Home Blog Page 45

How A Car Repossession Attorney Can Help You Fight Back

By
SM
-

Car repossession can happen quickly and often without clear communication, leaving you without reliable transportation and facing unexpected financial demands. Beyond the loss of a vehicle, repossession can disrupt your ability to work, attend school, or manage essential responsibilities.

Many people are unaware that they have legal rights during the repossession process—and that lenders or recovery companies frequently violate these rights. You may also be pursued for fees or balances that are inaccurate or unlawful.

Working with an experienced car repossession attorney can make a critical difference. A knowledgeable legal professional can help you understand your rights, identify potential violations, and take the right steps to protect your financial and legal interests.

This article explains how a car repossession lawyer can help you understand your rights, confront unlawful acts, and fight back successfully.

1. Identifying Whether Your Repossession Was Lawful

A creditor may repossess your vehicle if you are in default and the creditor holds a valid security interest. However, the manner in which the repossession is carried out is just as important—this is often where violations occur.

Many states, including California, prohibit breaches of the peace during repossession. A repossession agent may not use force, make threats, break into locked property, or continue the repossession if you clearly object.

Because these situations can be fact-specific, a California car repossession attorney can help assess whether your rights were violated and whether the repossession was lawful in the first place.

2. Challenging a Breach of the Peace

If your repossession involved intimidation, property damage, or continued action after you objected, you may have strong legal remedies. An attorney can help enforce those rights.

A breach of the peace may make the repossession illegal under state vehicle repossession laws. It may also violate the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

Under the FDCPA, consumers may recover statutory damages, actual damages, and attorney fees. An attorney can review what happened, determine whether a violation occurred, and build a case against the repossession company.

3. Ensuring You Received Every Required Post-Repossession Notice

Post-Repossession Notice

Although a repossession may be legal, creditors are required to meet stringent requirements after the repossession, and failure to comply with any of them constitutes a violation that an attorney can pursue.

The creditor is usually obliged to serve a Notice of Seizure within 48 hours, including contact details and the storage costs. You should also be given a list of any personal property found in the car, and you should have ample time to retrieve it.

The creditor must also send a pre-sale notice before your vehicle is sold. This explains to you your rights to reinstatement and redemption. Any notice omitted or defective means your rights were not duly considered, and an attorney will know fully what remedies to obtain in your case.

4. Protecting Your Right to Reinstate or Redeem Your Vehicle

One of the most frequently ignored rights under vehicle repossession law is the right to reclaim your car before it is auctioned.

Reinstatement is a process in which all missed payments, along with other related charges, are paid to restore the loan to its pre-default position. Redemption refers to the process of paying an outstanding debt balance in full. You can also have the right to request an extension in case you require more time, depending on your jurisdiction and the terms of your contract.

A lawyer can ensure you have a clear understanding of each option and can take action before the deadline.

5. Disputing Deficiency Balances After the Sale

If the sale of your vehicle is less than the loan balance, the creditor can come after you to collect the outstanding balance. But the law states that your car must have been sold in a commercially reasonable way.

If it is sold at a very low price relative to fair market value, the sale may be subject to legal challenge. You also have the right to post-sale accounting, which discloses the sale price and the distribution of proceeds. And if accounting is absent or inaccurate, your repayment obligation can be reduced or even eliminated.

In case you have not lost possession of your property at all, you can take legal action.

A repossession is unjustifiable when the creditor did not have the legal authority to repossess, you were not actually in default, the vehicle repossessed was not the one listed in the agreement, or your property was damaged in the process.

Consumers can recover actual damages, such as lost wages and transportation costs. Statutory damages up to 1,000 US dollars may be awarded in case of violations of the FDCPA, along with the attorneys’ fees that can be recovered against the violating party. An effective case may also result in the complete elimination of any balance or deficiency obligation.

Final Thoughts

Most people do not consider a vehicle a luxury. It is the way they commute to work, handle their daily duties and keep in touch with their lives. A repossession strike at that base, and the legal muddiness that ensues is a palpable and immediate challenge.

Having an attorney implies that you are no longer merely reacting – you are acting. The practices of creditors are under review. Repossession behavior is examined. Balances of deficiency are disputed. And in the event of the violation of the law, you are entitled to demand accountability and compensation.

If you feel that your rights have been infringed upon and that your vehicle was unfairly repossessed, the best first step is to schedule a free legal consultation to assess where you are and how you can proceed.

David Vepraskas on Off-Roading in Georgia: Growth, Responsibility, and the Pull of the Trails

By
SM
-

Off-roading is a big part of Georgia’s outdoor culture. It attracts both experienced riders and novice riders looking for a different kind of weekend escape. From the winding trails of North Georgia to managed off-highway vehicle systems, the activity keeps growing while benefiting the state’s economy and tourism industry. 

Georgia’s outdoor recreation industry generates roughly $27 billion every year and supports 230,000+ jobs in the state. Off-roading holds a smaller but growing share within that environment, fueled by growing interest in ATV and UTV use. Participation has increased over the past few years as more people look for hands-on, immersive outdoor experiences. 

David Vepraskas, an avid outdoorsman and experienced off-roader based in Lakemont, says the state offers a unique riding experience that keeps enthusiasts coming back. “Georgia gives you a bit of everything. You can go from muddy tracks to rocky climbs pretty quickly. That variety makes it fun and keeps people engaged.”

North Georgia is a popular destination for off-road sports. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest trails attract riders with their mix of elevation, wooded paths, and designated trail systems. The Whissenhunt OHV trail system is one example. It offers a structured environment for dirt bikes and ATVs, helping riders explore the terrain while staying within regulated boundaries. 

State agencies have noted the growing demand. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources invests in trail development through programs like the Recreational Trails Program. Recent funding cycles have supported both motorized and non-motorized trails, with a portion reserved for off-road vehicle use. These investments are typically linked to fuel tax revenue from off-highway vehicles, and participation in the sport directly contributes to infrastructure improvements. 

That kind of reinvestment matters to Vepraskas. “When you see trails being maintained and improved, it encourages people to ride properly. Having designated spaces makes a big difference in safety and long-term access,” he says. 

Aside from trail systems, there are many other factors in the sport that bring economic benefits. Off-roading helps bring regular business to smaller communities, especially in North Georgia, where tourism is very popular. Riders travel in groups and spend money on lodging, food, gas, and gear. That activity supports local businesses and creates a ripple effect in areas that benefit from outdoor tourism.

At the same time, off-roading growth has led to discussions about the sport’s environmental impact. Concerns around soil erosion, wildlife disruption, and noise are hot topics of discussion. Improper riding habits, especially off designated trails, can cause harm to ecosystems and lead to stricter regulations.

Efforts to address these concerns focus on education and access. Managed trail systems help lead riders toward approved routes, while outreach programs encourage responsible behavior. The goal is to maintain a balance where recreation and conservation can co-exist.

By investing in infrastructure while promoting responsible use, Georgia positions itself as a prime destination for off-road lovers. The combination of diverse terrain, accessible trail systems, and economic benefits has created a strong foundation for persistent growth.

Off-roading sports in Georgia will stay a part of the state’s outdoor identity. More riders are seeing what the region has to offer. Therefore, the focus will likely stay on maintaining access while protecting the environment that makes the experience happen in the first place.

Vepraskas says the appeal has always been simple. “There’s nothing like getting out on the trails and seeing where they take you. Georgia happens to be one of the best places to do it.”

Best 215/55R17 Tires: Expert Buyer’s Guide 2026

By
SM
-

What Are 215/55R17 Tires — and Which Vehicles Need Them?

