Full Race and Track Prep

Preparing a motorcycle for track use or racing involves a combination of mechanical checks, safety measures, and performance upgrades. Whether you’re preparing for a track day or a full-fledged race, the goal is to ensure your bike is safe, reliable, and performs at its peak. Here’s a detailed guide to get your motorcycle track-ready:

1. Safety Gear & Rider Preparation

Before the bike, it’s essential to ensure that you, the rider, are well-prepared:

Personal Gear:

  • Helmet: A full-face helmet that meets Snell or ECE standards is required. A well-fitting, high-quality helmet can save your life.
  • Race Suit: A one-piece leather suit is ideal, offering maximum protection, especially in case of a crash. For track days, a two-piece suit might be acceptable.
  • Gloves: Sturdy leather gloves with knuckle protection to prevent injuries in the event of a fall.
  • Boots: Motorcycle-specific boots, preferably racing boots, to provide ankle and foot protection.
  • Back Protector: An additional back protector is a good idea to reduce the risk of spinal injury.

2. Bike Preparation

Mechanical Inspections:

The first step is to check the bike thoroughly to ensure everything is in proper working order:

  • Oil & Fluids: Change the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant. Fresh oil is essential for track performance, as well as ensuring optimal cooling and brake performance.
  • Tires: Ensure the tires are in good condition. For track use, racing tires or track-day tires (slicks or soft compounds) are preferable. Check for any cuts, bulges, or uneven wear. Tire pressure should be set according to track conditions and bike specifications.
  • Brake Pads & Rotors: Make sure the brake pads are in excellent condition and not worn down. Consider upgrading to performance track brake pads. Check the brake lines for leaks and the fluid for moisture.
  • Suspension: Get the suspension tuned for track use. This might mean adjusting the preload, compression, and rebound settings or upgrading to higher-performance suspension components if needed. Track conditions demand a higher level of suspension responsiveness than regular street use.
  • Chain & Sprockets: Inspect the chain for proper tension and lubrication. A worn chain or sprocket can result in poor performance and safety risks. Consider upgrading to a racing chain and sprockets for better durability.
  • Clutch & Cables: Ensure the clutch is engaging smoothly and check for any fraying or damage to the cables.
  • Throttle & Throttle Cable: Make sure the throttle is responsive and smooth. Sticky throttles are a safety hazard, especially on the track.
  • Fuel System: Ensure there are no fuel leaks and the fuel tank is secured properly. Check that your fuel pump and injectors are in top shape.

Performance Mods (Optional but Recommended):

  • Exhaust System: A full racing exhaust system (or a slip-on for lower cost) can significantly increase performance by reducing weight and improving airflow.
  • Air Filter: A high-flow air filter can help improve air intake and engine performance.
  • Power Commander / ECU Tune: Fine-tuning your fuel injection or installing a power commander can optimize fuel mapping for track use, giving you better throttle response and power delivery.
  • Lightweight Components: Consider replacing heavy parts with lightweight alternatives (e.g., lithium-ion battery, lighter fairing, rear sets).
  • Stabilizers: A steering damper (stabilizer) is essential for high-speed track use to prevent wobbling and maintain stability, especially on aggressive corners.
  • Quickshifter / Autoblipper: If you plan to race or push your bike hard, a quickshifter and autoblipper can make shifting faster and smoother, reducing the likelihood of mis-shifts and improving lap times.

3. Safety Equipment

Crash Protection:

  • Frame Sliders & Swingarm Sliders: These protect the frame, engine, and swingarm in case of a fall.
  • Fork Protectors: These prevent damage to your front forks in the event of a crash.
  • Crash Bungs: Additional crash protection for components like the handlebar, levers, and footpegs.
  • Bar Ends & Lever Guards: To reduce the risk of injury or damage if the bike goes down.

Track-Specific Modifications:

  • Remove Mirrors & Indicators: These are not necessary on the track and could be damaged in a fall. Additionally, they add unnecessary weight.
  • Safety Wire: Use safety wire to secure critical bolts, such as oil drain plugs, oil filters, and brake caliper bolts. This is particularly important in racing to prevent bolts from vibrating loose during high-speed riding.
  • Remove Side Stand: If racing or doing a competitive track day, removing the side stand is a good idea, as it can be a hazard during aggressive cornering or a crash.

4. Pre-Track Ride Prep

Before you even leave for the track, ensure everything is ready:

  • Tire Warmers (for Race Days): If you’re participating in a competitive race or high-level track day, tire warmers are essential to get the tires up to optimal temperature before going on track.
  • Track Day Registration: Ensure you’re registered for the track day event and have signed any necessary waivers or documentation.
  • Fuel: Make sure you have a full tank of fuel (and extra if needed). High-performance riding consumes a lot of fuel, especially during extended sessions.
  • Basic Toolkit: Always carry a small toolkit with essential items like a tire pressure gauge, wrenches, and spare parts (e.g., fuses, bolts).
  • Pre-Ride Check: Before you head out, do a pre-ride inspection. Check your tire pressures, oil level, chain tension, brake fluid levels, and overall bike condition.

5. On Track:

Once on the track, keep the following in mind:

  • Session Time: Start slowly and gradually increase your pace. Track days typically have several sessions, so pace yourself and don’t push too hard too soon.
  • Tire Management: Monitor tire wear and temperature. Track day tire pressures will differ from street pressures, so consult your tire manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Stay Smooth: Smooth inputs with throttle, brakes, and steering are key to maintaining stability and improving lap times.
  • Be Aware of Others: Keep an eye on other riders, particularly during practice or race sessions, and follow the flags and other track signals.

6. After the Track Day

Once the day is over, there are a few tasks to complete:

  • Cool Down: Let the engine and brakes cool down before parking the bike for long periods.
  • Inspect the Bike: After a track day or race, thoroughly inspect the bike for any damage or wear. Check the suspension, brakes, and tires in particular.
  • Clean the Bike: Clean off any debris, track rubber, or dirt that may have accumulated during your sessions.
  • Check Fluids Again: Make sure oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels are topped off.
  • Tire Wear: Inspect tires for excessive wear or damage. Track riding tends to wear out tires quickly, especially in the case of soft-compound racing tires.

Final Thoughts

Track and race prep requires attention to detail and regular maintenance. Whether you’re a first-time track rider or an experienced racer, getting your bike set up properly is critical to ensure safety, performance, and fun on the track. Be sure to adjust your setup depending on the type of racing or track day you are attending, and always follow the track’s safety guidelines.

Contact us today for more information