It all started at an Elks Club in Newport Beach, California, which is where all great motorcycle stories start, right? Fueled by the fire of 12 movers-and-shakers of the motorcycle industry and the optimism of the king of the LeMans Corporation, Fred Fox, the Bagger Racing League (BRL) was born. Heading into its fourth year, founder Rob Buydos and the BRL team is ready to bring bagger racing to the lifeblood of America, from clubman and amateur level racers to the everyday rider.
When the V-Twin industry began the paradigm shift from big wheel baggers to performance-based Harleys and Indians, Buydos took notice. Instead of people spending their hard-earned money on paint and chrome, riders began buying carbon fiber parts, adding top-shelf suspension and bigger, better brakes, modifying engines, and swapping out for lightweight components.
“I needed to make sure that these amazing motorcycles were showcased by people that want to be amazing themselves,” said Buydos. “They’re going to the race schools, they’re going to track days, and they’re doing all the right things to improve their riding skills. They want to build their bikes up and go race against their peers.”
When Buydos first pitched the idea to friends in the motorcycle industry, many thought he was crazy. But they were also selling a bunch of aftermarket parts, making the decision to buy in a little easier. BRL was founded on a mutualistic approach where companies lent others a helping hand to field a team because ultimately, they all wanted to see each other succeed. Of course, the gloves come off as soon as the flag drops but pushing the development of V-Twin performance parts ultimately benefits bike owners, too.
Still, as soon as BRL got Fox’s blessing and was eagerly pushing forward, COVID hit, bringing everything to a halt. When it did eventually get to hold its first event at Laguna Seca in October of 2020, California Gov. Gavin Newsome had issued a special permit for a capacity crowd. That translated to no crowd at all. Despite having no fans in the stands, the first practice session attracted 2.9 million views online, and a phenomenon was born.
The last bastion of Wild West American V-Twin road racing looks forward to offering more classes and opportunities for clubman/amateur races than ever.
“It is truly remarkable to watch these people, guys, and girls, ride these bikes so hard. The talent it takes is phenomenal,” said Buydos.
