Flat Track
BUILD. TRAIN. RACE.
Presented by
About The Program
The BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. program is highlighting women and motorcycle culture in North America in a unique format that brings together four riders from four different backgrounds to compete in flat track events in 2020. The program is in three phases – first the riders built a custom flat track motorcycle using the Royal Enfield INT 650 Twin as the base platform. Then with the help of flat track racing experts, each rider is undergoing training.
Four women from across North America have been chosen to participate in this campaign. Each woman comes from a distinctive background within the motorcycle industry, from professional road racer Melissa Paris in California to Lana McNaughton, founder of the Women’s Moto Exhibit in Oregon, motorcycle enthusiast Jillian Deschenes in Minnesota, and DIY shop owner Andrea Lothrop from Canada,
The participants have received their Mark III INT 650’s and have completed the builds. While most of the work during the build process was done by the women, they were able to incorporate components from outside sponsor’s components to ensure these motorcycles are ready for racing.
The BTR program aims to show women that anything is possible when it comes to motorcycling. None of the participants have been involved in a program of this scale before. Throughout the process Royal Enfield has been documenting the women through photos and videos as they navigate through the challenges that lie ahead.
About The Program
The BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. program is highlighting women and motorcycle culture in North America in a unique format that brings together four riders from four different backgrounds to compete in flat track events in 2020. The program is in three phases – first the riders built a custom flat track motorcycle using the Royal Enfield INT 650 Twin as the base platform. Then with the help of flat track racing experts, each rider is undergoing training.
Four women from across North America have been chosen to participate in this campaign. Each woman comes from a distinctive background within the motorcycle industry, from professional road racer Melissa Paris in California to Lana McNaughton, founder of the Women’s Moto Exhibit in Oregon, motorcycle enthusiast Jillian Deschenes in Minnesota, and DIY shop owner Andrea Lothrop from Canada,
The participants have received their Mark III INT 650’s and have completed the builds. While most of the work during the build process was done by the women, they were able to incorporate components from outside sponsor’s components to ensure these motorcycles are ready for racing.
The BTR program aims to show women that anything is possible when it comes to motorcycling. None of the participants have been involved in a program of this scale before. Throughout the process Royal Enfield has been documenting the women through photos and videos as they navigate through the challenges that lie ahead.
BUILD
The riders have from November 15th, 2019 – February 15th, 2020 to modify their Mark III INT 650 Twins. Once their designs are approved, tear down begins along with outreach to sponsors and partners.
TRAIN
Aside from two days of Royal Enfield provided-training time, all four women must master proper flat track technique and racecraft ahead of the first event.
RACE
At Dixie Speedway in Atlanta Georgia, the riders and their teams will race their customized Mark III INT 650 Twin motorcycles together during the The American Flat Track exhibition race. Visit NBC Sports for local listings.
ABOUT THE MOTORCYCLE
The Mark Three INT 650
An air/oil cooled parallel twin configuration chosen for its authentic uncluttered lines, the 648cc engine is built for real world riding. With a twin throttle-body paired to a highly precise Bosch fuel injection system and EMS tune results in excellent throttle response throughout the rev range. The frame, developed in conjunction with legendary Harris Performance, thoroughly tested for durability, offers superior balance and handling.
The INT 650 provides an optimum blend of dynamics through a mix of comfort & feel, with reliable, responsive & easily to adjustable foundation.
FOUR WOMEN
THE RIDERS
Four women (plus four alternates) from four different backgrounds in the motorcycle industry.
Andrea Lothrop
THE MECHANIC
Lanakila Macnaughton
THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Jillian Deschenes
THE ENTHUSIAST
Melissa Paris
THE PRO
Kerry Sano
ALTERNATE
Malary Lee
ALTERNATE
Trisha Dahl
ALTERNATE
Bruna Wladyka
THE SUBSITUTE
Meet The Riders
Four Women (plus two alternates) from four different backgrounds in the motorcycle community: The Mechanic, The Alternate, The Enthusiast, The Pro, The Photographer,and The Substitute.
