CONCLUSION Different bikes for different needs

T rackdays aren’t a competition, they are all about having fun; enjoying the circuit and your bike with no cars, caravans or coppers to consider. So with that in mind I would suggest it’s unfair to turn this test into a competition. After all, how can I decide which of these four options is the best track bike for you… without knowing a great deal more about you, for starters?

It’d be a complete stab in the dark, and stabbing in the dark is likely to get you locked up where I come from. What I would say is that the four bikes on this test are only a minuscule selection of the track bikes available, but they are a good representation of the broad mixture of steeds up for grabs. Some fast, some quirky, some a bit scratty, and some absolutely ideal for all levels of rider. It was a real joy to be reminded of the joys of a stroker, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but ticked the boxes for me. Well, aside from the not running right bit, but we can forgive it for that because it’s something of an exotic option in today’s world. For those who would sooner have something a little less high maintenance, though, the SV should be a serious consideration. Speed was not its core skill, but enjoyment certainly was.

You can learn a hell of a lot on a bike like the Suzuki, so think twice before you turn your nose up at its modest output. The one on test was one of the nicest options out there, but you could pick one up for under £2,000 if you’re prepared to waft precious bank notes under a desperate seller’s nose. But this kind of action could also get you punched in the face, so we’re not condoning it. Unless the tactic works, in which case feel free to thank us.

For many though, neither the RS250 nor the SV will be fast enough. If you have got the need for speed, like that fella out of Top Gun did, you’d best buy a GPz900 like him. Hang on, what am I saying? On second thoughts, make that an exSuperstock ZX-10R. But before you do so, spend a good length of time getting your arms prepared for the onslaught that’ll be coming their way. Thous are fantastic creatures on track so don’t let their hasty nature put you off.

Purchase one knowing that the bike might effectively be riding you the first handful of times you take it out on a circuit. Give it time and you’ll get the boss of one, but the wise motorcyclist would look to tackle a 600 first before tackling something so ludicrous, especially if they’ve never ridden anything faster than their mum’s C90. And that, my friends, it where the Daytona 675R comes into play.

For starters it’s much faster than a C90, but it’s not crazy fast like a 1000cc. It’s that perfect middle-ground, which is ideal for those wanting to sample the faster way of life in a more affable dose. In today’s society 600s might be considered old hat and pointless motorcycles, but that’s simply not the case.

Ridden properly, a midcapacity sportsbike is likely to be the fastest thing on any trackday. They’re typically lighter, more manageable and, best of all, cheaper to buy than a litre-bike too, which will undoubtedly please the better half. And you’ll need to keep them on side because this trackday malarkey isn’t cheap at the best of times. Don’t say we didn’t warn you…

IF YOU HAVE THE NEED FOR SPEED, LIKE THAT FELLA OUT OF TOP GUN DID, YOU’D BEST BUY A GPZ900 LIKE HIM.