Kane Friesen has moved into the ranks of the few with a factory sponsorship package from Kawasaki. The 24-year-oldresident of Las Vegas will ride the all-new 2007 ZX-6R in closed-course stunt competitions. He'll be Kawasaki's first official competitor in street extreme stunt competitions and will attend closed-course stunt-riding exhibitions, competitions and "bike night" gatherings across the nation.
Though probably best known for his flamboyant style and pink garb, Friesen will now represent the green as Kawasaki's first ambassador to the sportbike stunt community where he'll be expected to promote legal, responsible riding and discourage stunting on public roads.
"It's an honor to be given this opportunity as a stunt rider. The support of such a large and respected company is validation of my efforts, and it's exciting to see this sport finally receiving attention from a major manufacturer," said Friesen, adding, "I hope the Kawasaki sponsorship helps me set an example for those looking to get into this sport, as well as to the fans. To be successful at this, a rider needs to practice and compete in a safe and responsible manner, or the big manufacturers won't touch you."
Kawasaki Team Green Manager Reid Nordin explained, "The ZX-6R is one of our top-selling models and we understand that not all buyers race or try to emulate a racer. However, with bike nights becoming so popular across the country, it is a natural fit for Kawasaki to be associated with Kane. He's been a key factor in raising the stunt-rider image to a high level of professionalism. Whether it's on the track, in stunt competitions or attending a bike night, Kane and Kawasaki are both on the same page when it comes to safe-riding issues."
Passing Buell Bucks
Buell Announces Million-Dollar Racing Contingency Program
The Buell Motor Company was founded and is run by a racing enthusiast who is equally passionate about his machine. With over a million bucks in cash contingencies, there is an obvious interest in pushing the product at racers competing with the XBRR and XB models.
"We're committed to supporting our dealer and privateer teams through this contingency program and through trackside and technical support managed by our own Henry Duga," said Erik Buell, chairman and chief technical officer of Buell Motorcycle Company. "Nothing makes me and Henry happier than helping privateer Buell racers achieve their goals. And we're proud to support their efforts."
The 2007 Buell contingency program will reward Buell racers competing on all XBRR and 2003 and newer XB model motorcycles. For a complete listing of classes offering cash, check out www.buell.com.