PNW Riders

Deerhunter · 06-17-2009, 05:59 AM

I'm a track day junkie and am looking for input on why riders choose particular tracks for the days they schedule into their budget. I ask because I've seen surprisingly low attendance at ORP. This thread would be helpful if I could gain an understanding of what you need rather than information about what you don't like. BTW, I am not a track promoter or owner, just interested. If there is another thread I've missed that would help, let me know.

Mic · 06-17-2009, 06:43 AM

What you "Need" is a simple answer.

To Have Fun...

That is all...

Now, each person has a different idea of what fun is. Fun, is nothing but an opinion put on excitement.

ORP, just does not offer the "Fun" that other tracks do. It just doesn't flow well enough for some people, and it makes the larger bikes hard to get around and keep a good rhythm going that some people enjoy.

Personally? I had "fun", not enough to seek out ORP for every track day possible there, but maybe once or twice a year.

However, if I had a Motard to throw around that track, I would have a lot more fun (Actually took a WR250X around it, and enjoyed the ever loving shit out of the track), and would most likely spend a bit more time there.

HellsAlien · 06-19-2009, 09:18 AM

Mic pretty much hit it on the head; has to be fun.
Another way to look at it is that it is a lot like picking a skii run to suit one's experience, style and attitude/opinion about the 'fun.' I choose different tracks 'cause they are fun to try to master, they show me where I need to work on my riding skills. Blasting thru PR's T1 right hand kink at full throttle is a huge grin for me, but maybe not for someone else.

I've been around ORP as well, and to use a skiing analogy, it's like a double black diamond run on the backside of Bachelor. A tough in your face all the time 'kinda ride that requires more advanced riding skills like trail braking into off-camber turns. Most riders are not comfortable with that. Given that most riders are intermeadiate level similar to skiiing, an intermeadiate can physically make it down a double black d run, but they won't go back.

And they might not admit to their friends that they didn't have any 'fun' getting down!

Having fun at a trackday is all about knowing what you want to emphasize. That could be riding with buddies, skills/training, puckgrinding, or blowing the cobwebs out for big numbers down the straights. All valid 'fun!'

So let's go have some fun at the track!

theJrod · 06-19-2009, 10:01 AM

Originally Posted by Mic

What you "Need" is a simple answer.

To Have Fun...

That is all...

Now, each person has a different idea of what fun is. Fun, is nothing but an opinion put on excitement.

ORP, just does not offer the "Fun" that other tracks do. It just doesn't flow well enough for some people, and it makes the larger bikes hard to get around and keep a good rhythm going that some people enjoy.

Personally? I had "fun", not enough to seek out ORP for every track day possible there, but maybe once or twice a year.

However, if I had a Motard to throw around that track, I would have a lot more fun (Actually took a WR250X around it, and enjoyed the ever loving shit out of the track), and would most likely spend a bit more time there.

You just have to go faster (it flows better when you go faster). That track is a blast.

The only think keeping me from going there more often would be facilities. Need real bathrooms, showers, power, etc.

Lee650 · 06-22-2009, 01:00 PM

If I had my choice I would ride ORP before PIR. It is much more challenging and fun for me. I wish they had more track days there.

Mic · 06-22-2009, 02:13 PM

Originally Posted by theJrod

You just have to go faster (it flows better when you go faster). That track is a blast.

The only think keeping me from going there more often would be facilities. Need real bathrooms, showers, power, etc.

I would argue it depends on what direction you run it in.

CCW it gets broke up in a couple of area's, but is absolutely perfect on a motard.

CW it flows much better, and you can carry a much higher overall speed.

yard sale · 06-22-2009, 02:33 PM

its all about location, location, location...

only thing that keeps me away from orp is drive time. 5-ish hours in a borrowed rig with a rented trailer just isn't cost efficient so its tough justfying going there more.

i wasn't setting any track records on either but i flippin loved that track on both the drz and r6 equally.

Frill-dog · 06-22-2009, 03:10 PM

Need or Want? Always 2 different things...

In order to get the most out of my track days, I'd LIKE to have a pro-active control rider, either watch me ride then approach me in the pits with tips and suggestions or just approach me in the pits to get with him on the track to learn lines and tips for body position. I was with a group at Thunderhill and had a control rider give us a bunch of great info on body position and peg weighting that was far more useful than reading chapter after chapter and quoting geometry and physics numbers.

