In his home country, Hayden can go almost anywhere without being noticed. Competing in a sport that draws little national interest, his hometown is the only place in America where Hayden is considered a star.

That's just fine with Hayden.

"I don't want to be a rock star. I just like the racing," he said. "I am pretty passionate about it. I like going toe-to-toe with my rivals, and that's enough for me. Paying your bills by riding a motorcycle is pretty cool, and it was definitely my ticket out to really do something."

Despite living in a city full of "pretty die-hard NASCAR fans," Hayden said he and his two brothers were drawn to motorcycles because their father was into them and occasionally raced. Oldest brother Tommy was the first to give them a spin, and Nicky and Roger Lee soon followed.

Nicky had turned professional by the time he was 16, and was picked up by Honda a year later. It helped him break into the European market, and Hayden is now the lead rider for Repsol Honda.

Tommy, 28, and Roger Lee, 24, are top riders in the AMA Superbike series, the American version of MotoGP. A year ago, they punctuated Nicky's USGP victory by finishing fourth and sixth in their earlier race.

The Haydens want to celebrate the anniversary with another strong weekend at Laguna Seca. And even if most of America isn't watching, the sport still has its fans ¡ª including NASCAR points leader Jimmie Johnson, who grew up racing motorcycles.

"Those guys ¡ª you think we're crazy ¡ª those guys are going as fast as we do, if not faster, without a roll cage. They're nuts," said Johnson, who grew up with MotoGP rider Colin Edwards and keeps tabs and has been rooting for him and Hayden to succeed.

"When Nicky went over to carry the American flag, he really did an amazing job. I've been paying close attention ... and I'm stoked for him leading the championship," he said. "I hope he can do it. I know over in Europe, people frown on U.S. riders and drivers, and I'd love to see him go over there and kick some butt and represent us."