SEPT. 27, 2010 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS CAPS SEASON WITH THREE CONSECUTIVE TOP 5 FINISHES; 4th IN XR1200 CHAMPIONSHIP   Waukesha, Wisc. (Sept. 27, 2010) – James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished the AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 season with three straight 5th place finishes at VIR, New Jersey Motorsports Park and the season finale at Barber Motorsports Park to secure 4th place in the series championship. The team also provided technical and crew support for UK’s XR1200 Trophy champion and former MotoGP rider Jeremy McWilliams at Barber Motorsports Park, who won the race held in full wet conditions. James qualified 8th at Barber in dry conditions, with the help of a tow from McWilliams, who qualified 3rd.   “We learned a lot this season and had a great time,” said rider and team co-owner Paul James. “We’ll build on that momentum for the 2011 Vance & Hines XR1200 class and we’re looking forward to the season opener at Daytona with great anticipation.”   “Barber was a totally fantastic weekend for the whole team,” said McWilliams. “Just two weeks ago I smashed myself up a bit in Spain, so the wet weather probably played into my favor. But I was confident either way. My thanks to John Dahmer and the crew from James Gang/Hoban Brothers as well as Warr’s Racing. I’d love to come back again next season if the opportunity comes up.”   “What a way to end our season," said Team GM and co-owner John Dahmer. "Jeremy was awesome to work with and winning was the icing on the cake. I'm so happy for him as he was about as beat up as a racer can get. For him to go out and do what he did showed us all his amazing amount of determination. Paul put up a strong finish in the wet and Martin Szlagowski from Warr's and the entire James Gang/Hoban Brothers team worked hard to put on a good show. Great competition and a level playing field is what this XR class is all about.   The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series will return in 2011 with more rounds, including Daytona International Speedway as a support class for the Daytona 200 and Miller Motorsports Park as a support class for the World Superbike weekend. The team is currently seeking sponsor support to contest the entire XR1200 series, and perhaps to compete in a round of the UK’s XR1200 Trophy series.   For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing   The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai helmets, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks. AUG. 16, 2010 SEASON BEST FINISH FOR JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING AT VIR   Waukesha, Wisc. (Aug. 16, 2010) – James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing rider Paul James had his best result to date in the new AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 series with a 5th place finish in the third round held at Virginia International Raceway. The team also provided technical and crew support for Cycle World Magazine’s Mark Cernicky who crashed out of the race unhurt aboard the #72 HOG Racing XR1200. Cernicky and James qualified 7th and 8th respectively and worked together to get up to speed on the challenging 2.25-mile VIR North Course layout. James currently sits 7th in XR season points, just 7 points out of the top 4.   “I’m starting to get more comfortable with the bike, but I need to work harder on my set up and get up to speed faster during practice and qualifying in order to be more aggressive come race time,” said rider and team co-owner James.   The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series resumes September 3-5 at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ.   For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing   The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai helmets, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks. JULY 18, 2010 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS BACK ON TRACK AT MID-OHIO   Waukesha, Wisc. (July 18, 2010) – James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing bounced back from a disappointing DNF debut in the AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 series with a 7th place finish in the second round held at Mid-Ohio. The team also provided technical and crew support for Shawn Higbee who finished second aboard the HOG Racing XR1200 after crashing twice during practice and qualifying. James qualified 8th and chased former Daytona 200 winner John Ashmead for most of the race until fading near the end.   “It’s going to take a bit more seat time for me to get up to speed, but it sure felt good to finish the race and score our first points in the series,” said rider and team co-owner Paul James. “And congrats to the entire team for helping Shawn Higbee finish on the podium!”   The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series resumes August 14-15 at Virginia International Raceway in Danville, VA.   For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing   The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai helmets, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks. JUNE 6, 2010
JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS KNOCKED OUT OF AMA PRO VANCE & HINES XR1200 CLASS DEBUT   Waukesha, Wisc. (June 6, 2010) – The James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing team had a rough outing when rider Paul James was knocked out of the AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 series debut race at Road America after getting tangled up with two other riders on the restart of the race. James suffered minor injuries after crashing heavily due to handlebar to handlebar contact and was unable to make the final restart. He qualified 8th and ran as high as 6th on the first start of the race before it was stopped after two laps due to oil and a bike down in Turn 5.   "Despite the disappointing result for us in the debut of the series, the class was really fun and competitive and we're looking forward to seeing more teams join in as the season progresses," said rider and team co-owner Paul James.   "We worked really hard on our set up with limited track time and steadily gained speed and confidence," said team general manager and co-owner John Dahmer. "The learning curve is steep, but we feel we have a good baseline for Mid-Ohio."    The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series resumes July 16-18 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, OH.   For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing   The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks. MARCH 9, 2010 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS FINISHES 16th IN DAYTONA 200; ANNOUNCES INTENT TO ENTER NEW VANCE & HINES XR1200 CLASS   Waukesha, Wisc. (March 9, 2010) - Following a solid 16th place performance in the 69th running of the Daytona 200, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing has announced plans to enter the new AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 class. The team intends to continue campaigning Buell 1125R motorcycles in select AMA Pro Daytona SportBike rounds this season and is searching for additional sponsorship to help the team develop and race Harley-Davidson XR1200s.   "It was truly a dream come true to finish in the top 20 of the Daytona 200," said rider and team co-owner Paul James. "As a bonus, our team helped Shawn Higbee build his Buell 1125R and crew for him during his 8th place run."   AMA Pro Racing's recently announced Vance & Hines XR1200 spec class will provide a new challenge for James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing.   "We have some experience running 883 Sportsters back in the days of the AMA Harley-Davidson Twin Sports class," said team general manager and co-owner John Dahmer. "And we're excited to put a competitive program together for the new XR1200 spec class."   James Gang/Hoban Brothers is a national championship winning race team with three AMA Pro podium finishes aboard Buell 1125Rs, including a class win at Road America in the recently retired Moto-GT endurance series, and a 16th place finish in this year's 69th running of the Daytona 200.   For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing   James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Erik Buell Racing, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. JANUARY 27, 2010 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS ENTERS BUELL IN DAYTONA 200   Waukesha, Wisc. (Jan. 27, 2010) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing has entered a Buell 1125R in the 69th running of the Daytona 200, held under the lights of Daytona International Speedway on the evening of Friday, March 5.  The Daytona 200 is the season opener for AMA Pro Racing's Daytona Sportbike class as well as its longest race with pit stops, fuel fills and tire changes.   James Gang/Hoban Brothers is an experienced endurance racing team with three podium finishes aboard Buell 1125Rs last season, including a class win at Road America, in AMA Pro Racing's now discontinued Moto-GT endurance series.   "Competing in the Daytona 200 has always been a dream of mine and I'm grateful for this opportunity," said rider and team co-owner Paul James. "And all of us on the team are die-hard Buell fans, so we're excited to put a Buell in the field."   