Track Days
Track Days
What is involved -
Track days are held on private racetracks & are run by companies that specialise in these events. There are 2 types of track days available to do.
1 - Riding school - Here you will do theory classes of about 20 minutes in duration before going out onto the track & putting in to practice what you have just learnt in the classroom. There are set exercises to do with qualified instructors to give tuition. Some schools are more track/racing orientated where as Stay Upright are aimed at improving your street riding abilities & reacting to everyday situations.
2- Track day. Here you are graded / grouped as per your experience / speed. There are generally 3 or 4 groups that do sessions of 15 to 20 minutes each. If you find yourself in the wrong grouping you are able to move either up or down depending on how comfortable you feel. There are either track marshals or graded racers present on the day to answer any queries in regards to the track, bike setup or riding tips though it is not a school.
The day starts with you arriving well before the actual race track opens. This allows you to unload your gear, set up in a garage, prepare the bike & generally relax a bit. Your bike & helmet need to pass through scrutineering where it will be checked for safety reasons. Normally things like tyre condition, throttle & brakes controls, general bike condition, Your helmet will be looked at to make sure it doesn't have any large impact marks. if it does you may be refused entry to the track. The guys that do the scrutineering are pretty cool & will help whenever they can to resolve an issue. About 20 minutes before the first session is due to begin there will be a riders briefing. The organisers will run through the rules of the day, the various flags that are used & circuit conditions. They will also ask anybody new to ride days or that particular track to hang back after the briefing. Riders will be advised on how do prepare there bike a little more, that they will have a track marshal with them for a couple of laps in the first session to lead the way etc.
What you need
Here is a list of stuff that came off one of the track based forums I am a member of. It is pretty comprehensive but covers everything. I have deleted some of the stuff as it was aimed at race days with things like spare clutch plates, spare brake pads etc.
Bike needs
Extra fuel.
Chain Lube.
Tape up lights.
Tape over your speedo
Service manual.
Remove your mirrors.
Remove / stick tape over your license plate.
Remember to empty your luggage compartment.
Taping over stick-on wheel weights is a good idea.
Check all bodywork and outer bolts to make sure they are attached / tight.
Don't forget the key to your bike (it happens, I've seen it).
New or basically new tyres
Make sure you have no oil leaks.
Your bike will go through scrutineering before being allowed on the track.
Some things to consider doing or taking if you have the room but definitely not needed.
Extra oil, brake fluid.
Disconnect your brake light.
Unplug your headlights.
Change your coolant to water.
Comfort
Ear plugs.
Rain coat.
Chair x 2.
Cooler for drinks/food.
Food. You need to eat. Lol.
Fluid & plenty of it.
Aeroguard or some insect repellent
Handwash in case you need to work on the bike.
Empty your pockets and take off any jewellery.
E-Z up shelter if they don't have covered pits/paddock.
Extra clothes to change out of when you are done for the day.
Hat,sunscreen and sunglasses a must especially for those who go to watch.
Flip flops...yes, flip flops (for chillin' in between sessions, easy on easy off).
Leathers, helmet, gloves, boots, back protector. A clear and tinted visor is also good.
Other
Camera.
A buddy. VERY helpful.
Bring your licence with you on the day.
Notepad. You will learn a lot talking to others, it is good to take notes.
On the day
Check your tire pressure before you hit the track. You will need to lower the pressures at the track due to the higher speeds & need for more grip. A good starting point is 30psi front / 32psi rear measured when cold. If in doubt have a chat to the organisers & they will point you in the right direction. At most track days / ride schools there is a tyre technician to change tyres & help anybody that needs it. As mentioned before you have to ask questions as there is a lot to learn to make your day just that mush more enjoyable.
Tools
Tool kit if you can
Rags.
Duct tape.
Cable Ties.
Extension cords
Fire extinguisher.
Something to clean visor.
TIRE GAUGE, TIRE GAUGE, TIRE GAUGE, TIRE GAUGE.
Electrical tape.
Don't forget race stands if you use them & ramp for trailer / ute. Bikes are a little heavy to lift off.
Tyre warmers
Last But Not Least
Take a riders school if they have one.
Emergency contact sheet. Have it on you at all times. Wrecks happen.
Money, bring some extra cash in case you need more food, gas, parts etc.
If you are going with a group talk to them about any tricky corners or lines.
Make a checklist. Go over each thing and make 100% sure you have it with you. It really sucks forgetting things.
Ask questions. There is no such thing as a stupid question.
IMPORTANT:
MAKE THIS LIST AND GIVE IT TO ANOTHER PERSON WHO KNOWS YOU
ON PAPER LIST THE FOLLOWING:
Any past/current medical problems. IE: Diabetic, surgery, fractures....
Any medications that you currently take.
Any allergies you have.
Full name.
Date of birth.
Your address.
Your private medical doctors name and where they are located.
Several phone numbers for emergency contact along with their address
Have an ICE (In Case of Emergency) number in your mobile phone.
How to book
Booking is either done over the internet at the organisers website. This is normally the cheapest way to go about booking a day as they give a discount to online & also advanced bookings. You can also book over the telephone. Both ways need a credit card to pay.
-tracks and organisers
http://www.circuitbreakers.com.au/
http://www.easterncreekridedays.com.au/
http://www.championsridedays.com.au/
http://www.wakefieldpark.com.au/
http://www.phillipislandridedays.com.au/
http://www.stayupright.com.au/
http://www.superbikeschool.com.au/