THE MECHANIC
ANDREA LOTHROP
Andrea knows a little something about the mechanics of motorcycles. Andrea and her partner run and operate a DIY motorcycle club in Toronto, Canada. You can find Andrea at her shop working on motorcycles nearly every day of the week. And when she isn’t wrenching she spends time empowering other riders to get their hands dirty and work on their own motorcycles. Moto Revere has brought together Andrea’s diverse skills and interests such as her BFA in sculpture, a life-long drive to own a business, a passion for building communities and urban life.
In the last four years Andrea has built a community focused on self-empowerment. In Toronto, the riding season and wrenching season are about 50/50 which allows Andrea and her partner to dedicate time to work on projects and dream about adventures until riding season starts back up in the spring.
Andrea’s sponsors include Biltwell, Black Widow Custom Paint, Haversack Leather and Icon. For a peek into Andrea’s building, training, and racing progress, visit her personal Instagram, her shop Instagram, and her shop website.
BUILD.
THE MECHANIC
ANDREA LOTHROP
Andrea knows a little something about the mechanics of motorcycles. Andrea and her partner run and operate a DIY motorcycle club in Toronto, Canada. You can find Andrea at her shop working on motorcycles nearly every day of the week. And when she isn’t wrenching she spends time empowering other riders to get their hands dirty and work on their own motorcycles. Moto Revere has brought together Andrea’s diverse skills and interests such as her BFA in sculpture, a life-long drive to own a business, a passion for building communities and urban life.
In the last four years Andrea has built a community focused on self-empowerment. In Toronto, the riding season and wrenching season are about 50/50 which allows Andrea and her partner to dedicate time to work on projects and dream about adventures until riding season starts back up in the spring.
Andrea’s sponsors include Biltwell, Black Widow Custom Paint, Haversack Leather and Icon. For a peek into Andrea’s building, training, and racing progress, visit her personal Instagram, her shop Instagram, and her shop website.
BUILD.
THE TWO WHEEL
ENTHUSIAST
JILLIAN DESCHENES
Jillian is the Midwest contingent of the BUILD TRAIN RACE program and was born and raised just north of Minneapolis, Minnesota. In 2019, Jillian won the District 23 AMA Flat Track women’s championship in only her second year of racing.
Just last month Jillian was one of 5 selected riders to participate in a joint project between S&S Cycles and Royal Enfield, riding the S&S Flat Tracker Himalayan at the Speed Ranch in Viola, WI. When asked why Jillian was keen on being part of the BTR program she responded,
“I am really intrigued with Royal Enfield’s affordability factor. I think the cost of riding can be pretty daunting to a lot of individuals and Royal Enfield is making major strides in the industry making motorcycles accessible to a generation of individuals who are financially “woke” if you will. I also appreciate and respect the enthusiasm Royal Enfield North America shows for women in motorcycling, and the opportunities they offer to everyday women riders such as myself.”
When she’s not at the track, Jillian works as a hospice nurse helping patients and families in their final journey. Recently engaged, Jillian spends her free time planning her wedding, riding MTB single track and chasing after her eight year-old daughter.
Jillian’s sponsors include Dunlop, S&S Cycle, Saddlemen, Gopher Glass, Vortex, PDR Performance, Race Tech Inc., Superior Tool Grinding, Jacks of Spade, Retrodyne, Warp 9, and Amanda Wilson Design. To follow her building, training, and racing progress, follow her Instagram.
BUILD.
TRAIN.
THE TWO WHEEL
ENTHUSIAST
JILLIAN DESCHENES
Jillian is the Midwest contingent of the BUILD TRAIN RACE program and was born and raised just north of Minneapolis, Minnesota. In 2019, Jillian won the District 23 AMA Flat Track women’s championship in only her second year of racing.