The 215/55R17 is one of the most common tire sizes for sedans and compact crossovers in 2026, covering vehicles like the Honda HR-V, Fiat 500X, and Chrysler 200. Finding the right 215/55R17 tire depends on your driving style, weather conditions, and performance priorities and this guide breaks it all down using verified specs and real-world data.

This size delivers a 26.3-inch overall diameter, a 215mm section width, and a 118mm sidewall, a balance that suits daily drivers who want comfortable handling without sacrificing too much road feel.

Understanding the 215/55R17 Tire Code

Before you shop, it helps to know exactly what those numbers mean:

  • 215 — Section width in millimeters (roughly 8.5 inches across the tread)
  • 55 — Aspect ratio; the sidewall height is 55% of the tread width (about 4.7 inches)
  • R — Radial construction, the industry standard for all modern passenger vehicles
  • 17 — Wheel diameter in inches

The 55 aspect ratio gives this size a slightly taller sidewall than low-profile performance tires, which translates to a more comfortable ride. You’ll also see load index and speed rating codes after the size — for example, 94V means the tire supports 670 kg per tire and is rated for sustained speeds up to 240 km/h (149 mph). Always match or exceed your vehicle’s OEM load and speed rating.

Which Cars Use 215/55R17 Tires?

This size is OEM fitment on a wide range of sedans and compact crossovers:

  • Honda HR-V (multiple model years)
  • Chevrolet Cruze (multiple model years)
  • Chevrolet Malibu
  • Fiat 500X
  • Chrysler 200
  • Chevrolet Volt

Always verify against your vehicle’s door jamb placard or owner’s manual before purchasing. If replacing a different size, keep the overall diameter change within ±3% to avoid speedometer errors and ABS calibration issues.

How to Choose the Right 215/55R17 Tire

Not all tires are built the same, even within the same size. Here are the four main categories to consider:

Ultra-High Performance (UHP) All-Season

UHP all-season tires are built for drivers who want sharper handling, faster steering response, and strong wet-weather grip — without sacrificing the ability to drive year-round. They use performance rubber compounds that grip harder in dry conditions and resist hydroplaning on wet roads. If your sedan or crossover is the sportier variant of its platform, a UHP all-season is the best balance of performance and practicality in a 215/55R17.

Standard All-Season Touring

The most popular choice for everyday drivers. Touring all-season tires prioritize ride comfort, low road noise, and long tread life over outright grip. They’re well-suited for high-mileage commuters and family vehicles where smooth, quiet driving matters most.

All-Weather (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake Rated)

All-weather tires carry the 3PMSF certification, meaning they’ve passed standardized testing for severe snow conditions. Unlike standard all-season tires, which handle only light snow, all-weather options give you genuine winter capability without requiring a seasonal tire swap.

Summer / UHP Summer

Summer tires deliver maximum dry and wet performance but are not suitable for temperatures below 7°C (45°F). The rubber compound stiffens in cold weather, reducing grip significantly. Best suited for tropical or warm climates, do not use year-round in temperate regions.

Top 215/55R17 Tire Options to Consider in 2026

GT Radial CHAMPIRO UHP AS — UHP All-Season

GT Radial’s CHAMPIRO UHP AS is available in 215/55R17 and targets drivers who want UHP handling year-round. Key verified features include a Nanometer Silica tread compound for improved wet grip, full-depth sipes for all-season traction, and a 45,000-mile tread life warranty competitive for the UHP all-season category.

GT Radial is manufactured by GITI Tire, a global tire company with over 70 years of history selling in 130+ countries and holding OEM supply contracts with brands including Citroën, Peugeot, and Dacia. That OEM pedigree means GT Radial’s compounds go through the same validation process as tires fitted to new vehicles.

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus — UHP All-Season

One of the most tested UHP all-season tires in the market, earning strong marks for dry handling, wet braking, and light-snow capability. Features Continental’s Tuned Performance Indicators, which show when the tire’s dry, wet, or snow performance has degraded due to wear. 50,000-mile warranty.

Pirelli P4 Persist AS Plus — All-Season Touring

SimpleTire’s testing rates the P4 Persist AS Plus at 9.7 out of 10 for the 215/55R17 all-season category, highlighting its 85,000-mile tread life warranty and strong hydroplaning resistance. A standout choice for high-mileage commuters.

Bridgestone Weatherpeak — All-Weather

Holds 3PMSF certification and a 70,000-mile tread life warranty. SimpleTire’s testing gives it a 9.7 overall score with a 9.8 on both longevity and traction exceptional results for an all-weather tire in this size.

Michelin CrossClimate2 — All-Weather

One of the most respected all-weather tires available. Offered in 215/55R17 with XL load rating (98V), 3PMSF certification, and EV-Ready branding. Premium-priced but delivers consistent performance across wet, dry, and snowy conditions.

Performance vs. Comfort: What Trade-Offs Should You Expect?

  • UHP tires: sharper dry grip, faster response, better wet braking. Trade-off: higher road noise, firmer ride, shorter tread life.
  • Touring tires: quieter cabin, softer ride, longer tread life. Trade-off: less steering precision, marginally longer wet braking.
  • All-weather tires: genuine snow capability, year-round flexibility. Trade-off: slightly reduced peak summer grip vs. summer tires.

There’s no universally “best” tire, only the best tire for your specific driving conditions, vehicle, and priorities.

What Speed Rating Do You Need?

Most 215/55R17 applications call for an H rating (up to 210 km/h / 130 mph) or a V rating (up to 240 km/h / 149 mph). Performance-focused vehicles typically require V-rated or higher. Always match or exceed the minimum speed rating specified on your vehicle’s door placard. Never downgrade your speed rating when replacing tires, it’s a safety issue, not just a specification technicality.

FAQ: 215/55R17 Tires

What does 215/55R17 mean?

The 215/55R17 tire code identifies a tire with a 215mm section width, a sidewall height equal to 55% of that width (approximately 118mm), radial construction, and a 17-inch wheel diameter. The overall diameter measures approximately 26.3 inches (668mm). This size is common on mid-size sedans and compact crossovers.

Is 215/55R17 a performance tire size?

Not strictly. The 215/55R17 is primarily a touring or all-season tire size, found on commuter sedans and family crossovers. However, ultra-high performance (UHP) all-season options exist in this size, offering notably sharper handling and wet grip than standard touring tires.

Can I replace 215/60R17 tires with 215/55R17?

Switching from 215/60R17 to 215/55R17 reduces overall diameter by approximately 3.6%, which is at the edge of the ±3% tolerance most manufacturers accept. Your speedometer will read slightly fast, and ABS/traction control systems may need recalibration. Verify your vehicle’s allowable tolerance before making this change.

How long do 215/55R17 tires last?

Tread life varies significantly by category. High-mileage touring tires like the Pirelli P4 Persist AS Plus carry an 85,000-mile warranty. All-weather options like the Bridgestone Weatherpeak offer 70,000 miles. UHP all-season tires typically warranty for 40,000–50,000 miles due to softer performance compounds.

What is the correct tire pressure for 215/55R17?

Recommended tire pressure is vehicle-specific, not tire-specific. Check your door jamb placard or owner’s manual for the correct cold inflation pressure. Most sedans and crossovers running 215/55R17 recommend 32–36 PSI. Never use the maximum pressure printed on the performance tires sidewall as your target, that’s the tire’s limit, not the vehicle recommendation.

Are GT Radial tires good quality?

GT Radial is manufactured by GITI Tire, a global company founded in 1951 that supplies tires to OEM programs for Citroën, Peugeot, and Dacia. The brand distributes in more than 130 countries and holds international quality certifications across its seven manufacturing plants. Independent testing on the CHAMPIRO UHP AS confirms competitive wet and dry performance for the price segment.

