[08silvercbr]

Originally Posted by Red Rider

Damp towel usually works well if you don't leave the bugs on it for long...

I noticed you are in Michigan. I've been looking for a track that has open practice to ride on somewhat local. Do you know of any here in MI?

[Red Rider]

Grattan Raceway in Belding (near Grand Rapids) has numerous track days there run by various organizations. The only open track time you'll find is through a private group. WERA runs open practice for licensed racers. Check out...

Sportbike Track Time - Get on the right track !! Toll Free #888-390-4020
Apex2Apex - HOME

[08silvercbr]

I think thats the same number I called a few times and kept getting a recording. So basically the deal is take a class offered there to get a license, then you can run on their practice days? Their schedule is kinda confusing. Which days are their open practice days this year?

[Red Rider]

Are you planning to race? Apex2Apex has a class that will get you a provisional WERA license. WERA runs open practice before scheduled race weekends. If you're just looking to get on the track with lots of seat time, sign up for Apex2Apex...they run 3 groups that will give you 8-10 twenty minute sessions for the day. You can also sign up for STT's LED day which only runs 2 groups with longer sessions.

Gingerman Raceway in South Haven runs an evening test and tune on Wednesdays.

Gingerman Raceway, Ltd.

[08silvercbr]

Originally Posted by Red Rider

Are you planning to race? Apex2Apex has a class that will get you a provisional WERA license. WERA runs open practice before scheduled race weekends. If you're just looking to get on the track with lots of seat time, sign up for Apex2Apex...they run 3 groups that will give you 8-10 twenty minute sessions for the day. You can also sign up for STT's LED day which only runs 2 groups with longer sessions.

Gingerman Raceway in South Haven runs an evening test and tune on Wednesdays.

Gingerman Raceway, Ltd.

Yeah basically I'm just looking to go out and push my bike to get a feel for it without doing it on the road. I grew up racing MX and you could just pay 20 bucks on on their open practice days, sign up in your class, and like every hour you got 15 min of open time. I was just wondering if road bikes worked the same. I really didn't want to take a class for it, but if thats the only way I can get on a track I will. Their websites just seem confusing as to whats what, and I couldnt talk to a person when I called the track. Racing would be cool in the future, but for now I'm just trying to learn my new bike, and get the suspension dialed in. Whats the price on the Apex2apex thing, and do you need a licence to be a part of that? Is that what you do?

[Red Rider]

Both Apex and STT run 3 groups (Novice, Intermediate, Advanced). In both organizations, only the Novice group has a classroom with instruction between sessions. The other two groups are open riding with some restrictions on where you can pass in the Intermediate and no restrictions in the Advanced group. No license is required for either organization. If you want tons of track time with relatively small group sizes than sign up for an Apex day. They have several dates at Grattan scheduled now through October. It'll cost you $155, but that's the cheapest you're going to find to get in lots of track time. I've never ridden at Gingerman's test and tune so I can't offer much information on it. Grattan is an awesome track and I'll guarantee you'll have a great time if you go.

Grattan also has an excellent MX track next to the road course. They hold regional AMA races there.

[08silvercbr]

So Gratton is Sept 6th and 7th according to the callander on your link. Those dates include practice time or race? So I have to call now to get signed up for that? Which would be the number to call?...or do you just show up? Sense this is the only track around here do you pretty much hit all the events?

SorryTattooedGQ... I know very little people around here that are into the sportbike scene, and noone that that races so I had to take advantage of the knowledge. Thanks Red Rider for the insite. Really appreciate it.

[08silvercbr]

As far as the MX track there I have pretty much given up Motocross due to almost 25 years of abuse to the knees. Switched to sportbikes now, but am just getting my 3 year old son started on it.

[Red Rider]

If you're looking at Sportbike TrackTime's (STT) track days on 9/6 and 9/7 than all you have to do is sign up on their website. They have the rules and bike requirements on the site too. It's a track day, not a race, so no license is required. If you want to get into racing, than attend one of the Apex track days and take their race licensing class. You'll than be licensed to race in the WERA ( WERA Motorcyle Road Racing :: Home :: v2008n8x17 :: ) racing organization.

Wish I could join you, but unfortunately my days on the track have been limited this year.

[CBR929RE]

Originally Posted by Red Rider

Wish I could join you, but unfortunately my days on the track have been limited this year.

