiting the victor.

As the cold and suspense-filled night air inched over the stadium with darkness, the closing night had arrived. The Short Track Nationals championship race was only hours away. That in mind, after running in the Dash for Cash, Jason Johnson and his crew were zeroed in on one thing and one thing only; they were primed for the final and most important race of the event.

Starting in the top four, the driver found himself in a heated battle as soon as the championship race was deemed underway. The competition was obviously tough, but that was no indication that Jason Johnson would settle for anything less than a win.

As the race progressed the intensity of competition did also, and Johnson remained amongst the front of the pack. But in the blink of an eye things went awry for the driver when the right rear tire went flat.

Although mot winning the ASCS Short Track Nationals Championship race, Jason Johnson Still hold the season points lead. (Photo by Corbet Deary)

"The track was a little different tonight," recalled Johnson at the event's end. "We had a little more track to race with last night, due to the recent rain. We just didn't get the car balanced well enough tonight. My crew has been doing a great job, but unfortunately, you're occasionally going to miss the set-up a little bit. We weren't doing bad though," continued Johnson. "We were running in fourth."

Referring to his flat, Johnson continued, "But when you knock a tire down, it's hard to get over that. Going into turn one, the tire went down. All you can do at that point is call for a yellow and put another tire back on it."

Although the final race of the Short Track Nationals didn't go as Jason Johnson and his crew had hoped for, he was still the points leader at the nights end. With only three more races before the 2012 season is deemed complete, the driver is confident that he can still be the victor after the concluding race of the year.

"Things have been going good, and if we have two good solid weekends, we should be in good shape. We just need to keep doing what we're doing, check over everything to ensure we don't have any failures and have no DNF's," explained the driver. "That's what it all boils down to. We need to make good finishes. The guys are making good calls, so as long as we stay consistent and stay strong, we'll do just fine."

With a possible ASCS points championship on the line, Jason Johnson and his crew will be diligent in keeping their car at its optimal performance. In turn, they'll be depending upon K&N products to keep the internal components of their engine contaminant free.

Jason Johnson and his crew are anticipating success during the final three races of the 2012 season. (photo by Corbet Deary)

"K&N filters have been a key ingredient to making our motors perform at their best," ensured Jason Johnson. "It's obvious when we send our motors back and they are very impressed with how clean our engines are. That's a testimony of how well our filtering systems are performing - not only in the air department, but in the oil filter department also. We swap our oil filters out every other race, and it keeps our engines running night in and night out."

In the world of racing; skill, maintenance and a great crew are all essential components of success. Johnson is also acutely aware of the importance of his fans. When asked the key to pleasing his fans, the driver said, "I just think it's good racing to treat people the way you want to be treated. Treat everyone with respect and be accessible to your fans. I think it's very important to sign autographs and take time to talk with the kids. These people who come out to watch us are the one's who allow us to do what we're doing." In closing, he said, "It's great to have the support that we have, and we definitely enjoy spending time with our fans."

Find K&N products for your 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.

Jared Mees Earns A Victory at Hagerstown in the 31st Annual Hub City Classic

Nov 20, 2012

AMA 31st Annual Hub City Classic racer Jared Mees

Jared Mees and his crew recently embarked upon an exciting and rewarding race at the Hagerstown Speedway, at Hagerstown Maryland. Rolling into the AMA 31st Annual Hub City Classic, Mees knew he had his work cut out for him, as several prominent riders were scheduled to partake in the event. Racing in the GNC Expert class, Mees was not intimidated by the stiff competition. In fact, he made a statement right off of the bat by leading the pace in the qualifying round.

"My confidence level was great,” recalled the rider. "Hagerstown is a track where I excel and I was looking forward to winning this race, as it is a race that my family and friends attend every year. I have raced there since I turned pro. It's a great place.”

With an impressive qualifying time behind him, Mees focused on his heat. Once again the rider attacked the track with vigor, in turn dominating his competition. Earning the pole position in the feature race, Mees was prepared for a fierce battle.

Prior to the waving of the green flag, Mees was already aware of the rider who would likely prove his stiffest competition. Jake Johnson had finished the Dash For Cash in first place earlier on the event, and was suspect of giving Mees a run for his money. Family and friends were in the stands though, and he had no intentions of letting them down.

Jared Mees wasted no time taking the lead when the race was deemed underway. In fact, he quickly distanced himself from the field of eighteen. While Mees had his sights on the finish line, a fierce battle was taking place behind him. Although Johnson was the clear-cut second place driver, Jeffery Carver Jr. Johnny Lewis and Sammy Halbert were all three biding for the last spot on the podium.

