Track Days - Information and Advice

[Timothy]

Ok. I know this may a bit early in the year to talk about track days but I thought I would start a thread (Admin,can this be 'stuck?') to advertise track days you read about, see, hear about or can recommend.

The first is a UK company that hires bikes (if you're too scared to
ride yours) and does some very good deals on Eurpean trips and track
days.

If you want to do any of them on the list then sort it out and let
other member know which one you are going.

PS. I may do the one at Brands Hatch on the 22nd Jan if anyone wants
to join me. (£85).

[Timothy]

For those of you in the UK that are thinking of getting on track either for the first time or again, I have a copy of MCN Circuit Guide.

The guide is an amazing break down of 20 of the major tracks in the UK, the Isle of Man and a few minor circiuts.

If you don't want to spend the £40+ then I'm more than happy to fax or scan all the details of the track that you may be attending.

:niceone:

[Timothy]

Also...

www.europeansuperbikeschool.com

Not to be confused with....

www.superbikeschool.com

[Dimitris]

I am gonna do the 2 day track day with european superbike school in march. 399 for 2 days is more worthwile than 319 for just one. Tim, can we go after Feb as I am in Taiwan until 31st Jan...

Also, doing 2 day school, is it ok if I use my bike?

[Timothy]

I am gonna do the 2 day track day with european superbike school in march. 399 for 2 days is more worthwile than 319 for just one. Tim, can we go after Feb as I am in Taiwan until 31st Jan...

Also, doing 2 day school, is it ok if I use my bike?

God man.

I hope to do a few if this weather stays they way it is so yeah, no problem mate.

[Dimitris]

I meant 2 day school days:)

Btw, what is it I said that promted God Man???:)


I would like to do a track day before I go to the school though:)

tut tut:)

[Timothy]

Sorry, I meant GOOD man...for having a go at one of the schools.

You can hire their bikes (£195) but to be honest, YOURS is the one you want to ride better so I would use the SV.

Can you make the Brands Hatch track day on the 22nd? Anyone else want to come...Adam (either of you) Chris, Robbo?

EDIT.....sorry, just read your post again, your away until the 31st. Anyone else want to come and hold Timmys hand?

[Andy.SP1]

Can you make the Brands Hatch track day on the 22nd? Anyone else want to come...Adam (either of you) Chris, Robbo?



Too early in the year for me (I'm old and my blood is thin...), also with no certanty of a job, I need to conserve my funds, but definatley later on should I be employed :yes:

Might start to think about Llandow again if any-one's up for it....

Andy

[Timothy]

Might start to think about Llandow again if any-one's up for it....

Andy

Hell yeah! :yes:

Get the ball rolling.

:banana:

[durtal]

I think it's a great idea to open this thread. Will see if I find something in France :)

[Timothy]

Ok, in an attempt to keep the thread going (and on track..)

1. Pick the right group for YOU (not you and your friends)

Fast : Generally means racer, ex-racers and race-wannbes. Any slower than them and you'll find yourself scared or into the gravel.
Medium : Tends to be busy as it contains 'average' riders. If you can, go for one eother of the other groups.
Slow : Doesn't really mean slow as such, just sensible. Don't worry about being too quick because the organisers will simply move you up.

2. Check the chain tension. Run it a few millimeters looser than nornal for better power transfer.

3. Change your engine oil and filter, you'll be thrashing your bike more than normal.

4. Check the suspension, if you are not sure about it and have fiddled in the past it's best to go back to stock settings at first and change it during the day to suit your riding.

5. Check the tyres and the brake pads. There needs to be a good thousand miles of 'normal riding' in them or you won't last until lunchtime. If the centre is a little won then don't worry, it won't wear at all compaired to the edges. If it's squared off then it should be ok but the bike won't handle as well as it should. (You may even 'save' a sqaured off tyre by running on the track for a day)

6. Replace the brake fluid. Tiny air bubbles unnoticed in road use can cripple the system when it gets hot.

7. Check YOUR kit. Do you have to zip your leathers together? Make sure there are no holes on your leathers, gloves and boots.

8. Does the track have a noise limit?

9. Check your helmet is correct (for the UK BSi type-A and ACU Gold approved (Blue and Gold stickers).

10. Pack a good tool kit, more than usual. Include tools to play with your suspension and if you can bring a long scredriver, plyers and a mallet (just incase you have to move any body work after a spill).

11. Gaffer tape and electrical tape.

12. If the track doesn't have a cafe then make sure you take LOTS of water (you will sweat and de-hydrate). Take salt and potassium tablets if you can. Bananas are a good sourse of potassium which helps re-hydrate your system. TOP TIP....if you start getting headaches and/or your urine is dark them you are dehydrated GET SOME WATER IN YOU!

13. Remember your driving licence (UK track days may refuse you without one!).

14. Make sure you know the route to the track, if the travel time is more than 2 hours consider staying closer the night before, don't forget you have to ride back after the track day too.

You can pick and choose which if any of the above you really do....these are just some guides (with a little help from Andy Ibbot California Superbike School). And NO, I didn't cut and paste, my bloody 2 middle fingers are bleeding now. :ranting:

[Malkey]

Some of the SoCal contingent are planning on going to Buttonwillow on March 28th for a trackday. We are going to be doing the dp safety school. Can't wait... http://www.dpsafetyschool.com/main.html

[Timothy]

Anyone reading any of this?