Just last month Jillian was one of 5 selected riders to participate in a joint project between S&S Cycles and Royal Enfield, riding the S&S Flat Tracker Himalayan at the Speed Ranch in Viola, WI. When asked why Jillian was keen on being part of the BTR program she responded,
“I am really intrigued with Royal Enfield’s affordability factor. I think the cost of riding can be pretty daunting to a lot of individuals and Royal Enfield is making major strides in the industry making motorcycles accessible to a generation of individuals who are financially “woke” if you will. I also appreciate and respect the enthusiasm Royal Enfield North America shows for women in motorcycling, and the opportunities they offer to everyday women riders such as myself.”
When she’s not at the track, Jillian works as a hospice nurse helping patients and families in their final journey. Recently engaged, Jillian spends her free time planning her wedding, riding MTB single track and chasing after her eight year-old daughter.
Jillian’s sponsors include Dunlop, S&S Cycle, Saddlemen, Gopher Glass, Vortex, PDR Performance, Race Tech Inc., Superior Tool Grinding, Jacks of Spade, Retrodyne, Warp 9, and Amanda Wilson Design. To follow her building, training, and racing progress, follow her Instagram.
BUILD.
TRAIN.
THE PRO
MELISSA PARIS
Melissa began riding motorcycles much later than most. She learned to ride at age 20 and a year or so later she started competing in local club races. After a few years racing primarily on 125cc and 250cc machinery she made her professional debut in the 2009 Daytona 200. That same year she became the first woman to qualify for a World Supersport event.
Since then she’s had the opportunity to race in MotoAmerica, Spanish CEV championship and several 24 hour World Endurance events. In her spare time Melissa likes to train by riding motocross and flat track. She also has a two year old son who is already destined for two-wheel greatness.
When asked why Melissa was keen on being part of the BTR program she responded
“I’ve had the opportunity to ride a few Royal Enfield motorcycles in the last couple years and it’s always been such a fun change of pace for me. From the moment I rode the new INT 650 I’ve been dreaming of building one into a flat tracker. I’m so excited that I’m actually getting the opportunity to make it happen!”
Melissa’s sponsors include Dubya Wheels, Ohlins, and Evol Technology. You can follow Melissa’s adventures, on her Instagram.
BUILD.
TRAIN.
THE PRO
MELISSA PARIS
Melissa began riding motorcycles much later than most. She learned to ride at age 20 and a year or so later she started competing in local club races. After a few years racing primarily on 125cc and 250cc machinery she made her professional debut in the 2009 Daytona 200. That same year she became the first woman to qualify for a World Supersport event.
Since then she’s had the opportunity to race in MotoAmerica, Spanish CEV championship and several 24 hour World Endurance events. In her spare time Melissa likes to train by riding motocross and flat track. She also has a two year old son who is already destined for two-wheel greatness.
When asked why Melissa was keen on being part of the BTR program she responded
“I’ve had the opportunity to ride a few Royal Enfield motorcycles in the last couple years and it’s always been such a fun change of pace for me. From the moment I rode the new INT 650 I’ve been dreaming of building one into a flat tracker. I’m so excited that I’m actually getting the opportunity to make it happen!”
Melissa’s sponsors include Dubya Wheels, Ohlins, and Evol Technology. You can follow Melissa’s adventures, on her Instagram.
BUILD.
TRAIN.
THE PHOTOGRAPHER
LANAKILA MACNAUGHTON
Lanakila MacNaughton is a Portland-based photographer and motorcyclist. Involved in many outdoor sports from a young age, Lana began documenting her experiences through photography. After developing a passion for motorcycles in her early twenties, she started documenting the many facets of motorcycle culture through her lens and started The Women’s Moto Exhibit, a traveling photo exhibition highlighting female motorcycle culture.
Lana photographs her subjects with a medium format Hasselblad CM. Lana has also co-founded several grassroots motorcycle events including The Dream Roll and Paradise Road Show. Additionally, Lana is one of Royal Enfield’s Brand Ambassadors and uses her Himalayan to get around town. You can follow Lana’s building, training, and racing progress on her Instagram.
BUILD.
TRAIN.
