Hey guys, Im intrested in trying my bike out on a track. What do I need? Do I have to have race tires or are my street tires good? Full Leathers? Any mods to bike ( my bike is pretty stock but all in good working order.? any help or any thing you guys can think of would help thx.

 

First, the Disclaimer: Check with your local Trackday provider for the specific rules and equipment needed.

Generally: the bike needs all lights taped (and maybe disconnected), mirrors removed. Sometimes license plate removed. Street tires fine (I ran Pilot Powers, then PP 2CTs). Sometimes coolant changed (some tracks do not allow antifreeze). Very few require safety wire. Brakes working, tread OK, no leaks, etc.

Gear: Some require leather, most require leather or cordura. One piece great, most say two piece OK. Boots (over the ankle), gloves, DOT helmet.

Doesn't take much to get on a trackday in the Beginner group, and it's a BLAST!! Again, check the website of the provider you're looking at for the specifics. Some require more, some require less.

 

If your bike is in good working order you do not need to do any major mods to go on the track. Your tires should have at least 70% wear left on them. Street tires are OK but not the preference. I would remove your mirrors, turn signals, and passenger footpegs. This is not required but if you fall these are things which you won't have to buy. All glass and plastic must be taped. You will need full leather or the like, ankle high boots, full length gloves, Snell approved helmet, and a brain.

I would also recommend going with a small club like the NYSBC. The NYSBC will welcome you in and give you the kind of attention you will want. I have a link on my post go check out the website. NYSBC stands for the New York Sportbike Club.

If you have more questions feel free to give me a call. I live in NY as well. 914-793-3400 W
Jeff

 

Good write up. What can someone expect to pay for a new or even gently used suit?

 

Just curious what makes you say this? I talked to a guy at my first Nesba event who preferred street tires over slicks who was running in the Intermediate group. He was running Pilot Power 2CT's and said they gripped great and lasted longer than slicks so they ran those instead and also said he really didn't notice much of a difference between the two either but that was just him.

I also spoke to a few other guys that said the 2CT was an excellent tire. I had no problems with mine as a beginner?

 

Slicks are more work than DOTs, and they don't last as long.

For suits, prices are all over the place, a known cheapo is prolly 4-500. A good/excellent suit can go into the 2000+ range. Try racing forums and ebay to find really good deals on used leathers and other gear.

I vote for NESBA as a good org to try out with. You can't argue with free track time!

 

If your going to do nothing but track your bike slicks are the best solution. They in fact last longer than street tires if you use them properly.

If you have the money do not buy a cheap suit. Remember, you get what you pay for. Crashing is never fun and if you have a junk ebay suit it is even less fun. I would recommend a Heroic suit. $800 to $1000 Besides the suit you should have excellent gloves and boots. Heroic also makes the best gloves on the planet. Boots are a foot choice.

In terms of a club to go to for your first track day. I am partial to the NYSBC. Stay away from the big clubs they only care about your money and treat you like a child. Smaller clubs are just that, smaller and more friendly.