I'm about to make my fingers bleed a little more with the next 'advise' page.
:niceone:

[Timothy]

1. Arrive in plenty of time. Try to get there an hour before the first briefing if you can. You'll need time to take in some water and chill out after your ride to the track.

2. Book in! Ask the booking in people where scrutineering is and how it works.

3. Get your machine ready for the scrutineers. This normally means taping up the lights and anything else that shatters. It may be worth checking the chain too.

If you have the time and the skill then you can:

Remove everything that can smash, light, indicators etc.

Remove your mirrors! You don't need them and they are just something else to break if you have a spill.

Tape up your speedo, you won't need it and it'll be more of a distraction than anything.

4. Cover/remove your number plate. It has been known for insurance companies to attend track days and take photos of bikes to prevent fraud when riders fall off on the road 'following a track day'.

5. Find out where the nearest petrol station is, is it at the track or do you have to leave the track (if you do don't forget you've taped everything up). Fill your bike to the brim BEFORE if you can.

6. Turn your lights OFF (a little hard on our bike but if you know where the fuse is....)

7. Drop the tyre pressures, a good start is front 32psi and rear 30psi.

8. Double check what time your group leaves and who will be leading it.

9. DON'T MISS YOUR BRIEFING!

More to come......

[BJAM]

Great advice - makes me want to get out on the track asap.

[Timothy]

Thanks mate, as I said, there will be more as soon as my finger stop bleeding! :weep:

[Kru_zer]

I have heard nothing but great ideas thus far, great going. I always take a cooler packed full of Gatorade and water to keep the electrolytes up!! You don't realize how much you will sweat working your bike around the track. I also like to take some fruit and protien snacks for a quick bite between sessions. I personally make it a family affair by taking my wife and kids, they all love watching the bikes and also like to take pictures. It's good clean fun for everyone. Always remember, track time is the greatest LEGAL fun you can have!!! No Cops, cars, animals or traffic to get in your way. You get to challange yourself and work on cornering skills, which make you a better street rider as well. Anway, great topic.... keep it going!!! :niceone:

[Timothy]

Thanks very much, I will keep going as soon as I get some feeling back in my fingers.

I'm DEAD serious about the de-hydration. There is NOTHING worse, the headache alone can ruin an amazing day.

The urine thing is true as well, it's a little easier for us chaps to notice but it's a good sign.

Don't wait until you get thirsty!

[Timothy]

Ok, so, now you are on the track. Time for some more pointers.

Again, NONE of this is is gospel and you don't have to take a single bit of advise but, if you take a little advise from some of this thread then you'll have a great day on track. If I'm teaching some to suck eggs then I'm sorry, for the new guys...read on! :niceone:

1. DON'T GO FAST! .Don't even think about going fast. Your tyres, brakes and engine are all cold and so are you. Simply sit back and get a feel of the track. If you can do it then go round without braking (hard) or accelerating hard at all. If you can get round just using one or maybe 2 gears and NO brakes then even better.

2. Stay near the back and try not to overtake anyone. If someone overtakes you, ignore it. Ride ay YOUR pace and start to learn the track. Even if you have been on the track a thousand times, things may have changes so just take it easy.

3. Make sure you bike is acting normally before you go on the second sessioin.

This may all sound boring but you will get LOADS of time to 'play' later.

[Andy.SP1]

Nice one :banana: Tim, all good advice and many things there that are taken for granted when you've done a few, Can't re-emphasie enough the advice about yourself, it's no good having a bike in tip-top condition if you aren't, the de-hydration thing is the most important, drink water as soon as you finish a seesion, whether you think you need it or not BECAUSE YOU DO!!!

[tonyt]

Sorry, I meant GOOD man...for having a go at one of the schools.

You can hire their bikes (£195) but to be honest, YOURS is the one you want to ride better so I would use the SV.

Can you make the Brands Hatch track day on the 22nd? Anyone else want to come...Adam (either of you) Chris, Robbo?

EDIT.....sorry, just read your post again, your away until the 31st. Anyone else want to come and hold Timmys hand?
I'll be up for a spin round Brands Hatch later in the year..!!
Tony

[Timothy]

Ok, it's time to make my fingers bleed a little more.....

So, you've done your 'warm up' session and you've taken a break, eaten some bananas and taken on some water. Lets move on.....

Morning session (second session)

1. Pick up the pace a little, you should have got a feel of the track by now. The key to going fast isn't speed, its SMOOTHNESS. Smooth is quick. This means knowing the corners and the lines.

2. Approach either a racer or an instructor and ask them to follow you for 2 laps. Most guys (or gals) will be happy to help out. 'Pit-in' have a chat and then follow them for 2 laps, pit-in again and see how you both feel, where their lines better? Did you improve? etc etc...

3. KEEP DRINKING.

4. Check your bike over after your second session and chat to other riders about lines etc and get ready for your next session.

The whole point of these sessions is to learn the track and get used to the lines, find out where your breaking points and turning points are and to warm you and the bike up again.

Best advise is to RELAX in the staights, move your arms around and get ready for the next corner. Anyone can go fast in a staight line!

[Timothy]

1. Relax, don't eat a big lunch - it'll make you sleepy. Stick to something light and planty of fluids (keep away from Coke/Pepsi etc).

2. If you're not happy with your group, have a word with the organisers and try and change (don't worry about sticking with your mates, YOU are here to learn and have fun).

