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Author Topic: My first track day  (Read 3132 times)
dankatz
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« on: September 23, 2011, 02:15:00 AM »

I signed up for my first track day at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway beginning of October. I plan to take my 696. Only protection I have on it is frame sliders. I have two piece zip up leathers, proper boots, gloves and AGV helmet that is only a couple of years old. Tires were new last summer (Michelin Pilot Road 2's) and have about 2500 miles on them, but looks in good shape.  What else do I need to prepare? I plan on staying in a hotel the night before (I live in Boston). I know I will need to tape up lights.  I weigh 155 lbs (5'8") and am curious what I should set my suspension at? I only have limited adjustability in the rear. Thanks for any advice!
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ducpainter
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DILLIGAF


« Reply #1 on: September 23, 2011, 02:49:04 AM »

If your suspension is good for the street you'll be fine at Loudon.

They recently smoothed out the horrific bumps at the 3/10 transitions.

Most groups don't require safety wire.

Relax and enjoy
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Josh_357
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« Reply #2 on: September 23, 2011, 03:40:06 AM »

You'll need a way to relax between sessions, like a chair and EZ-up or other way to get shade.

You'll need plenty of good food, and water. Hydration is key.

You'll need a clear mind, leave ego at home.

You'll need a tire gauge, set pressures at event not night before.

You'll want (otherwords not necessary) some hand tools, music, camera, a buddy/pitcrew, sunscreen/sunglasses if it's hot and sunny, notepad.

The list can go on, but should get you started. As duck soup said, "relax and enjoy" you're there to have fun, and ask for help from instructors/control riders don't wait for it to be given to you.
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ducpainter
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DILLIGAF


« Reply #3 on: September 23, 2011, 03:45:49 AM »

NHMS has garages so an EZ up isn't necessary.
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"Once you accept that a child on the autistic spectrum experiences the world in
 a completely different way than you, you will be open to understand how that
 perspective
    is even more amazing than yours."
    To realize the value of nine  months:
    Ask a mother who gave birth to a stillborn.
"Don't piss off old people The older we get, the less 'Life in Prison' is a deterrent.”


The Architect
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« Reply #4 on: September 23, 2011, 04:56:15 AM »

Who's running the trackday?
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swampduc
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'99 996, '07 S2R1000,'08 1098s, '12 1199s


« Reply #5 on: September 23, 2011, 05:14:36 AM »

Josh said it well. Personally, for snacks, I take a lot of fruit and a couple of sandwiches. Keeping things light helps with the nervous stomach that I invariably get  Wink

for a VERY complete list, go here:
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=16790.msg295193#msg295193
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dankatz
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« Reply #6 on: September 23, 2011, 05:28:08 AM »

Thanks for the advise! Seacoast Ducati organized it and will have some snacks. I am very excited. I guess I will put air in the tires and then take some out - do I usually need to run lower pressures because the tires heat up? It will be Oct 10th in NH, so should be cold enough not to be seeking the shade...
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The Architect
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« Reply #7 on: September 23, 2011, 05:58:33 AM »

Excellent!

I'll see you there.

I should be instructing.  I have the ratty red 748 with lots of stickers on it.  Don't be shy.  duck soup will be there also (right Nate?) 
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froggert
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« Reply #8 on: September 23, 2011, 06:01:31 AM »

not sure what tire pressures the pilot roads normally take, but i used to run about 2 psi lower than street pressure on pilot powers.  just don't forget to air them back up before riding on the street.

there's a red roof down the road, it's probably the closest hotel to the track.
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swampduc
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'99 996, '07 S2R1000,'08 1098s, '12 1199s


« Reply #9 on: September 23, 2011, 06:13:14 AM »

I typically run 4-5 psi lower on the track than on the street. I the ambient temp is low, you'll want to decrease the pressure by a smaller amount.
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ZLTFUL
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« Reply #10 on: September 23, 2011, 07:19:50 AM »

First lap of your first track day will be a VERy nerve-wracking experience. Try your best to relax...and have a couple of sticks of gum in your mouth.
In all of my years of doing trackdays/racing, I find that one thing to be the one thing nobody ever mentions but has a HUGE effect.
No gum = open mouth = dry mouth = higher stress level = tense = unintended control inputs.

The whole key is to relax. And keep this one thought firmly in mind...you aren't there for an adrenaline rush. Adrenaline makes bad decisions worse.

Ask questions. Watch the instructors/control riders. If one motions for you to follow them, do it. Don't focus on "OMG I AM GOING WAY TOO FAST FOR THAT TURN!!!" Most of those guys/gals will not take you at a pace that is beyond your abilities but they will push you to venture beyond your comfort zone.

Above EVERYTHING else...HAVE FUN!!!!
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« Reply #11 on: September 23, 2011, 08:01:21 AM »



Above EVERYTHING else...HAVE FUN!!!!

Exactly!

After the first few laps, if you're not smiling, you're doing it wrong.  Go see an instructor.  If you don't like your instructor find another. 

It's easy for me to say, don't waste your time being nervous. If you ride on the street with all the hazards; cars, dogs, oncoming traffic, sand, potholes, etc.... Imagine riding without those hazards.   waytogo 


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ducpainter
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DILLIGAF


« Reply #12 on: September 23, 2011, 08:08:09 AM »

Excellent!

I'll see you there.

I should be instructing.  I have the ratty red 748 with lots of stickers on it.  Don't be shy.  duck soup will be there also (right Nate?) 
If my bike is fixed...

Am I instructing or cornerworking?
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"Once you accept that a child on the autistic spectrum experiences the world in
 a completely different way than you, you will be open to understand how that
 perspective
    is even more amazing than yours."
    To realize the value of nine  months:
    Ask a mother who gave birth to a stillborn.
"Don't piss off old people The older we get, the less 'Life in Prison' is a deterrent.”


The Architect
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« Reply #13 on: September 23, 2011, 09:01:20 AM »

If my bike is fixed...

Am I instructing or cornerworking?

Fixed?  Come on, I wouldn't even consider that cosmetic.........

Which ever you prefer.   (most likely both. so you don't get sick of either.) 
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dankatz
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« Reply #14 on: September 23, 2011, 01:25:42 PM »

Thanks again - I do plan to have fun. I reserved a room in the red roof. I will be on the yellow 696...see you there!
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