03-04-2008, 04:49 AM | #1 |
Clit Commander
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Las Vegas
Moto: 2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale S
Posts: 4,189
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Concerns about my wife on the track.
I'm pretty sure she'll be buying the new 250R when I get back. That's all good. I'm excited about that. But the more and more I read about deaths and what not, I'm seriously contemplating having her just do track riding ONLY. Maybe get some practice in on neighborhood streets/big lots where there's not much traffic to get comfortable.
For the level one guys, do you guys encounter people that seems like it's their first time on a bike ever? I intend on her taking the class at the track day, so she'll getthe basics down as far as holding your line and all that. Actually, I can see why level one guys can only pass in the straights now. Because of people in the same boat as my wife. I'm just worried she'll get scared out there because of all the other bikes passing her fairly close. And I don't want her riding when she's scared, you know? Personally, I think she can do it. I just need a place for her to get the basics down, at speed, first. I know Kurt (Zortness) was going to get his wife a bike too, load it up on his trailer, and head to some practice spots and he said we should tag along as well, which was cool as hell. My biggest concern is her causing a wreck because she is not familiar with other people riding close to her. What do you guys think about her being on the track, even before riding on the street?
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03-04-2008, 07:49 AM | #2 | |
moderator chick
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Hill Country TX
Moto: Pasta Rockets
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Quote:
My best friend did that... MSF, learned the mechanics and how the bike works. Then... track, and has been racing since. She is one of the best riders I know. Not the fastest out there, but certainly one of the most smooth. Now, why is it you have these concerns and haven't sat her down and talked to her about it. Are you worried the hackles will go up? Do you realize you sound like a flashback to 1952?
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03-04-2008, 07:55 AM | #3 | |
Clit Commander
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Quote:
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Dress for the crash. Not the ride. |
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03-04-2008, 07:56 AM | #4 |
Grill Master
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Kansas City, MO
Moto: Yamaha FZ6
Posts: 960
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I was under the impression the beginners track days kept them pretty spread out. But I have no experience. But I think your on the right track, literally, my wife has siad the only way she'll learn is off the streets somewhere
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03-04-2008, 07:59 AM | #5 |
Clit Commander
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Las Vegas
Moto: 2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale S
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Yeah, they do, as far as split groups. Level 1, 2 and 3. There's also a beginners class which is $100 extra, but necessary. It'll give her a solid base to work with. I'm thinking we'll hit up some lots and/or neighborhoods to get her use to traveling at more than 10mph, like the MSF course.
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Dress for the crash. Not the ride. |
03-04-2008, 08:01 AM | #6 | |
Grill Master
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Location: Kansas City, MO
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03-04-2008, 08:11 AM | #7 |
Clit Commander
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Las Vegas
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The ones we have are always busy. Zortness and I will figure it out.
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Dress for the crash. Not the ride. |
03-04-2008, 08:17 AM | #8 | |
moderator chick
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Hill Country TX
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Quote:
A hackle is what happens to a cat when it sees something it doesn't like... many women do it when they feel challenged. They go on the defensive, then there isn't anything you can tell them on the planet that will change their mind... maybe buy them new shoes at that point... Any trackday company worth their salt will recognize the help she needs and give it to her. That goes for any new rider, male or female. Most of those can be spotted in the pit area, and REALLY on the round-robins... the death grip, the elbows, hell... you can even see them holding their breath. The track isn't about speed, it's about control. And, I can't think of a better place for someone to learn about riding at speed. If anything it will get her more comfortable with the bike, the balance, how it maneuvers, etc. The track isn't more dangerous... it's more expensive.
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We have enough youth. How about a fountain of "smart"? Come Play at the Track!! http://www.elitetrackdays.com |
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03-04-2008, 08:24 AM | #9 | |
Clit Commander
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Las Vegas
Moto: 2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale S
Posts: 4,189
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Quote:
__________________
Dress for the crash. Not the ride. |
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03-04-2008, 08:26 AM | #10 |
Hold mah beer!
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: 80 Miles South of Moto Heaven
Moto: 08 R1200GS
Posts: 23,268
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I would let her decide, if she thought she was comfortable enough to ride on street than you should let her. If not throw her into N, the track marshalls will keep her safe. I would at least find somewhere deserted to practice a little before though. Do ya'll not have some high school parking lots around there that would be empty in the evening to use?
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