There was this guy who showed me around Grattan when I first went there a year ago. he was really good with track newbies. something about whales meant he couldn't be there this year. but since that's done and over with he should go and give this new guy some advice in person. plus it'll get him some more track time

[Red Rider]

Originally Posted by CBR929RE

There was this guy who showed me around Grattan when I first went there a year ago. he was really good with track newbies. something about whales meant he couldn't be there this year. but since that's done and over with he should go and give this new guy some advice in person. plus it'll get him some more track time

[sheepofblue]

I would recommend a normal track day before you decide to get a race license. Many people find they are not as fast as they think they are and need a few track days to get things tuned up. I run STT south often and they are good though from what I have heard the Apex days are a bit more laid back which is a good thing when you are doing event #1.

Also be sure to check gear requirements and bike prep. Neither are terrible but that way you do not get a surprise.

Good luck! and beware the whales at Grattan will ask for a ride....some of us know it, some of us were on a boat looking for the filthy critters

[CBR929RE]

Originally Posted by Red Rider

now that's just uncalled for. I'm trying to help out one guy which in turn helps out another guy and I get mooned. last time I try to help you

[Red Rider]

The whales were restless!

[08silvercbr]

So I called today to see whats up. Apex2Apex can get me in for some track time this comming Monday. I'm pumped. I found a 1 piece leather suit to borrow, sense mine don't zip together, but if anyone knows where I can buy a used one let me know. Not really wanting to drop a grand on an Alpinestars just yet. (although maybe in the future) I forgot to ask on the phone though...what happens if it rains? Reschedule? Also about the kickstand. Can I leave it on in the intermediate class? (no rear stand) Also I was wondering at Gratton if there is enough room on the front straight to get it topped out? Its more then a half mile straight right? Not quite sure whats with the wales thing...must be an inside thing aye?.......

[sheepofblue]

Why are you riding intermediate on the first day

Red Rider stiffed us on a private event that is held there each year to watch whales (just kidding he was with his wife for a anniversary celebration he should be thankful for and proud of)

[Red Rider]

Certain people ( ) gave me a hard time for missing our annual track event at Grattan this year because my wife and I were on an Alaskan cruise for our 25th anniversary....hence the whales comments.

Check out New Enough Motorcycle Apparel sells motorcycle jackets, pants and suits, boots, gloves, helmets, etc :: New Enough, LTD for some pretty decent deals on leathers (or ebay). Apex runs rain or shine, unless the track owner cancels the event due to really severe weather. Check out Apex's web site for their rain policy. Your kickstand is fine so you won't need a rear stand, but antifreeze coolant isn't allowed due to safety reasons. You'll need to drain it and fill it with water/water wetter or Engine Ice. I doubt you'll be able to top out an '08 RR on the straight, but I wouldn't worry about that...concentrate on your lines and the turns and staying safe. Have a great time...wish I could join you.

[08silvercbr]

Originally Posted by sheepofblue

Why are you riding intermediate on the first day

Red Rider stiffed us on a private event that is held there each year to watch whales (just kidding he was with his wife for a anniversary celebration he should be thankful for and proud of)

Yeah I signed up for intermediate. They told me passing wasn't aloud in beginner, and I didn't want to drive 2 hours to play follow the leader. I'm not planning on 'tearing it up' I just want to go at my own comfortable pace and get my suspension dialed in first. You are probably rolling your eyes, but I have more then 20 years experience with motocross...I understand apex, body position, and proper breaking. I know it isn't the same, but I feel comfortable on my bike, and feel I can read it well enough to cruise around and have a good time. I'm a little concerned about my bridgestone 15's getting to hot so I probably will only be able to do a few laps at a time. I lucked out that one of the instructors is a guy I bought a previous bike from and he said there isn't many people signed up so he'll probably ride with me one on one. Thats who I'm borrowing the leathers from. I'll check out that site on the used leathers. I'm thinking maybe next season I'll get more into it, but being how expensive it all is, and the track being so far away I can't get too wrapped up in another hobby. My g/f hates my bike as it is.

