In the world of American Flat Track racing, the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally served up an intense battle for Round 12 of the 2026 season. This event, the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT, showcased the raw talent and strategic minds of the sport's top riders.
The Double-Edged Champion
Dallas Daniels, the reigning Grand National Champion, arrived at Sturgis with a unique advantage. His experience as a national-level road racer gave him an edge on the multi-layered track, a skill honed in his youth on similar courses in Central Illinois. However, his confidence had taken a hit during his title defense, with only two wins in the first 11 races compared to his rivals' combined nine.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the mental aspect of the sport. Daniels' ability to stay sharp and confident despite the odds is a testament to his mental fortitude. Personally, I think it's this mental edge that sets champions apart from the rest.
The Contenders
Daniels wasn't alone in his talent. Kody Kopp and Briar Bauman, both riding for Harley-Davidson, showed their all-around skills. Kopp, in his first TT on a big twin, set the fastest lap in qualifying, while Bauman dominated his heat with an even faster lap.
These riders represent the new generation of flat track racing, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on a Harley-Davidson. Their presence on the track adds an exciting layer of competition, especially when considering the dominance of Yamaha in Super TT events.
The Race Unfolds
As expected, Daniels got the launch he wanted, and from the first lap, he put his head down and started to pull away. Bauman, in second, was under pressure from Dalton Gauthier, which allowed Daniels to stretch his lead.
A critical moment came when Daniels caught his foot and was thrown out of his seat. But, thanks to his earlier lead, he was able to recover and maintain his position. This incident highlights the physical demands of the sport and the split-second decisions riders must make.
Daniels crossed the finish line with a comfortable lead, taking the checkered flag by over six seconds. Gauthier's third-place finish gave Royal Enfield its second-ever premier-class podium, a significant achievement for the team.
The Championship Battle
With four rounds remaining, Daniels has transformed a three-point deficit into a six-point lead. Kopp now sits in second, just six points behind, with Bauman close behind in third.
This tight race for the championship showcases the depth of talent in American Flat Track racing. Each rider brings a unique style and strategy to the track, making for an unpredictable and exciting season.
AFT Singles: A Clash of Champions
In the AFT Singles class, Evan Kelleher, riding for Schaeffer's Motorsports KTM, claimed his first career win and podium finish. This came after a day of strong performances, including leading off the line on the opening lap.
However, the race was not without incident. Estenson Racing Yamaha's Tom Drane and 1st Impressions Husqvarna's Chase Saathoff, two of the class's most prominent riders, clashed twice. First in qualifying, where Drane collected Saathoff, and then in the main, where their aggressive riding saw them crash together.
This clash highlights the intense competition and the high stakes of the AFT Singles class. It's a reminder that, while talent and speed are essential, it's often the ability to make smart decisions and avoid mistakes that separates the winners from the rest.
Conclusion
The 2026 American Flat Track season continues to deliver thrilling races and unexpected twists. With the championship battle heating up and the AFT Singles class providing its own brand of drama, fans are in for an exciting finish to the season. As we look ahead, one thing is certain: these riders will continue to push the boundaries of what's possible on two wheels.