Although the impressive match of skills and determination was taking place behind him, the lead rider was focused on one thing and one thing only - the finish line. Upon completing lap twenty, and taking the checkered flag, Jared Mees had not only earned his first victory of the season, but had took the top podium spot during one of his "dream races to win”.

"This place has been on my radar to win,” explained Mees. "I am glad that I got my first win of the season here. It felt good for my family to finally see me win one.”

Referring to his victory over Johnson, he continued, "We both grew up in the same area, so Hagerstown is our home track. Keeping the wheels on line and rolling through the corner better was the key to my victory.”

For a rider to experience success, their bike must obviously be in tip-top running condition. That in mind, Mees considers his team of utmost importance. "We have been together since 2009,” he explained. Since the bikes were so good going into the race we didn't have to change one thing all day.”

Jared Mees and his tram are strong advocates of proper maintenance. They depend upon K&N products to keep the internal components of their engines running contaminant free while still allowing an adequate air and oil flow to handle the rigors of the sport.

"Maintenance is very important,” Mees explained. "I've been using K&N oil and air filters since my career started. They are the best out there.”

Although Jared Mees savored his recent victory at Hagerstown Speedway, he was also aware that the season was a far cry from over. That in mind, he put the race behind him and focused on the remainder of 2012. When asked the key to success throughout his succession of upcoming events, the rider answered, "We have to experience consistent finishes. Our fans can expect us to be on top at the end.”

Find K&N products for your 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.

Sprint Car Driver, Brandon Hahn, Savors His Rookie Season

Nov 20, 2012

Sprint car driver, Brandon Hahn, is a third-generation driver and is eager to follow in his family's footsteps

Some folks are born into situations that will have a huge impact on their lives, and eighteen-year old, Brandon Hahn is the epitome of that exact scenario. From the time Hahn was born, he was around a family of racing enthusiasts. In fact, not only did his grandfather, Emmit Hahn, and his father, Steve, race, but his uncle Tom was also a driver. It would be safe to say that he was engulfed in the sport early, if for no other reason than by affiliation.

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native followed in his family's footsteps and in fact, embarked upon his rookie season as a sprint car driver in 2012. The driver competed in his first sprint car race at Lawton Speedway, and has never looked back. Throughout 2012 the driver has already competed in thirty-six races, the most recent being the ASCS Short Track Nationals, held at the I-30 Speedway in Little Rock, Arkansas.

When asked if he was satisfied with his success as a rookie, the driver said, "Better than I expected. I flipped in my second race, which was discouraging, but from there, things seemed to improve."

Hahn continued, " Winning a Lucas Oil ASCS, presented by MAVTV heat race against Wayne Johnson at the Salina Highbanks Speedway, in Salina, Oklahoma, and getting a top ten at the same track was probably the highlight of my year." Recalling the race, he said, "I was passed by Wayne Johnson on the final lap, and passed him back coming to the checkered flag."

Eighteen-year-old, Brandon Hahn, has experienced thirty-six races during his rookie year, the most recent being the ASCS Short Track Nationals, at I-30 Speedway in Little Rock, Arkansas

One would suspect that as a rookie there is a world of uncertainties out there, and rightfully so. When asked if the more experienced drivers were supportive, Hahn eagerly shared examples, "There were three things that happened at the same track; the Salina Highbanks Speedway. First it was Jason Johnson giving me a hard time about not running the top after he had instructed me to. Second was Dustin Morgan staying on me the whole night about what I did right and wrong. Third was Danny Lasoski, because he took the time to teach me about how the car reacts in dirty air and what to do in order to avoid it."

Regardless of one's occupation, for them to improve in their skill they must first come to grips that they have short comings and secondly, they must be willing to do what is takes to fix what's wrong. With an acute understanding of this, and an eagerness to become a powerhouse in the sport, Brandon Hahn was quick to admit that he lacked patience.

On the other hand, one must also recognize their strong points and use that to their advantage. Again, the young driver has put thought into that aspect of the game as well. When asked his strong point, the driver explained, "I am not afraid to get on the gas and go. In my rookie season, everything is an improvement. The key to success is being able to race almost every weekend and guidance from people like my father and Jimmy Jones has been a great help. For the future - just getting more seat time."

