Member of the Week: Justin Nikkola
What discipline(s) do you participate in? Class(es)?
Flat Track, Harescramble, Enduro, Ice & Road
When did you begin riding and racing? At what point did you become a District 23
ARMCA member?
Some experience as a kid but when I turned 30 in 2018 I went all in and never looked back! The first year on my Dirtbike I tried a Harescramble and was instantly hooked.
What is the greatest accomplishment of your riding/racing career?
I feel Finishing the A/B loop at the Huntersville Enduro in 2021 is when ive felt the most accomplished. 100+ degrees and over 3 hours of riding was insane. Many times I wanted to pull off but I made it. I finished it.
What are your goals for 2023? Beyond?
For racing: simply just to get a year end award,
Im chasing points in Flat Track this season! Currently 3rd in Vet +30 and 6th in Open B.
For road:
I just took my first out-of-state motorcycle trip to the UP of Michigan on my Indian FTR Rally!
I would like to travel by bike as far as Alaska while in my 30s.
Why do you continue to race in D23 ARMCA?
Once you pop the fun dont stop! I have thoroughly enjoyed racing all 3 disciplines, trial riding and Ice riding that Minnesota and D23 has to offer.
The amount of work people have to do to keep our state trails open and growing is inspiring
Heck, I like it so much im a board member for Flat Track!
Who inspires you in racing?
My friends truly inspire me the most! Without the help, support, advice and push from them racing just wouldn't be the same.
How has motorcycling impacted your life?
The People ive met alone through motorcycling has changed my life for the better in multiple ways. Its truly hard to put into words what being on two wheels does for me and my soul.
From the peaceful in your head trail rides through the fall forest. Down to the fast pace sprint style "Give it your all." racing. I cant enough.
What is your favorite food to eat on race day?
Rob's famous Peanut Butter, Butter and Honey sandwiches! My whole race day is off without them.
How do you get pumped up to ride/race? Music? Pep talks? Maybe quiet time is more your style?
Leading up to the race its definitely blaring whatever music I'm into that day on the way to the track.
Once I'm in staging, its eyes closed and controlled breathing. A type of meditation before the "we gotta go!" Hits.
What else do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy Ice Riding, Ice Fishing, Trap shooting, Mountain Biking, motorcycle shows, camp fires hanging out with my pups, friends and trying new places to eat!
What advice has a fellow rider/racer given you that you follow?
Dont look behind you!
My first Harescramble i was told that and its always stuck with me.
Ive carried that over into dirt track racing as well.
People will get around you when or if they can, just focus on your own race.
What advice do you have for other D23 ARMCA members?
Give new disciplines a try! I think the best part about motorcycles is all the different types of riding and racing you can do!
Even in Flat Track im quick to hop on a Vintage bike or Hooligan to try out something new.
Anything else you’d like to mention?
Thanks for having me as a member of the week!