3. If you can lie down and relax then do so.

:niceone:

[Dimitris]

Everything there is and will help me Tim. Will prolly cut/paste and make a Tim's guide to novice trackdays:)

[Timothy]

1. Don't worry about the people behind you (there will be some!). If they are going to come past, they'll do it without effecting you. Feel free to let annoying hangers-on get past you by signalling with your hand or foot (point to the direction you want them to pass). This is another reason for taking your mirrors off.

2. DON'T always assume that 'if he/she can make it then so can I'. He/she might be on race tyres, have more ground clearence, be a better rider....OR he/she may not even make it!

3. When slowing down or leaving the track ALWAYS raise your hand to warn others. (This should be explained in the morning brief)

4. NEVER go flat out on your first two laps. Tyres need to warm up gradualy, as does the bike...AS DO YOU! Build your speed up gradually.

5. If you want to get past someone but keep getting blown off on the starights, try to work out where you are quicker. Drop back before you reach this section. Take it as quick (and safely) as you can and catch them up. If all goes to plan, you'll be up close as the corner finishes, giving you the advantage on the straight. 250's and 400's can pick of the likes of R1's doing this - with a bit of practice.

6. Don't showboat, piss arround or lose your temper - all of those things will get you balck-flagges and you'll be sent to bed early. Both a waist or your time and your money.

7. If you find you are getting 'red mist' (pure focus on one rider that you HAVE to get passes) somply drop back or pull in for 30 seconds.

8. It's NOT a race, it's a track day...there is NO prize money. You are there to have fun and LEARN!

:niceone:

[Timothy]

All that bloody typing and it's knocked off the new posts list already! :blush:

Not for long!!

:supsmiley

[DIVESLOB]

Very good advice! I will try to do better on the next track day, oh master!

[Timothy]

Very good advice! I will try to do better on the next track day, oh master!

Ha ha....cheeky twat!

:supsmiley

[Timothy]

ANYONE can add to this guys and gals!

[oldfart]

Timothy, this is a great post anyone that is preparing for a track day should read this . Keeping hydrated, keeping a even state of mind ,understanding the point is to develope skills is why your there there is no talent scouts out there looking for the next Rossi. Have fun be safe and learn ,that's what a track day is about. If you do it the way you outline you will be so much faster and so much a better rider both on and off the track. Good Show great post.

[cbusa]

ANYONE can add to this guys and gals!

Good Job Tim!!

One or two things to add when you are in with a mixture of bikes, including LW's.

If you hear somebody buzzing behind you through the twisty sections, then disappear on the straights only to return in the twisties. Try to let them by on the straights by taking it easy, or leaving some room.

Don't use all the track if you don't have to on corner exit. This is a balance between learning the lines and using what you have to.

There are passing rules during trackdays and late braking passes or close passes generally aren't allowed. This makes it very frustrating for the LW bikes, like SV650's Etc.

Charlie

[Timothy]

Good Job Tim!
There are passing rules during trackdays and late braking passes or close passes generally aren't allowed. This makes it very frustrating for the LW bikes, like SV650's Etc.

Charlie

True, depending what track day you do, some have the rule, some don't.

Best way to do it is to operate the 6 foot rule. NO ONE comes within 6 foot (2m) or you or your bike and you do the same. Doesn't sound much but one of the last track days I did I touched tyres with some one....now that IS some scarey poo!

[Technochick]

This is great Tim! We do appreciate all the effort (and finger pain) you've put into it. :niceone:

I have never done a track day, but I do perform at outdoor shows in Florida during the summer. :sweatdrop I would like to add something about the sugar in Gatorade. Too much sugar in the heat can be bad. Smart Water (http://www.glaceau.com/) has all the electrolytes without sugar or flavour added. I also keep Emer'gen-C (http://www.alacer.com/cgi-bin/dbsearch.exe?mdb=/products.mdb,tbl=products,DB_code=40,DBCOMP=ABS,te mplate=/products/returntitle.htm) on hand. They're electrolyte balanced, high vitimin c packets that you add to water. They don't have sugar, but do come in different flavours. Both can be found at health-food stores. Click on the product names for more info about them. They're great products to have and share with others when you notice they need them.


Bump for Tim :D

[Timothy]

Thanks TC, I'm having fun doing it to be honest (about time I did something useful here!).

As I said, I don't claim to be an expert (as those on the tack day will tell you) but I've done enough to pick up some ideas up for the thread, that and a VERY small ammount or plagiarism (I hope Andy Ibbott doen't sue me!).

[Timothy]

1. Ok, most crashes will happen after lunch. FACT! Treat the post-lunch session much like the first session of the day and take it easy. Ignore all the (idiots) 'experts' that go out after lunch and do flying lap times.

2. Ask for more tuition or advise. You shopuld be ready for some faster laps now.

3. Be careful of the track temperature, as the sun drops in the afternoon so does that track temperature as does the grip level. By 4 o'clock on a spring day you will REALLY notice the change.

4. There is NO shame in leaving the track early. If you feel you are getting tired or maybe nervous then leave. It's better to keep you and your bike on once peice than risk the last session.

5. If you feel fine but feel that you are not getting enough time on the track then speak to the organisers who may be able to fit you into another group, just don't over do it - you'll be VERY tired.

[Timothy]

1. Check the beast over. The tyres are more than likely a bit worn and the pressures will need to be done again (wait until the tyres are COLD before you do this). Adjust the chain...it may need it.

2. Remove all the tape and re-fit any lights that you may have removed.

3. Once you leave the track take it SLOW! You'll be amazed how fast you can be on the raods following a day on the track.