I WANT a good surface...Nothing makes me feel like I'm not getting my money's worth than a poorly maintained surface, although I do think it helps grow my skill set in knowing how to ride in less than perfect conditions. Asphalt bunching in brake zones, tar snakes and surface patches all happen on the street, so I chalk that up to "real world variables" that get improved on at the track.

I'm not on the track for the comfy cozy, if I wanted nice bathrooms and showers, I'd go to a day spa.

:

Mundefined · 06-22-2009, 04:24 PM

Required:

1) Flexible Attitude

My first session always sucks. Always. I go out and wonder why I even came out. I give serious thought to just packing it up and heading home before I embarass myself further.

By the second session, I'm ready to leave everything where it is. I resign myself to just taking it easy and playing tourist.

By the third session, I've gel'd with the bike and things fall into place.

By the fourth session, the fire is back in my eyes and I'm wondering why people won't just get out of my way.

On the last session, I resign myself to just playing tourist... until that rotten #@^*& passes me and it's GO time!

2) Bike

Ever since the last time I came up to the drive-up window on my Big Wheel...

Nice to Have:

1) Friends

Despite what the info-mercials say at 2am, they really are expensive at $3 a minute.

2) Airfence

Don't leave your bike without it!

rolandk · 06-22-2009, 05:27 PM

ORP>PIR hands down (and I live 3 miles from PIR). The only issue is the travel but it won't stop me from going. One of the principals told me they are adding another 2 miles to the track that will be more open/less twisty.

dwschultzy · 06-22-2009, 06:53 PM

What I need is a motor that will stay together long enough to plan my events at different track locations....

OOk · 06-22-2009, 07:06 PM

Originally Posted by Deerhunter

I'm a track day junkie and am looking for input on why riders choose particular tracks for the days they schedule into their budget. I ask because I've seen surprisingly low attendance at ORP. This thread would be helpful if I could gain an understanding of what you need rather than information about what you don't like. BTW, I am not a track promoter or owner, just interested. If there is another thread I've missed that would help, let me know.

The reason there has been low turn out at ORP is because of the economy, location and the fact it's not actually done yet. But the low turnout is not limited to ORP, it's very apparent at any of the local tracks. I've been to PR twice now and both days were deader than dead. It's a simple fact of fewer people doing fewer trackdays.
Hands down I prefer ORP (haven't done SMCP.. SCMP.. whatever its call, yet, but am looking forward to it). The surface at PR is shit but I love the layout and the surface at PIR is awesome but the layout leaves something to be desired. ORP is tits, and yardsale is a pussy for even thinking of complaining about the drive.
I plan to get back out to ORP in July or early August. Can't wait!!!

OOk · 06-22-2009, 07:08 PM

Originally Posted by dwschultzy

What I need is a motor that will stay together long enough to plan my events at different track locations....

Stop buying hand-me-down Frankensteined bikes then!!!!

cobra525 · 06-22-2009, 07:11 PM

Originally Posted by yard sale

its all about location, location, location...

only thing that keeps me away from orp is drive time. 5-ish hours in a borrowed rig with a rented trailer just isn't cost efficient so its tough justfying going there more.

i wasn't setting any track records on either but i flippin loved that track on both the drz and r6 equally.

Quityer bitchin'. If my trailer is not full, you always have a spot.

Originally Posted by Frill-dog

Need or Want? Always 2 different things...

In order to get the most out of my track days, I'd LIKE to have a pro-active control rider, either watch me ride then approach me in the pits with tips and suggestions or just approach me in the pits to get with him on the track to learn lines and tips for body position. I was with a group at Thunderhill and had a control rider give us a bunch of great info on body position and peg weighting that was far more useful than reading chapter after chapter and quoting geometry and physics numbers.

I WANT a good surface...Nothing makes me feel like I'm not getting my money's worth than a poorly maintained surface, although I do think it helps grow my skill set in knowing how to ride in less than perfect conditions. Asphalt bunching in brake zones, tar snakes and surface patches all happen on the street, so I chalk that up to "real world variables" that get improved on at the track.

