Antron Brown - Pro Stock Motorcycle vs. Top Fuel Dragster

Antron Brown is a true gentleman, and it is clear that he is excited to realize his dream of driving a Top Fuel Dragster. After the final eliminations I had an opportunity to talk with him about his transition from Pro Stock Motorcycles to Top Fuel Dragster.

Dwight:

How did you get the Top Fuel ride?

Antron:

Driving in Top Fuel is something that I have always dreamed about. Matco Tools sponsored me for five years and they gave me the chance. Lee Beard orchestrated the deal and team owner David Powers trusted Lee's opinion and believed in me.

Dwight:

Are you surprised at your early successes?

Antron:

I spent five years with the Schumacher team and learned what it takes to win. Lee Beard has a long history of winning races and championships. The Matco Tools team has the work ethic, talent and is committed to win championships. This is our first year together and we are only scratching the surface of what we can accomplish.

Dwight:

What was the biggest change going from Pro Stock Motorcycle to Top Fuel?

Antron:

I rode motorcycles from a very young age so riding a motorcycle and correcting it when it gets out of shape is automatic. The input from the bike is through your butt and the input from the car is from your butt and back. You steer the bike with your body so you don't think about using your hands. To drive the car, I needed to learn to process the information to correct using my hands. This was a huge change and it's getting easier with each run.

Dwight:

Was it difficult to get used to the speed difference between say 190mph and 330mph?

Antron:

On the Pro Stock Motorcycle 194mph seems like 250mph -- [the car] does not seem that much faster. The speed on the motorcycle is like a boat, 100mph on the water feels like 150+.

Dwight:

What else did you have to get used to driving the Top Fuel Dragster?

Antron:

The acceleration of the car is incredible. The bike stops accelerating in about 3rd gear and the G forces drop off. Top Fuel cars launch at 5 Gs and at 1000 feet and 300mph you are still pulling 2 Gs. When you pop the chutes you go to -4Gs, the 6G change is intense.

Dwight:

You are in great shape, have you changed your training routine for the Top Fuel car?

Antron:

To ride a Pro Stock Motorcycle you have to be in shape head to toe. I train the same and watch my diet. On the long swings away from home it's hard to eat right. When I get home I'll be back training hard and eating right.

Dwight:

Thank you for your time - we wish you continued success!