I realize that this forum is a wealth of knowledge; and I stay up on the forums every day. But, I was wondering if there are any other recommended knowledge sources (books, videos, etc.) I have the Twist-of the-Wrist II book/video. But any other sources that speak to trackday riding? In particular: etiquette, how to recognize optimum lines, recommended bike optimizations, etc etc. Here on the forums topics come up as they come up, and they may take on a narrow aspect. I'm asking because I was wondering if there is a source where someone has stepped back and, with clear purpose, written out an authoritative guide to trackday riding. If there's nothing, then there's nothing, I'll just keep doing what I am doing, listening and getting in track time.
The 2 books I have are: "Total Control" by Lee Parks and "Sport Riding Techniques" by Nick Ienatsch. Both books are very good, I have the 1st editions, but I think there are updates to at least Total Control so look for 2nd edition or more for the most up to date.
I've done one trackday so far (10-20 days planned this year) but, in my one experience I can say that I never felt I had time to ask questions. It's not that the time did not exist; it did, but barely. It was that I was overwhelmed with the constant schedule - seemed I barely had a breather before it was back to the classroom and then back out on track. I'm not complaining, just saying that in addition to asking questions at the track, it would be nice to be as prepared as I can be beforehand. One question I did not ask then, and has bugged me since, is what I should be doing when I come out of one turn and have a long straight before the next. I haven't asked the question here because it is hard to explain without being overly verbose. But, when I come out of turn 16 at ACC, I was unclear when I should be getting over to the right for turn 17. My 'safety sense' tells me I should get over quickly for safety's sake (not suddenly, just quickly). But my 'racing sense' tells me that the optimal line is a gradual slide from left to right with my rightmost position being reached just as I begin to tip into turn 17. That day at ACC was also extremely hot, so heat exhaustion was likely a key factor in why I was not feeling capable of formulating and voicing questions in a timely manner. Anyway, I agree with you, but my anal-retentive nature requires I do all the prep work I can before the dates start. And that is why I thought I'd ask for other sources of info.
I remember my first track day like it was yesterday and have to agree, it's a lot to take in for the first time. It's easy to say, but not easy to understand that your primary focus should be enjoying riding in a safe environment. As you do more track days you will become acclimated and all of those moments of anxiety will disappear. Next thing you know, you'll be in A group and having the time of your life!
When starting out, you have a lot on your plate. We were all there at one time. Leverage the CRs. Try to have specific questions. My CR friends really want to help, but asking "how do I look" does not help them help you. You mentioned the busy nature of the day. You can sit out a session and get your head around things. At many tracks you may be able to go to problem corner and watch how other ( better ) riders are negotiating it. YCRS vids. Some very interesting stuff from KH. https://soundcloud.com/ken-hill-534763963
Yeah the schedule can be packed, especially in novice. I don't remember exactly how STT does it since I've only done 3 track days with them (once a year), but I don't like it personally when they make you attend these classes in between sessions, because like you said, you never have any time to relax in the pits. I can definitely see the value in it for the Novice group. But maybe it should be something like the first 3 sessions are mandatory after that it's optional. And for I and A groups, maybe have them all optional. Or something like that. It's good at first, because there is a lot to learn, but I think by the time you've done 20-30 track days, it's all repetitive and there's not much to learn especially if the material covered is the same thing over and over again. Better to use that time relaxing and getting ready for the next session. That way you can ask for help (if needed) from other people in the pits that are more experienced, get to socialize a bit more, talk to the instructors and get some 1-on-1 help if you want, etc.
Use your classroom time to ask questions or after classroom time approach a coach and ask him or her if they could give you a tow
IMO if you have done 20-30 trackdays you definitely should have moved out of novice or you really have some issues with your riding and you should be attending classroom sessions and staying after and asking for extra help
I did two novice days and soaked up as much info as I could. I asked a few questions, got feedback and also got a bump to I group. Now I have plenty of time to socialize and relax. Novice and classroom time is there for a reason.
Right, I agree, which is why I said I can see the value of it for novice group. But not for I or A groups. I can't remember how STT does it, but I thought they make the I group people go to these sessions too, or at least the first few. I could be wrong. I rode advanced with them last year so I didn't have to worry about that. Although I do know a couple of guys that have done well over 20 track days and still at novice pace.
we do have intermediate and some times advanced classes at some events. these are 100% optional for those 2 groups.. these classes focus on the constant learning as your skills advance to help with more advanced or focused skills. the Novice classes are mandatory.
I didn't see any response to the question about ACC, so I figure I would try. But I have to say that I have never been there, so what I am about to say may be complete BS. I am sure some of the Northern guys can correct me. I went looking for track maps and you said T17, and I didn't see a T17 except for on the full course, so I assume that is what you are talking about. To try to answer your question, yes you want to be on the right side of the track entering T17. And your "racer sense" would be correct. You don't want to exit T16 and then quicker swing the bike over towards the side of the track. Just exit T16 (and since you want to maximize the drive, you will end up on the very left side of the track on exit), then get to full throttle and gradually work your way over to the right side of the track. In general, the only time you want to quickly get over to the opposite side of the track is when you HAVE to because the next turn is in the opposite direction. Aside from that, you have the whole straightaway to work your way over, so there is no sense in doing anything drastic. That could be even more dangerous because it would be unexpected (by the other riders). So yeah, just gradually, smoothly work your way over. But like I said, I have never been there. This is all just my opinion based on what I see on the track map.
Hi Chris, thank you for your response. After reading it, I realized I left off some critical information. I am a Novice-level rider. I am not particularly interested in getting around the track as fast as I possibly can (sacrilegious, I know). I simply enjoy the fun of acceleration and lean/g-forces and the poetry that is motorcycle riding. However, I am conscious that there are people on the track who *do* want to get around the track as fast as they can. My concern is how to stay out of the way of these folks, and to do so safely. It was between turns 16 and 17 that I experienced a situation where I felt I might have not done the "right thing" and held up someone behind me. I am unable to enjoy the "zen" of the moment if I am worrying about how my riding is affecting others behind me. Yes, these are the two turns. When I rode ACC, it was just the North Track. Of the entire north track, it was these two turns that presented this problem. The other turns were closer together; all but the long straight in front of pit lane. For the Pit lane segment (which starts after turn 19 on this map) the straightway is so long and wide, that I felt there was plenty of room and time for people to pass me. It was only here at Turns 16 to 17 that the straight was long enough, but the turns still close enough together, that I felt someone behind me could reasonably expect to pass... if only I did the right thing for them. My question is, 'what is the right thing to do here when you feel you're potentially the slower rider, ok with that, and do not wish to impede anyone behind you?' I'd like to ride my ride, but yet not negatively impact anyone else's. Thanks for response. -Neil