Brandon Hahn, from Tulsa, Oklahoma, is enjoying his rookie year as a sprint car driver

Brandon Hahn obviously has an awareness of the importance of the people around him, and in turn understands the essential role played by his team. "They're very important, because without them, I wouldn't be at the track."

The driver is also mindful of the importance of maintenance. That said, he depends upon K&N products to keep the internal components of his engine running contaminant free. "We use the K&N air box, oil filters and air filter on the rig," he explained. "They are ‘top shelf'."

Referring to his passion for sprint car racing, Hahn continued, "I enjoy the speed, and the fact that I am trying to control something that is seemingly out of control. I plan to run the ASCS National Tour," explained the driver. When asked what fans can expect from Brandon Hahn in the future, his answer was short and to the point, "I'll be coming to a racetrack near you."

Find K&N products for your 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.

Brent and Heidi Schubring's Pilot Transport Camaro Hit the Sweet Spot at 2012 SEMA Show

Nov 20, 2012

Schubring's 800 horsepower Camaro SS at SEMA

When the very first steam powered buggy at long last rolled out of its garage you can bet someone was on hand to say – "This would really look hot with a chrome-covered steam flange, tuck-and-roll seats, and sparkly paint." Souped-up cars are America's automotive art form and no one does it any better. You need to look no further than the 2012 SEMA show to see some of the premier examples of that art form on display once each year. One definitive case in point is Brent and Heidi Schubring's 800 horsepower 2001 Camaro SS.

Brent works as a Program Manager in the OE (original equipment) auto industry, so right off the bat he shares a unique automotive perspective. His connection extends to Joe Parks, the General Manager of Pilot Transport, and a long time friend and car enthusiast. The red banner on their website declares, "We haul cars." Pilot Transport is in fact North America's largest "company driver" delivering over 35,000 vehicles each year to and from plants, ports, rail yards, auto shows, research and development centers, special events and dealerships. Brent was therefore working with a far larger automotive palate than most when he set out to create the Pilot Transport Camaro.

"Pilot has participated over the past three years, and it took some patience and a checkbook over the past two years to get this car ready for SEMA," remarked Brent. "The theme of the car was simply to build a late model boulevard bruiser with a unique power plant combination that was considered a little outside the box."

The most obvious "outside the box" modification to the Camaro is definitely the engine.

The SEMA featured Camaro SS exterior is stock except for a few styling cues to the front fascia

The average fourth generation Camaro community member expects a fast intake configuration, on top of a variety of cubic inch displacements ranging from the stock 346, to a GM Performance LSX 454. "To my knowledge and Kinsler's (Kinsler ITB intake) this is the first of their intakes put under a modified 4th gen cowl," reported Brent.

The Schubring's next major car event for their SEMA Camaro SS is the Hot Rod Power Tour next June

Brent lists his total trust in the brand name as his first reason for choosing K&N, adding "Obviously, the supporting components and investment between the fenders is another reason. Taking a shortcut in a less than adequate valve cover breather didn't make sense. K&N's is a top quality piece."

Brent first started using K&N products back when he was just 16-years-old, driving his first car, a Buick Grand National. "I've been going fast and using K&N ever since and have never looked back," he declared.

K&N News is the first major exposure the Schubring's Pilot Transport Camaro has received being that the car was only completed three weeks prior to the SEMA show.

The intake manifold on this SEMA show car was made by Kinsler Fuel Injeciton and is certainly one of a kind

"We have a private photo shoot set up for early spring of 2013, as winter slowly sets here in Michigan," adds Brent. "In the future though it would be nice to get some magazine coverage." The next major event for Brent and Heidi and their custom SS is the Hot Rod Power Tour in June of next year. By then he says they should have the bugs worked out of this build, and they look forward to many show/go events nationally after that.

"I first took the car apart eight years ago, but life got in the way," admits Brent. "Then during a conversation with my wife one afternoon, she proudly suggested, ‘Well…..if you're going to finish this thing….do it right.' That was pretty much all I needed. The last two years I have been in a full court press to complete it. Missing one completion milestone after another due to a variety of build issues. It's never easy with custom pieces. We were proud to make the '12 SEMA event, and we are looking forward to a wild 2013!"

