NHRA Pro Stock Bike World Champ Richard Gadson on Drag Racing LIVE 1/5/26

We’re joined by Richard Gadson, the 2025 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champion. From years of grinding in other motorcycle classes to finally reaching the top of the NHRA mountain, Richard shares the journey, the mindset, and what it really takes to win it all.

2023 Drag Racing Championship
Richard Gatson discussed his successful 2023 drag racing season, which ended with an unprecedented championship due to the rainout of the final race at Pomona. He highlighted his consistency throughout the year, with only two second-round exits, and noted that his crew chief, Eddie Prawick, won his first championship before winning his first race. Gatson expressed his disappointment with the rainout, emphasizing that safety concerns led to the cancellation, and he rejected any notion of an asterisk being placed next to his championship title.

Success Strategies in Racing
Richard discussed his extensive racing background, highlighting his success in various motorcycle classes and his journey to becoming the 2025 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champion. He emphasized the importance of consistent practice, communication with his crew chief Eddie, and developing a repeatable riding style. Richard attributed his success to a combination of mechanical adjustments, mental shifts, and a focus on consistency rather than trying to make the best pass of his career every time.

Racing Strategies and Mental Toughness
Richard Gadsden shared his approach to racing, emphasizing the importance of film study, deliberate practice, and muscle memory. He discussed how competing against top riders like Gaige, Matt Smith, and Chase Van Sant has pushed him to improve mentally and physically. Richard highlighted the intense competition in the Pro Stock Motorcycle class, where consistent performance and mental toughness are crucial for success.

Richard's Racing Journey and Inspiration
The meeting focused on celebrating Richard's championship win and discussing his motivations and journey in racing. Richard shared that his daughter, family, and the drag racing community inspire him, and he aims to be a role model for his daughter. He emphasized the importance of consistent practice and his passion for racing over casual motorcycle riding. The discussion highlighted Richard's dedication and the support he receives from friends and former colleagues, underscoring the collaborative nature of his success.

Richard's Bunker Hill Racing Success
Richard shared his recent success at Bunker Hill Dragway, where he won two classes in a $10,000 shootout, marking his first wins in nearly two years. He emphasized the importance of bracket racing for improving skills and encouraged others to participate in similar events. Richard also highlighted the support of his team, including shop members and his girlfriend Alexis, in achieving his success. When asked about future racing plans, he indicated no interest in IHRA events due to the lack of Pro Stock Motorcycle class.

Racing Legends and Future Plans
Bill and John welcomed Richard Gadsden, the 2025 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champion, to discuss his future plans in racing and his motivations beyond winning titles. Richard expressed his desire to tell his story and pass on his knowledge to others in the racing community. Bill and John also highlighted upcoming events and guests for the new year, including the Drag Fest and the Foot Break Practice Tree Winternationals. They announced plans to rebrand the show and expand their YouTube channel with new content, including educational videos and segments from past shows. The hosts paid tribute to racers and figures in the drag racing community who passed away recently, including Rudolph Laris, Bill Howell, and Jim Sorensen.