For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing   James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. OCTOBER 17, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING FINISHES UP AND DOWN SEASON   Waukesha, Wisc. (Oct. 17, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished ninth in the 8 Hours at Daytona AMA Pro Moto-GT season finale and fourth in the championship after a season long roller coaster ride of highs and lows. The team earned three podium finishes including a win at Road America, but also posted three non-points finishes including both Daytona events.   AMA Pro Superbike racer Shawn Higbee once again rode with the team after filling in for Jeff Johnson at New Jersey. Higbee set the team's quickest time in qualifying, and led most of the session only to slip to third behind AMA Pro superstars Josh Hayes and Martin Cardenas. Higbee also rode back to back stints to open the race and ran solidly in third until a series of mechancial failures knocked the team out of contention.   Higbee was near the end of his second stint when a rear wheel bearing failed and had to return to the pits in the crash truck. The team replaced the rear wheel and rejoined the race quickly, but lost valuable laps to the leaders. Later the engine started to let go, but the team worked hard to replace the engine and got back in the fight in just 90 minutes. A small radiator leak caused a long stop later in the race, but the team still ran strong into the night, often times the quickest bike on the track.   "We had a great qualifying effort and a strong early run going with Shawn on board," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James.  "The 8 Hours at Daytona is always a tough race. But this team never quit and we fought hard to the end and finished the race. We learned a lot this season, and we're proud of our podium finishes, especially the win at Road America."   Although the championship was locked up by Crozier Motorsports at New Jersey, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing had the chance to move up to second place, especially when the second and third place teams went out early with issues. But in order to score any points, the team needed to finish 70% of the laps of the overall leader and missed the cutoff by about four laps.   The race was won by Westby Racing Yamaha and riders Josh Hayes, Dane Westby, Jeff Wood and Dustin Meador.    For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing   James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.   For more information on Higbee Racing go to: www.higbee-racing.com or follow him at: www.twitter.com/shawnhigbee   Higbee Racing sponsors include: Bartels' Harley-Davidson/Buell, Shoei, PILOT, Vortex, Traxxion Dynamics, Pit Bull, EK and Taylormade Racing. SEPTEMBER 5, 2009 NEW JERSEY PODIUM FOR JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING Waukesha, Wisc. (Sept. 5, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished third in the AMA Pro Moto-GT1 2-hour endurance race at New Jersey Motorsports Park, scoring the team's third podium finish of the season.  AMA Pro Daytona SportBike and American Superbike racer Shawn Higbee filled in for regular team rider Jeff Johnson. Higbee helped the team set the bike up for the New Jersey course, qualified fourth and rode the first and last stints. "It was awesome working with Shawn this weekend," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "He's a true professional and it was great to tap into his racing experience and set up knowledge." Although the championship was locked up by Crozier Motorsports with one round remaining, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing moved up to fourth in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points and is just 11 points out of second place. For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. For more information on Higbee Racing go to: www.higbee-racing.com or follow him at: www.twitter.com/shawnhigbee Higbee Racing sponsors include: Bartels' Harley-Davidson/Buell, Shoei, PILOT, Vortex, Traxxion Dynamics, Pit Bull, EK and Taylormade Racing. SEPTEMBER 1, 2009 SHAWN HIGBEE JOINS JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS FOR NEW JERSEY AND 8 HOURS AT DAYTONA Waukesha, Wisc. (Sept. 1, 2009) - AMA Pro Daytona SportBike and American Superbike racer Shawn Higbee will join James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing in the AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at New Jersey Motorsports Park and at the season finale 8 Hours At Daytona. Higbee will ride with Paul James in place of his teammate Jeff Johnson at New Jersey this weekend as Johnson and his wife Rita are expecting the birth of their first child. Higbee, James and Johnson will race together during the 8 Hours At Daytona on Oct. 17. Highlights of Higbee's pro career include championships in the Harley-Davidson Twin Sport series and the F-USA Unlimited Superbike series, 7 AMA Pro Thunder race wins, 2 Moto-ST overall wins, 3rd place in the Macau GP, and a 5th place finish in the 2009 Daytona 200. "I've been a fan and friend of Shawn Higbee for years, and I'm really looking forward to riding with him," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "The Moto-GT championship may be out of reach, but we're going to be a threat to win these races and move up the championship order." "I appreciate the opportunity to be part of such a close knit and quality team," said Shawn Higbee. "They've shown the Buell 1125R can win in Moto-GT competition, so I'm excited to help them finish up the season." With a class win at Road America and a podium finish at Mid-Ohio, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing currently sits fifth in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points. For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. For more information on Higbee Racing go to: www.higbee-racing.com or follow him at: www.twitter.com/shawnhigbee Higbee Racing sponsors include: Bartels' Harley-Davidson/Buell, Shoei, PILOT, Vortex, Traxxion Dynamics, Pit Bull, EK and Taylormade Racing. AUGUST 15, 2009
JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS 5th at VIR CRASHFEST Waukesha, Wisc. (Aug. 15, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton finished fifth despite setting a new team record with three crashes during the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at Virginia International Raceway. Several crashes marred the race and many top teams did not finish. "I've never seen anything like it in a dry race," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "Jeff crashed on the first lap, then I crashed towards the end of my stint, and Jeff crashed again pretty much where I went off in Turn 1. It was crazy, and it wasn't just us. Everyone seemed to struggle with front end feel and grip this weekend." James Gang/Hoban Brothers maintained fifth place in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points and closed to within two points of fourth, but sits 42 points behind VIR winner and championship points leader Crozier Motorsports. The AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT series continues at New Jersey Motorsports Park on September 5. For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks AUGUST 1, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS 6th at HPT in MOTO-GT Waukesha, Wisc. (Aug. 1, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished sixth in class in the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at Heartland Park Topeka. "We had a good run and moved up in the championship order," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "But we need to get back on the box in order to have a real shot at this championship going into the 8 Hours of Daytona." James Gang/Hoban Brothers moved up to fifth place in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points, but lost a bit of ground to new points leader Crozier Motorsports. With three rounds remaining, James Gang/Hoban Brothers sits 27 points out of first place. "We're looking forward to going back to VIR," said teammate Jeff Johnson. "We've podiumed on the Full Course in Moto-ST, and we won the ASRA Team Challenge GT Lights race on the North course last year." The AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT series continues at Virginia International Raceway on August 15. For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. JULY 18, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS ON THE BOX AT MID-OHIO Waukesha, Wisc. (July 18, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished third in class in the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at Mid-Ohio, their second consecutive podium of the season. "We had a solid race, and we'll continue to chip away at this championship with consistency," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "Winning at Road America was special because it's our home track and one of my personal favorites. I'd never raced at Mid-Ohio before, but it is one of my new favorite tracks for sure." James Gang/Hoban Brothers maintained sixth place in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points, but narrowed the gap to 19 points behind the Liberty Waves Buell Racing team with four rounds remaining, including the season finale 8-Hours at Daytona.  "It was fun for me to come back to Mid-Ohio," said teammate Jeff Johnson, who last raced there aboard a Formula Xtreme-spec Buell XB12R in 2005. "We're just past the halfway point of the season, but there are a lot of laps to go in this championship." The AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GTseries continues at Heartland Park Topeka on July 31. For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, ReginaUSA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. JULY 15, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS BRINGS MOMENTUM TO MID-OHIO
 
