Guys, I did a search first but didn't find a lot of information on track riding. I'm getting interested in learning how to. I hope you guys can give me some insight to how it works. Type of bike? Expense it seems like the day is about $ 165-185. I'm certain there are a lot of add on that nickel and dime you to death. Any other information or links you could send me to. Thank you, Joe
Those prices sound a bit high for most track days that don't include a school. Check out SportBikeTrackTime.com. They do track days all over and are geared toward the novice track day rider with included instruction. Their web site should have all the info you need, but here's a quick list of some things you will need: Don't ride to the event, use a truck or trailer, and preferably have someone that can drive you home if you get hurt. Remove everything unnecessary from your bike – license plate and bracket, mirrors, passenger pegs, grab handles, etc. Tape over all of your lights completely with masking tape (use the blue tape if you want it to peel off easily) and pull the fuses or bulbs for the lights. Drain your coolant and put in distilled water and water wetter. This is not required in some cases, but everyone will hate you if you crash and spill coolant and everyone misses half the day they paid for while it is being cleaned up). Put on some new Sport tires like Pilot Powers. Run 30psi front and rear in them. Bring a cooler with lots of water, an easy up for shade, fans, snacks, spare parts, tools, gas can and gas, spare key.
The prices can run anywhere from $140.00 and up from what I have seen and been to here in California with Laguna going up to $300.00!! As for what you need each sponsor that you will attend will have the listings on their site but here is the basic. You dont need to remove anything from your bike other than the mirrors. You dont need special tires as you will start in the lower "C" group and the riding is a bit slower, but must have good tread. 1. Either full leathers or 2 piece leathers that zip all the way together. 2. Good set of leather gloves 3. Good set of Track/Street boots 4. No leaking fluids on your bike 3. Good tread on your tires 4. Throttle must snap back good 5. If your headlamp is glass you need to tape it off 6. Tape off or remove fuses for all lights 7. Tape down all wheel weights 8. Helmet 9. Good brake pads 10. Some tracks require no coolant so use water wetter or koolaide 11. And anything you want to eat or drink - I recommend Gatorade. 12. Extra Gas just incase 11.
thanks!!! Guys, Thanks a lot. What about a bike? Is it better to use a bike that's dedicated to the track? Joe
In October, I'll be doing my first track day on the VFR. And my good friend Jeff will be on a Ninja 250. What to see if you like it before you pick up a "track bike" BZ
It's best to use whatever bike you won't cry over when you wreck. If you rely on it for daily commute, don't take it to the track.
A dedicated track rig is best for sure. Do a track day or two on your street bike to see how you like it. People usually get addicted, and in some cases more or less quit riding on the street, like me. The best way to go about getting a track bike is to watch the club racing forums for old race bikes for sale. They are fully setup with suspension, bodywork, rearsets, and other expensive parts and they get sold for far less than what a stock bike would go for, and you get a turn key track rig. If you want to get into racing, look into and keep in mind what classes you might want to race in when deciding on a bike. ETA: Here's a pic from my second track day on my 6th gen VFR
Oh I should have added an important PPE - a back protector - I have this Joe Rocket and its really nice to wear : http://newenough.com/armor/back_pro...et/speedmaster_motorcycle_back_protector.html
This won't be cheap! Guys, Thanks for the links and info. I've already looked it over. The thought of me wearing leathers brings a smile to my face. It wouldn't be as bad as a speedo but it would be funny. It doesn't look like a cheap hobby but I know I'll get the bug. It never stopped me in the past. I think I'm going to watch a few times to get the feel. There are still some days in my area over the next few weeks. Thanks, Joe
