yzf1000jon
09-01-2011, 08:28 PM
I have to admit as a rider that has frequented the track for better than ten years now, I often forget what a daunting event ones first few times can be. As part of the local motorcycle race organization that also helps run the track evenings and days in our area I'm also quite surprised at the organizers attitude shown in the Deep End article in this last issue. It seems somewhat irresponsible to basically say "here's a picture of the track, watch out for turn 5, don't cross the blend line or you'll be sent home. Ok, go have fun and don't crash!"
Our first time riders must attend a track walk. If there are few riders that fall into this group, then often they will ride in the back of a gator or pickup as the driver slowly follows the line and another instructor points out key visual points as well as track etiquette. After the mandatory riders meeting, all slow street (our groups are slow street and fast street, and a racer only group) riders will be led around the track by an experienced racer at a slow pace. They alternate who follows the instructor every lap, giving each rider a chance to follow a good line at slow speed. This occurs for two complete sessions and only after that are they let alone to do their thing. Even then, the only group where passing outside the two designated straights is allowed, is the racer group, where one must hold a race license and a race ready machine.
I have a feeling, after reading Steve's portion of the article, that maybe the terrified sensation could be lessened by some more care on the part of the track day organizers. After scaring a passenger to death on a bike you may not ever get them back on one, the same might hold true for track days. It can be an intimidating and nerve wracking event, but if you help the riders out even a little, it will pay off with a loyal customer base, and return customers can be your best customers.
Our first time riders must attend a track walk. If there are few riders that fall into this group, then often they will ride in the back of a gator or pickup as the driver slowly follows the line and another instructor points out key visual points as well as track etiquette. After the mandatory riders meeting, all slow street (our groups are slow street and fast street, and a racer only group) riders will be led around the track by an experienced racer at a slow pace. They alternate who follows the instructor every lap, giving each rider a chance to follow a good line at slow speed. This occurs for two complete sessions and only after that are they let alone to do their thing. Even then, the only group where passing outside the two designated straights is allowed, is the racer group, where one must hold a race license and a race ready machine.
I have a feeling, after reading Steve's portion of the article, that maybe the terrified sensation could be lessened by some more care on the part of the track day organizers. After scaring a passenger to death on a bike you may not ever get them back on one, the same might hold true for track days. It can be an intimidating and nerve wracking event, but if you help the riders out even a little, it will pay off with a loyal customer base, and return customers can be your best customers.