Argomenti trattati
Irving Vincent, the renowned Australian motorcycle engineering team, has announced plans to compete at Daytona International Speedway during the upcoming MotoAmerica Super Hooligan series. This event marks a significant return for the team, as it has been 18 years since their victory at the same venue in 2008, demonstrating their enduring commitment to motorcycle racing.
The foundation of Irving Vincent was established by the Horner brothers, Ken and Barry, who turned their passion for engineering and motorsport into a legacy of exceptional motorcycles. Their crowning achievement occurred when Craig McMartin piloted their handcrafted air-cooled V-twin to victory, securing the team’s place in road racing history. With nearly two decades since that landmark moment, the team is poised to face modern competition.
Preparing for the challenge
As the team prepares for Daytona, they have engaged in a rigorous program of club-level competitions and testing. This effort aims to evaluate their current motorcycle against contemporary machinery. Ken Horner expressed confidence in their preparations, stating, “We needed to assess our standing and ensure we were competitive. I can confidently say that we are ready to face the challenge ahead.” This meticulous approach underscores their commitment to delivering a strong performance on the renowned high banks of Daytona.
Customizing for competition
For the upcoming event, Irving Vincent has developed two distinct motorcycles specifically designed for the Super Hooligan category. However, due to event regulations, they will compete with only one of these machines at Daytona. The MotoAmerica series has officially recognized their platform’s eligibility, allowing the two-valve air-cooled Australian V-twin to return to the upper echelons of American racing.
One motorcycle in contention features a proven 1620 cc air-cooled V-twin engine, while the other has been upgraded to 1760 cc. This enhancement is designed to improve durability, particularly under the sustained full-throttle conditions typical of Daytona. Both bikes are being meticulously assembled in Irving Vincent’s Melbourne workshop, with a strong focus on reliability, cooling efficiency, and chassis stability as they prepare to tackle the demanding track.
Experienced hands at the helm
Australian rider Beau Beaton will pilot the bike during the Daytona race, bringing significant experience to the team. Craig McMartin will return as Beaton’s crew chief, marking a poignant comeback to the event where he previously achieved a monumental victory. This continuity in leadership is expected to bolster the team’s performance as they strive for success on the track.
Logistical support and strategy
Irving Vincent’s campaign benefits significantly from the engineering expertise of the Horner brothers, who operate K.H. Equipment in Houston, Texas. This facility serves as a strategic launch point for their efforts in Daytona, enabling efficient transportation of equipment and allowing for quick adaptations to any emerging racing opportunities in the United States. “Houston becomes our operational hub. The containers will be shipped directly there, and from there, we’ll transport everything to Daytona. After the event, we will evaluate our next steps,” Ken Horner stated, highlighting their strategic planning.
The return of Irving Vincent to Daytona in 2026 marks a strategic re-entry into the demanding world of road racing. With a combination of seasoned expertise, continuity, and a meticulously tuned motorcycle, the team is set to make a notable impact on the starting grid.
About Irving Vincent
Irving Vincent is an innovative motorcycle engineering company based in Australia, founded by brothers Ken and Barry Horner. The company honors the legendary engineer Phil Irving, who co-designed the iconic Vincent V-twin. Specializing in modern racing motorcycles, Irving Vincent draws inspiration from classic designs. Each machine is carefully engineered and handcrafted in-house, blending historical elements with state-of-the-art performance capabilities. The team also has a significant presence in elite sidecar racing.