So, I got a chance for a last minute track day at Road Atlanta yesterday. Rode up to the track, got tech-ready, spent the day getting hooked on track riding and rode home. What a blast, as expected! but of course, it got me thinking...what about a dedicated bike for the track. My H2SX was awesome, but when the inevitable happens and I have an unintended dis-mount, it would be an expensive boo-boo!!! Probably as much as a dedicated track bike would be. Plus a smaller bike would be easier to handle in the corners, especially on tighter tracks. So, the inevitable question....what would be a good reliable option in a 6xx cc size (plus or minus a little on the size) that is cheap/easy to work on, repair, and upgrade/build as I go thanks!
Any of the major manufacturers is going to be reliable. Find the best deal on one ideally set up for your weight.
Good news, bad news. Welcome to the addiction that's the good. The bad, it costs and you won't be able to do it forever. Around 6 years ago, I was were you are now. Did 4 track days and once I started grinding my foot pegs feelers came to the same thought your having. Bought the bike and started building up the nicety's to go with the bike. When my street bike exhaust can run's $1,200, the plastic's are NOT cheap. Seemed like a no brainier. A 600cc bike is a great start IMO. I rode a liter bike on the street, and 5 years later the 600cc bike still had more to give. I was the limiting factor, not the bike. Would suggest starting on the cheaper end of the scale and later if your ready. Then get a newer or bigger bike. I would give a lot to trade places with you. I'm on the bad side and selling everything. Have fun, enjoy it while you can. Only other advice, you have time. Track days are NOT a race. Take it easy, push a little but live to ride another day.