rexmitchell
09-18-2011, 12:47 PM
So you are ready to do a track day on your motorcycle, but are you prepared for the adventure? Hopefully my trials and errors can help those future track day bound motorcyclists to avoid some of the headache and hassle I went through. By following the rules and guidelines of your track day organization and some of my tips below, you can guarantee a successful and fun day out at the track. Let me be the first to welcome you to an addictive and expensive hobby. :thumbsup:
Motorcycle Prep
Start with the basics, the main thing I see people getting rejected at tech inspection is bad tires, chain tension, sticky throttle, and headlight/taillight prep. Make sure you have tires with at least 80% tread and that your chain is properly adjusted. Most track day organizations require headlights be taped/disconnected, this includes blinkers. Save yourself some hassle and have this done before you show up to tech. Be sure to check the individual requirements for tech before you travel to any track so that there are no surprises when you arrive.
Tools and Supplies
While a toolbox is similar to a bottomless pit, limited only by your budget, there are a few simple tools that you should always have on hand. Allen wrenches, sockets, crescent wrenches, screw drivers, pliers, and a dead hammer/mallet. Duct tape, zip ties, and blue painters tape are your friends as well. I like to bring along extra oil, grease, brake fluid, cable lube, WD-40, starting fluid, and chain lube. If you have a front or rear stand for your motorcycle, its a good idea to bring them along. Chain adjustments or tire changes are a pain without them.
Other Essentials
First and foremost, bring plenty of water, gatorade, snacks, etc. Some organizations provide lunch, others don't, always be prepared! It may seem like a no brainer but make sure that your key is in your motorcycle before you leave home. I have made it a habit to load the bike in my trailer and leave the key in until I arrive, this way its impossible to show up without it. Gas your bike up before heading out to the track. I always bring at least 5 gallons of gas when I go ride, this way I am never stuck with an empty tank. If you plan on using tire warmers or need electricity, make sure to bring your own generator. Power seems to be spotty at best when you need it most. An EZ-UP shelter is one of the most valuable things you can own, in the heat of the summer shade is golden. Keeping you and your bike cool can be the difference in having a good or bad day.
http://i435.photobucket.com/albums/qq73/rexmitchell/d92848ad.jpg
Load Up!
Now that you have your bike and gear all ready, its time to load up the truck or trailer and head out. I highly recommend not riding to the track in case of a crash or other unforeseeable circumstances. A trailer is your best option if you have one available but the bed of a truck works just fine as well. A track day will help you to learn how to ride your motorcycle in ways you never thought possible. The instruction and skills you will learn translate very easily back to the street and in the end, make you a much better rider. Go out, be safe, and have fun!
Motorcycle Prep
Start with the basics, the main thing I see people getting rejected at tech inspection is bad tires, chain tension, sticky throttle, and headlight/taillight prep. Make sure you have tires with at least 80% tread and that your chain is properly adjusted. Most track day organizations require headlights be taped/disconnected, this includes blinkers. Save yourself some hassle and have this done before you show up to tech. Be sure to check the individual requirements for tech before you travel to any track so that there are no surprises when you arrive.
Tools and Supplies
While a toolbox is similar to a bottomless pit, limited only by your budget, there are a few simple tools that you should always have on hand. Allen wrenches, sockets, crescent wrenches, screw drivers, pliers, and a dead hammer/mallet. Duct tape, zip ties, and blue painters tape are your friends as well. I like to bring along extra oil, grease, brake fluid, cable lube, WD-40, starting fluid, and chain lube. If you have a front or rear stand for your motorcycle, its a good idea to bring them along. Chain adjustments or tire changes are a pain without them.
Other Essentials
First and foremost, bring plenty of water, gatorade, snacks, etc. Some organizations provide lunch, others don't, always be prepared! It may seem like a no brainer but make sure that your key is in your motorcycle before you leave home. I have made it a habit to load the bike in my trailer and leave the key in until I arrive, this way its impossible to show up without it. Gas your bike up before heading out to the track. I always bring at least 5 gallons of gas when I go ride, this way I am never stuck with an empty tank. If you plan on using tire warmers or need electricity, make sure to bring your own generator. Power seems to be spotty at best when you need it most. An EZ-UP shelter is one of the most valuable things you can own, in the heat of the summer shade is golden. Keeping you and your bike cool can be the difference in having a good or bad day.
http://i435.photobucket.com/albums/qq73/rexmitchell/d92848ad.jpg
Load Up!
Now that you have your bike and gear all ready, its time to load up the truck or trailer and head out. I highly recommend not riding to the track in case of a crash or other unforeseeable circumstances. A trailer is your best option if you have one available but the bed of a truck works just fine as well. A track day will help you to learn how to ride your motorcycle in ways you never thought possible. The instruction and skills you will learn translate very easily back to the street and in the end, make you a much better rider. Go out, be safe, and have fun!