Waukesha, Wisc. (July 15, 2009) - After a home track win at Road America, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing heads into the midpoint of the Moto-GT season at Mid-Ohio with momentum and a major boost in the championship.  "We had a couple of tough rounds early on at Daytona and Road Atlanta, but we did well in the wet conditions at Barber and Road America," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "We're in the hunt for the title and we're gunning to get back on the box."  With the class win at Road America, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing moved up to sixth place in SunTrust AMA Pro Moto-GT1 points, just 22 points behind the Liberty Waves Buell Racing team with five rounds remaining. And AMA Pro Racing rules that require teams to complete 70% of the laps of the race winner in order to score points should make for a close finish.  "It was great to win at home, especially for our local sponsors H-D/Buell of Appleton and Hoban Brothers," said teammate Jeff Johnson. "There's a lot of racing left and we can't wait to get back out there." For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA and Spyder Leatherworks. JUNE 6, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING WINS AMA PRO MOTO-GT1 CLASS AT ROAD AMERICA Waukesha, Wisc. (June 6, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing took the Moto-GT1 class victory during AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust MOTO-GT endurance race at Road America in challenging cool and wet conditions that tested the riders and crew alike. The 2-hour race ended under a full-course caution with 38 laps complete. The team gambled on rain tires to start the race after a brief shower dampened the track and storm clouds rolled in, but lead rider Jeff Johnson struggled as the track dried quickly in the opening laps. The team called Johnson in early and sent out second rider Paul James with a fresh set of DOT Dunlops and a full load of fuel.  "Jeff was calling in for a weather report during the first part of the race in hopes that it would start raining,” said Tuner/Team Manager John Dahmer. “Sometimes you just have to admit you made the wrong decision and change course immediately. But our entire crew has been phenomenal on pit stops all year and that was a huge part of our win today." Shortly after James left pit lane, he was lapped by the overall leaders. A few laps later, it started to rain. "I figured the race was lost right there," said James. "We were already down a lap to the leaders due to the early struggles and pit stop and now we were out on the wrong tire again. But this team doesn't quit. We kept it upright for a few laps and then the crew pulled off another great pit stop to put Jeff back out on rain tires in the right conditions which kept us in the hunt." Johnson clawed his way back onto the lead lap while others faltered and fell. A final stop for fuel and fresh rain tires gave James the confidence he needed to take over the Moto-GT1 class lead before a final full-course caution ended the race after another racer fell right in front of him in Canada Corner. "That was a wild race," said Johnson. "It was hard to figure out the conditions, but everyone did a good job and we were able to grab the win." With the class win, James Gang/Hoban Brothers racing moved up to sixth place in SunTrust AMA Pro Moto-GT1 points, just 22 points behind the Liberty Waves Buell Racing team with five rounds remaining. The second James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing entry of a Buell Firebolt XB12R, ridden by motorcycle journalists Kevin Duke of Motorcycle.com and Troy Siahaan of Sport Rider Magazine, finished 4th in the Moto-GT2 class.  "It was pretty much too wet for dry tires and too dry for rain tires," said Siahaan, who rode most of the race on Dunlop DOT tires after also starting out on rain tires in the dry. "It was sketchy out there, but I knew if we kept our nose clean and limited our time in the pits we'd be in the hunt for a possible podium finish if one of the leaders made a mistake. We just missed it, but the team did a great job in tough conditions and I can't thank them enough for all their hard work." "Some other teams tried to ride the damp track on dry tires," said Duke, "but our crew made the right call by sending me out for the final stint on rain rubber. I was able to navigate the slippery track while other riders fell all around me. Big thanks to the team for working their tails off getting the bike prepared and for expertly adjusting to the race as it unfolded. And major kudos to Paul and Jeff on bagging their first AMA Pro win!" James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks JUNE 3, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING TO FIELD TWO TEAMS IN MOTO-GT AT ROAD AMERICA Waukesha, Wisc. (June 3, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing will field two Buell teams sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton during round four of AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust MOTO-GT series at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisc., held during the AMA Superbike race weekend on June 6. Team riders Paul James and Jeff Johnson will continue their quest for a podium finish in Moto-GT1 aboard their Buell 1125R after a season best 5th place finish at Barber Motorsports Park in May. "We've had a challenging season so far, learning a new bike, new tires and new tracks," said James. "We've made progress in developing the bike, and look forward to racing it at our home track of Road America." The second James Gang/Hoban Brothers entry will be a Buell Firebolt XB12R in Moto-GT2 ridden by motorcycle journalists Kevin Duke and Troy Siahaan. This will be the AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT debut for both riders. "After running countless laps on dozens of production sportbikes in the process of bike testing for a motorcycle publication, it's a real thrill to be actually racing once again," said Duke. "The wide variety of machinery in the Moto-GT class always makes competition intriguing, and it will be both challenging and fun to chase a solid finish on the Buell XB12R at a cool track like Road America." "I just want to thank James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing for this great opportunity. Kevin Duke and I are good friends and fierce competitors and we're really looking forward to racing this weekend," said Siahaan. The James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing crew for the Road America weekend will include Tuner John Dahmer and Crew Chiefs Mike Kirkpatrick and Matt King along with Alex Opperman, Pete Johnson, Amy James, Rita Johnson, Ben Schmidt and Zach Erb. Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA and Spyder Leatherworks. MAY 2, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING BOUNCES BACK TO TOP 5 FINISH AT BARBER   James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing scored a solid 5th place finish in AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT series action at beautiful Barber Motorsports Park this past weekend. Unfortunately, the 2-hour endurance race was shortened due to heavy rain and track clean up delays which may have cost them a shot at the podium.   “We’re pretty happy with our result,” said rider and co-owner Paul James. “We scored some points, left the track with our bike intact and gained some valuable knowledge and momentum that should pay off in the next round.”   