Matt Smith launches his Denso Buell at the Texas NHRA FallNationals. Photo: Cycle News

Matt Smith Edges Richard Gadson in Record-Setting NHRA FallNationals Pro Stock Motorcycle Final

October 22, 2026

Six-time champion Matt Smith won Round 12 of the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle season at the Texas NHRA FallNationals on October 20, 2026. Riding his Denso Buell at Texas Motorplex, Smith defeated championship points leader Richard Gadson on a holeshot.

Smith posted an exceptional reaction time to clock a 6.660-second pass at 203.45 mph. Gadson recorded a quicker elapsed time of 6.654 seconds at 203.88 mph, but Smith's start secured the win. According to the National Hot Riders Association and Cycle News, both competitors exceeded 203 mph to record the fastest and quickest side-by-side run in the history of NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle competition.

The 46th career victory for Smith keeps his pursuit of a seventh world championship alive, highlighting the ongoing performance of American V-twin power on the national drag racing circuit.