Track Day Bike Prep

[zortness]

Some general information about prepping your bike for a track day.

1. Tires and brake pads need to be in near new condition. If you are unsure, call the track provider and ask if a tire vendor will be present at the track day. Tire vendors will often offer track day specials on new tires, should you need them.

2. Mirrors need to be removed or taped over. I suggest removing them. They are directly in your line of sight when you are leaning off of the bike.

3. Throttle: The throttle should move freely and snap back into the closed position when released. Throttles usually have one or two cables with a screw type adjustment on the cable with two pieces that lock together that can be used to adjust the play.

4. Clutch Lever: The lever should have very little "play" (non-tensioned movement) on the cable and completely disengage the clutch when pulled in. Most cable-style clutches will have a screw type adjustment similar to the throttle cable.

5. Brake Lever: The lever should have very little play and should not be easily pulled all the way to the hand grip. If your brakes are too "soft", try bleeding the brakes and adding new fluid. Fluid should be mostly clear.

6. The bike must have a working kill-switch on the hand controls.

7. Headlights and taillights need to be removed taped over. I recommend blue painter's tape or vinyl.

8. Blinkers need to be taped over or removed.

9. Wheel weights need to be taped over. Duct tape works well for this.

10. Radiator Fluid: Most bikes come with a glycol-based coolant. The problem is, these coolants are very slick should a crash occur. Most tracks recommend Water Wetter or another glycol free coolant, but do not require it for track days (racing is another story). Miller Motorsports Park requires glycol free coolant for all vehicles on the track at all times.

11. Your engine needs to be in good working order. No leaks!

12. Tighten/Check frequently removed bolts, oil drain bolt, oil filter etc. These are the most common reasons for black flags, nasty wrecks, and long track delays. Also, check that your chain slack is within specifications.

13. Oil: Make sure your fluid level is correct before you arrive at the track. Oil will usually deteriorate more quickly with track use than street use.

14. Safety wiring is not required by track day organizations, but it is required for racing. Safety wiring can save a lot of preparation time and add peace of mind, but it is difficult and takes a good amount of time.

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