I'm not on the track for the comfy cozy, if I wanted nice bathrooms and showers, I'd go to a day spa.

:

You will be hard pressed to have a CR seek you out in the pits just to give you suggestions. Any CR from any Org would be more than happy to help if YOU ask them for it.

Lee650 · 06-22-2009, 10:17 PM

Originally Posted by OOk

The reason there has been low turn out at ORP is because of the economy, location and the fact it's not actually done yet. But the low turnout is not limited to ORP, it's very apparent at any of the local tracks. I've been to PR twice now and both days were deader than dead. It's a simple fact of fewer people doing fewer trackdays.
Hands down I prefer ORP (haven't done SMCP.. SCMP.. whatever its call, yet, but am looking forward to it). The surface at PR is shit but I love the layout and the surface at PIR is awesome but the layout leaves something to be desired. ORP is tits, and yardsale is a pussy for even thinking of complaining about the drive.
I plan to get back out to ORP in July or early August. Can't wait!!!

I agree all the track days are a little lean this year. Doing PR in July for the first time any tips?

Mic · 06-22-2009, 11:29 PM

Originally Posted by Lee650

I agree all the track days are a little lean this year. Doing PR in July for the first time any tips?

Don't walk the track...

Seriously... Just go out there and ride!

You walk it, it will scare you :p

Seriously though?

Take your time the first couple of sessions, learn the track, have a CR tow you around to show you the lines.

Ride Ride Ride

Lee650 · 06-22-2009, 11:40 PM

Originally Posted by Mic

Don't walk the track...

Seriously... Just go out there and ride!

You walk it, it will scare you :p

Seriously though?

Take your time the first couple of sessions, learn the track, have a CR tow you around to show you the lines.

Ride Ride Ride

I've heard that from other riders. Too bad, with all the use that track must get you would think they would take better care of it.

Well it's a weekend track day so I could not pass it up. As you say just take it easy.

Mic · 06-23-2009, 05:38 AM

Originally Posted by Lee650

I've heard that from other riders. Too bad, with all the use that track must get you would think they would take better care of it.

Well it's a weekend track day so I could not pass it up. As you say just take it easy.

I for the first time, actually went around PR at a slow pace when they had the Kurt Husted Memorial Laps around it 2 weeks ago at WMRRA.

At speed you really don't see a lot of the stuff you "hear" people talk about. I was rather surprised at how bad it is in a few area's. It also made me realize how much of a genius Barry really is with suspension.

TJC · 06-23-2009, 07:43 AM

Personally, what makes a trackday fun for me is (in no particular order)

1. Space. Less traffic on the track.
2. Good surface. Not excited about crumbling asphalt or standing water.
3. Corners. My preference is to be knee-down at 50 instead of tucked-in at 150.
4. Good organizers. People who know what they're doing and don't waste tracktime.
5. Predictable weather. Driving 5 hours, renting a hotel, burning a vacation day is not fun if there's rain when you get there.

This year ORP is way up the list on all of those.

For me ORP is a blast. On a bike with a wide torque curve you can almost ignore shifting and just ride it like your favorite mountain pass.

yard sale · 06-23-2009, 09:18 AM

Originally Posted by cobra525

Quityer bitchin'. If i'm not broken, you always have a spot.

fixt!

D_Rail · 06-23-2009, 09:44 AM

Originally Posted by Frill-dog

Need or Want? Always 2 different things...

In order to get the most out of my track days, I'd LIKE to have a pro-active control rider, either watch me ride then approach me in the pits with tips and suggestions or just approach me in the pits to get with him on the track to learn lines and tips for body position. I was with a group at Thunderhill and had a control rider give us a bunch of great info on body position and peg weighting that was far more useful than reading chapter after chapter and quoting geometry and physics numbers.

I seek out people after I follow for a session from time to time, and I definitely don't have an issue doing it. The only problem with it is the fact that the information/advice isn't as well recieved by someone who isn't asking for it. So there is a fine line there, That's why I always pull of to the side of the track exit/enterance to chat with anyone that wants to roll up.

Hypnotiq · 06-23-2009, 11:15 AM

Wow. You guys sure want a lot.

