View Full Version : My very first trackday pictures
Kristin
10-06-2005, 10:32 PM
Finally did my first track day. Here are some pictures. I will get more later on. These are the ones people have passed along to me.
I changed out my tires to a 70 front and went with Pilot Powers. Let me tell ya, those things are AWESOME. Felt like a whole different bike. When it dipped into a turn it kinda freaked me out because I wasn't used to it on my stock Dunlop 208's but the second time I was like "HELL YEAH" haha I loved it. I'm addicted. VIR North is the place to be.
Oh and don't laugh at my Wu-Tang leathers. I ordered a suit and it came in all wrong. They got a few orders mixed up and I got the color/design of someone else's suit. But it worked for my track day so I wasn't worried about it too much.
I know I have a LOT to work on especially my body positioning but hey, it was my first time out on the track. I had a lot of information thrown at me and I did my best to try to take it all in and put it to good use. Next time though, I'll be in better shape.
http://kristindixon.com/track/tech.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/track1.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/track2.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/Kristin1.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/1924a.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/2277a.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/2369a.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/2380a.jpg
http://kristindixon.com/track/2580a.jpg
JSS829
10-06-2005, 11:05 PM
nice...looks like you had lots of fun....I cant wait to move up from this stupid 250 to a 600 and do a track day
toysupra1
10-06-2005, 11:23 PM
nice pics! there's nothin like riding on a race track to haul ass and see what you and you're bike is made of.
some quick pointers to add...one of the first thing a rider must learn do is TRUST their tires. especially running one of the best tires on the market, the michelin pilot powers will definately stick well and be trustworthy. once thats accomplished, learn to gain speed into the corners and lean your bike lower to carry the speed through the turn.
also, in the 3rd, 5th, and 9th pictures, you can see your right foot placement on the footpeg is sticking outward...are you using your boot as a feeler? you should ride on the balls of your feet and tuck your footing closer to the bike. you'll have better stability and control of your body.
i have a feeling we'll be seeing a lot more track day pictures of you since you've now caught the bug! it's addicting as hell!
and GO WUTANG!
dtoys
10-06-2005, 11:24 PM
wow!!! very very nice pics...good luck!!
Kristin
10-06-2005, 11:37 PM
nice pics! there's nothin like riding on a race track to haul ass and see what you and you're bike is made of.
some quick pointers to add...one of the first thing a rider must learn do is TRUST their tires. especially running one of the best tires on the market, the michelin pilot powers will definately stick well and be trustworthy. once thats accomplished, learn to gain speed into the corners and lean your bike lower to carry the speed through the turn.
also, in the 3rd, 5th, and 9th pictures, you can see your right foot placement on the footpeg is sticking outward...are you using your boot as a feeler? you should ride on the balls of your feet and tuck your footing closer to the bike. you'll have better stability and control of your body.
i have a feeling we'll be seeing a lot more track day pictures of you since you've now caught the bug! it's addicting as hell!
and GO WUTANG!
I changed out my tires that morning so I went out there on cold, brand new tires that were a 70 instead of 65 like I was used to. So the bike was TOTALLY different like I said earlier. But once I got it and trusted the tires...I loved it.
Its funny how you THINK you're leaned over far then you see the pictures and its like DAMMIT I wasn't over far enough.
About my feet ...I drug my right foot 3 times that day. Scared the crap out of me. I'm gonna have to get a different exhaust. That high mount sits up too high so that when I get on the ball of my foot, it rests on the exhaust. I kept trying to fiddle with it the whole day but I couldn't find a good position.
I never knew it was such a workout though. My legs hurt for a couple of days afterwards :bigthumb:
toysupra1
10-07-2005, 12:08 AM
Its funny how you THINK you're leaned over far then you see the pictures and its like DAMMIT I wasn't over far enough.
yea, i was exactly like that when i did my first track day. after i saw the photos, i was very disappointed in my riding position so when the following track days came, i was ready for them and got one butt cheek off the seat and leaned the hell out of my bike. you definately gain a lot of confidence and continue to improve with more track time.
i bet you anything that street riding is gonna be boring to you now.
Kristin
10-07-2005, 12:09 AM
it already is :( I rode yesterday and after 30 minutes came back home and put it in the garage. :( Sucks man.