Key Takeaways Before You Buy

  • Always verify fitment against your vehicle’s door placard, not just by size alone
  • Match or exceed your OEM load index and speed rating — never downgrade either
  • UHP all-season tires offer the best wet grip; touring tires offer the best tread life
  • All-weather tires with 3PMSF certification are the smart choice for year-round use in winter regions
  • GT Radial’s CHAMPIRO UHP AS offers genuine UHP all-season performance in 215/55R17 at a value price point, backed by OEM-level manufacturing standards

Find the Right 215/55R17 Tire for Your Vehicle

The right tire comes down to matching your driving conditions, vehicle requirements, and performance expectations. If you prioritize sharp handling and wet-weather confidence, the GT Radial CHAMPIRO UHP AS deserves a close look in the value UHP segment. For maximum tread life, explore the Pirelli P4 Persist AS Plus. For four-season security, the Bridgestone Weatherpeak or Michelin CrossClimate2 are benchmarks in the all-weather category.

5 Common Mistakes That Are Quietly Damaging Your Tires

By
SM
-

Most drivers only think about their tires when something goes wrong, a blowout, a flat, or an uneven wear pattern that has already cost them hundreds in premature replacement. The damage almost always started weeks or months earlier from habits that are easy to fix once you know what they are.

MistakeDamage CausedFix
Wrong tire pressureUneven wear, blowouts, poor handlingCheck pressure monthly
Ignoring wheel alignmentRapid one-sided wearAlign every 10,000 miles
Overloading the vehicleSidewall stress, heat buildupStay within load rating
Skipping tire rotationUneven tread wear across axlesRotate every 5,000 miles
Wrong tire for the applicationAccelerated wear, handling failureMatch tire to job
Kerb strikes and pothole impactInternal sidewall damageSlow down, inspect after impact

Why Tire Damage Rarely Happens the Way Most People Think

1. The habits that cost more than road hazards ever will

Most drivers blame road conditions for tire wear and damage. The reality is that the majority of premature tire failures trace back to maintenance habits, or the absence of them, rather than what the road throws at the vehicle.

Understanding what causes damage before it shows up in tread depth or handling changes is what separates drivers who get full life from their tires from those who replace them early, repeatedly. 

This mindset of proactive care should extend to your visibility and lighting as well; for instance, choosing a high-quality ford ranger replacement headlights kit ensures that you can spot road hazards and debris early enough to avoid the sharp impacts that cause internal sidewall damage.

2. Why tire neglect compounds faster than most drivers realize

Tires don’t degrade in a straight line. A tire running underinflated generates excess heat with every rotation, and heat is the primary cause of structural breakdown in tire compounds. That breakdown accelerates the longer the condition continues.

The same compounding effect applies to misalignment. A vehicle pulling slightly left or right wears the inner or outer shoulder of the tire disproportionately. Left uncorrected, what starts as mild uneven wear becomes a tire that needs replacing at half its expected life.

Catching these issues early costs almost nothing. Ignoring them costs a full set of tires and sometimes more if a structural failure causes handling loss at speed.

1. Running the Wrong Tire Pressure

Why incorrect pressure is the single most damaging tire habit

Underinflation is the most common and most damaging tire mistake across both passenger and working vehicles. A tire running below its specified pressure flexes more with every rotation, generating heat that breaks down the rubber compound and stresses the internal structure.

The damage is invisible from the outside until it is well advanced. By the time uneven wear is visible on the tread, the tire has already lost a significant portion of its usable life.

Overinflation causes different but equally real problems: a tire running hard on its center contact patch wears the center tread faster, reduces grip on uneven surfaces, and increases the risk of impact damage on rough roads.

How to maintain correct pressure across different vehicle and load conditions

Check tire pressure monthly at a minimum and always when the tires are cold, before the vehicle has been driven. A pressure check after driving reflects heat expansion and shows a higher reading than the tire’s actual cold pressure.

For working vehicles that regularly carry varying loads, pressure adjustments for load are worth understanding. A tire rated for a specific load at a specific pressure may need adjustment when the vehicle moves from empty to fully loaded, particularly on trucks and vans operating near their payload rating.

The correct pressure for the vehicle is on the door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual, not on the tire sidewall, which shows the maximum pressure the tire can safely hold, not the recommended operating pressure.

2. Ignoring Wheel Alignment

What misalignment does to a tire over time

Wheel alignment refers to the angles at which the tires contact the road relative to one another and to the vehicle. When those angles are off, even by a small margin, the tire is effectively being dragged slightly sideways with every forward rotation rather than rolling cleanly.

That sideways scrub removes tread from one side of the tire faster than normal wear removes it from the contact patch. A tire that should last 40,000 miles can be worn out on one shoulder in 15,000 miles if the alignment is consistently off.

How often to check alignment and what the signs of a problem look like

Check alignment every 10,000 miles or after any significant impact, a hard kerb strike that is felt, a pothole that jolts the vehicle, or any suspension work that involves removing and refitting components.

The signs that alignment needs attention are a vehicle that pulls to one side on a flat, straight road; a steering wheel that sits off-center when driving straight; and uneven wear visible when comparing the inner and outer edges of the tire tread.

Alignment checks are inexpensive and take less than an hour. Replacing a set of tires worn out prematurely from uncorrected misalignment is neither.

3. Overloading the Vehicle

What excess load does to tire structure and why it matters on working vehicles

Every tire has a load index, a rating that specifies the maximum weight it is designed to carry at its specified pressure. Exceeding that rating consistently puts the tire under stress it was not engineered to handle, generating excess heat and causing structural fatigue in the sidewall and bead.

For working vehicles, trucks, vans, and equipment, overloading is a regular risk rather than an occasional one. A vehicle loaded beyond its tire rating on a job-site run is not an unusual event; it is a weekly habit on many operations.

The consequences compound over time. Sidewall cracking, premature bead failure, and blowouts under load are significantly more likely on tires that are regularly run beyond their rated capacity.

Matching the tire load rating to the actual demands of the vehicle

The load index on a tire is shown as a number on the sidewall; a rating of 100, for example, corresponds to a maximum load of 800 kg per tire. The combined rating of all four tires needs to exceed the vehicle’s maximum gross weight at full load.

For trucks and working vehicles carrying variable loads, running a tire with a load index above the minimum required provides a meaningful safety margin for the inevitable occasions when the load is at or near maximum. 

However, a highly rated tire is only as strong as the rim supporting it; if your current setup isn’t up to the task, you should check DWW to find truck rims for sale that meet the heavy-duty load specifications required for your specific vehicle and payload needs.

4. Skipping tire Rotation

Why rotation matters and what happens when it is skipped

Front and rear tires wear at different rates because they perform different functions. Front tires on a front-wheel-drive vehicle carry the drive, steering, and a greater share of the braking load; they wear faster than the rears. 

Skipping rotation means the tires that wear fastest reach the replacement threshold while the others still have significant life remaining. The result is replacing two tires. When a consistent rotation schedule would have allowed all four to reach the end of their lives together.

Rotation every 5,000 to 7,000 miles keeps wear even across all four positions and extends the life of the full set, a direct financial return for a service that takes less than 30 minutes.

Rotation patterns that match the vehicle’s drive configuration

The correct rotation pattern depends on whether the vehicle is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive, and whether the tires are directional or non-directional. Using the wrong rotation pattern with directional tires fitted on the wrong side cancels out the benefit of rotating and can affect handling.

For working trucks with four-wheel drive, a full cross-rotation that moves front to rear and side to side on a consistent schedule keeps wear even across all positions. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended pattern for the specific drivetrain configuration.

