I Have Never Done a "Track Day" - does it make me queer?

[trippeee]

Actually..... I sharted.

[bnelson]

i think that it depends on you really like your personal preferences . it takes that moment to be able to feel that you are suppose to do just be spontaneous and man up. i think that it is suppose to be something that you don't over think so that you don't end up ruining the moment cause it shows when you think too much. its not as complicated, as hurtful or as scary as you think it is so you just have to have the courage to go on with it and see for yourself.

[ryanjfitz]

One of the best drills I learned at Mid Ohio was riding the entire track with no brakes in 2nd gear. After that, shifting with no brakes. After that, learning how much your braking distances increase as your speed increases for a given corner.

this. Also try this on your favorite mountain road... but definitely cover your brakes there.

[MisterX]

this. Also try this on your favorite mountain road... but definitely cover your brakes there.

[Night Train]

If you want to do a track day, it helps to go with someone that has done it. I did it the first time through a school which actually helped. However, you can do your first track day without any assistance. Plan well ahead!!! That's the best thing. I have an example of not planning. I was trying to load a tune through Tune Boy the night before. Somehow, I messed up and by the time I figured it out, I was drunk and it was midnight. It was too late to get a good night's rest. Speaking of, get a good night of sleep without alcohol. Don't take any sleep aids.

Leave with plenty of time to get to the track or sleep there the night before. Make sure you bike is ready for inspection at least a day or two ahead so that in the morning, you aren't putting things together. Make friends, don't have an ego. Ask questions. Offer help. Watch what others do (those that know)

I would also recommend buying a book on riding that has a devoted section on track days. It will give you a laundry list of things to remember.

Also, make sure you have your key and a spare key in your car. Make a list of what you need. I could go on. But, that's a good start.

Lastly, go there to have fun and learn!

[Goffe]

-little more experienced usually crash because of they ego(my crash included). They think they can take someone and they start to run too fast for they skill level.


JT

My one track crash (so far) was a variation of this. Not so much ego, as frustration and impatience at having to slow down too much in the corners, and then not being fast enough to pass on the straights. (Guess I need a GSXR.) So, I gunned it too much coming out of a corner and lost the rear. Okay, maybe a teensy bit of ego.