THE PHOTOGRAPHER
LANIKA MACNAUGHTON
Lanakila MacNaughton is a Portland-based photographer and motorcyclist. Involved in many outdoor sports from a young age, Lana began documenting her experiences through photography. After developing a passion for motorcycles in her early twenties, she started documenting the many facets of motorcycle culture through her lens and started The Women’s Moto Exhibit, a traveling photo exhibition highlighting female motorcycle culture.
Lana photographs her subjects with a medium format Hasselblad CM. Lana has also co-founded several grassroots motorcycle events including The Dream Roll and Paradise Road Show. Additionally, Lana is one of Royal Enfield’s Brand Ambassadors and uses her Himalayan to get around town. You can follow Lana’s building, training, and racing progress on her instagram.
BUILD.
TRAIN.
THE (OTHER) MECHANIC
KERRY SANO
Kerry started chasing her dream of building race bikes at a performance shop in San Francisco, CA, and has been working on bikes for the last 15 years. After several years in CA, she left to study conceptual art in London, UK. Upon moving back to the states she landed in New York City. She worked for a dealership gaining experience in that part of the powersports industry, and eventually decided the time was right to open her own shop. She has been running and working at her own motorcycle repair shop for the last five years in Brooklyn, NY.
During this time she took a life changing trip to India to ride Royal Enfields through the Himalayas. Because of that adventure, she has spent many months dreaming and then fulfilling those dreams of riding in other countries – exploring and learning about other cultures. She currently works at the track maintaining vintage race bikes, and maintaining her shop now located in rural Pennsylvania. Her social media is @velocita_moto and @tarpit which is the coffee shop she owns in Brooklyn. Kerry loves helping women pursue their dreams in motorcycling so don’t be shy about reaching out! Photos of Kerry provided by @ryanhandt.
* Kerry is filling in for Andrea, who is unable to attend the rest of the program due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Kerry will be riding Andrea’s bike for the remaining training sessions and races.
THE (OTHER) MECHANIC
KERRY SANO
Kerry started chasing her dream of building race bikes at a performance shop in San Francisco, CA, and has been working on bikes for the last 15 years. After several years in CA, she left to study conceptual art in London, UK. Upon moving back to the states she landed in New York City. She worked for a dealership gaining experience in that part of the powersports industry, and eventually decided the time was right to open her own shop. She has been running and working at her own motorcycle repair shop for the last five years in Brooklyn, NY. During this time she took a life changing trip to India to ride Royal Enfields through the Himalayas. Because of that adventure, she has spent many months dreaming and then fulfilling those dreams of riding in other countries – exploring and learning about other cultures. She currently works at the track maintaining vintage race bikes, and maintaining her shop now located in rural Pennsylvania. Her social media is @velocita_moto and @tarpit which is the coffee shop she owns in Brooklyn. Kerry loves helping women pursue their dreams in motorcycling so don’t be shy about reaching out! Photos of Kerry provided by @ryanhandt.
* Kerry is filling in for Andrea, who is unable to attend the rest of the program due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Kerry will be riding Andrea’s bike for the remaining training sessions and races.
THE UNICORN
MALARY LEE
Originally from the midwest, Malary moved to Texas for the warmer weather and promise of year round riding. Since her life on two wheels began nine years ago, she’s said yes to every opportunity motorcycles have brought her way – from racing X-Games in 2017 to riding 420 foot sand dunes in Morocco last spring. Malary has some flat track experience having raced at events like Mama Tried’s Flat Out Friday, Day in the Dirt at Glen Helen, and The One Show Women’s race.
When asked to participate in the Build. Train. Race Program, she was so excited to be a part of the program, she said yes to the opportunity before finding out any details of the remaining events. “I love the concept of a women built event and am excited to line up on the starting line with such rad ladies.”
THE UNICORN
MALARY LEE
Originally from the midwest, Malary moved to Texas for the warmer weather and promise of year round riding. Since her life on two wheels began nine years ago, she’s said yes to every opportunity motorcycles have brought her way – from racing X-Games in 2017 to riding 420 foot sand dunes in Morocco last spring. Malary has some flat track experience having raced at events like Mama Tried’s Flat Out Friday, Day in the Dirt at Glen Helen, and The One Show Women’s race.
