Track day preparation

[GS TRV]

Im thinking of taking my bike on a track day to really get a chance to open it up. Just wanting your collective input into what prep you do to your bike (if any) - I intend to ride it there and back and just want to gain some track experience.

Any advice/tips appreciated.

Trev

[Godzilla]

All I do is ride it there, with a few tools to remove the mirrors and number plate hanger, some zip ties to secure the fairing where the mirrors were. Good to go.

Obviously check fluid levels, pad levels, tyre condition. Things that you should do before all rides imho.

[diverbelow]

Most important reduce your tyres pressure on the track and put them back on after when finished`. Track almost always 2.1bar and back 1.9bar

[bananaman]

Check on fuel supplies? Roll of gaffa tap and cable ties (just in case) Maybe a spare pair of boxers

[bikekk]

Make sure you bring a bite to eat and plenty of water too. If your doing Kirkistown i'd recommend a change of underpants too. Debtors corner is seriously quick, taken at about 140mph. Have fun

[GS TRV]

Yikes - I was thinking of Kirkistown

Does everyone use Slick mode on the track or maybe safer to keep it on Road?

[Godzilla]

Originally Posted by GS TRV

Yikes - I was thinking of Kirkistown

Does everyone use Slick mode on the track or maybe safer to keep it on Road?

I think the mode you use is personal preference, if you are not sure, start the first session in Sport, if you feel happy try Race the second session.

Depends on what modes you like to use on the road.

[bananaman]

Originally Posted by GS TRV

Yikes - I was thinking of Kirkistown

Does everyone use Slick mode on the track or maybe safer to keep it on Road?

Usually have mine in race then slick for the last session if i get dialled in during the day

[chipset]

Well, very important things to consider:

1. If you trailer your bike, make sure you take the key (many people have forgotten).
2. Tape up your bike. If you ride it there, take tape with you. Painters tape works well.
3. Assortment of tools. For taking things like mirrors off, or your license plate.
4. Check your bolts, fairing, and for leaks. If your bike leaks, it won't be allowed on the track.
5. Check your tires before your track day. If you question your tires, get new ones. (I had a buddy decide to not replace his tires.. they were hard as hell. Second session, second lap, bike went down).
6. Mentally be there.

Hope this helps.

As for me, I like to play with the modes. Slick mode after I've been on the track for a while. In the morning, if the track is cool, I might start with sport mode, just for extra protection.

[tanks95]

Originally Posted by GS TRV

Yikes - I was thinking of Kirkistown

Does everyone use Slick mode on the track or maybe safer to keep it on Road?

No, I use sport, allows me to brake crazy hard and keeps the back tire on the ground.

Originally Posted by chipset

Well, very important things to consider:

1. If you trailer your bike, make sure you take the key (many people have forgotten).
2. Tape up your bike. If you ride it there, take tape with you. Painters tape works well.
3. Assortment of tools. For taking things like mirrors off, or your license plate.
4. Check your bolts, fairing, and for leaks. If your bike leaks, it won't be allowed on the track.
5. Check your tires before your track day. If you question your tires, get new ones. (I had a buddy decide to not replace his tires.. they were hard as hell. Second session, second lap, bike went down).
6. Mentally be there.

Hope this helps.

As for me, I like to play with the modes. Slick mode after I've been on the track for a while. In the morning, if the track is cool, I might start with sport mode, just for extra protection.

Great points. Some organizations want you to safety wire some items.

How old were your buddies tires?