[08silvercbr]

Oh...the anifreeze thing... with just distilled water would the bike run hotter? This bike seems to run so hot as it is. (over 200 to 220)

[sheepofblue]

Originally Posted by 08silvercbr

Yeah I signed up for intermediate. They told me passing wasn't aloud in beginner, and I didn't want to drive 2 hours to play follow the leader. I'm not planning on 'tearing it up' I just want to go at my own comfortable pace and get my suspension dialed in first. You are probably rolling your eyes, but I have more then 20 years experience with motocross...I understand apex, body position, and proper breaking. I know it isn't the same, but I feel comfortable on my bike, and feel I can read it well enough to cruise around and have a good time. I'm a little concerned about my bridgestone 15's getting to hot so I probably will only be able to do a few laps at a time. I lucked out that one of the instructors is a guy I bought a previous bike from and he said there isn't many people signed up so he'll probably ride with me one on one. Thats who I'm borrowing the leathers from. I'll check out that site on the used leathers. I'm thinking maybe next season I'll get more into it, but being how expensive it all is, and the track being so far away I can't get too wrapped up in another hobby. My g/f hates my bike as it is.

Not until the end

[08silvercbr]

Originally Posted by sheepofblue

Not until the end

Not sure what you are meaning. So you use to live in MI, but moved?

[Red Rider]

Get some Water Wetter from Redline and add it to the distilled water. Your bike will run cooler than when it has antifreeze in it. Make sure you check your pressures and go easy the first session of the day as the track can have dew on it until the sun heats it up. Apex sells tires at the track and can mount them for you if you need a new set.

[08silvercbr]

Originally Posted by Red Rider

Get some Water Wetter from Redline and add it to the distilled water. Your bike will run cooler than when it has antifreeze in it. Make sure you check your pressures and go easy the first session of the day as the track can have dew on it until the sun heats it up. Apex sells tires at the track and can mount them for you if you need a new set.

ok will do. what do you think on pressure? start out about low 30's?

[Red Rider]

I'm not familiar with the 'Stones, but I would probably start around 30 front and rear cold and check your hot pressures as soon as you get off the track to see how much they've risen.

[sheepofblue]

Originally Posted by 08silvercbr

Not sure what you are meaning. So you use to live in MI, but moved?

Nope replace her

Yep a long time ago I lived in Milford (pre yuppy times) then South Lyon

I ran 30 F/R on the BT002ST and it worked well.

[08silvercbr]

Originally Posted by sheepofblue

Nope replace her

Yeah..I've spent a lot of cash this year on the bike. If I start buying new boots, leathers, and then leave for the weekend only to spend 150+ on track day...she could have a point. Plus I'm suppose to be saving for a wedding in April. So far she's been pretty decent but I can see I might be pushing it here.

[08silvercbr]

Originally Posted by Red Rider

I'm not familiar with the 'Stones, but I would probably start around 30 front and rear cold and check your hot pressures as soon as you get off the track to see how much they've risen.

So whats the most pressure I want to see with hot tires? How long can you go on street tires before it starts getting slippery? A few other things I was wondering too... What determines at what point you need to start using safety wire with the fluids, and removing the kickstand? I'm assuming the advanced class just gets turned loose, and others are with instructors...so when with an instructor, its ok not to have the extras? Also is thier any kind of a loading dock or something at the track. My bike board is somewhat short and I can use a low spot at the house, but might have a little issue being steep once there.

[08silvercbr]

What were you two meaning with the "anual track day" at Grattan. Was that a local association you were part of, or something to do with the people off this forum meeting?

[Red Rider]

Depending on the brand and type of tire, you'll want to see a 10-20% incease in hot pressures. As far as using worn tires, I usually start a track day with a new set so I know I'll have maximum grip. Trying to save money by getting one more track day out of worn tires can end up costing big bucks for replacement parts if you go down.

If you read the bike/tech requirements listed on the organizer's site, they'll tell you what is necessary (safety wire, kickstand removal, etc.) for each group. Each track day company has different rules so read their information closely to prevent any surprises when you take your bike through tech. The intermediate group typically has Control Riders who are there only to monitor everyone. You can go at your own pace and ride as you please. In the advanced group, you'll maybe have CR's who are out there mixing it up with everyone else. The main difference between the two groups are the passing rules (read their sites for specifics) and the speeds.

Grattan has a lower paddock (grassy area) that backs up to a three foor high retaining wall that a lot of people use to unload their bikes...you shouldn't have a problem.

Some of the original founding members here on Fireblades started holding an annual 3 day event at Grattan back in 2002. We still have the event but it's through another forum now.

Hope this answers everything...let me know if you have any more questions.

[sheepofblue]

Oh and in many orgs the intermediate control riders will also provide feedback any time they are asked. If not they vary by org but usually are just keeping an eye on things.