Have you ever wondered what the superstars of professional Flat Track racing think after a season-long battle for the title? We talked to some of your favorite athletes and asked them what they thought about the season. Take a look at what they had to say coming off 2016 and what they're looking forward to in 2017.
Jake Johnson – No. 5 Zanotti Racing Harley-Davidson XR750
“We had a bit of an up and down season. We started strong with a win at the DAYTONA II but weren’t able to carry that momentum into the rest of the season. The whole Zanotti team kept pushing, we had some decent finishes, but I feel we never showed our full potential. I’m really looking forward to 2017 and making a strong run towards the Championship.”
Cory Texter – No. 65 Cory Texter Racing Kawasaki Ninja 650
“The 2016 season was very long, but exciting. I had my work cut out running my own team, racing my own motorcycles and traveling across the country in a van competing against the best in the business. We had a couple of podium finishes, but we also had quite a few mechanical issues and bad luck throughout the year. The goal for next season is to tighten up on those mistakes and contend for podiums and wins on a more consistent basis.”
Henry Wiles – No. 17 USC Racing Kawasaki Ninja 650
“I had a positive 2016 season. I was able to get three top-five finishes on Miles along with winning my 12th race in a row at the famed Peoria TT. I’m looking forward to racing the twin motorcycles on TT-style races in 2017. Especially the series opener at Daytona.”
Sammy Halbert – No. 69 Lloyd Brothers’ Motorsports Ducati Hypermotard 1100
“This year started off great for me with a win at the season opener and podiums to follow at the next couple of rounds; only to have things go downhill from there for various reasons. Looking forward to having a fresh start in 2017 aboard a new team.”
Briar Bauman – No. 14 Weirbach Racing Kawasaki Ninja 650
“It was a difficult season but we made it through. Had some highs and some lows. Really looking forward to 2017.”
Brad Baker – No. 6 Factory Harley-Davidson XR750
“2016 wasn’t one for the record books for myself but it was definitely a season that I can take a lot out of to better and further my career. I feel like I have been being tested these past three seasons getting me ready for something great. In 2017, I am starting fresh with a new team, new bike, new rules and hopefully new beginnings. I am stronger and more talented than I have ever been before, I cannot wait to get the season underway in Daytona come March.”