The team used Thursday promoter practice at Barber to get rider Jeff Johnson more seat time and to develop suspension settings and gearing choices. With the help of Buell Racing’s David McGrath, the team also started to sort out a new chassis set up which improved the handling of their H-D/Buell of Appleton backed 1125R.   “We qualified 9th on Friday, but we felt we were improving our set up with every session on the track and we were confident for the race,” said tuner and co-owner John Dahmer. “We were 7th quickest in the Saturday morning warm up, but then it started to rain and all bets were off!”   The team was faced with a difficult tire choice for the start of the race with wet to drying conditions along with oil clean up residue from a blown Suzuki superbike engine and threatening rain clouds.   “We debated tire choice right up to the 5-minute mark before the race and ultimately decided to put Jeff out on DOT tires,” said Dahmer. “We agreed the track was drying rapidly and that rain tires wouldn’t last for long if it didn’t start raining again.”   Lead rider Jeff Johnson rode conservatively from the start in the slippery conditions just trying to keep the bike upright while some other riders fell. But when the sky darkened and it started to downpour, the team called him in and the crew quickly refueled the bike and changed the tires from DOTs to full rains in less than 60 seconds. Second rider Paul James went out and got acclimated to the wet track conditions and the new Dunlop rain tires and started to carve his way through the field. Some teams were slow to change tires thinking the rain was only a short burst, while others got caught out in the tricky conditions and crashed.   Late in his stint, James battled with Eric Pinson on the Liberty Waves Buell 1125R, but Pinson ended up crashing in Turn 15. He later remounted and rejoined the race aboard his damaged bike, which leaked oil on the track for two full laps before he realized it and pulled off. With oil on the racing line around the entire track, and racers sliding around and off the track, AMA officials called out the safety car for a full course caution and ultimately stopped the already shortened race.   “The shortened race disappointing because we were gaining positions and making a run for the podium,” said James. “We’ll definitely be looking for a win when the series comes to our home track of Road America!”   James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing is sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton, Buell Motorcycle Company, Darkhorse Crankworks, Spectro Oils, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Kymco USA, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. April 7, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING ENDURES TOUGH START TO SEASON   James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton has endured a tough start to the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT season with a mechanical issue and a crash forcing them out of the first two races at Daytona and Road Atlanta respectively.   At Daytona, the team recovered from an afternoon practice crash by prepping a spare bike for the race in less than an hour. Unfortunately, a bodywork problem caused a failure of the cooling system and overheated the engine on their 1125R. A late race crash ended the team's run at Road Atlanta.   "In two years of Moto-ST racing, we finished every race and stood on the podium 11 times," said rider and co-owner Paul James. "It's tough to start out the season with a pair of DNFs, but hopefully our bad luck is behind us now."   The team will regroup again and get ready for round three of the Moto-GT series at Barber Motorsports Park on May 2.   "We're learning a new bike, new tires and new tracks," said James. "We've made some mistakes, but that's part of learning our new limits. I know we'll bounce back at Barber."   James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing is sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton, Buell Motorcycle Company, Darkhorse Crankworks, Spectro Oils, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Kymco USA, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. March 14, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING RIDERS SLATED FOR CYCLE WORLD RADIO INTERVIEW SATURDAY James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing riders Paul James and Jeff Johnson will join motojournalist host Steve Natt on Cycle World Radio for the second half hour of his show on Saturday, March 14th from 5:30-6 p.m. Pacific. James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing competes in AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust Moto-GT endurance racing series aboard a Buell 1125R motorcycle. The team posted 11 podium finishes in the past two seasons of Moto-GT competition, but qualified 4th and finished a disappointing 7th in the Moto-GT season opener at Daytona International Speedway last week. "It was a tough day for us," said James. "I crashed our primary bike during the afternoon warm-up and we had to start the race less than an hour later with an untested back-up bike. But that's racing, and we'll be ready for the next round at Road Atlanta." James and Johnson have a combined 40 years of racing experience between them, and have individually earned 6 national and 7 regional championships aboard Buell motorcycles, including the ASRA Team Challenge GT Lights national championship they took as teammates in 2008. "I've raced all kinds of motorcycles, from Harley-Davidson Sportsters to open class liter bikes, but I Iove racing Buells," said Johnson. "Nobody supports privateer racers as well as Buell does." Cycle World Radio is heard in more than 50 markets nationwide on the Radio America Network (www.radioamerica.org), airing Saturday evenings, 5-6 p.m. Pacific, 8-9 p.m. Eastern. Or listeners can stream it live via the web at http://player.warpradio.com/player.asp?m=noadfound&id=14074&wmpVer=&br=&os=mac&streamType=&streamRate= Episodes are also available as a podcast on the iTunes network. For more information go to: www.cycleworld.com/radio James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing is sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton, Buell Motorcycle Company, Darkhorse Crankworks, Spectro Oils, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Kymco USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks. February 1, 2009 JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING MOVES UP TO AMA PRO RACING MOTO-GT1 James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton has announced plans to compete in the new SunTrust Moto-GT series as it moves to the AMA Pro Racing circuit full time in 2009. After an ASRA Team Challenge GT Lights national championship and 11 Moto-ST GST podium finishes aboard Buell XB12Rs, the team will contest AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust Moto-GT1 class on Buell 1125Rs. The SunTrust Moto-GT1 class will pit twin-cylinder machines and 4-cylinder 600s against each other with horsepower and weight restrictions to reduce costs and ensure close competition. The races will be two hours or more in length, with pit stops, tire changes and racing strategy playing a major factor in the outcome of each event. "This is big step up for us but I have no doubt our team will succeed," said team co-owner and rider Paul James. "We're looking forward to racing the Buell 1125R against the best endurance teams in the country." James will share riding duties with teammate Jeff Johnson, while Mike Kirkpatrick will serve as crew chief and John Dahmer as tuner. James and Johnson will debut the team's new Buell 1125R at Daytona International Speedway wearing new SHIFT Racing Vertex leathers and Arai helmets.