For operations running multiple working vehicles, a rotation schedule tracked alongside other service intervals prevents rotation from being the maintenance task that consistently gets pushed back and forgotten.

5. Running the Wrong Tire for the Application

Why tire type matters as much as tire condition

A tire in perfect condition, when used in the wrong application, will wear faster, perform worse, and cost more than a correctly specified tire. Highway tires on a vehicle regularly driven on unpaved job sites. All-season tires on a truck carrying heavy loads in conditions that demand a load-rated commercial tire. 

Skid-steer tires are a specific area where application matching is critical. A skid steer running the wrong tire specification on a site surface it wasn’t designed for wears through rubber at a rate that makes the cost difference between a correctly specified tire and a cheaper alternative irrelevant within a few months. 

The same logic applies to your attachments; if you are preparing a seedbed or leveling a site, using the best durable power rake for mini skid steer ensures you get a professional finish without overworking your machine’s hydraulics or wasting fuel on multiple passes. 

How to match tire specifications to working demands

Start with the load requirement; the combined tire load rating must exceed the vehicle’s maximum gross weight at full payload. Then consider the terrain. predominantly road use, mixed use, or predominantly off-road, and site conditions each call for a different tread compound and pattern.

For working trucks and equipment that move between job sites and are used on roads, a tire rated for mixed service, rather than highway-only use, handles both conditions better than a tire optimized for one at the expense of the other.

Skid-steer tires are a specific area where application matching is critical. A skid steer running the wrong tire specification on a site surface it wasn’t designed for wears through rubber at a rate that makes the cost difference between a correctly specified tire and a cheaper alternative irrelevant within a few months. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How often should I check my tire pressure? 

Once a month at minimum, and always before a long journey or a heavily loaded run. Check when the tires are cold, before the vehicle has been driven more than a mile or two, for an accurate reading. Temperature changes affect pressure, so seasonal checks at the start of summer and winter are worth adding to the routine.

2. What is the most common cause of premature tire wear? 

Incorrect tire pressure and misaligned wheels are the two most common causes across both passenger and working vehicles. Both are easy to check and inexpensive to correct, yet cause significant financial loss when ignored over the full tire life cycle.

3. How do I know if my tires are the wrong type for my vehicle or application? 

The clearest signs are faster-than-expected wear, handling that doesn’t match the vehicle’s capability, and poor performance in the conditions the vehicle regularly operates in. Cross-reference the tire’s load index, speed rating, and service description against the vehicle’s requirements and the terrain it operates on.

NASCAR at Watkins Glen Weekend Schedule

By
Angie Campbell
-
Ryan Blaney and Shane Van Gisbergen lead the field to start the NASCAR Cup Series Go Bowling at The Glen at Watkins Glen International on August 10, 2025 (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

NASCAR travels to Watkins Glen International for a full schedule of racing this weekend. The ARCA Menards series will headline the action with the General Tire 100 on Friday afternoon.

Shane van Gisbergen is the returning Cup Series race winner. Connor Zilisch won the 2025 Xfinity Series (now O’Reilly Auto Parts Series) race at Watkins Glen. Corey Heim claimed the Craftsman Truck Series checkered flag.

Cup Series Notes:

Jeff Gordon leads the NASCAR Cup Series in all-time starts at Watkins Glen with 24.

Kyle Busch leads all active Cup Series drivers with 20 starts at Watkins Glen.

Denny Hamlin (2023, 2018), Kyle Busch (2011, 2017) and Chase Elliott (2019, 2022) lead all active Cup Series drivers with 2 poles each at Watkins Glen.

Kyle Larson (2021, 2022), Chase Elliott (2018, 2019) and Kyle Busch (2008, 2013) lead all active NASCAR Cup Series drivers in wins with two each at Watkins Glen.

Hendrick Motorsports (11), Joe Gibbs Racing (7) and RFK Racing (4) lead the series in wins.

O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Notes:

Connor Zilisch and Shane van Gisbergen have won six straight road course races and 11 of the last 13.

Zilisch will make his fifth O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start this season in the JR Motorsports No. 1 Chevrolet.

Van Gisbergen will drive the No. 9 JR Motorsports Chevrolet in his second start this year.

Eleven of the last 16 Watkins Glen races were won by drivers starting on the front row. Seven were won from the pole position.

Justin Allgaier leads all drivers with 3 wins, 5 Top 2s, 9 Top 5s and 5 stage wins in 2026.

Craftsman Truck Series Notes:

Dystany Spurlock will make her series debut at Watkins Glen. She will be the first black woman to make a start in NASCAR’s three national divisions.

Most laps led by drivers in the series this year: Corey Heim (213), Ben Rhodes (147), Christian Eckes (140), Carson Hocevar (112) and Kyle Busch (76).

Teams will have 3 new sets of tires for the race and will start on qualifying scuffs. They will also have two new sets of wet-weather tires.

ThorSport and TRICON are the only teams that have won the pole in 2026.

Friday, May 9

9:30 a.m.: ARCA Menards Series Practice – 45 minutes
10:30 a.m.: ARCA Menards Series Qualifying (Impound/Timed/20 Minutes)

11 a.m.: Craftsman Truck Series Practice (Timed – 45 Minutes) FS2
12:05 p.m.: Craftsman Truck Series Qualifying (Impound) FS2

1:30 p.m.: ARCA Menards Series General Tire 100 at The Glen
41 Laps, 100.45 Miles
FS2/MRN/SiriusXM
Post ARCA Menards Series race: NASCAR Press Pass

4:30 p.m.: Craftsman Truck Series Bully Hill Vineyards 176 at The Glen
Stages 20/40/72 Laps = 176.4 Miles
FS1/FOX One/SiriusXM Purse: $789,700
Post Craftsman Truck Series race: NASCAR Press Pass

Saturday, May 9

10:30 a.m.: O’Reilly Series Practice – CW App 11:35 a.m.: O’Reilly Series Qualifying (Impound) – CW App

1 p.m.: Cup Series Practice – Prime/MRN/SiriusXM
2:10 p.m.: Cup Series Qualifying (Impound) Prime/MRN/SiriusXM
Post Cup Qualifying: NASCAR Press Pass

4 p.m.: O’Reilly Series Mission 200 at The Glen
Stages 20/40/82 Laps = 200.9 Miles
CW/MRN/SiriusXM   Purse: $1,653,590
Post O’Reilly Series race: NASCAR Press Pass

Sunday, May 10

3 p.m.: Cup Series Go Bowling at The Glen
Stages 20/50/100 = 245 Miles
FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Purse: $11,233,037
Post Cup Series race: NASCAR Press Pass




Travis Pastrana to drive Kaulig Racing’s Free Agent entry at Charlotte

By
Andrew Kim
-
Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Travis Pastrana has been revealed as the driver of Kaulig Racing’s No. 25 Free Agent RAM 1500 entry for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series’ North Carolina Education Lottery 200 event at Charlotte Motor Speedway scheduled for May 22.

The announcement makes Pastrana the 10th competitor to be revealed as a driver of the No. 25 Free Agent RAM 1500 entry for Kaulig Racing for at least a single Truck event. He also joins an all-star roster of competitors who have either competed or are scheduled to compete in the entry as part of Kaulig’s inaugural campaign in the Truck division and RAM’s return to NASCAR competition.

“I love racing and competing at everything, and NASCAR is one of the biggest and most competitive stages on earth,” Pastrana said in a released statement. “Having the opportunity to hop in the No. 25 Ram truck with Kaulig Racing through the Free Agent Program is an amazing opportunity. These Ram 1500s are so much fun to drive. We’re going to go out there, put on a show for the fans and see what we can do.”