You need to get off the bike. You're not moving around enough on the bike. Have you ever dragged a knee? You look nervous on the bike. I'd tell you to breath more and relax. You look stiff.
Those are just my observations...
One last question...how far are you looking down the track? Pick your head up more and look down the track more. The further everything is away..the more things slow down and the more comfortable you'll be.
just my .02
dkm
Ckanderson
10-07-2005, 04:06 AM
yes you do look scared. relax a lil and become more one with the bike..
Kristin
10-07-2005, 05:09 AM
you guys ever ride on the track?
devioust78supra
10-07-2005, 06:57 AM
you guys ever ride on the track?
Yes...I've done a few trackdays (first year) and started racing this year...still learning though!
Congrats! First piece of advice is when you do ride on the street...make sure and bring the speed back down to "street" speeds!
VIR North is my favorite track so far, don't put pressure on yourself, it was your first trackday and riding is all about improving.
Take notes on what you want to work on and work on one thing at a time! Body positioning is something that comes with time I'm discovering.
Another very important piece of info which I'm sure you picked up on is who to listen to...make sure the people you are getting advice from have considerable experience! There are people who even though have been doing trackdays for a while don't really understand or have the qualifications to provide feedback...work with people who are instructors or winning races. *just something I've picked up on being new to this as well*
Congrats! Hopefully we'll see you out there on a cornerspeed trackday...I'll probably hit the Spring Ducati trackday...two days and limited number of people make it a blast!
Chris
CCS 410
aNskY
10-07-2005, 07:46 AM
yer the coolest chick ever! lol
toysupra1
10-07-2005, 08:54 AM
Ckanderson and DKM, it IS her first track day so its not like she's gonna be dragging knee after her warm up laps. i was nervous as hell when i did my first track day. but as time comes, you gain more and more experience and feel more comfortable on the track.
like what devious said, one thing at a time and body position only comes with more practice.
I wasn't dogging her...I was just curious where her level was. I need a gauge to start with. I've been riding and racing most my life. I understand what you're saying...
Kuruma
10-07-2005, 11:09 AM
Nice pics thanks for sharing.
I gotta get out to a track too. I'm bored on the street. Which leads me to speeding. not a good thing. ( I know...)
During this down time of winter Im gonna pick me up some leathers and head up to pocono when I starts warming up again next year. See what the rr( and myself) is made of. :)
NeedtheSupra
10-07-2005, 11:13 AM
I wish my girlfriend would get a bike and go to track days, that would be awesome.
devioust78supra
10-07-2005, 11:34 AM
I wish my girlfriend would get a bike and go to track days, that would be awesome.
Careful...you might get what you wish for! I got my wife to the track and she was hooked right away. I must say I am proud though...her first day she was bumped to intermediate and the control riders wanted her to move up to advanced but she stayed in intermediate because she was a bit intimidated...and she knew I'd mess with her if she did bump up...hey...I'm allowed to give her an elbow or two right? :dunno:
It's a good thing but...it becomes that much more expensive!
At this point we're both thinking of no longer riding on the street and just doing track/races...far less BS on the track than street!
Carolyn
10-07-2005, 12:26 PM
Hey Kris,
Like I said, great pictures and good job on your 1st track day :)
I've never done a track day on the sportbike but I figure I can say that since I've done MX tracks all year :bigthumb:
Hi-Psi
10-07-2005, 01:25 PM
I've never done a track day on the sportbike but I figure I can say that since I've done MX tracks all year :bigthumb:
MX is all that matters anyways :P
Anyways Kristin Im glad you had fun thats the biggest part about any kind of riding wether it be compitition or just practice.
Good luck with your progression and keep it on 2 wheels. :bigthumb:
aNskY
10-07-2005, 01:43 PM
Good luck with your progression and keep it on 2 wheels. :bigthumb:
nothing wrong with 1 wheel..... as long as rubber's meeting pavement :D
i am SOOO digging you right now :D chicks with bikes is one thing, but chicks that RACE bikes is another.
Looks like a lot of fun. Hopefully next year i can get in atleast 1 track day. I'm not sure on how they work though??? do you pay and then just ride around for a bit??? how often are these "pay and play" type track days???? how much does it usually cost???
Derek
toysupra1
10-07-2005, 02:22 PM
I'm not sure on how they work though??? do you pay and then just ride around for a bit??? how often are these "pay and play" type track days???? how much does it usually cost???
