[sam]

OK... I've been lurking for over a year (lots of good info, thanks!)... time to post!

I finally signed up for a novice track day for my 954 and I to go dancin'. I'm excited... and a little scared--not about riding, I know I can stay within my limits after 19 years of riding--but about stupid stuff like not dropping the bike while loading it in the truck, not passing tech, looking like an idiot, etc.

Any advice?

Hi Sam, listen well to everything the instructors have to say during the riders meeting & in the newbie class if they have one. Try to relax. Be predictable in your riding....be as smooth as possible while holding a nice tight line (No swooping from side to side). Remember a new track is just like a new road, you need to "Know" what is coming up before you can pick up speed. Take your time.....you'll have plenty time to go back again. Even though you may be a very fast street rider you'll be amazed at how fast some people are on the track. Don't try to keep up if you aren't comfortable at the speed of another person. If possible, walk around the track and watch how the faster people go through each corner. Don't be afraid to ask for help.

Too many accidents happen from people not letting their tires get warm before they slam the bike over.....best to progressively get up to speed every time you go out. Check your tires for proper pressure & wear along with the rest of your bike to make sure everything is tight before each session.

Have a great time!

[Mojave954]

Take your time and enjoy. Don't get wrapped up in the other rider's ride. Not a race and there are not trophies. Goal of track days are no different than any other ride day.

Goal: for you and the bike to arrive at home in the same condition you left home.

Have fun and relax.

[HondaGalToo]

Don't be afraid to ask someone pitted near you for help loading/unloading your bike. At every trackday I've ever been to, folks you've never met before are willing to help out. It's part of the comaradarie. Then you'll have new friends! It's also a good idea to bring someone with you if at all possible. If you can't, find a friendly face nearby and tell them where your emergency contact info is; leave it on a sheet of paper on your dashboard.
Relax and have fun! It's not about the speed, it's about smoothness and having a great time!

[Red Rider]

The key to a fun day is preparation. Make sure you have packed everything, arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to get ready, and don't rush the day. Welcome to the addiction!

[sam]

Thanks for all the great advice! It is a class setting, so I'm hoping that will help me get a clue without making a total fool of myself.

Have any of you ever camped out prior to a track day? I'm torn between getting a motel (and wondering if someone will unload my bike during the night!) or sleeping right next to my truck...