4. BE CAREFUL AND RIDE SAFE.

[Timothy]

1. Relax, have a beer! It may be the best one you've ever had. :niceone:

2. Book another track day and make the most of the summer.

[Slyboy]

Tim,

Some fantastic advice there. Thought I'd add my two penneth, as I've done a good few track days and crashed twice! All I can do is tell you where I went wrong.

First off - red mist does happen to people, especially me! Often there are many different types of bikes and levels of riders on a track day, even in supposedly level groups. You have to ride within your own limits as the difference between riding very fast but at your own speed and ending in the gravel is TINY. Those who can live on that limit are gods.

Secondly - familiarity can lead to crashes. If going back to the same track it is very easy to think you can in the first or second sessions be straight back to the same pace as last time you were there. WRONG!! Many things can change, such as track temperature, grip levels, etc etc etc. Take it easy and build up your speed. If you are on rented bikes you may find that although they may seem the same, things could have been changed such as gearing (as I found out to my cost - one broken collarbone and a smashed up knee)

You will also find that because there can be such a mix of machinery, some people are prepared to push the envelope because they have a dedicated track bike or old banger that they dont care if they crash. A perfect example of my last crash - a CBR600FM that cost me £250 that I rode to the limits and eventually over the limit until I found myself on my arse........ Hence these riders on these sort of bikes will keep up with much faster bikes and take more risks. Don not try and keep up with them. Go at your own speed.

I agree with all that Tim addded previously. Go at your own pace. Learn the track. Get advice from faster riders - no matter how fast you think you are, there are always people faster! Oh - and probably the biggest and most important thing when on the bike - RELAX. This can add seconds to lap times.

And finally - If you see me on a track day, whatever you do, DONT FOLLOW ME as you may follow me into the gravel :rofl:

David

[Timothy]

And finally - If you see me on a track day, whatever you do, DONT FOLLOW ME as you may follow me into the gravel :rofl:

David
Or me......I'll be following David! :rofl:

[complete]

Tim - I would love to do a Track Day mate, and this thread is an excellent tutorial on what goes on.

Ive done one im my car at Silverstone and have never shitted myself so much.

I use the SV everyday to commute, and it would break my heart to have an off at a track day, and wreck the bike. That's all that's holding me back.

Let me borrow yours and i will give it all i can. :hug:

[Timothy]

I use the SV everyday to commute, and it would break my heart to have an off at a track day, and wreck the bike. That's all that's holding me back.

Let me borrow yours and i will give it all i can. :hug:

I'm the same mate, I use mine everyday sun or shine which is even more of an excuse to use it properly on track mate once in a while.

You won't bin it if you use the simple guide above anyway... :msn-wink:

[Timothy]

Simon.W PM'd me this link which he found on the 'other' site.

Ideal if you want to print it off and read it.

http://aprilia.vladiks.com/aprilia_...ice%20Guide.pdf

[Rocky]

You are a star Timothy.

I am a track day virgin but will be coming to Llandow all other things being equal and like the idea of the 2 day course with the European Superbike School just to give me an idea of what I should be doing.

The tips on what you require for the bike are excellent, would have just been me, leathers and bike (probably with no fuel)!!!!!!

Worried just the same about binning bike but you have to do these things.

[Timothy]

Rocky, get your name down on the thread then mate!

Andy is taking payments now....plces are going quick mate!

[jimmac66]

Kudos to Tim and all the others that have contributed to this thread. I'm seriously considering getting myself out on the track one day - soon, hopefully. It's always been a 'dream' of mine, but since buying the SV, it's becoming more of a priority!

All the tips and advice are now ingrained - just gotta put it all into practice now!

Thanks again.

All the best,
Jim Mac

[Brugal]

Tim,

Any chance of scanning the Croft section of the MCN Circuit Guide for me? I'm heading back there for my first of the year - 7th April (there's still places if anyone's interested).

I've just re-read the advice and it's amasing how much sense it makes - especially the tools for tinkering bit. I've never been so popular as last time I went with a tank bag full of tools...

Cheers, Steve.

[Timothy]

Tim,

Any chance of scanning the Croft section of the MCN Circuit Guide for me? I'm heading back there for my first of the year - 7th April (there's still places if anyone's interested).

I've just re-read the advice and it's amasing how much sense it makes - especially the tools for tinkering bit. I've never been so popular as last time I went with a tank bag full of tools...

Cheers, Steve.Sure mate, PM me your email address and I'll send it to you.

[Russells Ride]

just a quick line to let you all know hottrax are doing donnington for a special price of 135quid on the 19th april im booked in for the inters , if any of you are up for it i will see you there or pm me and let me know, their booking line number is 08707669861 all the best steve...... :niceone:

[Brugal]

just a quick line to let you all know hottrax are doing donnington for a special price of 135quid on the 19th april im booked in for the inters , if any of you are up for it i will see you there or pm me and let me know, their booking line number is 08707669861 all the best steve...... :niceone:

B*gger, I'm flying out on holiday that day...I want to do Donnington this year as well!

[skins]

Timbo, some excellent adivce on here for us virgins :blush: , just a couple of questions regarding the forthcoming track day?

Do most tracks allow 2 piece leathers that zip together?
Does the Lid have to have the gold stamp?
I heard that draining the coolent and re filling with water is a good idea, or is this complete bollox?
I am due a service ( over due :oops: ) and was gonna wait until after the track day. I s this advisable?
Any other bike set up adivce for a track day?

