How to do a trackday
I’ve done countless trackdays, but I still get nervous and I still can’t remember what order I’m supposed to do things in when I get to the track. So here’s our handy checklist:
1 Be at the circuit on time with your bike, driving licence and your riding kit Make sure your bike is ready: tyres checked (start at recommended pressures), chain adjusted, brake pads have got plenty of meat on ‘em. 2 Ignore serious-looking riders in battered leathers Half the time they’re all show and no go and if you’re not in the big boy’s group, leave them to it. 3 Locate the signing-on desk (usually in the canteen) and take yourself and your driving licence over to it. 4 Grab a pen Fill in the form and present it with your licence to the person sat at the desk. They’ll give you a wristband and a sticker with a number on it. The colour of the sticker reflects the group you’ve selected to ride in; novice (little or no track experience), intermediate (some track knowledge) or advanced (trackday regular). 5 You’ll also have to sign a circuit indemnity form (sometimes at a different table) which acknowledges track riding is dangerous and you know what can happen — and which gets you another wristband. Put it on the same wrist as the other (to save having to remove two gloves to show the pit exit marshal every time you start a session). Ask the person at the desk where noise testing is being conducted. 6 Wander outside Put your sticker on the front of your bike (looks cool). 7 Ride your bike (helmet on – it’s a rule) to the noise testing area There’ll be a queue waiting; a man with a stick with a bobble on the end waves it at your exhaust while a man with a clipboard asks you to rev your bike to a specific rpm. I find this the hardest part of the day. 8 Return to the canteen for the safety briefing It’s a lot to take in so pay attention. The important bits are: a) what the flags mean, b) track etiquette and general instructions (crucial safety info), and c) which group is out first. 9 Return to your bike and listen For the circuit tannoy calling your group. After that, have a great day!