Track days can be some of the most fun you can have on your motorbike. Pushing your bike to beyond what a normal road allows and really testing your skills and limits in a safe environment. If you haven't done a track day before, it can be be a little confusing knowing where to start, so here's everything you can expect from a motorbike track day.
Motorbike Track Day Groups
There will usually be three main groups at a motorbike track day (unless you are attending a specialised track day), these are: Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced. You can choose which one of these you enter and it's best to choose the group which best suits your skill - if it's your first time, then Novice may be the best choice for you.
You'll ride the track in a group of up to 40 of riders who are of a similar capability, each group will get around 20 minutes to play before being called in and the next group going out.
What to Take to a Motorbike Track Day
You're not likely to forget your bike if you're heading to a track day, but there's plenty of little extras which can help make the day run smoother and makes it more comfortable and enjoyable.
Make sure you've got either a one piece leather suit or a two piece that zips together - these are mandatory for safety reasons. We've got plenty of one piece leather bike suits available for great prices! You're also likely to need your driving or ACU licence so the organisers can check you're legal to take on the track!
For comfort, consider bringing along a folding camping chair to rest up between sessions - it's going to be a long day!
With being there for most of the day, sustenance is going to be something you need to consider. It can be exhausting going out on the track, so eating little and often is better than loading up on three square meals a day. There is likely to be a restaurant or cafe on site, but these can be expensive so taking your own food and water is a good shout.
Preparing Your Bike
Your bike will be performing above its normal run rate so it's important to give it a once over to make sure it can handle the extra stress. Check the fluids are filled and in good condition, look over the bearings, bushes and seals and rectify any suspension issues.
Brakes and tyres are the next thing you should check are in a decent condition. Are the brake pads in good knick? Do the caliper pistons move freely? With regards to tyres, you don't have to get brand, spanking new ones - although sports/track tyres can improve your experience, but don't leave on close to the edge rubber.
Booking a Motorbike Track Day
There are great tracks up and down the UK so there's bound to be one in close proximity to you, but sometimes travelling a little further can offer a better experience. There's also a few different companies you can participate in your motorbike track day with.
No Limits, MSV, James Whitham and California Superbike School are some of the biggest names that operate around the UK. Check out this comprehensive guide to who runs track days and where here.