SEPT. 27, 2010


JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS CAPS SEASON WITH THREE CONSECUTIVE TOP 5 FINISHES; 4th IN XR1200 CHAMPIONSHIP

 

Waukesha, Wisc. (Sept. 27, 2010) – James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished the AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 season with three straight 5th place finishes at VIR, New Jersey Motorsports Park and the season finale at Barber Motorsports Park to secure 4th place in the series championship. The team also provided technical and crew support for UK’s XR1200 Trophy champion and former MotoGP rider Jeremy McWilliams at Barber Motorsports Park, who won the race held in full wet conditions. James qualified 8th at Barber in dry conditions, with the help of a tow from McWilliams, who qualified 3rd.

 

“We learned a lot this season and had a great time,” said rider and team co-owner Paul James. “We’ll build on that momentum for the 2011 Vance & Hines XR1200 class and we’re looking forward to the season opener at Daytona with great anticipation.”

 

“Barber was a totally fantastic weekend for the whole team,” said McWilliams. “Just two weeks ago I smashed myself up a bit in Spain, so the wet weather probably played into my favor. But I was confident either way. My thanks to John Dahmer and the crew from James Gang/Hoban Brothers as well as Warr’s Racing. I’d love to come back again next season if the opportunity comes up.”

 

“What a way to end our season," said Team GM and co-owner John Dahmer. "Jeremy was awesome to work with and winning was the icing on the cake. I'm so happy for him as he was about as beat up as a racer can get. For him to go out and do what he did showed us all his amazing amount of determination. Paul put up a strong finish in the wet and Martin Szlagowski from Warr's and the entire James Gang/Hoban Brothers team worked hard to put on a good show. Great competition and a level playing field is what this XR class is all about.

 

The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series will return in 2011 with more rounds, including Daytona International Speedway as a support class for the Daytona 200 and Miller Motorsports Park as a support class for the World Superbike weekend. The team is currently seeking sponsor support to contest the entire XR1200 series, and perhaps to compete in a round of the UK’s XR1200 Trophy series.

 

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

 

The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai helmets, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks.



AUG. 16, 2010

SEASON BEST FINISH FOR JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING AT VIR

 

Waukesha, Wisc. (Aug. 16, 2010) – James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing rider Paul James had his best result to date in the new AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 series with a 5th place finish in the third round held at Virginia International Raceway. The team also provided technical and crew support for Cycle World Magazine’s Mark Cernicky who crashed out of the race unhurt aboard the #72 HOG Racing XR1200. Cernicky and James qualified 7th and 8th respectively and worked together to get up to speed on the challenging 2.25-mile VIR North Course layout. James currently sits 7th in XR season points, just 7 points out of the top 4.

 

“I’m starting to get more comfortable with the bike, but I need to work harder on my set up and get up to speed faster during practice and qualifying in order to be more aggressive come race time,” said rider and team co-owner James.

 

The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series resumes September 3-5 at New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, NJ.

 

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

 

The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai helmets, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks.



JULY 18, 2010

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS BACK ON TRACK AT MID-OHIO

 

Waukesha, Wisc. (July 18, 2010) – James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing bounced back from a disappointing DNF debut in the AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 series with a 7th place finish in the second round held at Mid-Ohio. The team also provided technical and crew support for Shawn Higbee who finished second aboard the HOG Racing XR1200 after crashing twice during practice and qualifying. James qualified 8th and chased former Daytona 200 winner John Ashmead for most of the race until fading near the end.

 

“It’s going to take a bit more seat time for me to get up to speed, but it sure felt good to finish the race and score our first points in the series,” said rider and team co-owner Paul James. “And congrats to the entire team for helping Shawn Higbee finish on the podium!”

 

The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series resumes August 14-15 at Virginia International Raceway in Danville, VA.

 

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

 

The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai helmets, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks.





JUNE 6, 2010
JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS KNOCKED OUT OF AMA PRO VANCE & HINES XR1200 CLASS DEBUT

 

Waukesha, Wisc. (June 6, 2010) – The James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing team had a rough outing when rider Paul James was knocked out of the AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 series debut race at Road America after getting tangled up with two other riders on the restart of the race. James suffered minor injuries after crashing heavily due to handlebar to handlebar contact and was unable to make the final restart. He qualified 8th and ran as high as 6th on the first start of the race before it was stopped after two laps due to oil and a bike down in Turn 5.

 

"Despite the disappointing result for us in the debut of the series, the class was really fun and competitive and we're looking forward to seeing more teams join in as the season progresses," said rider and team co-owner Paul James.

 

"We worked really hard on our set up with limited track time and steadily gained speed and confidence," said team general manager and co-owner John Dahmer. "The learning curve is steep, but we feel we have a good baseline for Mid-Ohio." 

 

The AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 series resumes July 16-18 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, OH.

 

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

 

The James Gang/Hoban Brothers AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 team is presented by H-D of Appleton and Spectro Oils. Additional team sponsors include: Darkhorse Crankworks, Genuine James Gaskets, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Vortex, Regina USA, Ferodo brakes and Spyder Leatherworks.


MARCH 9, 2010

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS FINISHES 16th IN DAYTONA 200; ANNOUNCES INTENT TO ENTER NEW VANCE & HINES XR1200 CLASS

 

Waukesha, Wisc. (March 9, 2010) - Following a solid 16th place performance in the 69th running of the Daytona 200, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing has announced plans to enter the new AMA Pro Racing Vance & Hines XR1200 class. The team intends to continue campaigning Buell 1125R motorcycles in select AMA Pro Daytona SportBike rounds this season and is searching for additional sponsorship to help the team develop and race Harley-Davidson XR1200s.

 

"It was truly a dream come true to finish in the top 20 of the Daytona 200," said rider and team co-owner Paul James. "As a bonus, our team helped Shawn Higbee build his Buell 1125R and crew for him during his 8th place run."

 

AMA Pro Racing's recently announced Vance & Hines XR1200 spec class will provide a new challenge for James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing.

 

"We have some experience running 883 Sportsters back in the days of the AMA Harley-Davidson Twin Sports class," said team general manager and co-owner John Dahmer. "And we're excited to put a competitive program together for the new XR1200 spec class."

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers is a national championship winning race team with three AMA Pro podium finishes aboard Buell 1125Rs, including a class win at Road America in the recently retired Moto-GT endurance series, and a 16th place finish in this year's 69th running of the Daytona 200.

 

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Erik Buell Racing, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.




JANUARY 27, 2010

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS ENTERS BUELL IN DAYTONA 200

 

Waukesha, Wisc. (Jan. 27, 2010) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing has entered a Buell 1125R in the 69th running of the Daytona 200, held under the lights of Daytona International Speedway on the evening of Friday, March 5.  The Daytona 200 is the season opener for AMA Pro Racing's Daytona Sportbike class as well as its longest race with pit stops, fuel fills and tire changes.

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers is an experienced endurance racing team with three podium finishes aboard Buell 1125Rs last season, including a class win at Road America, in AMA Pro Racing's now discontinued Moto-GT endurance series.

 

"Competing in the Daytona 200 has always been a dream of mine and I'm grateful for this opportunity," said rider and team co-owner Paul James. "And all of us on the team are die-hard Buell fans, so we're excited to put a Buell in the field."

 

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.



