Throttle Wide Open > Related Info
Track Checklist
So there’s that scrutiny of the motorcycle that we were telling bout about. Here’s a more detailed list of things you’ll need to so to make sure your motorcycle is ready for the track. OF course there are a lot of the usual things one would do to keep your motorcycle road worthy but remember all of this scruity and inspection that you think we’re giving you a hard time with is all for your SAFETY and to ensure that if you decided to eat some dust, the damage to your shiny motorcycles is at best a few scuff marks.
There are only so many things the inspector can check at the track. You really should get in the habit of performing your own tech inspections, and consider this to be your own responsibility.
Supplies Needed
Mandatory - Tape (electrical/duct tape), Zip Ties
Optional - Screw drivers, Pliers, Basic Wrenches (8/10/12/13/14 mm)
Preparing the bike
1. Tape over all glass and reflectors. This includes:
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a. Headlight b. Mirrors (We’d appreciate if you took these off all together) c. Tail light d. Turn signals (These too should be take off to minimize damage) |
Note: The reason for doing this is two fold. We’d hate it as much as you would if you crashes and had the shattered glass get into you. And the lights can be terribly distracting to come folk.
2. Remove your main stand.
Note: We’ve noticed that over the course of the weekend as a rider tends to go faster, think you never thought possible start to drag along the tarmac in a corner. And the main stand can be particularly dangerous as it can get snagged and spit you off the motorcycle.
3. Ensure all nuts and bolts are properly tightened to spec.
Note: You’d be surprised at how nuts and bolts tend to unwind themselves on a race track. And it would be awful if you had your brake stay or front axle come loose when you’ve got the throttle wide open
Give your motorcycle a once over using the checklist below to ensure you have an uninterrupted weekend of riding
1. Brakes
a. Brake fluid level should be above the minimum marker
b. When you squeeze your front brake lever, it should be smooth and firm
c. Your brake pads should have plenty of life left in them
d. Brake lines should not have any kinks or splits
2. Tires
a. 80% tread should be remaining
b. Tire pressure should be set based on your Mfg recommendation.
If you're unsure about your tires, change them. Two black rings are cheaper than any trip to an hospital
3. Throttle
a. Your throttle must fully return to the closed position
b. Cables must be in good shape.
4. Chain
a. Ensure your chain is properly lubed
b. Ensure that you have tightened the chain to spec
4. Foot Pegs / Rearsets
a. Check to make sure all bolts are tight
5. Oil Filler Cap, Oil Drain Bolt
a. Check over these at least 3 times to ensure they are all tight!
6. Give your bike a once over
a. Check the tightness of your major fasteners, like clip-ons, pinch-bolts, caliper bolts, axle nuts, cotter-pins, etc.
b. Make sure there’s nothing hanging loose from your bike
7. Helmet, Gloves, Suit, Boots, Back protector, UnderArmor
a. Your helmet should not have any cracks and fit properly
b. Your gloves should not be torn
c. Your boots should cover the ankle
d. Your suit or jacket/pant should not have any tears or open seams
e. You should have a back protector (not a necessity - but a good recommendation)