Chris Rivas knew the moment the engine in the G2 Motorsports Buell fired up Thursday that his first qualifying run might not be a good one. He was correct.

A leak in the intake system combined with an electrical glitch that prevented the motor from reaching a competitive speed and Rivas rode it to the end at just 26 mph.

"The intake leak was compounded by the electrical-system problem," explained team crew chief George Smith. "It prevented the engine from performing at its full potential. We will fix it and have the new combination ready for Friday's next qualifying run."

Two more runs Saturday wrap up qualifying for Rivas, who came into this event in third place, just 39 points out of the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle lead.