Tips for a Beginners Track Day

victoRR · 07-20-2004, 9:49 AM

I, after much needed persuasion want to start doing trackdays. I live in Austin, TX and there are a few tracks around that I can ride to with no problems.

I do not have full leathers currently but can get some in the coming weeks. Gloves and boots are already in my possesion.

What are things I can look for? Tips? The BIGGEST what not's? Any tips on riding position? Tires? (I have a pair of BT's 010 and 020 that are worn out) so I am gunna be looking for a better track/daily tire.

Keep in mind, i've never done a track day so I won't be shredding the hell out of my bike. While I am on the subject, what's a better bike for the track? 929 or an RC51. I've been thinking about selling my bike for the RC51. It to me, not only feels better, rides better and I love the sound of a Vtwin with the Two Bros. exhaust.

Any and all feedback is welcome.

Baketech · 07-20-2004, 9:58 AM

Consider taking a school like STAR as your first trackday experience. It's a great low-key way to get initiated to the track and pick up some life long skills. Sign up for 2 days for the full effect. The cost will seem like a lot compared to an "open" track day, but it's well worth the added value imho.

Imho, the best bike for your first excursion is the bike you are currently riding. Lots of reasons...you are comfortable on it...you care about it, and will ride sensibly on it....

Tons of good tires out there right now...if you are already comfortable with the 010, it's a great value and goes from the track back onto the street well.

These are just my personal opinions....my advice is to weigh all the opinions you get against your personal comfort level and act accordingly.

Have fun...

Pete · 07-20-2004, 10:04 AM

Start by taking a look at our (Texas) two trackday providers, www.lonestartrackdays.com and www.ridesmart.info . There's good info there on what is needed for bike prep and self prep. Both organizations have schools geared for beginners.

On the subject of leathers, if you're in a pinch, leathers can be rented at the track.

As for both the TWS and Cresson tracks, IMO, the 929 makes a better track bike than the RC51. More so at Cresson than at TWS, but transitioning through the horseshoe and chicane at TWS was a lot easier and quicker on my 929 than on my RC51.

One other thing I'll offer is that Austin is far enough away form the tracks that hauling your bike, instead of riding it, makes good sense.

Pete · 07-20-2004, 10:06 AM

One last thing...I'll be at TWS for the LSTD trackday on August 9th, so if you're looking to get on the track that soon, let me know and I'll be glad to help you out.

victoRR · 07-20-2004, 10:20 AM

How much is the track day for that weekend? I'd like to make a trip out there to see how things are done. I am looking to hopefully getting started around September. This gives me time to look over the bike, get the tires I need, make sure things are properly set up, etc. I wanna take my time.....doing so, come 2005, I can make more than a few trackdays and be comfortable.

It beats the hell out of the urge to ride hard and get experience on a city road. Id rather pay the money, do it legally and safely. (there are ambulence's there right?

)

Pete · 07-20-2004, 12:01 PM

Trackdays with LSTD are $150, plus $30 if you take the school. Ridesmart is a bit cheaper, at $135 for one day, and I'm not sure if they charge extra for their instructional stuff.

Spectators are welcome, no charge, so by all means, come on out and get a taste of what it's all about.

Tornado bait · 07-20-2004, 2:14 PM

Just to add to your options you may want to have a look at the CMRA
They race at 3 tracks in TX and one in OK. If you check out their schedule you'll find that they have a rider school nearly every race weekend.

victoRR · 07-20-2004, 3:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tornado bait

Just to add to your options you may want to have a look at the CMRA
They race at 3 tracks in TX and one in OK. If you check out their schedule you'll find that they have a rider school nearly every race weekend.

I'll look into that. I want to head up to at least 2 track days. Separate weekends of course.

I still need to:
1. Get better tires
2. Do a flush n fill on all my fluids (just over due)
3. Make sure my brakes are still in spec/good.

SuperDave · 07-20-2004, 3:32 PM

Don't ride to the track if you can help it, you'll be exhausted afterwards and lose concentration when on the street. You'll need PLENTY of water to haul with you to stay hydrated, and some snacks/lunch.

I'd make sure it's an instructed type course, not just a open track day. I had a great time at Nelson Ledges because of the great control riders/instructors. They kept all the racer wannabes at bay, and slowly increased the pace after each session. It was great. No passing, or ego issues, just follow the leader, leap frog, etc. Passing allowed during last 2 sessions, only in the straights.

Have fun!

victoRR · 07-20-2004, 3:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SuperDave

Don't ride to the track if you can help it, you'll be exhausted afterwards and lose concentration when on the street. You'll need PLENTY of water to haul with you to stay hydrated, and some snacks/lunch.

I'd make sure it's an instructed type course, not just a open track day. I had a great time at Nelson Ledges because of the great control riders/instructors. They kept all the racer wannabes at bay, and slowly increased the pace after each session. It was great. No passing, or ego issues, just follow the leader, leap frog, etc. Passing allowed during last 2 sessions, only in the straights.

Have fun!

I'll be towing my bike on a trailer and going naked (bike you pervs) just in case there is a spill. I'll be bringin my father as well. He's thinking of buying a bike to experience track days (He's a Harley guy)

Ice chest with water for drinks/food/snacks/etc.

I ride hard occasionally on the street, I just want to be able to actually learn the right way and on a safe track.