All I need is:
A track.
A motorcycle.
Riding Gear.
Fuel.

And I'm good to go to have fun!

Mic · 06-23-2009, 11:34 AM

Originally Posted by Hypnotiq

Wow. You guys sure want a lot.

All I need is:
A track.
A *running* motorcycle.
Riding Gear.
Fuel.

And I'm good to go to have fun!

i fixeded it fo you!

Don't forget hydration though, gotta stay hydrated!

cletus · 06-23-2009, 11:40 AM

Having been to a grand total of one track day...soon to be two after Thurs, I've different perspective.

As a noob, it is still pretty intimidating. The pre-ride meeting at the beginning is critical. I especially appreciated 2Fast's pre-ride meeting where they took us on a lap (in the truck) pointing out the lines, danger areas, etc. I also appreciated the cones at the apex's of each turn. It was easy to play connect the dots, learn the track, and get comfortable. This in turn made it easy for me to relax and focus on my riding technique.

Patience/understanding from the control riders, marshals, etc. is also deeply appreciated....In my vast experience, I did not have any problem with this. When these folks showed an interest in how I was doing, and made suggestions, it made all the difference for me. I don't mean that us noobs need a babysitter, but just a casual "hey, how's it going", or "I saw you do this, but try this", or in my case...."dude, you seriously need to check your chain".....turned my day into a great experience.

I'm sure as do more days...the first was so good that I'm going to try going once a month this year.....other things will be important (like repaving PR).

OOk · 06-23-2009, 12:22 PM

Originally Posted by Lee650

I agree all the track days are a little lean this year. Doing PR in July for the first time any tips?

Pretty much what mic said. If you've only ever run PIR and ORP then the surface is going to be... different. Turns 2 and 9 are the bumpiest, just get used to the bike moving around if you're at any decent corner speeds. The bike will buck and pitch in 2, its normal. Watch out for the exit of 4 and 7: the surface is actually smooth but it's very pitted, creating a low friction contact patch. It's not hard to spin up the rear there. Turn 4 probably eats the most bikes, but it's a relatively easy off. Also, when you get up to speed watch out for the dip on the inside of turn 8. That can really upset your suspension and at speed can really throw you wide. You DON'T want to crash in turn 8.

If you haven't had a pro fiddle with your suspension settings you might want to at PR. I think it's like $40.

OOk · 06-23-2009, 12:23 PM

Originally Posted by cletus

(like repaving PR).

Don't hold your breath.

OOk · 06-23-2009, 12:30 PM

Originally Posted by Frill-dog

Need or Want? Always 2 different things...

Originally Posted by D_Rail

The only problem with it is the fact that the information/advice isn't as well recieved by someone who isn't asking for it.

QFT

As easy going as most trackday riders are, there is still a lot of ego out there, and some people just don't want to hear, unsolicited, that they could 'improve'. Certain personalities just can't take positive criticism.

cletus · 06-23-2009, 12:54 PM

Originally Posted by D_Rail

I seek out people after I follow for a session from time to time, and I definitely don't have an issue doing it. The only problem with it is the fact that the information/advice isn't as well recieved by someone who isn't asking for it. So there is a fine line there, That's why I always pull of to the side of the track exit/enterance to chat with anyone that wants to roll up.

This is good to know. For me at least, it is usually awkward to just go up to a control rider and ask for tips, or critique. I know that probably doesn't make sense and would be the first to agree that it is irrational, but seeing a bunch of people waaaay faster, smoother, etc. than you is a humbling experience.

the chemist · 06-23-2009, 12:55 PM

Instead of what I want out of them....the reasons I ride with different orgs.

Nesba: The company I ride with most. First, the CR's are the most helpful and always have been. A lot of guys on the boards are CR's with them and its nice to ride with people you know. Downside: no passing a CR without the wave by. Of course, until you're in A you're not fast enough to really pass them....Also, its a non profit organization so prices are usually cheaper. And, they've got weekend dates

Cascade: 30 minute sessions are a huge plus. Also, they run till 5pm, everyone else now goes till 4. So, you get an extra 30 minute session...and 10 extra minutes per session (another 70 minutes total)...so you end up with 100 more minutes or basically 5 sessions. Thats virtually a whole extra track day for like $30 more!!! I also like the passing rules. Bascially, be safe. Im not really worried about inside passing because I figure if anyone is fast enough to go up the inside of me, they're experience enough to handle it. A lot of guys (even in I) go white line to white line and swoop....cascade eliminates that problem.