Pastrana, a native of Annapolis, Maryland, is an 11-time X Games gold medalist and former champion in Nitro Rallycross and the American Rally Association. Having built an accomplished racing resume from motorcross and rally cars, Pastrana made his first appearance across NASCAR’s top three national touring series at Richmond Raceway in April 2012, where he drove the No. 99 RAB Racing Toyota entry to a 22nd-place result in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series division.

Since then, Pastrana has competed in a combined total of 50 starts across NASCAR’s top three series (seven in the Craftsman Truck Series, 42 in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and one in the Cup Series). During his starts, he recorded a single pole at Talladega Superspeedway and four top-10 results, all of which occurred during his lone full-time O’Reilly campaign with Roush Fenway Racing in 2013.

Pastrana made his lone Cup Series start during the 2023 Daytona 500 with 23XI Racing, where he finished in 11th place. His best on-track result through seven Truck starts is a 13th-place result that occurred at Daytona in 2023. He recently competed in this year’s Truck opener at Daytona with Niece Motorsports in February, where he finished in 15th place.

Kaulig Racing launched its free-agent driver program ahead of its inaugural Craftsman Truck Series campaign in November 2025. The program features various competitors from multiple racing divisions and disciplines. Each will compete in at least a single Truck event in one of Kaulig’s RAM 1500 entries numbered 25. The competitors who compete in the entry would not compete for the 2026 Truck Series driver’s championship, but would be evaluated by their on-track performance for a season-ending program prize.

Currently, Kaulig Racing’s No. 25 entry, led by crew chief Alex Yontz, is ranked in 23rd place in the 2026 owner’s standings through seven of the 25-race schedule. The entry is one of five fielded by Kaulig. It competes alongside the No. 10 entry piloted by Corey LaJoie, the No. 12 entry piloted by rookie Brenden “Butterbean” Queen, the No. 14 entry piloted by newcomer Timothy “Mini” Tyrrell and the No. 16 entry piloted by Justin Haley.

Tony Stewart, Ty Dillon, Colin Braun, Corey LaJoie, Carson Ferguson and Parker Kligerman have piloted the entry at least once. Dillon is the only competitor who has piloted the No. 25 entry twice. Braun has recorded the entry’s highest-finishing result of ninth place during the series’ inaugural event at the Streets of St. Petersburg, Florida.

AJ Allmendinger is scheduled to compete in the No. 25 entry this Friday, May 8, at Watkins Glen International. Clint Bowyer and Jamie McMurray will pilot the entry at Dover Motor Speedway (May 15) and Qualcomm Circuit (June 19), respectively. In addition, Ferguson is scheduled to make his second Truck career start at Martinsville Speedway (October 30). Kaulig’s selection and reveal of drivers for the remainder of this season remains to be determined.

The 2026 North Carolina Education Lottery 200 at Charlotte Motor Speedway is scheduled for May 22. It will air at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1, NASCAR Racing Network and SiriusXM.

Hendrick Motorsports Media Advance: Watkins Gle

By
Official Release
-

Watkins Glen International
Sunday, May 10
2.45-Mile Road Course
3 p.m. ET
Location: Watkins Glen, New York
TV: Fox
Event: NASCAR Cup Series race (12 of 36)
RADIO: SiriusXM

5 KYLE LARSON
Age: 33 (July 31, 1992)
Hometown: Elk Grove, California
Last Race: 34th (Texas)
Crew Chief: Cliff Daniels
Standings: 8th

No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet

  • Kyle Larson has spent 1,385 laps running inside the top five in 2026, second most among all NASFAR Cup Series drivers.
  • The 33-year-old is tied for the Cup lead in stage points through 11 races in 2026 with 91.
  • The driver of the No. 5 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet ranks fourth among nine Cup Series drivers with at least 100 laps led on road courses in the Next Gen car, with 142.
  • The Elk Grove, California, native has six road course victories, second among active drivers. Three of those wins have come in the Next Gen car.

9 CHASE ELLIOTT
Age: 30 (Nov. 28, 1995)
Hometown: Dawsonville, Georgia
Last Race: 1st (Texas)
Crew Chief: Alan Gustafson
Standings: 3rd

No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet

  • Chase Elliott heads to Watkins Glen International fresh off of his second NASCAR Cup Series victory of the season. The 30-year-old driver led 87 laps at Texas Motor Speedway en route to a win.
  • In last weekend’s race at Texas, Elliott earned his first stage win of the season in stage two. He also turned the fastest lap of the race with a time of 28.89 seconds.
  • This is the first season Elliott has had multiple wins through 11 races. His five top-five finishes are tied with 2020 for his most and his average finish of 8.9 is his best in that same span.
  • With his 43rd Cup Series win, Alan Gustafson is now tied for the most victories among active crew chiefs.
  • At Watkins Glen International, the 2020 Cup Series champion is fifth all time in laps led (170) and is tied for the fourth-most wins at the track (two).
  • Since the beginning of 2025, Elliott has the fourth-best average finish on road courses (9.57).
  • Elliott’s seven career Cup wins on road courses rank third all time (Jeff Gordon nine, Tony Stewart eight) and lead active drivers.
  • In the Next Gen era on serpentine tracks, Elliott is tied for the most top-five finishes (11), tied for the third-most top 10s (15) and ranks fourth in average finish (10.30).

24 WILLIAM BYRON
Age: 28 (Nov. 29, 1997)
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Last Race: 8th (Texas)
Crew Chief: Rudy Fugle
Standings: 10th

No. 24 Liberty University Chevrolet

  • Despite a spin early in last Sunday’s event at Texas Motor Speedway, William Byron and the No. 24 team battled back to finish eighth.
  • This weekend at Watkins Glen International, Byron will make his 300th-consecutive NASCAR Cup Series start and his 300th overall. He is only the ninth driver to reach 300 starts with the same team, and the fourth for Hendrick Motorsports (Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson and Chase Elliott).
  • In the Next Gen era on road courses, the Charlotte, North Carolina, native is one of nine drivers who have led at least 100 laps (139) and is also tied for the fourth-most wins (two).
  • In the last 14 road course races, Byron has two wins, two runner-up finishes, six top fives and nine top 10s. In his Cup Series career at Watkins Glen, the 28-year-old has one win (2023) in seven starts, including two top-five finishes, four top 10s and 66 laps led.

48 ALEX BOWMAN
Age: 33 (April 25, 1993)
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Last Race: 3rd (Texas)
Crew Chief: Blake Harris
Standings: 34th

No. 48 Ally Chevrolet

  • Last weekend at Texas Motor Speedway, Alex Bowman earned his best qualifying effort of the season (ninth) en route to his second-consecutive third-place finish in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.
  • The 33-year-old has made nine Cup starts at Watkins Glen International with a best starting position of fourth (2024) and three top-15 finishes. In the last two races at the track (2024 and 2025), Bowman earned points in each of the first two stages, finishing the first stage in second place two years in a row.
  • Bowman’s most recent win came at the Chicago Street Course (2024). On road courses, Bowman has earned eight top fives and 17 top 10s to go along with that victory.
  • Alex Bowman and the No. 48 team are eligible for the  2026 NASCAR All-Star Race Fan Vote with the winning driver earning entry into the NASCAR All-Star Race at Dover Motor Speedway on May 17. Fans can vote up to five times per day per unique email address until 9 a.m. ET on race day.  

17 COREY DAY
Age: 20 (November 28, 2005)
Hometown: Clovis, California
Last Race: 37th (Texas)
Crew Chief: Adam Wall
Standings: 4th

  • Corey Day is set to make his first career start at Watkins Glen International this weekend in the No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet.
  • Day’s road course debut in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series came last fall at the Charlotte ROVAL. Saturday will mark his second such start this season after finishing fifth at Circuit of The Americas.
  • The Clovis, California, native enters the weekend with one win, four top-five results and nine top 10s so far in the 2026 NOAPS season.
  • The No. 17 Hendrick Motorsports entry last competed at Watkins Glen in 2024 with William Byron finishing 12th.

