Re: [NSVC] Track day prep

On Sat, 4 Mar 2006, Erik Weber wrote:

> 1) I have duct tape, painters tape, electrical tape and masking tape. Which
> tape should I use? Also, can I just put the tape on the glass? I have seen
> tape going across both the glass and the bodywork and I would rather not do
> this if I don't have to.

Duct tape is sticky icky stuff.  If they'll let you get away with
painters tape, use that.  Electrician's tape is probably the worst.
Gaffer's tape is good, but still not as good as painter's tape.


> 2) I hear that you should unplug your lights that are taped, to prevent
> melting of tape glue. Is this easy to do on my bike?

Yes. You want to unplug your brake light harness at least so the
person behind you doesn't use your brake lights as an indicator for
anything.

It might be easier to pull the fuse for the headlights.


> 3) What's the best way to rig up some numbers at the last minute? I was
> thinking about painting them on some white cloth squares and tying the
> cloth, stretched tight, onto the bike with string. Anything wrong with that?
> Anyone know if they have those large number stickers at Wal-Mart?

How big do they need to be?  You could use white masking tape on top
of a patch of painter's tape.  Can you put the number over the
headlight?  Or you could put black tape on a T-shirt and wear the
shirt :)


> 4) I've got brand new tires (15 miles on them), and my brakes look good. Any
> other tech inspection "gotchas" to be prepared for? Unfortunately I haven't
> had time to give my bike a thorough cleaning.

Make 100% sure that you're not leaking any fluids.  That's the one
rule I've never seen compromised on any trackday ever.


> 5) I have a "self-venting" plastic gas can. Any safety tips for carrying the
> gas can in the van (I rented a Chevrolet Express van)?

tie it to something so it can't fall over, keep the windows cracked
open and/or the vents on to keep the fuel fumes from acumulating.


> 6) Anything I should bring to the track besides my bike, my gear, my
> paperwork, food, my tool set, tape and gasoline?

a floppy hat, earplugs, camera, pencil, paper, dark faceshield, change
of clothes (you'll probably be sweaty by the end of the day) towel
(if they have a shower), a quart of oil (just in case) WD40, tire
gauge.....


> Any other advice?

Relax, go slow to go fast.  Pay attention to your instincts, if
they're saying, "something is wrong", it probably is.  Don't measure
yourself by anyone else on the track except yourself.  When you're off
the track, think about each corner, and how it connects to the one
after it.  If you're getting panicy or muddled, slow down a bit and
only think about one corner, get the line and timing right, then work
on speed.

        -Will

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