Downside: because its two sessions, its beginner/slow intermediate and fast intermediate/advanced. Also, they only ride Portland (but i love portland so its whatever for me). CR's dont seem to care much, and I had a few merge into the track at about 70mph slower than me (merging onto the straight).

2-fast: Pros: Structure wise, lot like nesba without the passing a cr rule. The school seems to be good, but ive never done it.

Downside: Price. Ill ride with them on occasion. A bit more this year since Mark has been offering incentives.

Mike Sullivan Race School: The school was great. I learned a lot and had a great instructor with a 2:1 ratio.

Downside: price. the track day time during a race school day combines everyone. no structure to it. see sabora's video of when the guy stood it up and then dove back in, in turn 3.

Adrenaline Freaks: Never ridden with them. Its good that they are before a race weekend. Good time to watch fast guys go fast.

Con's: Price.

OOk · 06-23-2009, 01:14 PM

Originally Posted by the chemist

Also, they run till 5pm, everyone else now goes till 4.

I believe this depends on the track and what is scheduled after the trackday. At ORP with 2fast we were running until 5pm both days (they actually ran until 6 on Sunday because of two incidents that shut the track down for extended periods of time: a life flight and some spectator passed out in the heat and face planted on a jersey barrier!). Also, this year, if I remember correctly, we went until 5 at PR the 2 separate days I was there (2fast and NESBA). The 2fast date we for sure went until 5pm but I could be wrong about the NESBA date.

PeteN95 · 06-23-2009, 01:23 PM

1. Not having to put water in my bike to ride in the fast group, especially when the other groups don't, I mean WTF?!?

2. Not having to buy a membership to ride one lousy day.

That's really about it so far, but Sully's daughter's cookies are a big plus!!

I've only done one day at ORP, but it's already my favorite track and I can't wait to try clockwise. I was there at the first day with 40mph winds and crazy dust clouds, but it is an amazing layout. Curbs and grass would be cool, and that wall going CCW is a bit scary. If I didn't have a bunch of other stuff going on, I'd be back.

theJrod · 06-23-2009, 01:28 PM

Originally Posted by PeteN95

1. Not having to put water in my bike to ride in the fast group, especially when the other groups don't, I mean WTF?!?

2. Not having to buy a membership to ride one lousy day.

Everyone that rides the track should run water. Many orgs in other parts of the country won't let you turn a wheel with antifreeze in your bike. It's a safety issue, and it's really not that hard to do. Many tracks require it, like Pacific GP, regardless of what org you're with.

And PS: the membership you speak of is still free to NW people.

Mic · 06-23-2009, 02:08 PM

Originally Posted by thejrod

everyone that rides the track should run water. Many orgs in other parts of the country won't let you turn a wheel with antifreeze in your bike. It's a safety issue, and it's really not that hard to do. Many tracks require it, like pacific gp, regardless of what org you're with.

And ps: The membership you speak of is still free to nw people.

the chemist · 06-23-2009, 03:46 PM

Originally Posted by PeteN95

2. Not having to buy a membership to ride one lousy day.

Well if you're only going to do one track day....if not, why pay $30 more per day. Plus, as mentioned you can pay for it with the free $75 credit they offer.

Lee650 · 06-23-2009, 04:56 PM

Originally Posted by OOk

Pretty much what mic said. If you've only ever run PIR and ORP then the surface is going to be... different. Turns 2 and 9 are the bumpiest, just get used to the bike moving around if you're at any decent corner speeds. The bike will buck and pitch in 2, its normal. Watch out for the exit of 4 and 7: the surface is actually smooth but it's very pitted, creating a low friction contact patch. It's not hard to spin up the rear there. Turn 4 probably eats the most bikes, but it's a relatively easy off. Also, when you get up to speed watch out for the dip on the inside of turn 8. That can really upset your suspension and at speed can really throw you wide. You DON'T want to crash in turn 8.

If you haven't had a pro fiddle with your suspension settings you might want to at PR. I think it's like $40.