Cheers
Skins

[Slyboy]

Skins,

All trackdays allow two piece leathers, as long as they zip together.

Normally they expect the helmet to have an ACU sticker (that most makes have) but on the 6 track days I have done I have never seen them check any of the riders kit, including helmets.

That one about the coolant is a new one on me. I would leave it as standard, as any advantage is minimal plus you have the hassle of buggering about with coolant before and after the track day. I know loads of blokes who do track days and never heard of any of them doing this.

As for the service, if it was me I'd get it done before hand, so that you know the engine has nice and fresh oil and filter. The bike will get worked quite hard, and the service may throw up a number of things that you may not have thought of checking (i.e. coolant levels, amount of meat left on the brake pads etc) so I'd get it done before hand.

I'm more than happy to help out anyone on the day with setup advice and general tips. I'll be there with my bro, and we will be bringing a transit so will have tools and stuff like that so can help anyone that needs it.

One thing I do and so do many track day enthusiasts is to drop your front and rear tyre pressures a couple of PSI before you start. This is because the tyres get worked much harder than on the road and hence the air expands more as it gets hot. After that I would say generally ride the first session carefully on your standard road set up. Learn the track and build up the speed. Then start general tinkering with the suspension and stuff.

Hope this helps

David

[skins]

Skins,

All trackdays allow two piece leathers, as long as they zip together.

Normally they expect the helmet to have an ACU sticker (that most makes have) but on the 6 track days I have done I have never seen them check any of the riders kit, including helmets.

That one about the coolant is a new one on me. I would leave it as standard, as any advantage is minimal plus you have the hassle of buggering about with coolant before and after the track day. I know loads of blokes who do track days and never heard of any of them doing this.

As for the service, if it was me I'd get it done before hand, so that you know the engine has nice and fresh oil and filter. The bike will get worked quite hard, and the service may throw up a number of things that you may not have thought of checking (i.e. coolant levels, amount of meat left on the brake pads etc) so I'd get it done before hand.

I'm more than happy to help out anyone on the day with setup advice and general tips. I'll be there with my bro, and we will be bringing a transit so will have tools and stuff like that so can help anyone that needs it.

One thing I do and so do many track day enthusiasts is to drop your front and rear tyre pressures a couple of PSI before you start. This is because the tyres get worked much harder than on the road and hence the air expands more as it gets hot. After that I would say generally ride the first session carefully on your standard road set up. Learn the track and build up the speed. Then start general tinkering with the suspension and stuff.

Hope this helps

David
Thanks Dave
Much appreciated, the bit about swapping the coolant for water i'm sure I read on here somwhere!!!
I'm soooooo looking forward to this trackday :supsmiley

[Timothy]

Davis said it all to be honest, best thing is to drop the tyres down to 30 psi front and back (as California SBC recommend).

No idea about the coolant, I've not heard that one before, maybe Chainsaw could answer?

As for Llandow, you make sure all your kit is up to scratch and they leave you to it, it's a VERY relaxed day as for as 'rules and regs' go.

:supsmiley

[Timothy]

I've PM'd CW about this one...I see that he's replying to it as I type this. I have a feeling this is going to be a long 'un! :D

[Maui]

Lot of tracks here want either distilled water or distilled water mixed with Water Wetter or another type of track approved lubricant/coolant. Most anti-freeze is like ICE on the track. I have had no problem keeping mine in on the track for some of the casual track days, but I know some of the track days will make you empty it, so might be a pain, but might help you pass Tech.

[Chainsaw Willie!]

Different places have different rules I am sure, so you will have to specifically ask the governing orginization about their specific rules.

Although I am a veteran of about 13 years of club racing, I have never done one of these non-competition Track Days. So the only input I can give you is my old-geezer-who-used-to-race crap, which might not apply.

In general, antifreeze is a big no-no at a race track. If it leaks it is slippery, and much more difficult to clean up than oil. Oil can be absorbed by Grease Sweep or Cement powder and cleaned up a bit, but Glycol and other Antifreezes just gunk up the absorbants and leave a slimy coating on the asphault that won't clean up with out water.

I know of no road racing orginization that allows antifreeze. I believe some allow Water Wetter, but for the most part only straight water is allowed in the cooling system.

I understand Track Days usually have a lower safety standard for Tech Inspections as it is geared towards run-what-you-brung street riders. So I imagine it is possible they may allow Antifreeze, but If I were to do a Track Day I would really hope the bike falling down 1/2 lap ahead of me is not dumping Glycol on the track surface!


So ultimately I do not answer the question. I just tell ya' the check with who ever is putting on the track day.

[skins]

Thanks guys, I dont think I will be doing it then unless told to do so. :blink:

Makes sense tho <_< , just wish cars and lorries had to do so on the road :pinch:

[Knaapie]

Read about disconnecting the lights before running on the track. I've did that too with my first track day, although I had to cover the head- and taillights with tape as well. Disconnecting the lights is a very easy thing to do on the SV. Just pull of the connectors of the headlight (black connectors, located behind/underneath the display) and you're all set to go. No need to loosen or disconnect the fuse. The same can be done at the rear, where you'll only need to disconnect the white connector underneath the buddy seat. That way you'll also prevent the tape on the lights from becoming TOO sticky because of the heat of the lights. :yes:

[andyw]

Tim, it's several months since I made a note to copy your tips and information to my website.........finally got round to doing it!!

www.SuzukiSV1000.com (http://www.SuzukiSV1000.com) Safer Rider page

Tim, there're several useful posts by other guys....maybe you could compile these into one last section along the lines of 'Additional comments' or something?.....I just haven't got time.