OCTOBER 17, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING FINISHES UP AND DOWN SEASON

 

Waukesha, Wisc. (Oct. 17, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished ninth in the 8 Hours at Daytona AMA Pro Moto-GT season finale and fourth in the championship after a season long roller coaster ride of highs and lows. The team earned three podium finishes including a win at Road America, but also posted three non-points finishes including both Daytona events.

 

AMA Pro Superbike racer Shawn Higbee once again rode with the team after filling in for Jeff Johnson at New Jersey. Higbee set the team's quickest time in qualifying, and led most of the session only to slip to third behind AMA Pro superstars Josh Hayes and Martin Cardenas. Higbee also rode back to back stints to open the race and ran solidly in third until a series of mechancial failures knocked the team out of contention.

 

Higbee was near the end of his second stint when a rear wheel bearing failed and had to return to the pits in the crash truck. The team replaced the rear wheel and rejoined the race quickly, but lost valuable laps to the leaders. Later the engine started to let go, but the team worked hard to replace the engine and got back in the fight in just 90 minutes. A small radiator leak caused a long stop later in the race, but the team still ran strong into the night, often times the quickest bike on the track.

 

"We had a great qualifying effort and a strong early run going with Shawn on board," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James.  "The 8 Hours at Daytona is always a tough race. But this team never quit and we fought hard to the end and finished the race. We learned a lot this season, and we're proud of our podium finishes, especially the win at Road America."

 

Although the championship was locked up by Crozier Motorsports at New Jersey, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing had the chance to move up to second place, especially when the second and third place teams went out early with issues. But in order to score any points, the team needed to finish 70% of the laps of the overall leader and missed the cutoff by about four laps.

 

The race was won by Westby Racing Yamaha and riders Josh Hayes, Dane Westby, Jeff Wood and Dustin Meador. 

 

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.

 

For more information on Higbee Racing go to: www.higbee-racing.com or follow him at: www.twitter.com/shawnhigbee

 

Higbee Racing sponsors include: Bartels' Harley-Davidson/Buell, Shoei, PILOT, Vortex, Traxxion Dynamics, Pit Bull, EK and Taylormade Racing.



SEPTEMBER 5, 2009

NEW JERSEY PODIUM FOR JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING

Waukesha, Wisc. (Sept. 5, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished third in the AMA Pro Moto-GT1 2-hour endurance race at New Jersey Motorsports Park, scoring the team's third podium finish of the season.

 AMA Pro Daytona SportBike and American Superbike racer Shawn Higbee filled in for regular team rider Jeff Johnson. Higbee helped the team set the bike up for the New Jersey course, qualified fourth and rode the first and last stints.

"It was awesome working with Shawn this weekend," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "He's a true professional and it was great to tap into his racing experience and set up knowledge."

Although the championship was locked up by Crozier Motorsports with one round remaining, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing moved up to fourth in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points and is just 11 points out of second place.

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.

For more information on Higbee Racing go to: www.higbee-racing.com or follow him at: www.twitter.com/shawnhigbee

Higbee Racing sponsors include: Bartels' Harley-Davidson/Buell, Shoei, PILOT, Vortex, Traxxion Dynamics, Pit Bull, EK and Taylormade Racing.


SEPTEMBER 1, 2009

SHAWN HIGBEE JOINS JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS FOR NEW JERSEY AND 8 HOURS AT DAYTONA

Waukesha, Wisc. (Sept. 1, 2009) - AMA Pro Daytona SportBike and American Superbike racer Shawn Higbee will join James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing in the AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at New Jersey Motorsports Park and at the season finale 8 Hours At Daytona.

Higbee will ride with Paul James in place of his teammate Jeff Johnson at New Jersey this weekend as Johnson and his wife Rita are expecting the birth of their first child. Higbee, James and Johnson will race together during the 8 Hours At Daytona on Oct. 17.

Highlights of Higbee's pro career include championships in the Harley-Davidson Twin Sport series and the F-USA Unlimited Superbike series, 7 AMA Pro Thunder race wins, 2 Moto-ST overall wins, 3rd place in the Macau GP, and a 5th place finish in the 2009 Daytona 200.

"I've been a fan and friend of Shawn Higbee for years, and I'm really looking forward to riding with him," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "The Moto-GT championship may be out of reach, but we're going to be a threat to win these races and move up the championship order."

"I appreciate the opportunity to be part of such a close knit and quality team," said Shawn Higbee. "They've shown the Buell 1125R can win in Moto-GT competition, so I'm excited to help them finish up the season."

With a class win at Road America and a podium finish at Mid-Ohio, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing currently sits fifth in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points.

For more information on James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

James Gang/Hoban Brothers sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.

For more information on Higbee Racing go to: www.higbee-racing.com or follow him at: www.twitter.com/shawnhigbee

Higbee Racing sponsors include: Bartels' Harley-Davidson/Buell, Shoei, PILOT, Vortex, Traxxion Dynamics, Pit Bull, EK and Taylormade Racing.


AUGUST 15, 2009
JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS 5th at VIR CRASHFEST

Waukesha, Wisc. (Aug. 15, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton finished fifth despite setting a new team record with three crashes during the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at Virginia International Raceway. Several crashes marred the race and many top teams did not finish.

"I've never seen anything like it in a dry race," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "Jeff crashed on the first lap, then I crashed towards the end of my stint, and Jeff crashed again pretty much where I went off in Turn 1. It was crazy, and it wasn't just us. Everyone seemed to struggle with front end feel and grip this weekend."

James Gang/Hoban Brothers maintained fifth place in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points and closed to within two points of fourth, but sits 42 points behind VIR winner and championship points leader Crozier Motorsports.

The AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT series continues at New Jersey Motorsports Park on September 5.

For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks



AUGUST 1, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS 6th at HPT in MOTO-GT

Waukesha, Wisc. (Aug. 1, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished sixth in class in the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at Heartland Park Topeka.

"We had a good run and moved up in the championship order," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "But we need to get back on the box in order to have a real shot at this championship going into the 8 Hours of Daytona."

James Gang/Hoban Brothers moved up to fifth place in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points, but lost a bit of ground to new points leader Crozier Motorsports. With three rounds remaining, James Gang/Hoban Brothers sits 27 points out of first place.

"We're looking forward to going back to VIR," said teammate Jeff Johnson. "We've podiumed on the Full Course in Moto-ST, and we won the ASRA Team Challenge GT Lights race on the North course last year."

The AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT series continues at Virginia International Raceway on August 15.

For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.



JULY 18, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS ON THE BOX AT MID-OHIO

Waukesha, Wisc. (July 18, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing finished third in class in the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT 2-hour endurance race at Mid-Ohio, their second consecutive podium of the season.