Thanks for the info.

Mic · 06-23-2009, 07:01 PM

Originally Posted by Lee650

Thanks for the info.

Just to add to what Ook said, another extremely bumpy area is Turn 1 on the outside. You want to try and hug the wall as much as possible, you go to far out, you get a lot of chatter. And at 150+ MPH, it can make you pucker right up if you are not used to it.

OOk · 06-23-2009, 07:22 PM

Originally Posted by Mic

Just to add to what Ook said, another extremely bumpy area is Turn 1 on the outside. You want to try and hug the wall as much as possible, you go to far out, you get a lot of chatter. And at 150+ MPH, it can make you pucker right up if you are not used to it.

True dat, double true!!!

One other thing, there's a crocodile moat jump on the back straight, you need to be doing a minimum of 110mph to clear it to the other side! Also, watch out for storm troopers in turn 6.

Mic · 06-23-2009, 07:33 PM

Originally Posted by OOk

True dat, double true!!!

One other thing, there's a crocodile moat jump on the back straight, you need to be doing a minimum of 110mph to clear it to the other side! Also, watch out for storm troopers in turn 6.

And the train crossing in Turn 7.

Also, never try and look for the bones in the corners. It's bad Ju Ju

the chemist · 06-23-2009, 09:03 PM

Originally Posted by OOk

True dat, double true!!!

One other thing, there's a crocodile moat jump on the back straight, you need to be doing a minimum of 110mph to clear it to the other side! Also, watch out for storm troopers in turn 6.

Originally Posted by Mic

And the train crossing in Turn 7.

Also, never try and look for the bones in the corners. It's bad Ju Ju

I've seen unicorns in 5...

oh wait, that was probably rob's bike

dwschultzy · 06-23-2009, 10:20 PM

Originally Posted by OOk

I could be wrong about the NESBA date.

yes you're wrong....i made sure to shut down the nesba event early


06-17-2009, 05:59 AM	#1
Deerhunter Endorsed Joined: Oct 2007 From: Portland, OR I Ride: Motorbikes	What do you personally need in a track day? I'm a track day junkie and am looking for input on why riders choose particular tracks for the days they schedule into their budget. I ask because I've seen surprisingly low attendance at ORP. This thread would be helpful if I could gain an understanding of what you need rather than information about what you don't like. BTW, I am not a track promoter or owner, just interested. If there is another thread I've missed that would help, let me know. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-17-2009, 06:43 AM	#2
Mic Moderator Joined: May 2007 From: Bellevue, Wa. Blog Entries: 15 I Ride: with both cheeks hanging off each side.	What you "Need" is a simple answer. To Have Fun... That is all... Now, each person has a different idea of what fun is. Fun, is nothing but an opinion put on excitement. ORP, just does not offer the "Fun" that other tracks do. It just doesn't flow well enough for some people, and it makes the larger bikes hard to get around and keep a good rhythm going that some people enjoy. Personally? I had "fun", not enough to seek out ORP for every track day possible there, but maybe once or twice a year. However, if I had a Motard to throw around that track, I would have a lot more fun (Actually took a WR250X around it, and enjoyed the ever loving shit out of the track), and would most likely spend a bit more time there. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-19-2009, 09:18 AM	#3
HellsAlien Training Wheels Joined: May 2007 From: PDX, OR I Ride: 2 garage-loads	Mic pretty much hit it on the head; has to be fun. Another way to look at it is that it is a lot like picking a skii run to suit one's experience, style and attitude/opinion about the 'fun.' I choose different tracks 'cause they are fun to try to master, they show me where I need to work on my riding skills. Blasting thru PR's T1 right hand kink at full throttle is a huge grin for me, but maybe not for someone else. I've been around ORP as well, and to use a skiing analogy, it's like a double black diamond run on the backside of Bachelor. A tough in your face all the time 'kinda ride that requires more advanced riding skills like trail braking into off-camber turns. Most riders are not comfortable with that. Given that most riders are intermeadiate level similar to skiiing, an intermeadiate can physically make it down a double black d run, but they won't go back. And they might not admit to their friends that they didn't have any 'fun' getting down! Having fun at a trackday is all about knowing what you want to emphasize. That could be riding with buddies, skills/training, puckgrinding, or blowing the cobwebs out for big numbers down the straights. All valid 'fun!' So let's go have some fun at the track! __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-22-2009, 01:00 PM	#5
Lee650 Zone Head Joined: Apr 2007 From: Milwaukie, Oregon I Ride: K1200R Sport; 07 600RR	If I had my choice I would ride ORP before PIR. It is much more challenging and fun for me. I wish they had more track days there. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-22-2009, 02:33 PM	#7
yard sale MotoGP Contender Joined: Mar 2006 From: 4to5 Blog Entries: 7 I Ride: slow in the fast lane like everyone else...	its all about location, location, location... only thing that keeps me away from orp is drive time. 5-ish hours in a borrowed rig with a rented trailer just isn't cost efficient so its tough justfying going there more. i wasn't setting any track records on either but i flippin loved that track on both the drz and r6 equally. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter

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06-22-2009, 03:10 PM	#8
Frill-dog Moderator Joined: Aug 2005 From: Medford, OR I Ride: like a mix between Fergie and Jesus.	Need or Want? Always 2 different things... In order to get the most out of my track days, I'd LIKE to have a pro-active control rider, either watch me ride then approach me in the pits with tips and suggestions or just approach me in the pits to get with him on the track to learn lines and tips for body position. I was with a group at Thunderhill and had a control rider give us a bunch of great info on body position and peg weighting that was far more useful than reading chapter after chapter and quoting geometry and physics numbers. I WANT a good surface...Nothing makes me feel like I'm not getting my money's worth than a poorly maintained surface, although I do think it helps grow my skill set in knowing how to ride in less than perfect conditions. Asphalt bunching in brake zones, tar snakes and surface patches all happen on the street, so I chalk that up to "real world variables" that get improved on at the track. I'm not on the track for the comfy cozy, if I wanted nice bathrooms and showers, I'd go to a day spa. : __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-22-2009, 04:24 PM	#9
Mundefined WMRRA Qualifier Joined: Mar 2006 From: Redmond, WA I Ride: then fly and stop suddenly	Required: 1) Flexible Attitude My first session always sucks. Always. I go out and wonder why I even came out. I give serious thought to just packing it up and heading home before I embarass myself further. By the second session, I'm ready to leave everything where it is. I resign myself to just taking it easy and playing tourist. By the third session, I've gel'd with the bike and things fall into place. By the fourth session, the fire is back in my eyes and I'm wondering why people won't just get out of my way. On the last session, I resign myself to just playing tourist... until that rotten #@^& passes me and it's GO time! 2) Bike Ever since the last time I came up to the drive-up window on my Big Wheel... Nice to Have: 1) Friends Despite what the info-mercials say at 2am, they really are expensive at $3 a minute. 2) Airfence Don't leave your bike without it! __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter*


