So you Think you can Ride?

Right you’ve passed your Bike test, you’ve been riding a few years and you feel you’re experienced enough to treat yourself to a track day.

Preparation is the key here so the team at A1 have pulled together a simple list of things you may want to not only take with you, but also take into consideration for your big day out. Follow this and you should get the most out of your track time and avoid any disappointments on the day.

1. Know Exactly Where You’re Going

This may sound silly, but when signing on starts at stupid O’Clock in the morning you need to make sure you’re there on time. Familiarise yourself with where you’re going and ensure you have the circuit’s telephone number in case you were to get lost.

2. Having the Right Kit

Go through your kit the day before, to make sure you have everything and its in good working order.

• Boots
• Gloves
• Leathers (preferably one-piece)
• Back protector
• Helmet (spare visor)

It may also be worth taking a set of good waterproofs if the forecast is looking bleak.

3. Essential Documents

This is essential with most trackday organisers now insisting on seeing a full motorcycle licence before letting you out on the track. Don’t end your day before its even started, its imperative you have the necessary documents.

4. Food and Drink

There is food available at most track days but tend to serve rather stodgy and usually expensive food at lunchtime, which isn’t a great idea if you intend on motoring around the track at high speed a short time after it. Try and go for the healthy option with something light, and maybe some snacks like fruit or energy bars. Plenty of water is the key.

5. Petrol can and funnel

Make sure you take plenty of fuel and a good quality funnel, as your bike is likely to double double its usual fuel consumption when you’re flat out.

6. Tool Kit

It’s well worth taking along a basic tool kit, as you never know what mechanical problems you may encounter. A basic kit should consist of sockets, spanners, selection of screwdrivers, pliers, cable-ties, wire, duct tape and a tyre pressure gauge. Its odds on there’ll be someone there willing to help out but as the old saying goes ‘fail to prepare, prepare to fail’

7. Spares

If you are unfortunate enough to become separated from your bike at some point then you may be able to get back on track with very little work. Something as menial as a snapped a brake or clutch lever doesn’t mean your day at playing Barry Sheen (showing my age)is over if you’ve a spare with you, so for very little expense they are worth taking, and lets face it, its not every day you get to do this.

8. Bike & Keys

And last but not least, don’t forget your bike and keys, but most importantly take your time and please stay safe.