The Progressive American Flat Track season is reaching its climax, and all eyes are on the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. The Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT set for Saturday, August 8, promises to be a thrilling showdown in the KICKER AFT Singles class. Reigning champion Tom Drane of Estenson Racing Yamaha is on the verge of making history, with his sights set on another record-breaking performance.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is renowned worldwide as a premier destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. This year’s event will feature a host of activities, including a V-Twin Visionary Ride-In Bike Show a Strider race for kids, and big-screen viewing. The festivities will be further enhanced by the presence of NASCAR legend Mike Skinner who will serve as the Grand Marshal, adding to the event’s prestige.
Tom Drane’s Dominance and the Quest for History
Tom Drane has been an unstoppable force in the KICKER AFT Singles class, securing five consecutive victories. His impressive run has positioned him as a strong contender for the title of the greatest rider in the class’s history. With the most career wins and the most consecutive podiums to his name, Drane is just one victory away from claiming a share of the longest win streak in class history.
Despite his remarkable achievements, Drane’s dominance at the Super TT events has been limited. Of his 26 career wins, only one has come at a TT event, which occurred at the 2026 Peoria TT. This victory made him just the sixth rider to complete the KICKER AFT Singles Grand Slam. Drane’s background as a standout road racer gives him the skills to excel at TT events, and he has consistently demonstrated the pace to compete at the highest level.
Chase Saathoff’s Quest for Redemption
Chase Saathoff a long-time rival of Drane, is eager to make his mark at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Saathoff secured a victory at last year’s Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT capping off a spectacular week with a 1-2-1 finish. Despite achieving eight podiums this season, Saathoff is still seeking his first victory of 2026. With a comfortable lead over third-ranked Kage Tadman Saathoff is poised to challenge Drane’s winning streak at a track where he has previously triumphed.
Key Contenders and Dark Horses
Bradon Pfanders had a memorable Super TT last year, securing his first career Progressive AFT podium. Although he initially finished fourth, he was elevated to third after Aidan RoosEvans was disqualified. Pfanders has since claimed his maiden KICKER AFT Singles victory at the DAYTONA double season opener earlier this year. With a string of strong finishes, including fifth, fifth, and sixth in his last three races, Pfanders is well-positioned to contend for another podium at Sturgis.
Trevor Brunner a preseason title hopeful, has experienced a slump in recent races, finishing eighth or lower in six consecutive events. Known for his decorated career, Brunner is tied with Saathoff for the most TT wins among active riders. A victory at Sturgis could boost his confidence and propel him back into title contention.
The KICKER AFT Singles class has a history of surprising winners. Tadman secured two victories in 2026, and Pfanders pulled off an upset earlier this year. Tarren Santero has come close to victory on multiple occasions and could be a dark horse at Sturgis. Other contenders include Jared Lowe who performed strongly last year, and Walker Porter who has been a consistent front-runner this season. Additionally, rookies Jack Brucks and Jett Katarzy will make their Super TT debuts, while Bronson Pearce a long-time Supermoto ace, is expected to be at the top of his game.
Event Details and How to Watch
The Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT and the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track offer a variety of ticket options. General Admission tickets are available for just $25 each round, while General Admission Grandstand tickets are priced at $53 per round. Reserved Grandstand tickets can be purchased for $64, and students can obtain a GA Grandstand ticket for $20 with a valid ID. The Harley-Davidson VIP Experience priced at $135, includes exclusive seating, a rider meet-and-greet, an infield tour, and Harley swag. An exclusive AFT Hospitality Tent, limited to 30 guests, offers prime sightlines, food, and drinks all day for $125.
For those unable to attend in person, the action can be streamed live on FloRacing which offers over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FOX Sports will also provide national television coverage of select events, featuring in-depth race coverage, rider features, and onboard cameras.
