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. Track Day Prep....................... |
. Checklist |
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Here's a basic checklist for a track day. If you plan to become a track day
regular, start building on this list with the specific things you need to bring.
It's a lot easier to get ready for a track day when you have a checklist and
don't have to wonder what to pack each time. Prepping the Bike - Tires must have good tread - Tape over wheel weights - Remove or tape up mirrors - Tape over headlight, blinkers, tail light, and reflectors - Beginner's group may be asked to tape over speedometer - Disable brake light and headlight by pulling the fuses (or disconnecting wires) - Coolant should be drained and replaced with water/waterwetter mix - Check oil and brake fluid level - Make sure there are no leaking fluids - Check that all bodywork is secure - Be up-to-date on general maintenance (e.g., chain lubed, brakes bled, etc.) - Remove all items (like tool kit) from under the seat - Check that exhausts are secure - Remember to pack the bike key! Loading the Bike - Slighty curved ramp recommended to keep bodywork or exhaust system from dragging when loading into van or truck - Use a wheel chock or Canyon Dancer bar harness for front-end stability - Tie down front and rear (avoid cheap discount-bin tie downs!) Bike Items to Pack - Gasoline (you burn more gas at the track; fuel pump at Willow Springs is not always open) - Oil - Duct tape - Mechanic gloves - Paper towels (good for cleaning visor) - All the tools you'll need for any maintenance or repairs you're willing to do - Front/rear stand if you plan to do tire changes - Coolant should be drained and replaced with water/waterwetter mix - Tire pressure gauge (set pressure to 40 psi at home so all you need to do is let air out at the track; if it's a hot day, check tire pressure during the day) Gear to Pack - One-piece leathers or two-piece that zip together (some organizations allow cordura or kevlar suits) - Full face helmet (undamaged) - Leather gloves (ideally with carbon fiber knuckles) - High top boots - Optional: back protector - Towel or rug to stand on while changing in and out of gear Miscellaneous Items to Bring - Water and/or sports drinks - Food/snacks (snack bar has limited hours) - Camera - Hat - Sunscreen, chapstick - Canopy - Umbrella (good for spectating in the stands during summer) - Folding chairs - Aspirin or ibuprofen or other painkiller of choice - Cash for gate fee (Willow Springs charges $10 to get in) Keep on You in Case of Emergency - Name - Address - Phone number - Blood type - Medical insurance provider and account number - Medications you're allergic to - Emergency contact (name and phone number) At the Track - Before unloading, check your area for safety wire and oil; clean up what you can - Do not leave oil or tires behind at the end of the day - When you're done for the day, remove duct tape as soon as possible Other Notes Before you commit to a track day, check your insurance coverage. Some auto insurance companies exclude coverage for closed-course events. Some medical insurance companies exclude coverage for "high risk" activities. Odds are you're probably covered since it's not racing, but it's best not to find out the hard way that the $8k in emergency room expenses will come out of your pocket. If you can, bring a friend to the track so if you're injured, you and your bike can get home. I've been involved with de-camping for people who were taken to the hospital so this is not a far-fetched situation. Even if you're not taken to the hospital, it's better not to drive if you're sore or moderately injured from a get-off. If you can't bring a friend, you might want to acquaint youself with someone at the track once you get there. Willow Springs allows you to walk the track after the day is done (or ride a bicycle; anything but a gas-powered vehicle). It's a good way to really see the track and get a new (slower!) perspective on it. Oh, and finally, you'll learn to love this place. |
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