Nick Scoggins has learned a lot about motorcycles this past year. With no prior experience road racing (and very limited motorcycle riding under his belt), the Southern California native walked away with three WERA Championships in 2005. He even managed to land a coveted job as a sales associate at Cycle Gear. So if you're ever in the Santa Calrita area, stop by the shop and say "hi" to Nick. Or better yet, head down to a WERA race and root him on! Hopefully we can help him out with a free one-year membership to Sponsorhouse.com.
By Gregg Lowley

How long have you been racing?
One year.

How did you get started in racing?
My good friend had gotten into racing the year before in 2004 and I saw how much fun he was having doing so. All he ever talked about was the races and meeting all of these new people, so I thought to myself that I wanted to give it a shot.

Did you race dirt bikes or anything before that or was last year your first experience racing a motorcycle?
Yes, last year was my official first year of racing unless you want to include BMX racing, which was quite some time ago [laughs]! Actually I started riding dirt bikes about 13 years ago but never got to serious with it. Then one day I bought a street bike, and after about four track days and one high side later I found myself on the starting grid in Las Vegas for my very first race.

Why do you race?
For the thrill factor and the adrenaline.

Which racing schools have you attended?
None, hopefully this year I might be able to attend some.

What is your favorite track?
Road Atlanta. It was the first racetrack that I had ever ridden off of the West Coast for the GNF. The atmosphere and elevation changes really got me attached.

If you could race on any track in the world, which one would it be? Why?
If I could race on any track in the world I would probably have to say Suzuka, Japan. From what I have read/seen it is one of the most difficult and physically demanding tracks of them all. It has a lot of character. The trip alone to Japan alone would be amazing in itself. It has claimed many riders and only the best do well there.

What’s your proudest moment in racing?
Completing my first year of racing with two Regional 600 championships and 1 National 600 Championship.

Your lowest moment?
Not being able to attend as many races as I would have liked too.

What’s the best thing about racing? 
Meeting new people, gaining experience and traveling to different places.

The worst thing?
The costs, especially when its all coming out of your own pocket.

What do you consider your strong point as a racer?
My ability to adapt quickly and put down decent times at new tracks.

Your weak point?
My [lack of] experience.

Who is your strongest competitor?
Corey Burelson

Who is your biggest supporter?
MY family and my girlfriend Katie.

Do you have a favorite racer?
Tommy Hayden

What are you doing to prepare for 2006?
Currently I've just been trying to work a lot at my job (Cycle Gear). I've been trying to save up for all new equipment this year including a new 2006 GSX-R600. Primarily I've been focusing a lot on trying to get sponsorships. Every little bit helps—especially when you are doing it on your own. But like I said, right now I'm just really working on getting a new bike for next year. My 2003 Kawasaki just isn't going to cut it next year if I want some top finishes.

What are your future racing goals?
My future racing goals to are to gain as much experience and exposure as I can. This up-and-coming 2006 season will be my first time competing in a National Series as an expert. Hopefully I can turn a few heads and finally get a primary sponsor who can help me out in the 2007 season to achieve even more championships and titles for the future to come. 

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