Cheers
Andy

[Timothy]

Plagiarism...pure plagiarism..... :msn-wink:

[Timothy]

That's what I said diddle I?

[FROSTY]

Hi folks--Newbee in this forum so please forgive me if I'm telling gramma to suck eggs.
Over here for a TRACKDAY it costs $90 kiwi- Thats $45 us and about thirty quid.
safety standards vary from pay ya money take ya chances gear and bike wise. Through to a full scrutineering (tech).
Normal track day rules here are . Tape up headlight,mirrors,sharp bits,2 piece leathers or good cudura gear.
Sounds like disaster waiting to happen but accidents are really rare -people ride within their abilities

[oomidamon]

Hi folks--Newbee in this forum so please forgive me if I'm telling gramma to suck eggs.
Over here for a TRACKDAY it costs $90 kiwi- Thats $45 us and about thirty quid.
safety standards vary from pay ya money take ya chances gear and bike wise. Through to a full scrutineering (tech).
Normal track day rules here are . Tape up headlight,mirrors,sharp bits,2 piece leathers or good cudura gear.
Sounds like disaster waiting to happen but accidents are really rare -people ride within their abilities
30 quid??!! When's the next flight?? :supsmiley Welcome to the forum Frosty. Are there many tracks in NZ?

[slimshadysv1000]

Hi folks--Newbee in this forum so please forgive me if I'm telling gramma to suck eggs.
Over here for a TRACKDAY it costs $90 kiwi- Thats $45 us and about thirty quid.
safety standards vary from pay ya money take ya chances gear and bike wise. Through to a full scrutineering (tech).
Normal track day rules here are . Tape up headlight,mirrors,sharp bits,2 piece leathers or good cudura gear.
Sounds like disaster waiting to happen but accidents are really rare -people ride within their abilities

Damn thats cheap. Welcome to the site and enjoy the reading, there is loads of useful stuff about.

[FROSTY]

Thanks guys. YEP cheap is right.
Actually um -I race bikes over here. in a country same size as britain and ireland we have only 4 million people and ride all year round.
Tracks wise we have 3 permanant tracks in the north island as well as 2 road race events and the same in the south island.
To make you guys really ill. To get a race licence costs $130 kiwi and a club level race event costs $75 Kiwi for 3-4 races.
Guys come on over--Im organising a trackday for another forum--www.kiwibiker.co.nz in the middle of our summer--dec 12
Cost per person including lunch is $60 kiwi

[slimshadysv1000]

Thanks guys. YEP cheap is right.
Actually um -I race bikes over here. in a country same size as britain and ireland we have only 4 million people and ride all year round.
Tracks wise we have 3 permanant tracks in the north island as well as 2 road race events and the same in the south island.
To make you guys really ill. To get a race licence costs $130 kiwi and a club level race event costs $75 Kiwi for 3-4 races.
Guys come on over--Im organising a trackday for another forum--www.kiwibiker.co.nz in the middle of our summer--dec 12
Cost per person including lunch is $60 kiwi

And $10 for a bike for the week?????????

[FROSTY]

And $10 for a bike for the week?????????
good try ol son. Bike hire I think is around $70 a day
But once you're here ya wont wanna go home. :supsmiley

[oomidamon]

good try ol son. Bike hire I think is around $70 a day
But once you're here ya wont wanna go home. :supsmileyDamn right!! I was in NZ for a couple of weeks in May 2002 - FANTASTIC place :supsmiley That trackday in December almost sounds worth the £500 air fare - especially as it'll be really wet and miserable here!!

[FROSTY]

Damn right!! I was in NZ for a couple of weeks in May 2002 - FANTASTIC place :supsmiley That trackday in December almost sounds worth the £500 air fare - especially as it'll be really wet and miserable here!!
well mate if ya keen pull ya finger out

[oomidamon]

well mate if ya keen pull ya finger out
I'd love to do it but not enough cash at the mo :disapint: just make us all really jealous and post some pics of the day! :niceone:

[FROSTY]

will do.Its gonna be fantastic.

[svtrev]

I was looking at doing a Jamie Whitham Track Attack day at donnington would anyone from the site be interested possible in 2006 now as the weather wont be up to much from now till after Christmas :bash: . I was chatting to a chap at Skegness last weekend he told me the Whitham track Attack is normally £195 :shock: but if you just turn up and when someone crashes you can take their place for only £60 :first:

[jimmac66]

Well, after 20-odd years of riding, it's time. Time for my first track day!

Tim, your track day advice posts are now residing in a nicely formatted Word file that I will print and study with renewed interest!

Cheers mate,
Jim

[Tundra Tom]

in the August 2006 issue of Motorcyclist Mitch "the Butcher" Boehm ran the Kevin Schwantz track School at Road Atlanta. Great pointers through out.
Here is a scan of 32 tips they teach, most of which can be applied to back road, street riding too. I was trying the "weight the inside peg till the apex then weight the outside peg through the exit" today. It felt quite right.
Enjoy!

[Yoshi]

great tips:)

[Chainsaw Willie!]

#3. Vision is a big one many don't get.
You should always look where you want to go. You should always look at the safe path. In panic mode you will go where you are looking. If someone crashes near you, and you focus your attention on that crash, you will follow into the wreckage.