Hendrick Motorsports

2026All-TimeWatkins Glen
Races111,42839
Wins2322*11*
Poles0259*8*
Top 5121,334*26
Top 10212,281*45
Laps Led72986,096*760*
Stage Wins51424**

*Most
**Tied for most

  • Hendrick Motorsports enters this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen International as the facility’s all-time leader in wins (11), poles (eight), and laps led (760). Kyle Larson (2021), William Byron (2023) and Chase Elliott (2024) have combined to win five times in the last seven races at the 2.45-mile road course.
  • The team’s 31 road course wins are the most all time by 15. It also leads the Cup Series in road course poles (six), top fives (30), top 10s (44) and average finish (14.41) in the Next Gen era.
  • At least one of the organization’s four drivers have finished in the top five in each of the last five Cup events, the longest such streak in the series.
  • The Hendrick Motorsports engine department enters the weekend with 567 victories across all three national NASCAR touring series including nine of 12 events in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series this season.
  • Hendrick Motorsports remains the premier series’ all-time standard bearer in wins (322), poles (259), top-five finishes (1,334), top 10s (2,281), laps led (86,096) and championships (15).

QUOTABLE
 
Kyle Larson, driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet, on Watkins Glen International: “Watkins Glen is a place where we’ve had some good speed over the years. We’ll take what we’ve learned earlier this season at [Circuit of The Americas] with this package and apply it to Watkins Glen. Hopefully this weekend will be a place where we get back on track and leave with the kind of finish we know we’re capable of.”

Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 Chevrolet, on heading to Watkins Glen International with cooler weather: “I don’t think the race is going to look a lot different. I’d be really surprised if it did. I think the track is already so fast as it is. It was already inside of the window of track position and having to qualify well and all that. And a lot of times, you can have some tracks on the schedule that can change if it gets cooler outside or if it’s warm. It can go from a wide racetrack to one groove, but I think that one in particular was already so far on the side of the fence of pace and line sensitive and just really quick that I don’t see it changing a whole lot.”

William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Chevrolet, on Watkins Glen International: “This weekend’s race at Watkins Glen is turning into a bit of a wildcard now. The weather looks cold and wet which creates its own issues. The race is longer than normal, which changes strategy. And then, they added tire barriers in Turn 1 which takes away a possible passing zone. We have a decent notebook for Watkins Glen and road courses in general, but we’ve also only run the new Chevy body at [Circuit of The Americas] so far. Practice and qualifying are going to be pretty crucial to getting things dialed in for Sunday. Then it will be about controling what you can control.”

Alex Bowman, driver of the No. 48 Chevrolet, coming off a top five at Texas Motor Speedway and heading to Watkins Glen International: “It was good to have another solid week with our Ally 48 team and gain some momentum. If there was a track we needed to take momentum to, it would be Watkins Glen. This track has been a challenge but I’m confident in this group; we are continuing to put in work to get better. We’re headed into this weekend with the plan to execute like we’ve been doing.”

Corey Day, driver of the No. 17 Chevrolet, on Watkins Glen International: “I’m looking forward to Watkins Glen and hopefully getting some redemption after this past weekend [at Texas Motor Speedway]. I’m having a lot of fun with the road course prep, and I feel like I’m getting better at it every time I get to do it. It looks like there might be some weather over the weekend, which will make for an interesting race if we end up doing a rain race, but Watkins Glen is pretty historic in NASCAR as far as road courses go so, definitely excited to have the opportunity to go race it in the No. 17 HENDRICKCARS.COM Chevrolet.”

AgRevolution Furthers Partnerships with International Hot Rod Association and Ellis Park Racing & Gaming

By
Official Release
-

From Farms to Tracks: AgRevolution’s Reliable Equipment Powers Unexpected Places

MAYFIELD, KENTUCKY (April 28, 2026) – AgRevolution, an agricultural equipment dealership serving farmers across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio, announced major partnerships with the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA), the major North American drag racing group headquartered in Fairfield, Ohio, and Ellis Park Racing & Gaming, a Churchill Downs Inc. horse racing entertainment venue located in Henderson, Kentucky. These collaborations showcase how AgRevolution’s advanced equipment, service and team expertise deliver value well beyond the farm, supporting a wide range of venues from racetracks to equestrian parks.

“AgRevolution’s commitment to quality and service starts on the farm, but it extends far beyond that,” said Stacy Anthony, CEO, AgRevolution. “You’ll find AgRevolution equipment and team members making a difference wherever reliability, safety and high performance is needed – at racetracks, parks and other venues across our region.”

AgRevolution has signed a three-year partnership to serve as the official race tractor for the IHRA Pro Pulling Series, the world’s largest truck and tractor pulling sanctioning body that features 300 sessions of competition across 20 states. To support this ongoing initiative, AgRevolution sold 30 Fendt tractors to the IHRA for active use at races and tractor pulls. As part of the arrangement, the dealership was also named the Official Supplier of Tow and Track Maintenance Tractors for the IHRA Pro Pulling Series and the MAC Trailer Winter Nationals. AgRevolution will maintain sponsorship of IHRA Pro Pulling Series events and provide both Fendt and Massey Ferguson tractors for event operations.

Expanding its commitment to local partnerships, AgRevolution is now an official sponsor of Ellis Park, which provides live thoroughbred horse racing during the summer season, with simulcast wagering 365 days a year. AgRevolution recently sold seven Massey Ferguson tractors to the venue for track maintenance.

For both the IHRA and Ellis Park, AgRevolution will provide comprehensive equipment maintenance, operational training and ongoing support at the venues. Additionally, farmers and attendees will be able to connect directly with the AgRevolution team at each race. AgRevolution will have a dedicated booth onsite to share information about various opportunities for individuals interested in the agriculture industry, specifically promoting technician and technology-focused careers. Attendees will also enjoy engaging promotional activities from AgRevolution, including exclusive ride and drive experiences at the racetracks and horse tracks.

About AgRevolution

AgRevolution is a full-line dealer with a highly skilled mobile service team offering FarmerFirst, on-farm service. Operating across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio, AgRevolution has 12 brick-and-mortar locations and a fleet of 61 state-of-the-art service trucks. The dealership offers AGCO’s full lineup of popular brands, including Fendt®, Massey Ferguson and PTx® equipment, parts, sales and service. Additionally, AgRevolution provides maintenance and repair for all makes and models of agricultural equipment through their on-site mobile services.

Fendt, Massey Ferguson and PTx are registered trademarks of AGCO. AgRevolution is a trademark of AgRevolution LLC. For more information about AgRevolution, go to AgRev.com.

About AGCO

AGCO (NYSE: AGCO) is a global leader in agricultural machinery and precision agriculture technologies. Driven by a Farmer-First strategy, AGCO delivers value through its differentiated leading brands, Fendt™, Massey Ferguson™, PTx™ and Valtra™. AGCO’s high-performance equipment and smart farming solutions, including brand-agnostic retrofit technologies and autonomous offerings, empower farmers to drive productivity while sustainably feeding the world. For more information, visit www.agcocorp.com. 

