Welcome to “The Man Behind the Brand,” a series where we delve into the captivating journey of the visionary mind driving RaceTorx’s innovation and passion. Join us as we uncover the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped RaceTorx into the powerhouse it is today. Let’s explore the story of Dale, the man who turned a passion for motorcycles into a thriving business.
Dale’s journey into motorcycling and design began with a background in building and engineering. Crafting conveyor machines, X-ray machines, and food slicing machines laid the foundation for his love of precision and innovation. But Dale felt a calling to something more, something fueled by the raw power and thrill of motorcycles.
From a very young age Dale’s father was the one to introduce him to the power of 2 wheels, buying Dale a 3 wheeled big red Honda. ‘Seeing my Dad go out riding made me want to’ and ever since this first adrenaline hit ‘bikes have always been in my blood’.
Later in life, this passion led Dale to design motorbike parts, starting with radiator guards and chain adjusters for the Honda VTR RC51 SP1 and SP2 models. These early creations ignited a spark that would soon become RaceTorx.
From its humble beginnings as a side project, RaceTorx slowly grew into a full-fledged business. Dale’s dedication to crafting high-quality, meticulously engineered components fueled its expansion. With each late-night tinkering session and carefully crafted product, RaceTorx evolved, eventually becoming Dale’s full-time pursuit.
Despite challenges and setbacks, Dale’s unwavering commitment to motorcycling and innovation kept RaceTorx moving forward and today, RaceTorx stands as a testament to Dale’s passion, perseverance, and relentless pursuit of something more.
Thank you for joining us on this journey into the heart of RaceTorx and the mind of its founder, Dale. Now, let’s delve deeper into the story behind the brand and explore some of the key elements that have shaped its evolution.
Where did the name RaceTorx come from?
RaceTorx isn’t just a name; it’s a symbol of precision engineering, superior performance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The name was carefully chosen to reflect the brand’s dedication to the world of motorcycle racing and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on two wheels.
The “Race” in RaceTorx represents the adrenaline-fueled world of motorcycle racing, where every second counts and precision engineering is paramount. It embodies the passion, excitement, and sheer speed that define the sport, inspiring us to strive for greatness in everything we do.
But RaceTorx isn’t just about racing – it’s about pushing the limits of performance and innovation in all aspects of motorcycling from road, to off road and adventure too. That’s where the “Torx” comes in. Named after torque (power) the frill of acceleration.
Together, RaceTorx embodies the fusion of speed, precision, and passion that defines our brand. It’s more than just a name – it’s a promise to riders everywhere that when you choose RaceTorx, you’re choosing the very best in performance, innovation, and style for your motorcycle.
Original RaceTorx Logo
How has the business grown?
From its humble beginnings as a passion project, RaceTorx has grown into a thriving business driven by a relentless commitment to excellence. Despite facing challenges and setbacks along the way, Dale’s unwavering dedication to motorcycling and innovation has propelled RaceTorx forward, inspiring us to constantly push the boundaries of what’s possible.
One of the key factors in our growth has been our relentless focus on innovation and design. Every product in the RaceTorx lineup is meticulously engineered to deliver unparalleled performance, reliability, and style, drawing inspiration from the world of motorcycle racing and the needs of riders everywhere.
But perhaps the most significant aspect of our growth has been the support of our customers – the passionate riders and enthusiasts who share our love for motorcycles and our dedication to pushing the boundaries of performance and technology. Their feedback, encouragement, and loyalty have been the driving force behind our success, inspiring us to constantly raise the bar and exceed expectations.
As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain committed to staying true to our roots, honoring the legacy of those who came before us, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of motorcycling. With the support of our loyal customers and the passion that burns within each and every one of us, the future of RaceTorx is brighter than ever before.
What was your first product design?
Dale’s journey into product design began with a deep appreciation for motorcycles and a desire to enhance their performance and aesthetics. The first product design for RaceTorx was a pivotal moment, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Dale’s journey.
Inspired by the legendary Honda VTR RC51 SP1 and SP2 models, Dale set out to create components that not only complemented the bikes’ performance but also elevated their visual appeal. The result was a set of radiator guards and chain adjusters that combined precision engineering with sleek design, providing unparalleled protection and functionality.
These early designs laid the foundation for RaceTorx’s commitment to excellence and innovation. From CNC-machined components to titanium upgrades, every product in the RaceTorx lineup is crafted with the same attention to detail and passion for motorcycling that defined Dale’s first creations.
Favourite show?
One show we’ve attended many times over the years is Motorcycle Live at the NEC in Birmingham. As the show has grown so has our presence there. We started our journey in a small 3x3m space in the far corner of the hall and today we’ve just signed up for our biggest space yet.
Motorcycle Live brings together many shapes and sizes of motorbike enthusiasts to wander around and view all the latest models from the big manufacturers and touch and feel all the latest tech.
This year, like every year, we’ll have our latest products on display and our ever growing team will be on hand to talk you through how our products can help with your bikes performance.
