In what is either a sign than the apocalypse is upon us or a brilliant marketing move similar to the establishment of Freestyle Motocross, SFX Motor Sports has announced the formation of something called XSBA, which will sanction sportbike trick contests.

The move will give a sanctioned forum for the sportbike-riding stunters now typically seen doing stand-up wheelies through traffic on public roads, and will also save SFX some money since the competition purse is less than it would cost to hire professional stunt man Gary Rothwell.

A press release issued May 15 follows:


“XSBA formed and ‘Scene One’ Announced

“North Aurora, IL – Just when you thought organized extreme motorcycle racing was at an all-time pinnacle, another breed of speed has emerged. The X-Treme Sportbike Association, or XSBA has announced its formation and its first ever freestyle sport bike performance and competition.

“The XSBA will officially host and sanction invitational sport bike performances at select events around the county. The format will consist of up to 10 ‘teams’ of sport bike performance teams performing stoppies, fifth-gear wheelies, crosses, surfers and more stunts. Spectators will enjoy a judged competition, showcasing expert riders competing for series points and event purse money. (Not like any of these riders would carry an actual purse of course.)

“Extreme sport bike motorcycle stunts have seen a swift increase in popularity in the past two years. There have been several performances to date and a variety of videos on the market are already showcasing the stunts of the expert riders.

“‘Scene One’ of the XSBA begins at the Pocono Cyclefest at Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania August 25th & 26th with The X-Treme Sport Bike Freestyle, XSBA Scene One, sponsored by Vanson Leathers, Air-Tech and Motorcycle Street and Strip Magazine. Saturday’s event will feature practice and qualifying on the front straight of Pocono Raceway and Sunday’s performance will be a mind-numbing finals competition. First place will win $1000. Second place is $400 and third place wins $400. Competition entry is $50 per rider for the weekend which includes two admissions to the Pocono Cyclefest Weekend. Event tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

“The competition is by invitation only, and XSBA will select the first available performers with valid expert experience. Riders and/or teams
wishing to compete must submit performance resume and videotape of live performance. Rules and regulations of the XSBA will be posted soon at the organizations official website; www.xsba.com.

“The XSBA officially sanctions freestyle sport bike events within the controlled environments of racetracks with existing safety standards including standby emergency support. The tricks and stunts performed within XSBA events are performed by expert riders and are encouraged to be practiced only within a controlled environment and not on public streets or highways.

“For more information, contact the XSBA at 630-966-9603 or email [email protected] or visit www.xsba.com.”