r/Trackdays • u/NoRosetta • 6h ago
First track day check list (riding in). Any suggestions?
Hello! My first track day is coming up and I’ve been building a list of things I think I’d need. If anything else comes up the day of, I was planning to ask around the paddock. Everything I’ve listed so far can be packed pretty comfortably and compact, though it is somewhat heavy. Any suggestions for what to add or remove are appreciated!
09-06 STT Autobahn S. Course
2008 SV650S — Riding In
MX CHK LIST
- Wash and general visual inspection
- Bleed FWD/AFT Brakes, chk condition
- Hardware security, torque seal marking
- Coolant flush/change
- Front sag (preload) adjustment
- Oil qty
- Set tire pressures (33 Front, 27 Rear per mfr)
- Clean and lube chain
PACKING LIST
IN: LARGE TAIL BAG, BACKPACK, HIP BAG
- TOOLING
> Icon bit ratchet set
> 1/4 Drive socket set
> 3/8 Ratchet
> 10, 12, 14 MM sockets
> 0-200 IN/LBS torque wrench
> Knipex pliers wrench
> Diagonal cutters
> Shock wrench
> Leatherman
> Flashlight
> Portable Tire Inflator
> Mirror block-off plate
- MX CONSUMABLES/SPARES
> M6 Hardware
> Ziptie assortment
> Fuses
> Gaffer, speed, electrical tape
> 1QT Rotella T6
> Iso alcohol/mineral spirits
> Shop rags
> Part bags
> Marker, pen
> Nitrile Gloves
- GENERAL ITEMS
> Insurance info, emergency contacts
> Glasses/visor cleaner
> Microfibre towel
> Power bank
> Lightening/USB-C Cables
> Phone
> Wallet
> Keys
> Earbuds
> Extra helmet liner
> Change of clothes
> Extra Earplugs
> Action camera, cage, batteries, mount
> Large Waterbottle
> Snacks!
> Electrolyte mix
> Towel
> Small camping chair
> Trash bag
> Baseball cap
GEAR (WORN IN)
- Helmet
- Helmet Liner
- Earplugs
- 2 PC Leathers
- Base Layer
- Compression socks
- Gauntlet Gloves
- Boots
EDIT: Adding suggestions to list. Thank you! Hoping this would be a helpful reference for future first time track riders.
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u/Asleep_Maybe_3917 3h ago
Don’t ride in is my first advice. I did it for my first track day at COTA and it sucked. You need gas, you are likely want to be out of a track suit for the ride home, and you’ll be tired and more likely to have an accident. If you have no other options at least make sure someone can bring you water and supplies.
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u/NoRosetta 2h ago
It unfortunately isn’t too practical for me this first time around, but for the next two-day at Blackhawk Raceway I definitely will be renting a van or something. Gas and water is going to be the biggest issue, though. Hoping I can get enough at concessions and I should have enough gas, assuming I fill up right before. My SV sips gas and can do hours of high rpm highway miles without needing a refill.
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u/mendlock 5h ago
One thing to remember to NOT bring, to leave at home, is your ego. Also. Remember to have fun!
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u/NoRosetta 5h ago
It wont even make it out the door. Going to make sure I’m only focusing on learning the fundamentals and enjoying it!
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u/Corvetteman3070 5h ago
I wouldn't maybe worry too much about tire pressures in novice group you'll be fine as the pace isn't very fast so maybe just slightly under the manufacturer recommendation. Other then that your list seems really complete, I'd maybe add some hydration drinks like a Gatorade rapid hydration as you'll want more then just water. Focus on Having fun and enjoy your first TD!
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u/NoRosetta 5h ago
Thank you, I’m excited! With how hot the forecast is, I’d probably pass out if I don’t bring gatorade. Good call.
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u/mendlock 5h ago
If you have mirrors on your bike. Bring some painters-tape and tape over your mirrors.
Mirrors, what happens behind you, might distract you. That, or take them off.
1
u/NoRosetta 4h ago
Fortunately the mirrors on my bike are really easy to remove. Planning to remove them and the turn signals once I arrive at the track. 10 mins tops to remove that all, if I had to guess?
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u/Sudden_Recognition90 4h ago
You will need to mask up the headlights, tail light, and turn signals with STT, been a long time since I've ridden novice so I can't remember if you need to tape your wheel weights too or not
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u/FlyingLeftSeat 2h ago edited 2h ago
I would just remove the mirrors. Heck, you should consider removing the factory plastic too... in the event of a spill, will save you some $. Use painters tape on signals, lights, or other glass that must remain on bike.
As for coolant, you mentioned a flush, which is not necessary, but it would be a good idea to replace with distilled water + Redline Water Wetter. This is what I always used on trackdays and races (traditional coolant is not permitted on many tracks because in the event of a spill, it gets slippery and is a pain to clean up). If you do this, just remember to replace with coolant after you go back home (before the winter). Water Wetter will out-perform coolant in terms of keeping the engine cool, but it will not prevent freezing.
Have fun out there!
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u/NoRosetta 2h ago
Thank you!
I actually do have spare aftermarket fairings! I’m probably reinstalling them before the track day. Only had them to make sure I didn’t damage the OEM plastics while I was learning the ropes— first bike and I’ve only been riding just under a year. At the track, I was going to remove all the signals and mirrors anyway since they’re quick to do.
The org I’m going through allows glycol coolant in novice. Most of the reason why I’m doing it is cause my bike is due for it anyway and I want to avoid having to do it again before the winter. Once next season comes around, though, I’ll definitely be swapping it out for water wetter. Did not know it performed better and was safer!
1
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u/IIIBl1nDIII Daytona 675 8m ago
I love the full fairings on the SV. Great looking bike. Rent a trailer or van from u haul for the day don't ride in.
6
u/Dismal_Tutor3425 Racer EX 6h ago
Insurance and medical information along with emergency contacts packed up nicely, not hidden, and stored with your keys. Let a pit neighbor know where that information is.