Freddie Spencer Highlights the Power of Mentorship, Character, and Women’s Racing
During Race Industry Week, EPARTRADE welcomed one of the most respected names in motorcycle racing, Freddie “Fast Freddie” Spencer, three-time FIM Grand Prix World Champion and MotoGP Hall of Fame legend, for an inspiring and deeply personal discussion on the power of education, character-building, and opportunity in motorsports through the Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. (BTR) program.
Widely regarded as one of the most naturally gifted riders in the history of motorcycle racing, Spencer used the platform to shine a spotlight not on his legendary career, but on the next generation of riders—specifically the women currently competing in the all-female BTR Championship that runs as part of the MotoAmerica schedule.
A Program Built on Purpose, Not Just Speed
Now entering its sixth year, the Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. program is unlike any other in global motorsports. Sponsored by Royal Enfield and supported by elite partners including Alpinestars and RIDE Helmets, the program selects women riders from around the world and provides them with a fully funded, two-year racing and technical development opportunity at no cost to the participants.
“The racing is not the ultimate goal,” Spencer explained. “It’s the icing on the cake. The real goal is building confidence, character, teamwork, and creating better, safer motorcyclists.”
Each season begins with the Build phase, where riders receive brand-new Royal Enfield motorcycles—either the Continental GT 650 or Interceptor 650—and work hands-on with professional mechanics to transform production bikes into full race machines. From suspension to brakes, wheels, exhaust systems, and even custom paint schemes, every rider learns the complete mechanical foundation of their motorcycle.
Three weeks later, the program moves into the Train phase, led personally by Spencer, whose passion for teaching has defined his post-racing career. Riders undergo intense on-track instruction focused on riding technique, mental discipline, anticipation, confidence, and comfort at speed.
The program then transitions into the Race phase, featuring four MotoAmerica race weekends and eight championship races per season.
“Once you’re part of BTR,” Spencer said, “you’re always part of BTR. These women become teammates for life.”
More Than Racing: Character, Confidence, and Community
Throughout the discussion, Spencer emphasized that the emotional and personal development of the riders is just as important as the competition itself. Many participants enter the program with minimal racing experience—some having only completed a few track days—but leave with professional-level confidence both on and off the motorcycle.
“Racing builds character,” Spencer said. “There’s far more struggle than success in this sport. It’s not about winning. It’s about learning, growing, and becoming the best version of yourself.”
Spencer described watching riders evolve from fear and uncertainty into confident, technically skilled racers—an experience he called deeply fulfilling.
“They often tell me later that the confidence they gained here helped them in other areas of their life. That’s what makes this special.”
Royal Enfield’s Commitment to Accessible Performance
The BTR program runs on Royal Enfield’s 650cc twin-cylinder platform, including both asphalt and flat-track divisions. With approximately 50–52 horsepower and minimal electronic intervention, the bikes deliver what Spencer called the “purity of real motorcycling”—a riding experience that rewards skill, feel, and technique.
“Royal Enfield has figured out how to reach younger riders through simplicity and affordability,” Spencer said. “These bikes are approachable, honest machines—and perfect tools for learning.”
Spencer also shared recent experiences with Royal Enfield in India, where the manufacturer continues to experience explosive global growth.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Giving Back
Since retiring from professional racing in 1995 after nearly three decades as an amateur and professional competitor, Spencer has devoted his life to rider education. His long-running training school at Las Vegas Motor Speedway laid the groundwork for his philosophy of developing riders who are not just fast—but safe, confident, and self-aware.
“My promise to every rider is this: trust the process, and after two years, you will become your own teacher,” Spencer said. “You’ll know what’s right, what’s wrong, and why.”
Two-Wheel Racing Poised for a New Growth Era
Spencer also shared his perspective on the growing momentum of two-wheel racing in North America. With Liberty Media now owning MotoGP—mirroring its transformational impact on Formula One through Drive to Survive—Spencer believes motorcycle racing is entering a new era of mainstream growth.
“MotoAmerica is setting record crowds. Younger audiences are finding the sport. The pendulum is swinging in the right direction,” he said.
Continuing the Legacy
The Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. program continues to stand as one of the most impactful grassroots-to-professional initiatives in motorsports today—opening doors, building careers, and shaping lives through the discipline of racing.
As Race Industry Week concluded its conversation with one of the sport’s greatest icons, the message was clear: the future of motorsports is being built deliberately, one rider at a time.
For more information on the Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. program, visit YouTube and social media platforms for behind-the-scenes coverage and race highlights.
About Freddie “Fast Freddie” Spencer
Freddie Spencer is a three-time FIM Grand Prix World Champion, MotoGP Hall of Fame inductee, and one of the most naturally gifted riders in the history of motorcycle racing. Following his championship career, he has dedicated his life to rider training, safety, and motorsport development at all levels of competition.
Freddie Spencer is a three-time FIM Grand Prix World Champion, MotoGP Hall of Fame inductee, and one of the most naturally gifted riders in the history of motorcycle racing. Following his championship career, he has dedicated his life to rider training, safety, and motorsport development at all levels of competition.
About EPARTRADE & Race Industry Week
EPARTRADE is the premier global B2B platform for the performance and racing industry, connecting professionals 24/7, 365 days a year. Race Industry Week is EPARTRADE’s annual flagship event, bringing together the most influential leaders, series, manufacturers, and innovators in motorsports worldwide.
EPARTRADE is the premier global B2B platform for the performance and racing industry, connecting professionals 24/7, 365 days a year. Race Industry Week is EPARTRADE’s annual flagship event, bringing together the most influential leaders, series, manufacturers, and innovators in motorsports worldwide.