If you’re going this year be sure to head over to us and say hello.
RaceTorx at Motorcycle Live 2024
Favorite race/rider?
As a designer deeply entrenched in the world of motorcycling, the Isle of man TT is my favorite race event, and I go every year to ride, watch and mingle in the race paddock. However, although this is my favorite event, each race has its own unique blend of excitement, adrenaline, and sheer determination, while every rider possesses a skill and passion that commands respect and admiration.
Amidst this sea of talent and thrill, there’s one sentiment that remains unwavering – gratitude. Gratitude for the incredible teams and riders who entrust us with their dreams, their ambitions, and their machines.
From the one of the fastest guys around the TT Peter Hickman to the countless other riders who push the limits of speed and precision on tracks around the world, each and every one of them holds a special place in our hearts. It’s their unwavering dedication, their unyielding spirit, and their relentless pursuit of excellence that fuels our own passion for innovation and performance.
So while I may not have a single favorite race or rider, I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all the teams and riders we support. Your trust and partnership inspire us to push the boundaries of what’s possible, to innovate, and to elevate the world of motorcycling to new heights.
Together, we’re not just competing on the track – we’re shaping the future of our sport, and I couldn’t be more honored to be a part of this incredible journey alongside each and every one of you. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your story, and here’s to many more thrilling races, unforgettable moments, and shared successes in the years to come.
What bikes do you ride? Which is your favourite?
As a designer deeply entrenched in the world of motorcycles, I’m fortunate to have a diverse lineup of bikes in my garage, each with its own unique personality and purpose. From the adrenaline-pumping thrills of the KTM Super Duke 1290 Gen 3 to the rugged adventure capabilities of the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid, my collection reflects my passion for exploring every facet of motorcycling.
The KTM Super Duke 1290 Gen 3 is a true powerhouse, delivering blistering performance and razor-sharp handling that never fails to leave me exhilarated after every ride. Its combination of raw power, agility, and cutting-edge technology makes it a standout in the world of naked bikes, and it’s easily one of my go-to choices for carving up twisty roads or tearing up the track.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Yamaha Tenere 700 World Raid embodies the spirit of adventure, beckoning me to explore with ease. Its rugged durability, long-travel suspension, and go-anywhere attitude make it the perfect companion for epic off-road adventures whether I’m tackling rocky trails or cruising through sandy deserts.
But my love for motorcycling isn’t confined to just one style or discipline – it’s as diverse as the bikes in my garage. That’s why you’ll also find me tearing up the trails on the Yamaha WR450 reveling in the pure joy of off-road riding and the adrenaline rush of conquering technical terrain with precision and skill.
And then there’s the Stark Varg electric motocross bike, a true testament to the future of motorcycling. Its silent electric motor delivers 938Nm Torque and seamless power delivery, while its Supermoto conversion adds a whole new dimension of fun to my riding experience. Whether I’m ripping around the track or navigating urban streets, the Stark Varg never fails to put a smile on my face and remind me of the endless possibilities of electric propulsion.
So, which bike is my favorite? It’s a tough question to answer, as each one holds a special place in my heart and offers a unique riding experience that I cherish in its own right. Whether I’m seeking adrenaline-fueled thrills, epic adventures, or simply the joy of exploring new horizons, my diverse collection of bikes ensures that there’s always something exciting waiting for me in the saddle.
Dale Riding TT
What can we look forward to in the future?
The future of motorcycling is an exhilarating frontier, ripe with endless possibilities and opportunities for innovation. As we look ahead, there’s no shortage of excitement in store for enthusiasts like you who share our passion for pushing the boundaries of performance and technology.
One area where we’re particularly excited to expand is in the realm of handlebars, handrakes, scooter brakes, levers and switch levers. Here at RaceTorx we’re committed to developing cutting-edge solutions that not only enhance stopping power and controls but also elevate the overall riding experience. Whether you’re tearing up the track or navigating twisty mountain roads, you can expect your components from RaceTorx to deliver unparalleled performance and reliability when you need it most.
But that’s not all – we’re also doubling down on our commitment to enhancing the shifting experience with a range of new gear shift supports. Designed to optimize gear changes and reduce wear and tear on transmission components, our gear shift supports will help you achieve smoother, more precise shifts, whether you’re racing towards the checkered flag or cruising through city streets.
Gear Shift Link
And of course, we’re thrilled to announce our foray into the electric bike parts market. As electric motorcycles continue to gain traction and popularity, we see immense potential to revolutionize the way riders experience performance and technology on two wheels. From braking components to motor covers & guards, our electric bike parts will be designed with the same passion for innovation and performance that defines everything we do at RaceTorx.
So buckle up, fellow enthusiasts, because the future of motorcycling is brighter than ever before. With new braking components, gear shift supports, and electric bike parts on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to join us on this thrilling journey as we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of motorcycles. Get ready to ride into the future with Racetorx by your side.
Dale James – RaceTorx