Bradley Smith stands before his number, 38

Inside the Mind of a Racer: A Q&A with Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team Rider Bradley Smith

Racing isn’t just about speed—it’s about precision, endurance, and an unrelenting passion for the ride. Few embody this spirit better than Bradley Smith, a rider for the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team. We had the chance to sit down with Bradley to talk about life on the track, his love for the sport, and what keeps him pushing the limits every time he gets on the bike.

Bradley Smith rides his race-prepared Road Glide on a racetrack

Q: What does it mean to you to be a part of the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team?

Bradley Smith: I can truly say I've felt nothing but welcomed to this new family. I really hope to do the Brand and all the loyal H-D fans and riders proud.

Q: What word would you use to describe the energy you're bringing to the team this year?

Bradley Smith: Within the team, there is no lack of passion and desire. I've felt that from the first moments I stepped foot in the Harley-Davidson Factory. But what I feel that I bring to the team is an energy and confidence to try new things, try new ideas and leave no stone left unturned.

Within the team, there is no lack of passion and desire. I've felt that from the first moments I stepped foot in the Harley Davidson Factory.

Q: What should spectators look out for this year on the track?

Bradley Smith: I feel this year King of the Baggers is turned up another notch of competitiveness, the field is stacked from both manufacturers and that's going to be extremely exciting for the fans.

Q: What will it take to bring the #1 back to the Factory?

Bradley Smith: Lady Luck always plays an important role over the course of the season with 14 races deciding the final championship outcome. Motorcycle racing is a game of milliseconds, so from us at H-D Factory Racing, it's going to take everyone extracting their maximum and bringing that together on the racetrack.

Q: What does it feel like to ride for the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team and our millions of global fans?

Bradley Smith: I can truly say I've felt nothing but welcomed to this new family. I really hope to do the brand and all the loyal H-D fans and riders proud.

Catch the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team in the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers series all summer at a track near you.