I have done plenty of trackdays, but have never been to Pocono before. My first time there will be May 20 for Pocono East and I will be on a friend's bike. Any tips, track map of Pocono east (I can't tell what constitutes the east course, from STT or Pocono's websites) Does anybody have on-bike video from Pocono East? Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks, Randy N
Here's a clarification on the map... The FUSA track is rather fun (IMO) despite some horrible transitions and bumps (most all of which involve going onto or off of the Nascar banking). I'm looking forward to finally getting out on East next weekend. Sorry, I haven't come across any vids, but I'll ask around.
The FUSA course is my least favorite and I'm starting to lean towards the North course as the most fun of the 3. Quick and flowing that reminds me of Beaverun in a way. The banking is ok but my least favorite part of the N course. I do like the final turn entering the banking though.
Don't use the above map to give you an idea of the track - go to the PIR website and look at the high altitude photo - they are vastly different. One thing to note as well - the track is just about totally flat except for the numerous ripples/bumps and pot holes - yes, pot holes that adorn the track. Have your suspension set a bit softer or your teeth will chatter like Colin Edwards front end! :roll:
Holy smokes- the blue line? why not put up some cones in the parking lot! :wink: OK, that IS a big place. Thanks for the tip on the photo.
The track really isn't that bad, it is however short and bumpy. just before turn 1 on the out board side there are some moguls. That seem to be the worst part. I'll be there also next Saturday first time with STT!!! Should be interesting, stripped about 15lbs off the front, and put new glass on. see ya there
The bumps on the East course never really upset my bike and the suspension is very much on the stiff side.
Today? I'm so hyped to ride next weekend, I will be mostly useless all week. Thanks for the pic, awesome.
Yeah! nice pic, Mary. My Co-worker just caught me using the mouse as I tracked along one of the courses. :twisted: Now I want to go back this weekend but Summit is next on Monday.
One thing worth noting is that the East course is very difficult to pass, especially in the Novice group w/a 6-ft. passing rule. The track is very narrow, and there isn't much choice in racing lines. The back stright and the short front straight are the safest options. Just keep in mind that if you're on a big bike and another bike is showing you his/her front wheel, let them pass. They've probably been knocking on your rear tire with no room to safely get around. Not a nice place to run off the track.
I disagree about the very difficult to pass. More difficult, or not easy when compared to other tracks, yes. Teh challenge is part of the fun. The course is 35 feet wide everywhere except the back straight which is 50 feet wide. When I rode intermediate I'd occasionally pass even between T1 and T2. Its all in setting up the pass. Good passing spots are T4 on to the straight, Back straight, under brakes for T5 (end of back straight), between T5 and T6 if you use the correct line (most people needlessly turn to the right side of the track here), after or in the double apex T6 & T7 and up to the hair pin/bus stop T8 especially under brakes and under brakes for T9 are all possible and relatively safe passing zones. The pit straight (after T10) and leading in to the right kink before T1 is a good spot because lots of people are intimidated by the kink and bumps therein.
I took the precaution of signing up in Intermediate, so hopefully we'll have plenty of ways to get around each other. You're on an RS250? Just go around those big fat bikes when you catch up to them. Maybe it's time to go up a class! :wink: It's always good to see two strokes at the track. Seriously, though, it always amazes me on a trackday when you show someone a wheel and they shut the door on you. I have always had very good experiences with STT, Monte makes things pretty clear in the riders' meetings. We've attended their 3-day events for the last three summers at Gingerman and Autobahn. Always a great time.
So where is the paddock for East? I'm assuming the Nascar track is the "back straight". What number is that right-hand U-turn? Is the front straight on the left or right of that number 16?
Mary to answer a couple of your questions. The front straight is to the right of the number 16. That is also where pit in and pit are. The paddock area for the East Course is the gravel parking lot where the number 10 and 9 are. Keep in mind that this photo was taken during a Nascar event. There won't be parking where you see a lot of vehicles are in the photo. I've never been able to keep the track corner numbers correct, seems some people count some corners and others don't. The hairpin is a slow 1st/2nd gear turn. You can get your knee down there, just make sure the right side of your tire is up to temp. Not many right hand turns.
I think Keith Code has an on bike video of the Pocono East course. Check out his website www.superbikeschool.com (i think thats it), find the videos and it should be there.
Yep, I just checked and the video is still there. If I knew how to copy it or link it here I would. It actually starts on the back straight (Nascar portion of track) just after turn 4. I'll be up there on Sunday, hope to see everybody!!!!
videos of Pocono-links Videos of Pocono here http://www.jamvideoonline.com/Pocono 4-15.wmv (26 mb) and here http://www.superbikeschool.com/multi-media/pocono.php (3.5 mb) and maybe this?? http://www.sportbikerider.us/Shared_Code/Common/ShowImage.cfm?Picture_ID=77536&dsn=SBRPW&Time=0125 (160 mb) If anybody wants to provide commentary or notes, feel free! Talk me around a lap?
I'm debating whether or not I want to go next Saturday. I just got back from there yesterday. I could use the seat time though. This weather has been so unpredictable. If I go I'll be in the intermediate group. There are some spots left I think.
That's pretty much how I am at work now too. I'm starting to feel like a professional forum searcher... :twisted: I'm sure that I manage to do enought to keep my job, but my mind is on the track.