Also you should be looking as far down the track as you can see. And focus you vision on your distant path. Train yourself to use peripheral vision for traffic near you, for the tach needle, Brake markers, flags... all that stuff should not occupy the center of your vision. You need to learn to use peripheral vision in a manner that you have never before. Your focus needs to be waay down the road. Riders have a tendancy to just look 30 feet down the road. By the time you mentally processed what was 30 feet down the road you have already ridden over it.

#30 follows from the spewage above.
As a novice racer I blew turn 7 at Portland at least once each race day. I would get to the end of the back straight (which I always called the banana straight cause it is really a long shallow warbling turn) and panic on the entry to 7. I would think that I was going way too fast, freak out and just look straight into the infeild, and blow the corner going shooting off straight into the grass without even attempting to pitch 'er in. In reality I was probably going 20 mph UNDER a race pace. A couple of times I noticed people passing me on this entry and making the corner, as I panicked and shot off. After a while I figured just how hopelesly slow I really was, and just looked into the corner, where I wanted to go, and pitched 'er in, even though I was obviously going too fast. Well schucks-dang! I made it every time. Just by not freaking out, and looking into the corner where I wanted to go. Soon the wonder of the achievement wore off because I noticed that sometimes while I was taking this corner much faster than humanly possible, other riders passed me. So maybe I was still way under a race pace, but I was improving, and I had discovered that you can't make the corner if you freak and think you can't make the corner.

#4 People downshift Way too much. Spinning too many revs mid corner will just make the bike super sensative to throttle position. The bike will stand up and fall back in as you accidentally make tiny throttle movements. Also it tends to make for a need to shift just as you are beginning to straighten out instead of after you are straight. Droning through a corner will get you into the straight faster than buzzing.

#5 being loose! Let the bike wiggle underneath you if it has to. Death grips only cause feedback loops to the frame. A little front wheel wiggle becomes a tankslapper in the grip of someone trying to put too much force into the bike. Death grips are bad.

#17 people turn in way too early. Then they drag themselves around the inside of the corner unable to turn any tighter because of the infeild dirt. They end up going wide on the exit because they started turning too early.
Instead keep going straight well into the turn entry. Then turn late, and turn hard. This will allow you to hit the inner edge of the track later in the corner, and for a much shorter amount of time before you can start picking her up again. The only way to get out of a corner early is to enter it late..

[Timothy]

Should/could this be merged with the existing sticky 'Track day tips'?

[svtrev]

Tim on Tyre presures you say 30psi front and rear ? will this be a bit low for my fat ass ? :crazy:

Not eating a big lunch well a couple of weeks ago I ate two dinners at the cafe A Lasagne and chips and a breakfast roll you know Eggs, Bacon, Sausages :crazy: Well you gotta keep you strenth up (w00t)

[Timothy]

Tim on Tyre presures you say 30psi front and rear ? will this be a bit low for my fat ass ? :crazy:

Not eating a big lunch well a couple of weeks ago I ate two dinners at the cafe A Lasagne and chips and a breakfast roll you know Eggs, Bacon, Sausages :crazy: Well you gotta keep you strenth up (w00t)No mate, 30 all round!!! You'll be fine!

[svtrev]

No mate, 30 all round!!! You'll be fine!


Thanks very much I will try those but will take a foot pump and presure gauge with me :cool2: I was running 33 front and 36 rear on the last track day that is down from 36 front 42 rear

[Timothy]

Just going from what we were told at the CCS, they put ALL the bikes no matter what size the rider is to 30 all round.

[Metastable]

Yup 30/30 unless you really know what you are doing. That is a great starting point. Anything much more and the tire doesn't heat up fast enough or it can get too hard (ie pressure will increase with heat and if it is already in the high 30s... it may be too much pressure.. so the carcass won't flex the way it should).

[kimmy]

Hi Guys :cool2: I just bought Bonney's 98 gixxer and need to make some adjustments to the bike so that it works for me, a some what smaller size of person, ok a lot shorter, but I am a lot shorter than most people I know:confused: . the bike was way high 2 inches over stock (4 inches higher than my street bike) is there somewhere on here that you guys have hashed this to death or can someone give me the basics that I should be aware of? the rear suspension is way soft, how much should it compress when I sit on it ? I get that tire pressure should be 30/30, AND what should the ratio be for the front to rear height? (Booney raised the front end as well)and if there is anything that I havent thought of to ask.........I am still a beginner at the track, two track days under my belt and ummmm just one cool crash:pinch: :blush:
Cheers :beer: Kimmy

[oldfart]

Tire pressure depends on the tire your running with the Mitchlins I ran 30 front 32 rear and that seemed to work well ,with the corsas I run 34 front and 36 rear and that seems to work best. Don't be afraid to see what works for you.

[Timothy]

30/30 is a good base setting, what's good enough for Keith Code and Andy Ibbot of California Superbikes School is goog enough for me (and thousands of others).

