Well, that was unexpected.

Steve Johnson, who is certainly no stranger to success in the NHRA with a long and storied career in the Pro Stock Motorcycle ranks, pulled a bit of a stunner on Saturday when he unseated the most consistent rider on the property with the quickest pass of his entire career aboard his Slick 50 Suzuki.

Johnson raced to a 6.786-second pass at 196.70 mph in the heat Saturday afternoon at zMAX Dragway, earning his first No. 1 qualifier since Englishtown in 2013 at the 12th annual NTK NHRA Carolina Nationals.

Johnson, who was sixth on the ladder entering the session, blasted to the top spot with a straight, fast run right down Broadway. After his previous two runs failed to impress, his career-best pass on Saturday caught the field by surprise as he bested previous top qualifier Jerry Savoie by a thousandth of a second.

Savoie qualified second with a 6.787 at 198.73 mph on his White Alligator Racing Suzuki, while current points leader Andrew Hines fell in line in third with a 6.814 at 198.79 mph. Eddie Krawiec (6.818) and Karen Stoffer (6.819) rounded out the top five.

Adding to the odd afternoon, Johnson missed the fourth and final qualifying session on Saturday when he left early to attend a wedding in Maryland. Johnson plans to return to Charlotte immediately following the event to prepare for final eliminations.

Johnson’s stunning pass earned him his fifth career pole position. He will face Andie Rawlings in round one on Sunday seeking his first win since the Gainesville in 2014.

"Perception is an amazing thing," said Johnson. "Some see hard work and dedication and others don’t. I think if you’re a hobbyist or a professional you can still  be just as proud of your work ethic and accomplishments. Jock (Ervin Allen) and I are so proud of this moment. I can promise you we cherish this NHRA number one qualifier with all our heart and soul."