Feature Story
MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI ANNOUNCES NEW SEMI DRIVER AS BIG B TRANSITIONS TO NEW ROLE
Big B Passes the Torch
After more than two decades behind the wheel, Brian “Big B” Barnhart is shifting gears. Following this past weekend’s Motocross of Nations, Big B will hand over the keys to the Monster Energy Kawasaki race rig and step into a new role with the team.
Big B has been a staple in the racing world since 1996, starting his career driving for the Chaparral Race Team alongside legends like Larry Brooks, Brian Deegan, and Phil Lawrence, before working with Jeremy McGrath and Chaparral Yamaha. For the last 23 years, he’s been the man behind the Monster Energy Kawasaki rig, hauling green machines across the country and ensuring the team’s presence at every round.
“Brian is the best at what he does. His attention to detail is unmatched, and he approaches everything with care and consideration,” said Dan Fahie, Sr. Manager, Racing. “He’s not only incredibly thorough, but he’s also a true people person who knows how to connect with everyone around him. Brian has been a huge asset to this team for a very long time, and while he’ll be deeply missed on the road next season, we’re excited to have him continue with us in-house.”
Big B’s career has earned him the respect of racing legends who’ve worked alongside him. “Congrats on an amazing career,” said Jeremy McGrath. “Being out on the road for all these years safely is one hell of an accomplishment, and I am so grateful for all the fun memories working together and winning. You set the bar high, so whoever is gonna try to fill your shoes has a steep learning curve. I’m excited for your new position at Kawasaki and look forward to many more years of fun.”
Now, Big B will bring his experience to the shop, overseeing parts ordering and coordination with mechanics to source and develop special components for the team. The new position means less time on the road and more time at home—something he’s looking forward to after nearly three decades of nonstop travel.
“For nearly 25 years, Big B took care of our Kawasaki team on the road,” said Bruce Stjernstrom. “We never had to worry about the transporter or if he would make it to the next race. Brian was always there for our team and our riders, and now he starts a new chapter in his Kawasaki career. We are confident he will kill it – welcome aboard!”
Taking over driving duties will be 24-year-old Chad Brindle from Pennsylvania, who joins the team after serving as the semi driver for AEO Powersports Race Team. Chad brings fresh energy and professionalism to the Monster Energy Kawasaki program as he fills some big shoes.
Monster Energy Kawasaki thanks Big B for his years of dedication and welcomes Chad to the next chapter of the team’s journey on the road.
Q&A with Big B: Two Decades Behind the Wheel of the Monster Energy Kawasaki Semi
Q: Talk about your journey to Kawasaki.
Answer:
I came to Kawasaki at the end of the 2003 season—around August or September. Bruce Stjernstrom and Mark Johnson hired me. Funny enough, Bruce actually tried to hire me years earlier.
Back in 1999, he called me during the off-season to go to lunch. We met at Fuddruckers by the old Kawi shop—his favorite spot—and talked about me coming over. At the time, I was still with Jeremy McGrath and Chaparral, so it didn’t work out. Then Bruce called me again the next few years—same restaurant, same conversation—and each time it didn’t quite line up. Finally, in 2003, it happened.
I was excited to come here because I knew everyone on the team, and Kawasaki always took racing seriously. Growing up, Kawi was the only manufacturer that could beat Honda in the premier class. They worked hard, had fun, and still won races—and that’s exactly where I wanted to be.
Q: How did your role evolve from being a truck driver to becoming the legendary “Big B”?
Answer:
Honestly, I’ve been doing pretty much the same thing since day one. They wanted someone who could handle the entire truck setup—pits, tents, graphics, paint jobs—and I’d done that before with Jeremy and Chaparral.
I wasn’t just there to drive; I helped where needed. If a mechanic needed a clutch swapped or something handled while the team was out, I could step in. They wanted someone who could do a little bit of everything—and that’s what I became known for.
Q: Do you think you’ve set a new standard for what a team driver does?
Answer:
Yeah, I think so. The job has definitely evolved since I started. Teams now want drivers who are mechanically inclined—it helps a lot. You can assist the crew, grab the right parts, and really understand what’s going on instead of just being a guy behind the wheel.
Q: You’ve worked with so many incredible riders over the years. Who stands out the most?
Answer:
There’s been a lot of great ones. Michael Byrne was a blast to have on the team—great rider, great guy.
Eli Tomac will probably go down as one of my favorites. He’s quiet and reserved, but his work ethic is unmatched. He’s genuine, humble, and just a good person all around.
Villopoto—he’s still one of my closest friends. He actually called me twice today while driving to Ponca City just to check in. And watching James Stewart in his prime… man, that was incredible. Seeing him do things no one else could—it was mesmerizing.
Q: Any favorite memories from life on the road?
Answer:
Oh yeah. We were talking about it at Motocross of Nations recently—the old parking lot parties. After races like Dallas or Houston, we’d circle up the trucks, bring a few teams together, and just hang out. Have a few beers, talk racing, family, life—it was awesome. Those moments brought everyone together. We need to bring that back.
Q: You’re also known as the team chef. What’s your signature meal?
Answer:
Probably shrimp tacos—that’s my favorite. But the pulled pork sandwiches I made at Motocross of Nations were a hit too. Three big pork butts, gone in no time! Everyone also loves the pizzas. We use premade crusts, but once the guys start adding their own toppings, it turns into a group project. It’s always fun.
Q: What are your grocery must-haves when you’re stocking the rig?
Answer:
Good lunch meat is a must. And the right coffee creamer—if the store doesn’t have it, I’m driving to the next one! I try to keep everyone’s favorite snacks on board too. It’s not always easy, but I do my best.
Q: You’ve driven across the country countless times. What’s your favorite track?
Answer:
Unadilla, hands down. The history there—the old GPs in the ’80s, the legendary riders who’ve raced it—it’s iconic. Growing up, I’d watch clips months after the race on TV and dream of being there. If we ever host another Motocross of Nations in the U.S., it should be at Unadilla.
Q: Now that you’re coming off the road, what are your plans at home?
Answer:
I’m actually excited to mow my own lawn again! There’s a lot of yard work and sprinkler fixing waiting for me. It’ll be nice not to cram all that into the off-season. I’ll still be supporting the shop guys as much as I can, just from home base.
Q: Chad’s stepping into your role—any advice for him?
Answer:
Take it slow, be patient, and double-check everything. Around here, attention to detail matters. “Good enough” doesn’t cut it. It’ll take time, but he’ll get it. I’ll be with him until everyone’s confident he’s ready.
Q: If you were giving a podium speech, who would you thank?
Answer:
First, my parents—for supporting me when I told them I was going into motocross. They thought I was joining the circus at first!
Then, my longtime friend Danny Dobey, who helped me get into the sport, and Larry Brooks for giving me my first real shot. I started young, and back then all the truck drivers were in their 30s and 40s. Larry took a chance on me, and I’ve been rolling ever since.