"We had a solid race, and we'll continue to chip away at this championship with consistency," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "Winning at Road America was special because it's our home track and one of my personal favorites. I'd never raced at Mid-Ohio before, but it is one of my new favorite tracks for sure."

James Gang/Hoban Brothers maintained sixth place in SunTrust Moto-GT1 points, but narrowed the gap to 19 points behind the Liberty Waves Buell Racing team with four rounds remaining, including the season finale 8-Hours at Daytona.

 "It was fun for me to come back to Mid-Ohio," said teammate Jeff Johnson, who last raced there aboard a Formula Xtreme-spec Buell XB12R in 2005. "We're just past the halfway point of the season, but there are a lot of laps to go in this championship."

The AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GTseries continues at Heartland Park Topeka on July 31.

For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, ReginaUSA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.



JULY 15, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS BRINGS MOMENTUM TO MID-OHIO
 
Waukesha, Wisc. (July 15, 2009) - After a home track win at Road America, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing heads into the midpoint of the Moto-GT season at Mid-Ohio with momentum and a major boost in the championship. 

"We had a couple of tough rounds early on at Daytona and Road Atlanta, but we did well in the wet conditions at Barber and Road America," said co-rider and team co-owner Paul James. "We're in the hunt for the title and we're gunning to get back on the box."

 With the class win at Road America, James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing moved up to sixth place in SunTrust AMA Pro Moto-GT1 points, just 22 points behind the Liberty Waves Buell Racing team with five rounds remaining. And AMA Pro Racing rules that require teams to complete 70% of the laps of the race winner in order to score points should make for a close finish.

 "It was great to win at home, especially for our local sponsors H-D/Buell of Appleton and Hoban Brothers," said teammate Jeff Johnson. "There's a lot of racing left and we can't wait to get back out there."

For more information, go to: www.jghbracing.com or follow team updates at: www.twitter.com/jamesgangracing

Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA and Spyder Leatherworks.



JUNE 6, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING WINS AMA PRO MOTO-GT1 CLASS AT ROAD AMERICA

Waukesha, Wisc. (June 6, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing took the Moto-GT1 class victory during AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust MOTO-GT endurance race at Road America in challenging cool and wet conditions that tested the riders and crew alike. The 2-hour race ended under a full-course caution with 38 laps complete.

The team gambled on rain tires to start the race after a brief shower dampened the track and storm clouds rolled in, but lead rider Jeff Johnson struggled as the track dried quickly in the opening laps. The team called Johnson in early and sent out second rider Paul James with a fresh set of DOT Dunlops and a full load of fuel. 

"Jeff was calling in for a weather report during the first part of the race in hopes that it would start raining,” said Tuner/Team Manager John Dahmer. “Sometimes you just have to admit you made the wrong decision and change course immediately. But our entire crew has been phenomenal on pit stops all year and that was a huge part of our win today."

Shortly after James left pit lane, he was lapped by the overall leaders. A few laps later, it started to rain.

"I figured the race was lost right there," said James. "We were already down a lap to the leaders due to the early struggles and pit stop and now we were out on the wrong tire again. But this team doesn't quit. We kept it upright for a few laps and then the crew pulled off another great pit stop to put Jeff back out on rain tires in the right conditions which kept us in the hunt."

Johnson clawed his way back onto the lead lap while others faltered and fell. A final stop for fuel and fresh rain tires gave James the confidence he needed to take over the Moto-GT1 class lead before a final full-course caution ended the race after another racer fell right in front of him in Canada Corner.

"That was a wild race," said Johnson. "It was hard to figure out the conditions, but everyone did a good job and we were able to grab the win."

With the class win, James Gang/Hoban Brothers racing moved up to sixth place in SunTrust AMA Pro Moto-GT1 points, just 22 points behind the Liberty Waves Buell Racing team with five rounds remaining.

The second James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing entry of a Buell Firebolt XB12R, ridden by motorcycle journalists Kevin Duke of Motorcycle.com and Troy Siahaan of Sport Rider Magazine, finished 4th in the Moto-GT2 class. 

"It was pretty much too wet for dry tires and too dry for rain tires," said Siahaan, who rode most of the race on Dunlop DOT tires after also starting out on rain tires in the dry. "It was sketchy out there, but I knew if we kept our nose clean and limited our time in the pits we'd be in the hunt for a possible podium finish if one of the leaders made a mistake. We just missed it, but the team did a great job in tough conditions and I can't thank them enough for all their hard work."

"Some other teams tried to ride the damp track on dry tires," said Duke, "but our crew made the right call by sending me out for the final stint on rain rubber. I was able to navigate the slippery track while other riders fell all around me. Big thanks to the team for working their tails off getting the bike prepared and for expertly adjusting to the race as it unfolded. And major kudos to Paul and Jeff on bagging their first AMA Pro win!"

James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks



JUNE 3, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING TO FIELD TWO TEAMS IN MOTO-GT AT ROAD AMERICA

Waukesha, Wisc. (June 3, 2009) - James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing will field two Buell teams sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton during round four of AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust MOTO-GT series at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisc., held during the AMA Superbike race weekend on June 6.

Team riders Paul James and Jeff Johnson will continue their quest for a podium finish in Moto-GT1 aboard their Buell 1125R after a season best 5th place finish at Barber Motorsports Park in May.

"We've had a challenging season so far, learning a new bike, new tires and new tracks," said James. "We've made progress in developing the bike, and look forward to racing it at our home track of Road America."

The second James Gang/Hoban Brothers entry will be a Buell Firebolt XB12R in Moto-GT2 ridden by motorcycle journalists Kevin Duke and Troy Siahaan. This will be the AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT debut for both riders.

"After running countless laps on dozens of production sportbikes in the process of bike testing for a motorcycle publication, it's a real thrill to be actually racing once again," said Duke. "The wide variety of machinery in the Moto-GT class always makes competition intriguing, and it will be both challenging and fun to chase a solid finish on the Buell XB12R at a cool track like Road America."

"I just want to thank James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing for this great opportunity. Kevin Duke and I are good friends and fierce competitors and we're really looking forward to racing this weekend," said Siahaan.

The James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing crew for the Road America weekend will include Tuner John Dahmer and Crew Chiefs Mike Kirkpatrick and Matt King along with Alex Opperman, Pete Johnson, Amy James, Rita Johnson, Ben Schmidt and Zach Erb.

Team sponsors include: H-D/Buell of Appleton, Darkhorse Crankworks, Buell Motorcycle Co., Kymco USA, SHIFT Racing, Spectro Oils, Arai, Regina USA and Spyder Leatherworks.



MAY 2, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING BOUNCES BACK TO TOP 5 FINISH AT BARBER  


James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing scored a solid 5th place finish in AMA Pro SunTrust Moto-GT series action at beautiful Barber Motorsports Park this past weekend. Unfortunately, the 2-hour endurance race was shortened due to heavy rain and track clean up delays which may have cost them a shot at the podium.

