Body Language

Trying to illustrate the connection between the "Need for Speed" and the body language seen in the pursuit of it. How do these stack up?

These are OK, but from my perspective as a former dirt track racer, you will get more indication of body language from the rear. Although probably won't make near as interesting a photo.

The other thing to consider is the shot is cropped therefore thy could easily be hunched over the tank whilst in the paddock

A full shot of the bike wold be beneficial too

I agree that the shot is too tightly cropped to indicate "speed." How do we recognize that something is in motion? By seeing a difference between a moving object and still objects around it (background blur), as well in certain ways by posture (such as leaning into a turn).

Get some shots on one of the sharper corners with the riders dragging a knee or coming over a rise with the front wheel lifted.

If you want some good examples of showing speed and "body language" during races, check out this guys portfolio. This is someone I look up to as an example of motorcycle race photographer (and cars).

http://500px.com/RobKi​ng

Interesting comments which I appreciate. What I was trying to do was get away from the normal panned shot with blured background as the bikes went by as that typre of shot is seen countless times. I had hoped the body angle on the bikes would talk enough. This track unfortunately doesn't lend itself to well to the shot that Joe indicates, but thanks for comments

Is this the kind of shot you are looking at achieving?

http://500px.com/photo​/23862383

The other thing is that if you want to crop that tight on the rider you need to make sure that the image is real sharp. Neither of your images is sharp enough for that.