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I've decided to do some track days this summer, and possibly even get into racing for real a little bit later on. I was initially leaning toward picking up a 75cc 2-stroke that caught my eye for a town toy, running a few track days with it and seeing about jumping in the Formula 80 class or whatever it's called on the rare occasion they come around. I've been more or less talked out of running the little bike on the track, since those in the know are convinced it'll be too slow to be any fun. I still might pick it up as an around town fun bike.
For a track day bike that may turn into a starter race bike, I'm leaning toward an EX500. I'm partial to the FZR400's as well, but I hear there's more EX500s @ Louden, which will mean more rider support, more guys running the same setup, etc. Also doesn't hurt that they can be had race-prepped for very short $, like in the 1K category. I'm sure if I get really into it I'll want more bike eventually, but for starting out (on the track, I've ridden some on the street) this is the direction I'm thinking of taking.
What are your thoughts? Anyone racing an EX500, or know anything about them, and want to chime in? Any sick deals I haven't found yet poking around in the for sale forums?
One last question: I've got AlipineStar dirt bike boots. I assume I need a different set designed for street bikes for the track? I've still got pants, a jacket, helmet, etc. from my last street bike. I'll need a pair of all-leather gloves too.
Thanks,
Dan
Edit:
I see Oreo is lurking in this thread...
Do what ever he says.![]()
LRRS/CCS Amateur #514 / RSP Racing / Woodcraft / MTAG Pirelli / Dyno Solutions / Tony's Track Days / Sport Bike Track Gear / 434racer / Brunetto T-Shirts / Knox / GMD Computrack
Shitty Mcbikefest TM.... Go for it!!![]()
"I'd rather ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow"
Bikes: Ducati: 748 (Track) Honda: RC31 (Race/street)/ CRF 110 Mini Moto/ Hawk Endurance Racer Kawasaki: ZXR1200R
BOMO Instructor
EX# X
I was just going to say to do a BUNCH of track days before you decide to go racing. Get as comfortable with the track as possible before you enter into a competitive situation. Especially a place like Loudon where it is very technical. Learn the track nuances so that you enjoy the racing.
LRRS/CCS Amateur #514 / RSP Racing / Woodcraft / MTAG Pirelli / Dyno Solutions / Tony's Track Days / Sport Bike Track Gear / 434racer / Brunetto T-Shirts / Knox / GMD Computrack
I'm not sure about the boots, but most trackdays would like a one piece suit, or a jacket and pants that zip together. Not sure if the gear you listed qualifies or not.
Yeah, I certainly will. I'm not about to go buy a bike and show up at the races on my second day at the track. Good looking out though.
Loudon being so technical is part of what made me think it'd be a fun place for the 75cc 2 stroke, but I guess it's just not enough bike, even with the twisties and technical thing. Oh well.
Now I just gotta find a cheap EX.
My jacket and pants do zip together. They'd not actual leather but whatever that synthetic nonsense is. Not a mesh or anything, just not real solid leather. I got the impression from reading the WERA rules that they'd qualify. The synthetic seems to me like it'd be OK for a slide or two but no way is it going to hold up like a 40lb leather jacket. Then again, a 40lb leather jacket on a hot summer day is tough, I can pull the liner and open the vents on my stuff and it breaths pretty well.
To be honest I don't even know what the difference is between motorcycle boots and dirt bike boots. Damn this being new thing...
LRRS/CCS Amateur #514 / RSP Racing / Woodcraft / MTAG Pirelli / Dyno Solutions / Tony's Track Days / Sport Bike Track Gear / 434racer / Brunetto T-Shirts / Knox / GMD Computrack
Awww, you're just trying to make me a repeat customer![]()
Dirt boots are a little too stiff for a street bike but I guess you're welcome to tryMy guess is you'll want something w/ a little more flex and feel to them. Dirt boots have a lot of toe protection cuz of rocks, roots etc... ya don't need that on the street unless ya go off into the woods, in which case you've got bigger problems.
As for suits, a 1pc or a zip-together two-piece aren't necessary, but a good idea. As long as there's enough overlap between the jacket & pants so that there's no skin exposed while in the riding position you're good to go.
And don't forget some kind of hard back protection.
As far as TTD gear requirements go, everything is on the "Rider Prep" page of the website![]()
Last edited by OreoGaborio; 02-13-09 at 07:05 PM.
-Pete LRRS/CCS #81 - ECK Racing, TonysTrackDays
GMD Computrack Boston | Pine Motorparts/PBE Specialists | Phoenix Graphics | Woodcraft | MTag-Pirelli | OnTrack Media
The Garage: '03 Tuono | '06 SV650
LRRS/CCS Amateur #514 / RSP Racing / Woodcraft / MTAG Pirelli / Dyno Solutions / Tony's Track Days / Sport Bike Track Gear / 434racer / Brunetto T-Shirts / Knox / GMD Computrack
Your new venture, www.noel_is_a_man_hoe_ball_licker.com of course.
-Pete LRRS/CCS #81 - ECK Racing, TonysTrackDays
GMD Computrack Boston | Pine Motorparts/PBE Specialists | Phoenix Graphics | Woodcraft | MTag-Pirelli | OnTrack Media
The Garage: '03 Tuono | '06 SV650
LRRS/CCS Amateur #514 / RSP Racing / Woodcraft / MTAG Pirelli / Dyno Solutions / Tony's Track Days / Sport Bike Track Gear / 434racer / Brunetto T-Shirts / Knox / GMD Computrack
"I'd rather ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow"
Bikes: Ducati: 748 (Track) Honda: RC31 (Race/street)/ CRF 110 Mini Moto/ Hawk Endurance Racer Kawasaki: ZXR1200R
BOMO Instructor
EX# X
Note to self: Listen to Pete when it comes to bikes and racing.
Note #2 to self: Do NOT listen to Pete when it comes to vacations and women.
![]()
-Pete LRRS/CCS #81 - ECK Racing, TonysTrackDays
GMD Computrack Boston | Pine Motorparts/PBE Specialists | Phoenix Graphics | Woodcraft | MTag-Pirelli | OnTrack Media
The Garage: '03 Tuono | '06 SV650
Roadracing in MX boots is not feasible. Don't even contemplate it.
Boston --> San Diego
Whats Matter Cant Handle a Gixxer 1000?
Ex500's are fun and just about as scary as an open bike. But for diffrent reasons
Zip Tie Alley Racing #444
Signature edit by Tricky mike
I'm going to go out on a limb and say, no, I can't. I think a liter bike would be a bit much for me, especially on the track, what with the beginner thing and all
Open as in naked, or open as in open class, bigger faster bikes?Ex500's are fun and just about as scary as an open bike. But for diffrent reasons
Why are the EX's just as scary? The more knowledge I can pick up early on the better![]()
Just Ragging on you I dont think I can handle a 1000 On the track as well, Open bike refers to Liter bike.
I found EX's Scary Because on the track they feel like they are doing things they are not made to do. Like doing 90 mph on a skate board. However I did race one and did not die.
What ever you get on Just have fun, if you are a beginner you will be fine on anything.
Zip Tie Alley Racing #444
Signature edit by Tricky mike