Ryan Learmonth realised a dream when he made an impressive debut in Pro Stock Motorcycle at the Fuchs Spring Nationals in Adelaide.
In his first ANDRA Drag Racing Series event, Learmonth laid down a succession of untroubled passes recording a 7.717 at 143.67 mph, 7.494 at 147.95 mph and 7.416 at 176.09 mph to qualify fourth ahead of veterans Glenn Wooster and Phil Howard.
On race day Learmonth faced Scott White in Round 1 where his weekend came to an end on a 7.449 at 178.74 mph to White’s 7.203 at 182.40 mph.
But if it hadn’t been for the clutch set up, the Fuchs Spring Nationals could have been much different.
“We are over the moon with how the Star Racing MonStar motor performed,” said Learmonth.
“We ran four passes over the weekend with a few shut offs to check the braking area and the motor is still perfect.
“But I have to say I got the setup wrong on the clutch and we had some issues which held us back, but we have learnt from this now.”
Overall the Wiseguy Racing team viewed the weekend as a success having approached the Spring Nationals with the intention of making steady passes in what was a stepping-stone to a professional career.
“It was a dream come true, I have always wanted to race in Pro Stock Motorcycle ever since I was a boy,” he said.
“There’s something about naturally aspirated screaming engines that does it for me.
“It was an awesome experience and Adelaide turned it on for the Saturday night qualifying, the crowd was huge. That was the best nights racing I have ever had.”
“I wasn’t nervous about my riding, more the fact it has been a big build up and I didn’t want to let the people down who have helped me get to this level.
“It takes more than one guy to do this but when you’re on the line it’s all up to you.”
On the back of that solid performance and a recent test and tune session at Perth Motorplex, Learmonth hopes to compete nationally in Pro Stock Motorcycle on a regular basis provided the right support can be found.
“We tested on Sunday at the Perth Motorplex to try and sort the clutch out. We made three passes; a 7.42 then a 7.42 at 181mph and then a new personal best of 7.34 at 177mph.
“We are currently looking for sponsors to help compete on the full circuit next season so if anyone is interested in sponsorship packages, please let me know.
“Otherwise we are planning at running in Sydney and Willowbank for the Winternationals.”
For more information about Ryan Learmonth and Wiseguy Racing, including sponsorship, please visit www.wiseguyracing.com.au.
Image courtesy: Bob Taylor