 

“We’re pretty happy with our result,” said rider and co-owner Paul James. “We scored some points, left the track with our bike intact and gained some valuable knowledge and momentum that should pay off in the next round.”

 

The team used Thursday promoter practice at Barber to get rider Jeff Johnson more seat time and to develop suspension settings and gearing choices. With the help of Buell Racing’s David McGrath, the team also started to sort out a new chassis set up which improved the handling of their H-D/Buell of Appleton backed 1125R.

 

“We qualified 9th on Friday, but we felt we were improving our set up with every session on the track and we were confident for the race,” said tuner and co-owner John Dahmer. “We were 7th quickest in the Saturday morning warm up, but then it started to rain and all bets were off!”

 

The team was faced with a difficult tire choice for the start of the race with wet to drying conditions along with oil clean up residue from a blown Suzuki superbike engine and threatening rain clouds.

 

“We debated tire choice right up to the 5-minute mark before the race and ultimately decided to put Jeff out on DOT tires,” said Dahmer. “We agreed the track was drying rapidly and that rain tires wouldn’t last for long if it didn’t start raining again.”

 

Lead rider Jeff Johnson rode conservatively from the start in the slippery conditions just trying to keep the bike upright while some other riders fell. But when the sky darkened and it started to downpour, the team called him in and the crew quickly refueled the bike and changed the tires from DOTs to full rains in less than 60 seconds. Second rider Paul James went out and got acclimated to the wet track conditions and the new Dunlop rain tires and started to carve his way through the field. Some teams were slow to change tires thinking the rain was only a short burst, while others got caught out in the tricky conditions and crashed.

 

Late in his stint, James battled with Eric Pinson on the Liberty Waves Buell 1125R, but Pinson ended up crashing in Turn 15. He later remounted and rejoined the race aboard his damaged bike, which leaked oil on the track for two full laps before he realized it and pulled off. With oil on the racing line around the entire track, and racers sliding around and off the track, AMA officials called out the safety car for a full course caution and ultimately stopped the already shortened race.

 

“The shortened race disappointing because we were gaining positions and making a run for the podium,” said James. “We’ll definitely be looking for a win when the series comes to our home track of Road America!”

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing is sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton, Buell Motorcycle Company, Darkhorse Crankworks, Spectro Oils, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Kymco USA, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.



April 7, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING ENDURES TOUGH START TO SEASON

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton has endured a tough start to the AMA Pro Racing SunTrust Moto-GT season with a mechanical issue and a crash forcing them out of the first two races at Daytona and Road Atlanta respectively.

 

At Daytona, the team recovered from an afternoon practice crash by prepping a spare bike for the race in less than an hour. Unfortunately, a bodywork problem caused a failure of the cooling system and overheated the engine on their 1125R. A late race crash ended the team's run at Road Atlanta.

 

"In two years of Moto-ST racing, we finished every race and stood on the podium 11 times," said rider and co-owner Paul James. "It's tough to start out the season with a pair of DNFs, but hopefully our bad luck is behind us now."

 

The team will regroup again and get ready for round three of the Moto-GT series at Barber Motorsports Park on May 2.

 

"We're learning a new bike, new tires and new tracks," said James. "We've made some mistakes, but that's part of learning our new limits. I know we'll bounce back at Barber."

 

James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing is sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton, Buell Motorcycle Company, Darkhorse Crankworks, Spectro Oils, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Kymco USA, Regina USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.


March 14, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING RIDERS SLATED FOR CYCLE WORLD RADIO INTERVIEW SATURDAY


James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing riders Paul James and Jeff Johnson will join motojournalist host Steve Natt on Cycle World Radio for the second half hour of his show on Saturday, March 14th from 5:30-6 p.m. Pacific.


James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing competes in AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust Moto-GT endurance racing series aboard a Buell 1125R motorcycle. The team posted 11 podium finishes in the past two seasons of Moto-GT competition, but qualified 4th and finished a disappointing 7th in the Moto-GT season opener at Daytona International Speedway last week.


"It was a tough day for us," said James. "I crashed our primary bike during the afternoon warm-up and we had to start the race less than an hour later with an untested back-up bike. But that's racing, and we'll be ready for the next round at Road Atlanta."


James and Johnson have a combined 40 years of racing experience between them, and have individually earned 6 national and 7 regional championships aboard Buell motorcycles, including the ASRA Team Challenge GT Lights national championship they took as teammates in 2008.


"I've raced all kinds of motorcycles, from Harley-Davidson Sportsters to open class liter bikes, but I Iove racing Buells," said Johnson. "Nobody supports privateer racers as well as Buell does."


Cycle World Radio is heard in more than 50 markets nationwide on the Radio America Network (www.radioamerica.org), airing Saturday evenings, 5-6 p.m. Pacific, 8-9 p.m. Eastern. Or listeners can stream it live via the web at http://player.warpradio.com/player.asp?m=noadfound&id=14074&wmpVer=&br=&os=mac&streamType=&streamRate=


Episodes are also available as a podcast on the iTunes network. For more information go to: www.cycleworld.com/radio


James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing is sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton, Buell Motorcycle Company, Darkhorse Crankworks, Spectro Oils, SHIFT Racing, Arai, Kymco USA, Vortex and Spyder Leatherworks.




February 1, 2009

JAMES GANG/HOBAN BROTHERS RACING MOVES UP TO AMA PRO RACING MOTO-GT1


James Gang/Hoban Brothers Racing sponsored by H-D/Buell of Appleton has announced plans to compete in the new SunTrust Moto-GT series as it moves to the AMA Pro Racing circuit full time in 2009.


After an ASRA Team Challenge GT Lights national championship and 11 Moto-ST GST podium finishes aboard Buell XB12Rs, the team will contest AMA Pro Racing's SunTrust Moto-GT1 class on Buell 1125Rs. The SunTrust Moto-GT1 class will pit twin-cylinder machines and 4-cylinder 600s against each other with horsepower and weight restrictions to reduce costs and ensure close competition. The races will be two hours or more in length, with pit stops, tire changes and racing strategy playing a major factor in the outcome of each event.


"This is big step up for us but I have no doubt our team will succeed," said team co-owner and rider Paul James. "We're looking forward to racing the Buell 1125R against the best endurance teams in the country."


James will share riding duties with teammate Jeff Johnson, while Mike Kirkpatrick will serve as crew chief and John Dahmer as tuner.


James and Johnson will debut the team's new Buell 1125R at Daytona International Speedway wearing new SHIFT Racing Vertex leathers and Arai helmets.