Brent and Heidi Schubring's Pilot Transport Camaro modifications:

Brent lists his trust in the K&N brand name as the foremost reason in choosing them for his SEMA Camaro SS

The exterior minus a few slight styling cues to the front fascia is stock.
Suspension: Control arms, k-member and rear components are all UMI.
Shocks: Bilstein
Springs: Eibach
Axle: Midwest Chassis 9" (3.70 narrowed 1" per side)
Wheels: 18" Fikse Profils
Engine:
- RHS block – 460" (800hp N/A – flywheel)
- Callies crankshaft
- Lunati rods
- JE pistons
- Mast Inline heads
- T&D rockers
- Crane cam (prototype)
- Kinsler ITB intake
Kooks exhaust (2" headers and dual 3" exhaust system)

Other K&N equipped SEMA Show camaros include the East Bay Muscle Cars' 1967 Camaro, 1969 "Hellcat" Camaro, Christian Van Lewen's Custom Camaro SS, Performance Supply Innovations' Custom Chevy Camaro SS, RCH Designs' 2010 Chevy Camaro SS, RealWheels Maui Jim 2010 Camaro and the 1969 twin turbo Camaro.

Find K&N products for your 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.

Monster Energy Leading Edge Kawasaki has Most Dominant Season in Canadian MX History

Nov 20, 2012

Monster Energy Leading Edge Kawasaki had the most dominant season in Canadian motocross history

Walton Raceway in Walton, Ontario was the venue for the final round of the 2012 CMRC Canadian Motocross Nationals. Matt Goerke had already locked up the MX1 Championship the week before at Sand Del Lee, Ontario. Yet Goerke, not content to rest on his MX1 laurels, went out and put together yet another dominating performance at Walton, earning his 7th win of the nine round series. It was Monster Energy Leading Edge Kawasaki's first ever MX1 title.

Fort Dodge, Iowa's Teddy Maier was next up to bat for a championship at Walton. Maier, who has been with the team since its inception in 2008, made it a clean sweep as he converted his 2-2 moto finishes into the overall win in the MX2 class.

Maier, the 2009 MX2 Champion spent 2011 racing the 450 class, finishing the year in 3rd place.

Teddy Maier completed the clean sweep with his MX2 win at Walton

He specifically dropped back down to the smaller bikes this season to go after his second title. At the end of the 2011 season Maier remarked. "I really enjoyed racing the 450 this past season but I'm looking forward to returning to the MX2 class for 2012. Kawasaki makes a killer 250F and I expect nothing less than another championship."

When we mentioned to Leading Edge Kawasaki's team owner and manager, Jason Hughes, that his 2012 season was one of the most dominating we had seen in a long while, he couldn't help but laugh. "Yeah, this past season was one we'll remember for quite some time! Funny thing is that after the last moto at Walton we didn't really get a chance to celebrate. We were prepping the bikes to go to the Montreal Supercross, because Walton is so close to Montreal, we had the truck stay out till the race a month later."

2012 was Tyler Villopoto’s rookie season

Postponing the celebration turned out to be a wise decision. The 2012 Canadian season reached its traditional finale at Montreal, Quebec's Olympic Stadium. For the K&N supported team this was one last opportunity to stamp an exclamation point on what has been a benchmark season for the Kamloops, BC team. And they did just that, as they were crowned the most dominant season in Canadian history by sweeping Montreal.

With the MX1 and MX2 classes already owned by Goerke and Brigden, Ontario's Cole Thompson, who filled in for the injured Kyle Beaton, the racing still wasn't over for the night though in Montreal. New for 2012 was a Superfinal, featuring the top 10 riders from both classes. Just as in the MX1 main event, Goerke made quick work of the field and rode off to another win.

Maier joined his teammate on the podium as he battled his way to 3rd, and finishing just behind Maier in 4th, and coming off a successful rookie season in AMA Supercross and Motocross, was none other than Thompson on his 250F in one of the best rides of the night.

Kyle Beaton contributed in a big way to the team’s 2012 success

After the race, a justifiably elated Goerke commented, "After last summer's struggles I thought that my Montreal win really turned around my season and set me up for the great year I had this year. I'm glad I could come back and have an even better night tonight, with the addition of the Superfinal. I'm so thankful for how much work the team put in this year to allow me to have such a dream season!"

In his 2012 rookie season Tyler Villopoto also had a remarkable year that highlighted the brilliance we can expect from him in coming seasons. "Yeah, Tyler had a great rookie season," said Hughes. "I think watching Goerke and Maier's experience out on the track helped him a lot for next season. We will have him on the lites bike taking over Maier's position. Maier isn't able to run the lites class again, as he has won it twice now. So he'll be on a 450 next year, and Villopoto will move to the lites class. As for the other two riders, keep watching our Facebook page for updates."