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This is a topic I have been thinking about lately. I take my own personal experience when considering if crashing is part of improving one's skill at trackday riding. First I want to clarify what my expectations are when I do a track day- I don’t go with the hope of getting my racing license or being the fastest in my group- I just want to have fun and push my bike to limits not safe/legal on the street. My bike does dual duty- street and track so that might also have something to do with this mindset. I have done 18 days over the past 2 years- 60% NHMS and 40% NJMP. I always make sure my suspension, brake pads, tire life and tire pressure are dialed in which goes a long way in preventing a tip-over. Does crashing help you learn your limits more then say someone who rides to 90-95% of the bike's traction limits? I try to learn from people's mistakes and apply those lessons when at the track (and street). So far that has done me well with respects to keeping the bike on two wheels. I have ridden off the track both in NH and NJ though and have had plenty of PUCKER moments while at both tracks. I like to think I am getting better at honing my skills after each track experience but am wondering if I am pushing myself enough to continue that learning. I know it has made me a safer rider on the street though because I understand the limits of traction and the benefit of body position/bar input when leaned over.
What are other's thoughts?