Derek
track days are organized events where you do exactly what you said, "pay and play". there are rules and guidelines to follow and if you break them, you get warnings or kicked out, etc. there are safety personnel on scene in case of emergencies.
most track day events include different skill level riding groups varying from beginner, intermediate, to advanced. you can always ask if you can be bumped up or down, or they'll bump you up or down a level themselves depending how they see you riding around the track. the track time itself usually rotates every 20 minutes for each level's session. some organizations may have a rotation of 2 groups as well instead of 3.
beginner group usually allows passing only on the straights, intermediate allows passing on straights and outside of turns, and advanced allows passing whenever deemed safe...all this within the safe passing distance (6ft, arms length, or whatever they say).
price varies depending the organization. in my area, they range from $100 to $250. most of the well maintained tracks with plenty of runoffs are pretty expensive. the lower priced tracks can be located far from you and not have as many runoffs as you'd like.
based on the organization holding the event, they require you to tape up the headlights, tail lights, etc., sometimes ask you to safety wire the oil filter, run water or water wetter in radiator (none of the normal radiator fluid in case of slick spills), tape over your speedometer, etc. almost all events require a 1 or 2piece leather suit with boots up to the calf, helmet, and gloves.
Derek, you should definately try a track day at least once to experience it. i can guarantee you won't regret it.
Carolyn
10-07-2005, 02:59 PM
"pay and play" type track days???? how much does it usually cost???
That would be a MX type of track day - suit up and ride for $20 :bigthumb:
(Or for free because you know the track owner :) )
Well until they split practice because there too many fast guys out with the little ones.
devioust78supra
10-07-2005, 03:03 PM
track days are organized events where you do exactly what you said, "pay and play". there are rules and guidelines to follow and if you break them, you get warnings or kicked out, etc. there are safety personnel on scene in case of emergencies.
most track day events include different skill level riding groups varying from beginner, intermediate, to advanced. you can always ask if you can be bumped up or down, or they'll bump you up or down a level themselves depending how they see you riding around the track. the track time itself usually rotates every 20 minutes for each level's session. some organizations may have a rotation of 2 groups as well instead of 3.
beginner group usually allows passing only on the straights, intermediate allows passing on straights and outside of turns, and advanced allows passing whenever deemed safe...all this within the safe passing distance (6ft, arms length, or whatever they say).
price varies depending the organization. in my area, they range from $100 to $250. most of the well maintained tracks with plenty of runoffs are pretty expensive. the lower priced tracks can be located far from you and not have as many runoffs as you'd like.
based on the organization holding the event, they require you to tape up the headlights, tail lights, etc., sometimes ask you to safety wire the oil filter, run water or water wetter in radiator (none of the normal radiator fluid in case of slick spills), tape over your speedometer, etc. almost all events require a 1 or 2piece leather suit with boots up to the calf, helmet, and gloves.
Derek, you should definately try a track day at least once to experience it. i can guarantee you won't regret it.
You covered all basis...
If I may I have two recommendations
1. ALWAYS (track or street) ride within your limits...
2. Invest in a set of track tires Pirelli Corsas, Michelin Pilot Powers...etc...etc...
I'm not talking about a race tire, a track tire...and yes they can be used on the street and will get a good amount of mileage. Street tires are ok if you're taking it easy on your first trackday but as you improve and start increasing your speed they won't cut it.
Avoid race tires (although most tire vendors require a race license anyhow) since you have to really ride hard to even get them warmed up...on the street you'll never warm up a set of race tires period and they can be dangerous.
bigmike
10-07-2005, 03:16 PM
hella proud of ya girl.. ;)
i konw you'll take all the advice you can get, find what works best for you and kick ass in due time.. congrats :D
sonik
10-07-2005, 05:16 PM
Lean girl! nice pic and nice bike. Good to see a girl out there on the track tearing it up. Wheres your mohawk
BSWhelchel
10-11-2005, 02:47 PM
http://www.ezthemes.com/previews/w/wu-tang.jpg
:bigthumb: :hail: :naughty:
- Brad
Kristin
10-11-2005, 06:02 PM
BRAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GOSH! :idiot:
J/K of course. Hit me up on AIM tomorrow butthead :)
Denroll
10-11-2005, 10:37 PM
Exhilarating, ain't it!? Once you get serious about the track, you'll want to get a "fun" bike for the street.
