Just like any place you go; the track too has some rules and manners which if we follow only make us better riders as well as make a good reputation amongst our fellow riders. Trust me on this, don't overlook these rules of the track if you are looking for a good track day and not get banned from visiting the track again.
If you're a new rider you have to check this out before heading to your first track day or even if you're not a newbie you may find some rules that can only benefit you more!
Track Day Do's
1. Do prepare your bike and gear before the track day
This is the most important of all yet often you see riders scrambling for a tire air pump just a few minutes before the session starts. You do not want to be that guy. Keep a checklist of everything you need to get prepared before a track day such as fuel, engine oil, tire pressure, and test ride to see if everything is fine. Prepare beforehand to enjoy your track day.
2. Do check the weather and track conditions
Always check the weather forecast on your phone the days before the track day so you can be ready if you have to switch to a wet tire.
3. Do attend the riders' briefing and follow the instructions
Never overlook these no matter how many track days you've been to! There's always something important you have to know about that particular track session.
Always follow the flags and the marshal's instructions. Violating this can revoke your access to the track.
4. Do choose the right group for your skill level
If it's your first track day always start at the beginners' group and as you feel more confident you can always ask to move up the groups. Don't join any group, not your level since you will cause problems to others as well as yourself.
If you are the fastest in your group, it's a good sign you are ready for the next, but you may find yourself as the slowest of the next group but don't feel bad! All of us had to develop our skills with time and I'm sure with some practice and time you'll be leading the pack!
5. Do ride within your limits and be aware of your surroundings
Don't push too aggressively that you mistake risky maneuvers for progress. Always try to gradually improve your skills and with no time you will be faster than ever!
6. Do signal your intentions and pass safely
While at the very apex of a corner with my tire touching the edges of the curb, a rider once overtook me by coming dangerously close to the inside almost touching me, and by going on the curb and grass! This could have led to a fatal crash. Here the correct thing would be to have overtaken me on the outside.
You do this by passing at places where passing is acceptable like in corners and always pass only when not only is the rider aware of you but there is a sufficient gap between you and the rider usually on his outside but on the side with more space.
7. Do have fun and learn from others
Track Days are a place to have fun and to learn from others, and with time you may find yourself teaching your juniors too!
Don't hesitate to ask for advice from other riders, they can teach you things that can vastly improve your skills.
Track Day Don'ts
1. Don't show up late or unprepared
Always be on time for all sessions or meetings or even better to be early than the designated time.
2. Don't ride aggressively or recklessly
Like the incident I mentioned above always remember to share the track with others and play the fair game, if not only are you likely to seriously injure yourself and others but you are very likely to get suspended from the track.
3. Don't ignore the flags and marshals
Not complying with this will guarantee suspension from the track.
4. Don't block faster riders or tailgate slower ones
This is why you must stay in the group most similar to your skill level. Remember you are sharing the track with others too so help them keep a pleasurable experience of the track as well.
5. Don't overtake on the inside of corners or take the risk of touching each other
If there is a gap small enough to fit your motorcycle but likely to touch the other rider, give up this opportunity and try another corner or come back the next lap, it's not worth the risk.
6. Don't argue or fight with other riders
Always be polite on the track when talking to your fellow riders and instead try to solve problems together. This will go a long way.
7. Don't forget to hydrate and rest
Staying in your leathers in such demanding condition will drain you of your fluids and spoil your performance, so always remember to drink before and after every track session to keep your body ready!
Conclusion
These may seem small, but they are essential to enhance not only your fun and learning but others too. Following these will make sure you don't incur any severe penalties on the track and will make you a respectable rider.
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