06-22-2009, 05:27 PM	#10
rolandk Pit Crew Joined: Feb 2008 From: Portland, Oregon USA	ORP>PIR hands down (and I live 3 miles from PIR). The only issue is the travel but it won't stop me from going. One of the principals told me they are adding another 2 miles to the track that will be more open/less twisty. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-22-2009, 06:53 PM	#11
dwschultzy Superbiker Joined: Nov 2007 From: auburn Blog Entries: 2 I Ride: CBR	What I need is a motor that will stay together long enough to plan my events at different track locations.... __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-23-2009, 07:43 AM	#19
TJC Newbie Joined: Jun 2009 From: Redmond, WA I Ride: 1999 Triumph 955i + 2007 Ducati 1098S Tri-Colore	Personally, what makes a trackday fun for me is (in no particular order) 1. Space. Less traffic on the track. 2. Good surface. Not excited about crumbling asphalt or standing water. 3. Corners. My preference is to be knee-down at 50 instead of tucked-in at 150. 4. Good organizers. People who know what they're doing and don't waste tracktime. 5. Predictable weather. Driving 5 hours, renting a hotel, burning a vacation day is not fun if there's rain when you get there. This year ORP is way up the list on all of those. For me ORP is a blast. On a bike with a wide torque curve you can almost ignore shifting and just ride it like your favorite mountain pass. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-23-2009, 11:15 AM	#22
Hypnotiq MotoGP Contender Joined: Oct 2005 From: Issaquah, WA I Ride: Race: 06GSXR750 - Street: 09 Eight Four Eight	Wow. You guys sure want a lot. All I need is: A track. A motorcycle. Riding Gear. Fuel. And I'm good to go to have fun! __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-23-2009, 11:40 AM	#24
cletus Training Wheels Joined: May 2009 From: sammamish, wa I Ride: Ducati Monster 695 Suzuki Boulevard C50-T	Having been to a grand total of one track day...soon to be two after Thurs, I've different perspective. As a noob, it is still pretty intimidating. The pre-ride meeting at the beginning is critical. I especially appreciated 2Fast's pre-ride meeting where they took us on a lap (in the truck) pointing out the lines, danger areas, etc. I also appreciated the cones at the apex's of each turn. It was easy to play connect the dots, learn the track, and get comfortable. This in turn made it easy for me to relax and focus on my riding technique. Patience/understanding from the control riders, marshals, etc. is also deeply appreciated....In my vast experience, I did not have any problem with this. When these folks showed an interest in how I was doing, and made suggestions, it made all the difference for me. I don't mean that us noobs need a babysitter, but just a casual "hey, how's it going", or "I saw you do this, but try this", or in my case...."dude, you seriously need to check your chain".....turned my day into a great experience. I'm sure as do more days...the first was so good that I'm going to try going once a month this year.....other things will be important (like repaving PR). __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-23-2009, 12:55 PM	#29
the chemist ducatiduane Joined: Feb 2007 From: Cheney I Ride: but not on the street.	Instead of what I want out of them....the reasons I ride with different orgs. Nesba: The company I ride with most. First, the CR's are the most helpful and always have been. A lot of guys on the boards are CR's with them and its nice to ride with people you know. Downside: no passing a CR without the wave by. Of course, until you're in A you're not fast enough to really pass them....Also, its a non profit organization so prices are usually cheaper. And, they've got weekend dates Cascade: 30 minute sessions are a huge plus. Also, they run till 5pm, everyone else now goes till 4. So, you get an extra 30 minute session...and 10 extra minutes per session (another 70 minutes total)...so you end up with 100 more minutes or basically 5 sessions. Thats virtually a whole extra track day for like $30 more!!! I also like the passing rules. Bascially, be safe. Im not really worried about inside passing because I figure if anyone is fast enough to go up the inside of me, they're experience enough to handle it. A lot of guys (even in I) go white line to white line and swoop....cascade eliminates that problem. Downside: because its two sessions, its beginner/slow intermediate and fast intermediate/advanced. Also, they only ride Portland (but i love portland so its whatever for me). CR's dont seem to care much, and I had a few merge into the track at about 70mph slower than me (merging onto the straight). 2-fast: Pros: Structure wise, lot like nesba without the passing a cr rule. The school seems to be good, but ive never done it. Downside: Price. Ill ride with them on occasion. A bit more this year since Mark has been offering incentives. Mike Sullivan Race School: The school was great. I learned a lot and had a great instructor with a 2:1 ratio. Downside: price. the track day time during a race school day combines everyone. no structure to it. see sabora's video of when the guy stood it up and then dove back in, in turn 3. Adrenaline Freaks: Never ridden with them. Its good that they are before a race weekend. Good time to watch fast guys go fast. Con's: Price. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


06-23-2009, 01:23 PM	#31
PeteN95 Superbiker Joined: Jan 2008 From: Muk, WA I Ride: Suzuki SV1000N, XR650R, CRF450R	1. Not having to put water in my bike to ride in the fast group, especially when the other groups don't, I mean WTF?!? 2. Not having to buy a membership to ride one lousy day. That's really about it so far, but Sully's daughter's cookies are a big plus!! I've only done one day at ORP, but it's already my favorite track and I can't wait to try clockwise. I was there at the first day with 40mph winds and crazy dust clouds, but it is an amazing layout. Curbs and grass would be cool, and that wall going CCW is a bit scary. If I didn't have a bunch of other stuff going on, I'd be back. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter Last edited by PeteN95; 06-23-2009 at 01:26 PM..

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