Your First Track Day: What Nobody Tells You
Track days look intimidating from the outside. Here's everything you actually need to know before showing up at a circuit.
MMNM
Track days seem like they're for serious riders only. Full leathers. Race bikes. People who know what they're doing.
That perception is wrong.
Track days are for everyone. Including you. Especially you, if you've never done one.
The Truth
Track days are actually safer than spirited street riding.
No oncoming traffic. No gravel. No wildlife. No cops. No speed limits.
Everyone is going the same direction. Corner workers watch every section. Medical personnel are on-site.
When something goes wrong on the street, you hit a guardrail, a tree, or oncoming traffic. When something goes wrong on a track, you slide into a gravel trap or grass runoff.
You don't need a race bike. You don't need to be fast. You need a functioning motorcycle, proper gear, and the willingness to learn.
What You Need
Gear requirements (most organizations require):
- Full-face helmet, Snell or ECE certified, less than 5 years old
- One-piece leather suit OR two-piece with full zipper connection
- Gauntlet-style leather gloves
- Leather boots above the ankle
- Back protector (often required, sometimes optional)
Textile gear is usually not allowed. Neither are modular helmets in the flipped-up position.
If you don't own leathers, many track day organizations rent them. Not glamorous, but it works.
What to bring:
- Tire pressure gauge
- Basic tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, zip ties)
- Blue painter's tape (for covering lights and mirrors)
- Water and snacks (track concessions are expensive)
- Folding chair and shade (you'll wait between sessions)
- Sunscreen (you're outside all day)
- Change of clothes (leathers get hot)
Bike Prep
Most track day organizations require:
Tape over glass. Headlights, mirrors, turn signals. Anything that could shatter and leave debris on track. Blue painter's tape works fine.
Mirrors removed or taped. You shouldn't be looking behind you on track anyway.
Tires with adequate tread and pressure. Street tires are fine for your first track day. Don't overthink it.
Working brakes and controls. Obviously.
No fluid leaks. Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid.
Safety wire on drain plugs (some organizations). Check requirements before you go.
Your bike doesn't need to be a supersport. Cruisers, standards, adventure bikes, and even scooters are welcome at most track days. You're there to learn, not race.
The Day
Arrival: Show up early. Check-in, tech inspection, and rider meetings take time. Rushing leads to mistakes.
Rider meeting: Mandatory. They'll explain flags, passing rules, and track-specific details. Pay attention.
Groups: Most organizations run three groups based on experience:
- Beginner/novice (passing in straights only, slower pace)
- Intermediate (passing with point-by in straights and some corners)
- Advanced (open passing, faster pace)
Start in the beginner group. Everyone does. There's no shame in it.
Your first session: You'll be nervous. That's fine. Focus on:
- Learning the track layout
- Finding reference points for braking and turn-in
- Staying relaxed
- Being predictable
Don't worry about speed. Seriously. Your first three or four sessions should be about learning, not laptimes.
Coaching: Many organizations provide free coaching for beginners. Use it. Having someone follow you and give feedback is invaluable.
Common Mistakes
Trying to go fast immediately. Speed comes from smoothness and technique. Chasing speed before you understand the track makes you slower and more dangerous.
Ignoring hydration. Leather suits trap heat. You're exerting more than you realize. Drink water constantly. Dehydration causes crashes.
Riding every session. You don't have to. Resting, watching other riders, and processing what you've learned is valuable.
Target fixation. You go where you look. Look at the exit of corners, not the barriers.
Tensing up. A death grip on the bars prevents the bike from doing what it's designed to do. Relax your arms, grip with your legs.
Comparing yourself to others. Some riders have been doing this for years. Some are on their twentieth track day this season. Ride your own ride.
After the Track
Check your tires. Track riding is harder on tires than street riding. Look for wear, heat damage, and proper inflation.
Check your brake pads. You'll use them more aggressively than normal.
Check your coolant. Extended high-RPM running generates more heat.
Process what you learned. Write notes while it's fresh. What did you struggle with? What clicked? What do you want to work on next time?
Book another one. Seriously. One track day teaches you the basics. Consistent track time develops real skill.
Final Thoughts
Your first track day will feel overwhelming. There's a lot to remember, a lot happening around you, and a lot of self-consciousness about being new.
Then you'll complete your first session. You'll realize nobody is judging you. You'll start to relax. By the end of the day, you'll wonder why you waited so long.
Track days make you a better street rider. The skills you develop, the situational awareness you build, and the understanding of your bike's capabilities all translate to safer, more confident riding everywhere.
Sign up for one. Do the prep. Show up nervous. Leave planning your next one.