2026 Niece Motorsports NCTS Race Preview: Watkins Glen International

By
Official Release
-

NIECE MOTORSPORTS
NCTS RACE PREVIEW: WATKINS GLEN INTERNATIONAL

Event: Bully Hill Vineyards 167 at The Glen (72 laps / 167.4 miles)
Round: 8 of 25 (Regular Season)
Track: Watkins Glen International
Location: Watkins Glen, New York
Date & Time: Friday, May 8 | 4:30 PM ET
Tune-In: FOX Sports 1 | NASCAR Racing Network (NRN) | SiriusXM Ch. 90

Team Stats & Notes

  • Niece Motorsports Watkins Glen Stats:

NOAPS Starts: 1; Best Finish: 31st (Victor Gonzales Jr., 2018).

NCTS Starts: 6; Top-10s: 3; Best Finish: 8th (Connor Zilisch, 2025).

  • Double Take: For the second time in three races, Niece Motorsports will field two full-time NASCAR Cup Series drivers in the NCTS race on Friday. Shane van Gisbergen takes over the No. 4 Chevrolet, while Ross Chastain remains in the No. 45 Silverado. Both Trackhouse Racing drivers will pull a ‘triple-duty’ weekend and also compete in Saturday’s NOAPS race.
  • Pit Road Gladiators: Niece Motorsports pit crews continued their hot streak in Texas last week, proving why they are some of the best in the business. The No. 44 team put up the first, second, and fourth-fastest four-tire stops of the night, with the No. 45 team also completing two stops inside the top-10 as well.

No. 4 Circle B Motorsports Auctions Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Shane van Gisbergen | Crew Chief: Mike Shiplett

  • Welcome Back, SVG: World class road course ace Shane van Gisbergen returns to Niece Motorsports for his second-career NCTS start. In 2023, van Gisbergen made his series debut with the team at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park – which marked his first NASCAR oval race. Now, he looks to return to the series at a track he’s won at before.
  • van Gisbergen’s Watkins Glen Stats:

NCS Starts: 2; Wins: 1 (2025); Top-Fives: 2; Top-10s: 2.

NOAPS Starts: 2; Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 1; Best Finish: 5th (2024).

  • Shiplett’s Watkins Glen Stats:

NCS Starts: 5; Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 1; Best Finish: 4th (2010).

NOAPS Starts: 7; Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 3; Best Finish: 3rd (2016).

NCTS Starts: 1; Top-10s: 1; Best Finish: 9th (2025).

  • On the Truck: van Gisbergen’s No. 4 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from Circle B Diecast. Circle B Diecast, originally known as Plan B Sales, has been a longtime sponsor in the sport. Team partners DQS Solutions & Staffing and J.F. Electric will both appear on the No. 4 truck as well.
  • Pre-Order Now: Circle B Diecast is now offering van Gisbergen’s No. 4 Silverado diecast replicas for pre-orders. Fans can visit the Circle B website now to pre-order the truck in both 1:24 and 1:64 scale versions.
  • Quoting van Gisbergen: What are you expecting in the Truck at Watkins Glen? Especially since your only Truck start was on a small oval in 2023.

“It should be cool! It will be my first time doing all three series. I went to Niece (Motorsports) last week and it’s a brand-new truck. It’s cool seeing trucks get built like that and putting in the steering column, you know. It’s all kind of customized to me and how I want it. It’s really cool to go through that process with the team. It will be interesting to see how it goes and see how that race plays out. It’s obviously a lot shorter, but you still have the stages and have to go through the restarts. Hopefully it’s fun and leads to more. I’m going to be competitive at road courses, but I’d love to do more at ovals too, and get that learning process going.”

You said the Truck is customized to you. What are you looking for in the purpose-built Truck?

“When I drove it at IRP, I remember the dash was in my knees and I was hunched over. It was a really small cockpit. I guess they had a bit of a heads up, Cleetus (McFarland) drove there, so it’s already been set for a bigger guy. It’s cool customizing everything, the steering, the pedals. They’ve made full custom pedals so I can right foot brake. It’s awesome the effort they are going through to make a fast truck.”

About Circle B Diecast: Circle B Diecast, originally known as Plan B Sales, was founded in 2010 and started as a Lionel die-cast and Chase Authentics apparel wholesale distributor. The Concord, N.C. based company has grown into the largest independent racing collectibles distributor in the United States. Circle B Diecast offers both retail and wholesale customers a vast array of products through their website, www.circlebdiecast.com.

No. 42 J.F. Electric Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Tyler Reif | Crew Chief: Landon Polinski

  • Reif Returns: Tyler Reif will make his fourth NCTS start of the season with Niece Motorsports at Watkins Glen International. Reif’s most recent outing with the team came at Bristol Motor Speedway where he finished 34th after getting involved in a crash.
  • Reif’s Watkins Glen Stats:

ARCA Starts: 1; Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 1; Best Finish: 2nd (2025).

  • Polinski’s Watkins Glen Stats:

Landon Polinski will call his first-career race as a crew chief at Watkins Glen on Friday.

  • On the Truck: Reif’s No. 42 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from J.F. Electric, which has primarily sponsored the No. 45 team this year. J.F. Electric is a commercial electrical contractor based in Edwardsville, Illinois.
  • Recapping Texas: Conner Jones and the Comprehensive Logistics team had a tough night in Texas. Jones qualified 16th for the 250-mile race and were consistent during the opening stage. With a lap to go in the second stage, however, Jones cut a right-front tire down which necessitated a green flag pit stop. The No. 42 team made several pit stops to repair the damage and lost many laps in the process. Late in the race, Jones was an innocent bystander who became involved in a hard crash in turn four. His race ended early in 33rd-place.
  • Owner Points Outlook: Following Conner Jones’ crash at Texas, the No. 42 team dropped one position in the owner points standings to 27th-place. Entering Watkins Glen, the team is one point behind ThorSport Racing’s No. 13 team in 26th, and is currently five points ahead of Kaulig Racing’s No. 14 team in 28th.
  • Quoting Reif: How do you think your road course skills stack up compared to the field this weekend?

“I feel pretty good going to Watkins Glen. I think that we’ll have a lot of raw speed across the board with my teammates. We ran really well there last year in the ARCA race and probably should’ve won it, but I made a mistake on the last lap. I think we’ll unload quick and qualify well with our J.F. Electric Chevy. I might lack a little bit of passing and racing skills on the road course compared to SVG, Connor (Zilisch), and Ross (Chastain), but I think after being able to follow them for a couple laps and getting to learn and watch them race, we’ll be right there and should have a good shot at the win.”

About J.F. Electric: J.F. Electric is an electrical contractor that provides engineering expertise, backed by construction and installation know-how in a diverse range of service offerings, from utilities and commercial projects, to industrial and telecommunications customers. When having a long family history in an industry, a company not only builds on its knowledge and experience, it takes pride in cultivating a solid understanding of client needs, all the while nurturing strong relationships with its employees. Evolving through five generations of the Fowler family, J.F. Electric has matured into a well-managed and thoughtfully diversified electrical contractor which is poised to continue its growth and expansion into the future.

No. 44 BLAC / GoKartMania Academy Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Andres Perez de Lara | Crew Chief: Wally Rogers

  • Pérez de Lara’s Watkins Glen Stats:

NCTS Starts: 1; Best Finish: 21st (2025).

ARCA Starts: 2; Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 1; Best Finish: 4th (2024).

  • Rogers’ Watkins Glen Stats:

NCS Starts: 4; Best Finish: 17th (2012).

NOAPS Starts: 4; Top-10s: 2; Best Finish: 7th (2007).

NCTS Starts: 2; Best Finish: 30th (2025).

