I'm pretty serious about getting myself set-up for track days over the long-term. I want to buy a used track bike and am unsure about that, and all the other things that go with entering the track world. So I have a few questions and am hoping anyone with track/race experience can give me their views/advice. I don't know anyone who races and just started motorcycling 5 months ago...so I really don't know where else to get this kind of information.
I've been doing the google searches and forum threads and am starting to get a clue, but am still a long way from making decisions...so any input is appreciated.
This summer I completed the Shannonville Motorsports Park RACE school phase 1 (once in July, and once in Sept) , and plan on attending phase 2 and 3 next year before I actually start going to track days.
Below are a few questions I have, but if you have any advice on things I've failed to consider I would also appreciate that.
1. I've thought about getting a truck and putting the bike(s) (I may end up with two eventually) in the bed, but that may not be suitable as I expect to arrive the night before at some tracks. What works well; truck and trailer, open/closed trailer, SUV and trailer....? (cost effective ?)
2. What can I expect to be wrong with, and how much to pay for repairs on a used track bike before I will be able to take it out?
3. I've seen some used track bikes on Kijiji for a variety of prices, but have no idea how to choose. What kinds of problems should I be looking for on a track bike that would be good reason not to buy it?
4. I know the track day registration will be about $120-140; add in gas (for travel back and forth as well as for the bike), food, etc I would expect each day to cost about $250-300. I know I will need to buy tires more often, I've read that I can expect about 8-10 track days on a set of tires. Are there other expenses I should consider?
5. I've read that some people change the oil after every track day...is that realistic and what other upkeep will I need to pay attention to? (I know to check the chain after every session).
6. Given my inexperience and lack of mechanical background, are there motorcycle mechanics who I can pay to do work on my bike who will also show me how to do my own repairs/upkeep properly?
7. Do you have any other advice?
Thanks!
I've been doing the google searches and forum threads and am starting to get a clue, but am still a long way from making decisions...so any input is appreciated.
This summer I completed the Shannonville Motorsports Park RACE school phase 1 (once in July, and once in Sept) , and plan on attending phase 2 and 3 next year before I actually start going to track days.
Below are a few questions I have, but if you have any advice on things I've failed to consider I would also appreciate that.
1. I've thought about getting a truck and putting the bike(s) (I may end up with two eventually) in the bed, but that may not be suitable as I expect to arrive the night before at some tracks. What works well; truck and trailer, open/closed trailer, SUV and trailer....? (cost effective ?)
2. What can I expect to be wrong with, and how much to pay for repairs on a used track bike before I will be able to take it out?
3. I've seen some used track bikes on Kijiji for a variety of prices, but have no idea how to choose. What kinds of problems should I be looking for on a track bike that would be good reason not to buy it?
4. I know the track day registration will be about $120-140; add in gas (for travel back and forth as well as for the bike), food, etc I would expect each day to cost about $250-300. I know I will need to buy tires more often, I've read that I can expect about 8-10 track days on a set of tires. Are there other expenses I should consider?
5. I've read that some people change the oil after every track day...is that realistic and what other upkeep will I need to pay attention to? (I know to check the chain after every session).
6. Given my inexperience and lack of mechanical background, are there motorcycle mechanics who I can pay to do work on my bike who will also show me how to do my own repairs/upkeep properly?
7. Do you have any other advice?
Thanks!
Comment