Also, hope you have tons o' cash because it gets EXPENSIVE from here on out, especially when you burn through a set or two of race tires in a weekend.
But for me, no more (big) track riding for a while as I just sold my Gixxer last week :(
TRD White Comet
10-11-2005, 11:19 PM
Congratulations on your first trackday... :) I've been itching to go out to one for quite awhile, but I only have two months of riding experience under my belt.... :stickpoke Do you folks think I should wait longer, or go ahead and do it? Also, do they make leathers for big (fat.... :nervous: ) guys like myself?
Carolyn
10-12-2005, 02:45 AM
TRD,
You can go out to a trackday with minimal experience... they will split the track time between beginners etc. The track instructor I know from Arroyo Seco in NM told me as long as I know the basics, I should be ok (that was before I sold my gixxer and I only had logged 400 street miles).
The one in our closet is a size 42 in mens (Billy is 192lbs) and I've seen 200+ guys with leathers. Don't sweat it, leathers come in all sizes :) And there's always custom :bigthumb:
toysupra1
10-12-2005, 09:10 AM
The one in our closet is a size 42 in mens (Billy is 192lbs) and I've seen 200+ guys with leathers. Don't sweat it, leathers come in all sizes :) And there's always custom :bigthumb:
they definately make leathers in all sizes. during my last track day, i saw a guy who looked very close to being 300lbs in full leathers on an R1.
TRD White Comet
10-12-2005, 02:20 PM
Well, I'm about 5'8" and weigh about 260 lbs, so you can probably imagine my "roly-polyish" figure..... :stickpoke :)
devioust78supra
10-12-2005, 03:06 PM
Congratulations on your first trackday... :) I've been itching to go out to one for quite awhile, but I only have two months of riding experience under my belt.... :stickpoke Do you folks think I should wait longer, or go ahead and do it? Also, do they make leathers for big (fat.... :nervous: ) guys like myself?
My wife had about a month worth of experience and she had a blast. Riding on the track (after taking a school) will help your riding improve VERY quickly.
I started riding last July and most of my riding was pretty slow mostly being careful around cars. Prior to my first trackday I never even ran through the gears all the way to redline.
Anyhow, I did one trackday and raced the following weekend...and I had no prior riding experience at all...so if I can do it I'm sure anyone can!
It will help out on the street as well because you'll learn what the bike is doing and learn how to brake and turn instead of panic and run off the road or crash because of a panic stop mid-corner ... quite common...
Just take your time and let the track organizers know it's your first time and 99% of the time they will take care of you.
Then prepare to be poor...you'll be hooked for sure!
Good luck (sorry Kristin for whoring your thread)
Hope to see you out there next year!
Carolyn
10-12-2005, 05:27 PM
Well, I'm about 5'8" and weigh about 260 lbs, so you can probably imagine my "roly-polyish" figure..... :stickpoke :)
TRD,
Try taking your bike out to the drag strip, it's a ton of fun and not as expensive as a trackday. It might just be going straight but at least you'll run to redline through 3 gears - I took my bike before and it was fun! It's the first time I heard revlimiter on the gixxer :lol:
Ok Kris no more threadjack :)
TRD White Comet
10-12-2005, 10:53 PM
TRD,
Try taking your bike out to the drag strip, it's a ton of fun and not as expensive as a trackday. It might just be going straight but at least you'll run to redline through 3 gears - I took my bike before and it was fun! It's the first time I heard revlimiter on the gixxer :lol:
Ok Kris no more threadjack :)
Been there, done that Carolyn, but thanks for the suggestion anyway.... :) Got a best of 12.4 with a 1.6 reaction time, not bad I guess...... :bigthumb:
Carolyn
10-12-2005, 11:32 PM
Been there, done that Carolyn, but thanks for the suggestion anyway.... :) Got a best of 12.4 with a 1.6 reaction time, not bad I guess...... :bigthumb:
You did better than me :p
I got a best 1/4 mile time is 12.9 and my best RT was a 0.03 :bigthumb:
TRD White Comet
10-13-2005, 12:10 AM
You did better than me :p
I got a best 1/4 mile time is 12.9 and my best RT was a 0.03 :bigthumb:
Oops, "ninja" edit: that was my 60 ft...... :stickpoke :)
Nice pics!
Looks like a blast
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