When asked to participate in the Build. Train. Race Program, she was so excited to be a part of the program, she said yes to the opportunity before finding out any details of the remaining events. “I love the concept of a women built event and am excited to line up on the starting line with such rad ladies.”
THE TECHNICIAN
TRISHA DAHL
THE TECHNICIAN
TRISHA DAHL
THE SUBSTITUTE
BRUNA WLADYKA
Bruna Wladyka is a Brazilian motorcyclist, event producer and a Royal Enfield dealer in the South of the country, in Curitiba. She will be our acting substitute for this racing season. Initially, she will be subbing in for Melissa Paris at the first racing event on March 13th during Flat Out Friday, as well as any other scheduled location in which any of the riders cannot attend. Our hope is to introduce and expand this program into Brazil in the upcoming riding seasons.
Involved in the motorcycling industry for almost 10 years, Bruna is the co-director of one of the biggest motorcycling events in Brazil, named “BMS Motorcycle.” The event is directed towards global enthusiasts, filled with activities for the entire family, along with expositions of customized vehicles, Flat Track competitions, Motocross, rock concerts, clothing accessories, gastronomy, as well as the growing presence of the women’s empowerment movement #ElasPilotam, (translated as #SheRides).
She is also responsible for the one and only Wall of Death in Latin America, a priceless and historical attraction for the motorcycle segment in Brazil. The movement #ElasPilotam started a few years ago and its main objective is to gather women all over the country who are pilots or fans of the motorcycling community, helping them find motivation, share their stories and conquer their freedom.
Additionally, in 2020, Bruna is also promoting the first edition of an exclusive camp for women from all over Brazil, #ElasPilotam Camp, which is scheduled to occur in quarter one of the riding season. The idea of the event is to gather women to share experiences and conversations about their lifestyles, road trips and stimulate sorority.
You can follow Bruna’s building, training, and racing progress on her Instagram @brunawladyka. If you want to know a little bit more about the movement, follow @elaspilotam; Also check the BMS Motorcycle plans for this year, follow @bms_motorcycle.
THE SUBSTITUTE
BRUNA WLADYKA
Bruna Wladyka is a Brazilian motorcyclist, event producer and a Royal Enfield dealer in the South of the country, in Curitiba. She will be our acting substitute for this racing season. Initially, she will be subbing in for Melissa Paris at the first racing event on March 13th during Flat Out Friday, as well as any other scheduled location in which any of the riders cannot attend. Our hope is to introduce and expand this program into Brazil in the upcoming riding seasons.
Involved in the motorcycling industry for almost 10 years, Bruna is the co-director of one of the biggest motorcycling events in Brazil, named “BMS Motorcycle.” The event is directed towards global enthusiasts, filled with activities for the entire family, along with expositions of customized vehicles, Flat Track competitions, Motocross, rock concerts, clothing accessories, gastronomy, as well as the growing presence of the women’s empowerment movement #ElasPilotam, (translated as #SheRides). She is also responsible for the one and only Wall of Death in Latin America, a priceless and historical attraction for the motorcycle segment in Brazil.
The movement #ElasPilotam started a few years ago and its main objective is to gather women all over the country who are pilots or fans of the motorcycling community, helping them find motivation, share their stories and conquer their freedom.
Additionally, in 2020, Bruna is also promoting the first edition of an exclusive camp for women from all over Brazil, #ElasPilotam Camp, which is scheduled to occur in quarter one of the riding season. The idea of the event is to gather women to share experiences and conversations about their lifestyles, road trips and stimulate sorority.
You can follow Bruna’s building, training, and racing progress on her Instagram @brunawladyka. If you want to know a little bit more about the movement, follow @elaspilotam; Also check the BMS Motorcycle plans for this year, follow @bms_motorcycle.
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