Enthusiastic bikers look forward to the track days to test themselves. It is important however not to forget something valuable as it can play a spoilsport. You should have some of the necessities ready for you to prevent any hiccups. We have therefore prepared a checklist for you which will help you to be prepared for the D day. This will help you to enjoy fully. As a beginner, it may not be possible to have all the items on this list but as you get more seasoned you are likely to acquire them.
#1. Tools
You don’t want your tires or brakes to spoil the fun so carry a basic toolkit which should contain some spanners, sockets, pliers, tie-wraps, duct tape, wire and a tire pressure gauge. You might also need to adjust your suspension or take off the mirrors and different trim pieces. You will find help there but we feel it is always better to carry your own stuff.
#2. Spares
Snapping a clutch or brake lever might end your day but if you carry spares with you they will be able to get you back on track with little effort. Similarly, even if you have a little spill spares help you out to continue your ride.
#3. Fuel can
You must carry enough fuel and a funnel since your motorcycle consumes a lot when you are gunning it out at top speed.
#4. Electrician’s tape
You will need it to tape up the mirror and lights on the day.
#5. Kit
Prepare your kit in advance. Helmet, gloves, boots, preferably one-piece leather, a spare visor and other items as per regulations need to be checked. Carry a spare helmet with a bag if you have one since the garage floors may not be the ideal place to keep them. You need to ensure that you have a clean visor and if necessary then refresh the lining to have clear visibility and also carry a spare one. Check that your leather boots are fit for use and your gloves are comfortable. Knee sliders should not be such that they are about to fall off and replace any titanium knee or toe sliders if the track regulations so require. All your belongings like the wallet should be stored securely in your leather and should not fall off on the track. Carry a waterproof if possible.
#6. Your bike
It may seem pretty obvious but you should check it few days before the event to make sure it won’t need servicing. Fairing bolts, caliper bolts etc must be tight in case they come off due to the vibrations. Check the chains for any slackness. Replace your brake pads if needed as even stock pads will be fine for a day. If tires are not too old and they have enough tread then they should be good enough. However, check the pressure and lower it. Ask a tire specialist to set the right pressure for your bike and tire combination. Pressure should be set when it is cold. Ideally, the pressure should be between 32-34 psi front and 30-32 psi rear. On track days they bear the brunt the most but even road going tires will do. The levers must be positioned correctly. Bike riding though enjoyable it is quite risky and so to guard against crashes you should use crash guards or crash bungs to protect yourself.
#7. Visor Wipes/Rag
Keep your visor clean by wiping it when needed.
#8. Food and water
Keep yourself hydrated on track days by drinking water regularly. Carry a fruit and cereal bars to maintain high energy levels throughout the day.
#9. Knowing the track
It may seem to be funny but people are often ignorant about where they are going. If you are supposed to sign in early in the morning then it’s a good idea to get familiar with the place a day before and carry the circuit’s phone number.
#10. Driving license and indemnities
You surely don’t want to miss out the action because of the essential documents. Organizers insist on motorcycle license even before letting you out on track. You need to carry both halves of your photo card license. Track Day Organizer Indemnity Form and Circuit Indemnity Form are to be carried else you may be sent home.
Use the first few laps to warm your tires and build up speed. DO monitor during the lunchtime to see if there is anything loose. Locate a station if you need fuel. Raise your tire pressure up to the road levels before going home. If you follow our checklists we hope your day will be extremely successful and a comfortable one. We hope you will have loads of fun and you will ride fast but safe.
