Track days for motorcycles are a fantastic opportunity to enjoy riding and sharpen your skills in a relatively safe environment. You can focus on getting closer to the limit on a circuit without cars, traffic heading the other way, road obstructions, or speed limitations. There is a motorcycle track day designed just for you, regardless of whether you’re a man or woman, an experienced rider, or a novice.
However, it pays to put in a certain amount of preparation to get the most out of a track day. So to ensure that your day is a success, unwind by reading our ultimate guide to motorcycle track day.
What Is a Motorcycle Track Day?
Motorcycle track days are occasions designed specifically for riding at a high level of performance. These races allow everyday people like me and you to ride at speeds that would violate posted speed restrictions across a well-established racing circuit. Since there aren’t any speed limits, you only have your own and the rules that the track has established to keep everyone safe.
You will ride in groups of equally skilled riders according to your degree of track experience: Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced/Fast groups. Motorcycle track days are divided into five or more 15 to 20-minute sessions spaced throughout the day. There are also shorter track nights that normally consist of 3 sessions.
You can choose to join any of these groups based on whatever makes you feel the most at ease while riding; for instance, if it’s your first time, you might want to consider joining the other novice riders in the Novice group. Regardless of whether you overestimate or underestimate your skill level, the teachers on the day will shift you if they believe you belong to a different group. If you’ve never raced before but believe you’re the next BSB superstar, keep this in mind!
What Takes Place On a Motorcycle Track Day?
A normal motorcycle track day begins at 7:30 to 8:30 with rider registration, where They will examine your motorbike license, you must sign an indemnity form, and you’ll then receive a bike sticker and wristband.
Testing for noise follows that. Now that it can vary based on the circuit, the noise restriction will be specified when you reserve the day. Some circuits run with a lower restriction of 98db, while most tracks have a maximum of 102db or 105db. If you’re unsure, you can always call the provider, although the standard 102/105db limit is readily exceeded unless you have an absurdly loud pipe. It’s generally smart to bring your removable baffles if you have a bike, just in case.
Most businesses will begin the first session of the day with a few sighting laps. It allows you to observe each corner from behind the pace bike. In addition, you will have a chance to take note of the marshal posts and the state of the circuit. Following that, the day typically continues with a lunch break and a series of 20-minute seminars. That translates to a lot of track time, and the time between sessions will fly by as you eagerly exchange stories about your most recent excursion with other travelers.
Some providers will give their novice groups a bit more attention and frequently hold additional off-circuit gatherings to guide body positioning, riding techniques, bike preparation, and anything else you would like to know about so that the day becomes educational and enjoyable.
For A Track Day, What Kind Of Motorcycle Do I Need?
You can bring your motorcycle—a cruiser, sports bike, touring bike, dual-sport, or scooter—to a track day. A Damon HyperSport will undoubtedly be faster than a moped on the track. Don’t allow your motorcycle type to stop you from riding the course. The most significant objective, regardless of the type of rider you are, is to develop your talents.
Despite this, most riders on motorcycle track days ride sports bikes, and we advise getting one of these bikes to get the most out of your day.
Renting a motorcycle for a day should be discussed with the organization. This is a day if you don’t have a sports bike, don’t feel comfortable riding your bike, or don’t think it can handle itself on a track day.
Even though riding on the track is safe, it’s still wise to follow safe motorcycle habits for you and those around you. And if you think your motorcycle would be dangerous, please choose another.
What Do I Need For a Motorcycle Track Day?
You can use any motorcycle on the track, but you still need to prepare it for the day. Fortunately, you’ll only need to make a few minor tweaks if you’re a newbie. More motorcycle preparation is required for advanced groups as they advance in expertise. As you tune your motorcycle, you’ll want to push the performance envelope and achieve more.
You should review the policies of your chosen organization before beginning preparations. Requirements, though, are essentially the same everywhere:
- SECURING ANY MOTORBIKE LENSES WITH TAPE – Headlights, taillights, and turn signals should all be secured with tape. Your best bet in this situation is gaffer tape or painter’s masking tape. You should also avoid using duct tape to avoid unpleasant and difficult-to-remove residue.
- TAKE ADDITIONAL ATTACHMENTS – Cell phone mounts are the primary offender here. Why should you stay away from them? The vibrations brought on by fast speeds might cause them to fly off or break loose.
- TAKE OFF YOUR LICENCE PLATE – It’s true; the threats mentioned above also affect your license plate. So make sure to take it out as well.
- USING WATER INSTEAD OF COOLANT – You should replace the coolant with water because it tends to be slick and slippery. As a result, any leakage could endanger you or other people. To determine whether you need to do this in advance, speak with your motorcycle track day host. This varies from organization to organization.
- TIRE PRESSURE AND TREAD LIFE – It can be challenging to determine the ideal tyre pressure (pun intended). It will depend on the motorcycle you choose and the tires you use. Ask one of the designated coaches for advice if you’re unsure. Additionally, your tyres must still have at least 50% of their wear life. However, having fresh and brand-new tyres will make the day much more enjoyable.
Motorcycle Track Day: The Essentials You Must Bring
There are three categories of items you ought to pack for a track day:
1. The Proper Riding Equipment
Most tracks require a full leather suit (or at least one that zips together) with back protectors. However, the requirements for certain tracks may vary significantly. You’ll want to be as protected as you can be so that all you have to focus on is the ride! You’ll also need appropriate footwear, under five years old and certified, and a helmet. Visit the organization’s rules and regulations website to determine what is necessary for your track.
2. Instruments For Adjustments
Don’t overexert yourself on your first motorcycle track day. It’s wise to include a few tools for quick fixes. These tools include an air pressure gauge, chain tensioning wrenches, and anything else that may tighten or loosen various bike parts. If you plan to do a LOT of riding, it could also be a smart idea to bring some additional gas. Even if you prepare your bike, you should pack extra tape and tools to remove your license plate.
3. Food and Water
Tracks are typically remote from developed cultures. As a result, finding food and water can be difficult. In addition, wearing leather in the middle of the heat will severely dehydrate you. Bring more food and water than you will need.
You’ll be active all day long on a track day. You should therefore cover up and shelter yourself from the sun. Pack a tent, sunscreen, and a few foldable chairs to relax in between rides if you have room. Make a list of everything you’ll need for a motorcycle track day to be truly prepared.
