AMA Racing Xtreme International Ice Racing Series set to roll

"Speedway racing itself is already pretty intense. These guys are already attacking corners at full throttle, cocked completely sideways. Add ice and steel-studded tires to the mix, and the show is just out of this world," said Ken Saillant, AMA Racing flat-track director.

Speedway motorcycles are purpose-built for the sport, with methanol-burning engines and no brakes. Their unique layout and design is unlike traditional motorcycles, but is perfectly suited to the high corner speeds and rapid acceleration that define the sport. Speedway bikes go from 0 to 60 mph in less than 3 seconds and the racing, particularly through the corners, is exceptionally tight.

"When it comes to power-to-weight ratios, Speedway bikes are some of the most impressive out there," said Anthony Barlow, who promotes the series as well as competes himself. "They weigh 180 pounds and make 90 bhp at the rear wheel. With 2,000 studs in the back wheel putting that power to the ice, and 1,000 studs in the front keeping that power moving in the right direction, it's amazing to watch."

Plus, with all riders on similar machinery -- 500cc four-stroke, four-valve, single-cylinder, single-speed motorcycles -- the racing is exceptionally tight and rider skill often determines who comes out on top.

"Speedway racing is all about action on the track," Barlow said. "You can expect to be entertained the full length of the program, as there's very little downtime. Depending on the number of entries, you can expect 20 to 25 races a night. We also have an unlimited outlaw four-wheeler class and the Supertrapp Dash for Cash. It's an action-packed show, for sure."

The 2009 AMA XiiR Series kicks off on Jan. 24 in St. Charles, Mo. It moves to Everett, Wash. on Jan. 31, Tampa, Fla. on Feb. 8, Springfield, Mass. on Feb. 13-14 and then Elmira, N.Y. on Feb 20-21.

The series then goes to British Columbia for two rounds in Dawson Creek, March 13-14 and Penticton, March 20-21 before wrapping up in Wenatchee, Wash, with a doubleheader on March 28-29.

For more details on the series visit www.xiir.com.

About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has promoted and protected the motorcycling lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world's largest motorcycle organization with nearly 300,000 members, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition events than any other organization in the world. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations. For more information, visit www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com.