[supergirl]

Sorry if there is a duplication here - you have so many threads where this could be - anyone want to do a track day with me in the UK over the next few months (feb-mar-apr)? Preferred circuits are:
Mallory, Brands (GP if we can find one this early), Snetterton, Cadwell, Lydden & Pembrey...dont mind either on the thou or on the 650 but need to get some track time in (w00t)
Also prefer weekends rather than in the week, but id make a concession for the brands GP :bigclap:

[tonyt]

Sorry if there is a duplication here - you have so many threads where this could be - anyone want to do a track day with me in the UK over the next few months (feb-mar-apr)? Preferred circuits are:
Mallory, Brands (GP if we can find one this early), Snetterton, Cadwell, Lydden & Pembrey...dont mind either on the thou or on the 650 but need to get some track time in (w00t)
Also prefer weekends rather than in the week, but id make a concession for the brands GP :bigclap:

I'm just thinking the same but would prefer Brands Indy after april sometime..

[supergirl]

I'm just thinking the same but would prefer Brands Indy after april sometime..

too late for me hon unless its after the race season. I found a more relevant thread here if you want to keep track (*boom boom*):
http://www.sv-portal.com/forums/showthread.php?p=399651#post399651

[Kapital D]

Excellent thread!!

My first track day is due tomorrow, and it has been very informative to read your advice.

thx!

I’m so looking forward to take the SV on the track.

[JSC_SLP]

Excellent thread!!



+1:supsmiley I can't believe I waited so long to read this novel! Lots of great advice and observations to help us who are planning our first track day :niceone:

[cola_fiend2003]

I have a question that I would like some input to... When over in a corner going say.....100kph (60mph) on the track of course, and the bike is leaned out as far as I want to risk, what input is used to tighten up the turn. For example, I recently was at a trackday in Ohio and there is a turn called the carousel (sp). It is a 180 degree right hander. I was scraping my toes (even though I have jack up plates on my rearsets. 1" up and 1" back), so I had a pretty good lean going on. Knee lifted a bit to just graze the surface. Once in a while, I would run the exit wide (easily rode out of though). When I did correct, I did it instinctively so when I thought about it, during a wide run, I couldn't correct. That turn, I have no idea of the speed. Maybe 80kph (50mph)??? It was fairly tight. If I were to guess, it may be probably close to 48-50 degree lean angle.:banana:
So is it a throttle correction or what. Like I said, if I don't think about it, I correct. If I think about it and what to do physically, I come up blank and have to run it wide. It happens so fast. On the road, I never approached those angles and it was a simple push on the inside clip-on.

[Metastable]

Cola, I'm thinking you can try to do a couple of things:
1 - Roll off the gas a bit. I think I was on the gas a bit too much at times around there as well.
2 - Hang off a bit more to keep the bike more upright.
3. Make your turn-in input a bit quicker.... as in more forceful, as opposed to being at a different spot on the track.

I'm also trying to read up about suspension ... to see if there is something we can do to help us prevent from running wide in that situation. I was having a similar problem to Cola.... pegs dragging and sometimes going wide

[NitroNorry]

Once in the corner, I'd say all you can really do to tighten up is countersteer. Don't back the throttle off mid-corner.

To avoid getting in that position - you can hang off a bit more (thus keeping the bike a bit more upright) or probably you need to turn in a touch later.

Martin

[svtrev]

There is always more than one way to skin a cat or take a corner at speed


As previously said to tighten a turn mid corner counter steer is the way but if you are on the limit you dont want to go doing that or you will be sliding down the track on your ass


so you need to change the way you approach the turn like turn in latter turn harder for a shorter time hit a late apex

Lean off the bike more to try and keep the bike more upright

Fit a rear shock with ride height adjuster and raise the rear

You could always try doing a Doohan and keep the bike more upright and spin up the rear (Rear wheel steering) and tighten up the turn :surprise: But onlky if you are a race god :msn-wink:

Good luck the only real answer is to experiment with your lines and entry speed :niceone:

[Metastable]

The tough thing with the corner Cola is talking about is that it is a very LONG corner... off camber.... downhill. If you take a long swooping line into it, you'll lose too much track distance and is a waste of time.

As you guys know if you are dragging hard parts, more steering input is bad.

However, I found that when I was not letting off the gas at all I ran wider... than if I just rolled off a TINY bit. You're not chopping throttle... just rolling off a little to tighten the line. Making a more agressive initial steering input, might also help.

[cola_fiend2003]

Thanks for the input guys. Keeping the bike more upright (if possible) and entering later may be the key here. I am also going to raise my forks in the tripple clamp. I originally did, but returned to stock setting. That will probably help. I felt it was turning in OK before. But now that I'm not on the road and not concerned with relaxing while cruising, the little bit of extra instability in a straight line really won't matter.

FYI...There is an AMA race being televised from Mid-Ohio today on Speed TV. The turn I mentioned is the right hander just before the left hander onto the front straight in front of the grandstand. Take a peep. Probably won't get the full idea of the cambre of the track onthe tv though....I DIDN"T!!!!!!!!:crazy:

Turned out to be Superbikes from Paris...:unsure:

[cola_fiend2003]

Now that I think about it, I now remember that I changed my front preload from 3 rimgs to 4 rings to experiment (note that I have racetechs in there with a gixer rear). It was after that, that I noticed myself running wide for no reason. Earlier sessions, it was just my bad entry once in a while. After the change, it was a regular occurance to run that corner wide most of the time. For my own information, why did that affect the turning like that? I had figured that the forks would be little more compressed in that turn since it was a steady throttle not an accelerating turn like the rest, and the bike would turn in even better. Guess not. My settings originally were phenominal for me on other tracks as well as Mid-Ohio up till then and I figured it was time I did a little experimenting. I'm changing it back and dropping the forks a bit instead. Mine are at the stock height. Any input?