Track Day Preparation for Motorcycle Riders
Regardless of whether you have aspirations of joining the ranks of MotoGP or just want to experience the true potential of a motorcycle while retaining your license, taking part in a track riding program or lapping day are great ways to improve your skills in a controlled environment.
Believe it or not, riding on a racetrack can be much safer than operating a motorcycle on the street. Granted, there are additional risks that come with higher speeds, but you won’t encounter red light runners, distracted drivers, or pedestrians. Also, everyone is going the same direction and nobody will be texting.
Many riders will lament the costs involved with taking a motorcycle course or attending a track day. However, when considering what speeding tickets, insurance hikes, and paralegal fees will run you if you try to ride like Valentino Rossi on the street, I’d say you’ll still come out ahead by taking it to the track.
Racetracks can be a breeding ground for large, unfounded egos and misinformation, so we thought we would provide some expert tips on how to navigate the experience while eliminating some of the mystery.
Track Day Programs
Perhaps the simplest and most cost effective way to experience a racetrack on two wheels firsthand is to participate in an established track day instruction program. Many will provide the motorcycle and all of the necessary safety gear required. This helps make the cost of entry more approachable since you don’t have to purchase the motorcycle and gear yourself. Some will allow you to bring your own motorcycle, which will involve an inspection to ensure it is suitable for track duty.
Depending on your previous experience, options are typically offered from beginner to expert. Schools will often break up dates and even sessions by ability. I typically err on the side of caution by choosing a slower class to start the day. This allows me to get comfortable on the bike, become familiar with the track conditions, and see how I stack up against the other riders. Beginning slowly and moving up a level is preferred to scaring yourself or others before suffering the potential embarrassment of being moved down.
Track Days / Open Lapping
Racetracks often hold open lapping days for motorcycles throughout the summer. Most are managed by private clubs or organizations that provide support such as track marshals, paramedics, and even coaching. It isn’t advisable to embark on this path without arranging a coach that is familiar with the track, your bike, and particular abilities first. Regardless of your ability, even taking away one tip from a lesson will make you a better rider. Stick to your own pace and let others pass safely rather than attempting to set a track record on your first time out.
Choosing the Right Motorcycle
Super sports may be the motorcycle style most commonly associated with the racetrack, with good reason, but don’t let the absence of owning a liter bike stop you from improving your skills and having fun. Learning how to ride safer and faster on the motorcycle you ride most often can only be a good thing.
If you plan to make a habit of heading to the track, the Cycle Trader marketplace is an excellent resource to find a used motorcycle suitable for track duty. Over the years, I have purchased several inexpensive sportbikes specifically for riding courses and track days. There is an added level of confidence that comes with riding a bike that won’t break the bank, or your heart, if you happen to lay it down.
Small displacement sport bikes like the Yamaha R3, Kawasaki Ninja 400, or Honda CBR250 are all inexpensive and capable options. Lighter weight, less power, and fewer modern techno-nannies will help you learn the fundamentals of track riding. They are forgiving and will teach the value of momentum. Also, it’s way more fun to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow!
Transportation
A benefit to arranging a rental bike is not having to worry about transporting yours to and from the track. Proper preparation isn’t overly challenging, but does take time and a full track day will be exhausting enough as it is. If you ride your own motorcycle to the track and experience a mishap, you won’t have a way home. Rather than breaking the bank on a toy hauler or truck and trailer right away, most cars with a trailer hitch can tow a lightweight motorcycle trailer. Companies like U-Haul generally have a selection of sizes available. If you’re looking to buy, open trailers are easier to store and tow as they weigh less and offer better rearward visibility for backing up, but an enclosed option will offer added security to keep prying eyes off your machinery, tools, spare tires, and gear.
Bike Preparation
The motorcycle in question should be in good working order and have sufficient tire tread. You’ll also want to make sure you have enough fuel to get you through the day. Experienced riders will bring a fuel can to add enough for each session rather than topping up the tank and carrying around the extra weight all day. Every little bit counts.
Mirrors must be removed (you won’t be looking behind you) and anti-freeze must be replaced with water to ensure the track surface doesn’t become slippery in the event of an incident. The kickstand should be removed or properly secured and all lights must be either removed or taped up. Painter’s tape works well as it won’t leave the residue of duct or electrical tape. You’ll also want to remove any loose items like cell phone or GPS mounts, along with your license plate. Do a final once-over to ensure screws and bolts are tightened. Some tracks will also require you to install safety wire on items that could shake loose such as the oil filter or filler caps.
Another helpful hint I learned is to tape up your speedometer. Your attention should be focused elsewhere and sometimes new track riders can become fixated on going as fast as they can rather than proper body position, turn setup, and so forth.
Gear Up
Getting geared up from head to toe can be a massive initial investment, but it will be worth it if you ever experience an unscheduled dismount. Depending on the organization running the event, you may be able to use or add to existing street gear to save on cost or rent gear from the company running the training program. There may be an inclination to borrow or buy used gear, but it is advisable to ensure that it fits properly. If you get hooked (and you will) and plan on continuing, you can slowly add to your kit as needed. Ideally, you should wear a one-piece leather suit, gauntlet gloves, and boots with adequate protection. It’s not an area you want to skimp out on.
Priorities should be coverage, comfort, fit, and functionality. A racing suit should offer padding and protection but also feel like a second skin that allows you to move around freely on the bike. Any reputable motorcycle shop will be able to assist you with fitment based on body type and budget. Choose gloves and boots (without laces) that provide ample dexterity and skin coverage while in a riding position, paired with the suit or jacket and pants you’ll be wearing.
The higher speeds you’ll be reaching on the track may require you to choose a helmet with a snugger fit than what you would normally wear on the street to prevent bobbling. Wearing a head sock or bandana under your existing helmet could solve this issue and also do double duty by absorbing sweat. A full face helmet will be mandatory, but confirm that the ratings are approved by the organization running the event. Also confirm whether back protection is required. Inserts or standalone back protectors are available if your jacket or suit doesn’t have an integrated one.
Rider Preparation
The most important part of the equation in this scenario is the rider. Make sure you are prepared by getting a good night’s sleep and that you arrive early with the proper mindset. Avoid using alcohol or narcotics in the days prior that may dull your response time.
Leave your ego at the door and recognize that this is a learning experience. You’ll need to start slow in order to build a foundation of technique before going fast, so trust the process and listen to the instructors.
Track riding is an incredibly physical activity, so ensure you pack snacks to keep blood sugar up and stay hydrated. You’ll be sweating. A lot. Sugary sports and energy drinks may be tempting but they can also cause you to have an energy ‘crash’ later in the day. Just like when you prepare to beat the heat while motorcycle riding during the summer months, try to keep cool in between sessions. Experienced riders wear hats and bring camping chairs and an umbrella or E-Z Up tent to stay out of the direct sunlight.
Riding a motorcycle on a racetrack is exhilarating, but also physically and mentally exhausting. Prepare to be drained. It is a good idea to stay close to the track the night before and after. Stretch. It is quite possible that you will be using muscles that haven’t been activated lately, or that you even knew you had.
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The Finish Line
Don’t be afraid to ask questions if something isn’t clear to you or you would like specific feedback on how to improve your skills. Work up to speed gradually. It is easier to start slow and work up to speed than go beyond your abilities then find your way back once your confidence has been shaken.
Many of the lessons learned will be transferrable into making you a safer, more capable rider wherever and whatever you ride. Finally, just in case you require added incentive, driving a motorcycle on a racetrack is about as much fun as you can have as a rider, so enjoy the experience!
Dustin Woods
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