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Saddlemen Race Development has announced its plans for the upcoming MotoAmerica championship, featuring a competitive lineup of riders on high-performance Harley-Davidson motorcycles. As the team prepares for its sixth full season, it aims to apply its extensive experience to excel in the King of the Baggers and Super Hooligan classes.
Team overview and rider lineup
Since its founding, the Saddlemen team has been instrumental in the MotoAmerica series, having participated in the inaugural King of the Baggers race at Laguna Seca. For the next season, the team will enter two Saddlemen Drag Specialties Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited motorcycles in the King of the Baggers class and will also field three modified Harley-Davidson Pan America ST bikes for the Super Hooligan series.
Returning champions
Among the riders returning for the upcoming season is Cory West (13), who will compete in both divisions. As the reigning champion of the Super Hooligan series, West is determined to reclaim his title. His extensive experience and established partnership with Saddlemen have significantly enhanced the performance of both the Road Glide and Pan America models, allowing him to push their limits on the racetrack.
Also returning is Jake Lewis (85), who enters his fourth season with the team. Lewis narrowly missed winning the Super Hooligan championship by just four points, positioning him as a strong contender in both classes. His impressive track record features multiple championship victories, and he aims to add another title to his accomplishments.
New talent joins the roster
The accomplished James Rispoli has joined the team for the upcoming season. Rispoli, known in racing circles as ‘Hogspoli,’ is a seasoned racer with extensive experience. He enters the season as the reigning Super Hooligan National Champion, claiming the title in 2025.
Rispoli brings a wealth of accolades, including a Bonneville land speed record and several professional roadracing championships. His addition is seen as a key move, completing what many are calling the Super Hooligan dream team, which also includes racers West and Lewis.
Strategic partnerships and innovations
Saddlemen Race Development’s achievements are supported by strong alliances with major brands such as Harley-Davidson, Screamin’ Eagle, and Mission Foods. These partnerships provide the team with access to advanced resources and support, essential for their pursuit of success on the racetrack. The motorcycles undergo meticulous modifications to meet MotoAmerica regulations, featuring cutting-edge carbon fiber bodywork and innovative engineering solutions that enhance performance.
Racing remains a crucial component of Saddlemen’s product development strategy. By participating in various motorsport disciplines, including flat track and land speed records, the team collects valuable real-world feedback that informs their consumer product offerings. This dedication to innovation has established Saddlemen’s reputation as the “Gel Seat Experts,” with their new Performance Carbon Fiber line, developed alongside their racing program, now available for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts.
Looking ahead: a competitive season
As the 2026 MotoAmerica season nears, the Saddlemen Race Development team is intensifying its focus on success in both premier classes. With a combination of seasoned riders and cutting-edge technology, they are positioned to challenge their competitors and strive for podium finishes.
Fans can anticipate an exciting season characterized by fierce competition, strategic racing, and an unwavering drive for victory. The team’s commitment to innovation and motorcycle refinement ensures they will be a formidable contender in the upcoming championship.
Updates on the Saddlemen Race Development team will be available as they prepare for what is expected to be an electrifying 2026 MotoAmerica season.