  • On the Truck: Pérez de Lara’s No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from BLAC (a Mexican technology company) and GoKartMania (an indoor go kart race track chain). The two brands have joined forces to sponsor the fastest go kart racers in Mexico for a fully-funded Formula 5 seat. To learn more, visit https://blac.racing/en.
  • Recapping Texas: Andrés Pérez de Lara and the Acceptance Insurance team appeared to have a clean run going in Texas but got swept away in a late-race crash. Pérez de Lara qualified the highest out of his teammates in 15th-place but fought the handling on his truck which made it difficult to maintain track position. The No. 44 pit crew made several adjustments throughout the race and kept him in the hunt for a top-10 finish, but he was forced into the wall twice by his fellow competitors and ultimately had too much damage to finish. He was credited with a 30th-place result.
  • Driver Points Outlook: Following Pérez de Lara’s crash in Texas, the driver of the No. 44 lost some ground in the points standings. He remains 17th overall, but faces a 40-point deficit to current Chase cutline driver, Stewart Friesen. Pérez de Lara is nine points behind Grant Enfinger in 16th, and six points ahead of Dawson Sutton in 18th.
  • Quoting Pérez de Lara: Last year, you had a shot at contending for the win at this track. You’ve got to feel pretty good about returning here, right?

“Yeah, I’m excited about going back to road course racing. The No. 44 team has been working hard putting a really good truck together for that one, and it’s going to be a very competitive field. It should be a good test of our speed on the road courses. We’re just trying to get some good momentum going our way since the last few races haven’t been that great. I’m hoping we can get a solid result with our BLAC / GoKartMania Academy Chevy and starting a good momentum streak.”

About BLAC: BLAC is a technology and logistics company specializing in real-time tracking, asset visibility, and intelligent monitoring solutions for transportation, providing also location and condition data in real time for all shipments in the entire supply chain operations. With operations and coverage at an international level, BLAC provides advanced tracking technology designed to help companies reduce risk, improve operational control, and protect high-value cargo through real-time visibility and smart alert systems.

Through its innovative platform and 24/7 monitoring capabilities, BLAC supports businesses across multiple industries with scalable solutions focused on logistics security, transportation efficiency, and asset recovery. With years of experience in GPS tracking, supply chain visibility, and transportation security, BLAC continues to position itself as a trusted technology partner for companies seeking smarter and safer logistics operations.

About GoKartMania: GoKartMania is Mexico’s leading indoor go-kart track, a 100% Mexican company with a global presence. Our karts are of European origin and feature the most precise timing system. At GoKartMania, you’ll find activities for the whole family and a wide variety of race formats and activities.

We’re the ideal place for both beginners and seasoned motorsport enthusiasts. From a fun-filled, adrenaline-fueled afternoon with the family to competing in high-level series and championships, including position races, knockout format, endurance races, and karting clinics. We also offer birthday parties, team building activities, product launches, and much more.

No. 45 Protect Your Melon New York Chevrolet Silverado RST
Driver: Ross Chastain | Crew Chief: Phil Gould

  • Chastain’s Watkins Glen Stats:

NCS Starts: 7; Poles: 1 (2024); Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 2; Best Finish: 4th (2024).

NOAPS Starts: 8; Top-Fives: 1; Top-10s: 2; Best Finish: 4th (2023).

NCTS Starts: 1; Best Finish: 30th (2025).

  • Gould’s Watkins Glen Stats:

NOAPS Starts: 6; Top-10s: 4; Best Finish: 8th (twice – 2015 & 2018).

NCTS Starts: 2; Top-10s: 2; Best Finish: 8th (2025).

  • On the Truck: Chastain’s No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST will race with support from the New York Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee which promotes the Protect Your Melon campaign.
  • Recapping Texas: Ross Chastain and the TXAPA / J.F. Electric team contended for the race lead in Texas but had to limp home after sustaining damage from contact with other competitors. Chastain started 23rd, but quickly sliced his way through the pack in the opening stage. The No. 45 team made several adjustments to help the balance of the truck, but it lacked top-end speed due to the damage. Chastain was nearly spun in turn four during the final stage, but held on to his truck and crossed the finish line in 12th-place.
  • Owner Points Outlook: Chastain’s 12th-place finish in Texas dropped the No. 45 team one position in the owner points standings to third-place. Heading into Watkins Glen, the team is 12 points out of the lead, and 10 points behind TRICON Garage’s No. 11 team in second place. They have a four point lead on Front Row Motorsports’ No. 38 team in fourth, along with a 35-point buffer over the Chase cutline.
  • Quoting Chastain: You were pretty fast here last year until you ran into the fuel pickup issue, so are you optimistic for this weekend’s race?

“Yeah, absolutely. I love Watkins Glen, and I feel like the truck fits that track well. There is a lot of on-throttle time up through the esses, and I thought we had a shot last year. We definitely had a top-couple truck until we had the fuel issue, so I’d love to go back there and see what we’ve got this time around with our Protect Your Melon Silverado.”

About The New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee: The New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) coordinates traffic safety activities in the state and shares useful, timely information about traffic safety and the state’s highway safety grant program.

The Committee is comprised of thirteen agencies who have missions related to transportation and safety. The GTSC is chaired by the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and acts as the state’s official liaison with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

About Niece Motorsports: Niece Motorsports is a professional auto racing team that has competed in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series since 2016. The team is owned by Josh Morris of DQS Solutions and Staffing and the Fowler Family of J.F. Electric and Utilitra, and was founded by United States Marine Corps Veteran Al Niece. At its 80,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Salisbury, NC, Niece Motorsports is a full-service race vehicle build shop as well as a customizable fabrication shop for any manufacturing needs.

Follow the Team: To keep up to date with the latest team news, visit niecemotorsports.com or connect on Facebook and Instagram (@NieceMotorsports) as well as X (@NieceMotorsport).

Wood Brothers Racing – Race Week Briefing: Watkins Glen International

By
Official Release
-

Event: Go Bowling at The Glen
Date/Time: Sunday, May 10, 2026, 3 p.m. ET
Location: Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen, New York
Layout: 2.45-Mile Road Course
TV/Radio: FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Josh Berry and the No. 21 DEX team head to Watkins Glen International this weekend looking to put together a clean and steady day at one of NASCAR’s most historic road courses.

“For our team, a clean, mistake-free race at Watkins Glen would be a solid weekend,” Berry said. “These road course races are so detail-oriented, and we’ve put a lot of time into preparation on the simulator leading into this one.

“Hopefully we can execute all day and put ourselves in a good spot at the end.”

While the Wood Brothers are often associated with success on superspeedways and intermediate tracks, the team also owns a respectable history at Watkins Glen.

In the organization’s first start at the track in 1965, Marvin Panch started third and dominated the race, leading 53 of 66 laps while nearly lapping the entire field. Morgan Shepherd later added a runner-up finish for the team in 1992, and Marcos Ambrose delivered a third-place result in 2008 during one of the strongest stretches of his road course career.

Overall, Wood Brothers Racing has recorded four top-five and eight top-10 finishes in 33 starts at Watkins Glen.

Practice for the Go Bowling at The Glen is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m. ET, followed by qualifying at 2:10 p.m. ET. Coverage of both sessions will air on Prime.

Sunday’s 100-lap, 245-mile race is scheduled to begin just after 3 p.m. ET with coverage on FS1. Stage breaks are planned for Laps 20 and 50.

Josh Berry

Age: 35 (Oct. 22, 1990)

Hometown: Hendersonville, Tennessee

Crew Chief: Miles Stanley

IG: @joshberry88

X: @joshberry

About DEX
DEX is the nation’s largest independent provider of document technology and managed print services, delivering a broad range of products and solutions that help organizations improve operational efficiencies, reduce costs, and strengthen security. DEX uses real-time data analytics to help businesses gain valuable insights into their print job patterns and frequency, resource allocation, and cost distribution. The knowledge gained is used to optimize workflows, enhance user performance, eliminate unnecessary expenses, and ensure print security and compliance.

1...444546...6,700Page 45 of 6,700