One thing has been a constant for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class since it became a points-earning professional division in the NHRA. It always started the season at least one or two races after the other professional divisions started. 

That is, until now. Yes, in 2021, they all started together, but only because the schedule was adjusted for COVID restrictions. This time it was a planned start. 

When the 2023 NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series kicks off next month in Gainesville, Florida, the two-wheel racing contingent will be on equal ground with its four-wheel brethren. 

"That's a huge thing because now all four pro categories are starting at the same time, and that's really never happened," said Eddie Krawiec, who has raced in the class since 2004. "We were going to try to do that in '21, maybe everybody in Pomona, but I don't think the class was ready for it. It's an expensive trip to go out west. It worked out really well where they're starting in Gainesville. Personally, I think this is the way it should be going forward."

Steve Johnson, the longest-running racer in the class, competed in the first official season back in 1987 and is happy the class gets started on an even keel with the rest of the Camping World Drag Racing Series divisions.

"I told everybody that because we're so popular, the sanctioning body has finally decided to start the cars with us," Johnson said with a smile. "And I'm dead serious. It's like... Gainesville, we always thought we needed to start in Pomona. Those of us that were trying to make parts and spending the money on the parts, we're like, 'No. No, no, no. We need to postpone it to Gainesville." 

"And now, for whatever reason, now everybody's starting in Gainesville. I think it's awesome."

Defending Pro Stock Motorcycle champion Matt Smith said he'd been just fine starting in Gainesville. 

"Our season has always started in Gainesville, so it hasn't been that big of a deal for me," Smith said. "All in all, I think it's good for us to start at Gainesville. I think we should end at Gainesville when it's all said and done."

The Pro Stock Motorcycle division will also have two other firsts. They will make the trip to Seattle, Washington, and run the full Western Swing, as well as the Countdown to the Championship. 

Being part of the full Countdown to the Championship schedule really pleases Krawiec.

"It's sponsor representation; it's partnerships; it's being involved in the series," Krawiec said. "You want to be at every single one of those six races. Not just to have an extra Countdown race, but for the sheer fact of now, you have the opportunity to expose all four pro categories to every fan. Now with Pro Stock Car and Pro Stock Motorcycle being added, it's huge for us. I mean, just as a class alone, that's a big step."