I have signed up with Ty for a private track session on Sunday, 11/2. Since I've done the last 3 track days at MSR, I've scheduled it at ECR. I would like to find 1-2 other people to share the sessions with. Cost will be $250 each if 2 people join me, and $300 each if 1 person joins me. It will be from 9am-5pm so we will get a lot of track time with the current lap record holder (who happens to be pretty good at communicating what he's doing from what I've seen of it at Ridesmart days).
Please reply or PM me if interested. Don't really want to go more than 2 more so we can focus on learning.
Anyone?
Quote from: cm on October 21, 2008, 08:06:25 AM
I have signed up with Ty for a private track session on Sunday, 11/2. Since I've done the last 3 track days at MSR, I've scheduled it at ECR. I would like to find 1-2 other people to share the sessions with. Cost will be $250 each if 2 people join me, and $300 each if 1 person joins me. It will be from 9am-5pm so we will get a lot of track time with the current lap record holder (who happens to be pretty good at communicating what he's doing from what I've seen of it at Ridesmart days).
Please reply or PM me if interested. Don't really want to go more than 2 more so we can focus on learning.
Anyone?
So, what's the preferred skill level of the students? I'm assuming he doesn't want absolute noobs (1st time on a track), but would prefer at least Intermediate or better riders?
My concern would the track itself. I was on the track 3 weeks ago and it was very very green in places and almost non-existant in others. Just asking....
Quote from: RED on October 21, 2008, 08:16:01 AM
My concern would the track itself. I was on the track 3 weeks ago and it was very very green in places and almost non-existant in others. Just asking....
ECR doesn't look as smooth as MSR but it's definitely not bad and presents other corner variations. I've been there twice and enjoyed it (I love that right left combo turn after the front straight and the section after the back straight). Great place to learn braking and double apex corners also.
If 2 people confirm quickly, I'm willing to consider switching venues. Cost would be additional $75 each at MSR unless they are already members.
Quote from: BarneePhife on October 21, 2008, 08:10:05 AM
So, what's the preferred skill level of the students? I'm assuming he doesn't want absolute noobs (1st time on a track), but would prefer at least Intermediate or better riders?
I'll check on that. I suspect it won't matter much since there really won't be too many riders out there, and each student can work on different things per session. I wouldn't want him to be 100% observing me for all my sessions between 9-5! I'd rather have him make some quick observations and then allow me to get some practice time while he works with someone else.
[bang] Stupid Half Marathon.
If the spots are still open, Bonnie and I will do it [thumbsup]
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on October 21, 2008, 08:37:31 PM
If the spots are still open, Bonnie and I will do it [thumbsup]
Ok - that seals the deal! I just responded to Bonnie's PM with additional details. Let's hope for good weather!
Quote from: cm on October 21, 2008, 08:42:17 PM
Ok - that seals the deal! I just responded to Bonnie's PM with additional details. Let's hope for good weather!
(http://img2.mysmiley.net/imgs/smile/sign/sign0011.gif) (http://www.mysmiley.net/free-scared-smileys.php)
Quote from: cm on October 21, 2008, 08:29:19 AM
ECR doesn't look as smooth as MSR but it's definitely not bad and presents other corner variations. I've been there twice and enjoyed it (I love that right left combo turn after the front straight and the section after the back straight). Great place to learn braking and double apex corners also.
If 2 people confirm quickly, I'm willing to consider switching venues. Cost would be additional $75 each at MSR unless they are already members.
...To which brings up the thought that kept going through my mind last weekend is getting a membership out there. If I did what are the rules for track time?
Quote from: RED on October 21, 2008, 09:16:08 PM
...To which brings up the thought that kept going through my mind last weekend is getting a membership out there. If I did what are the rules for track time?
You can go to the track anytime it is open to members which is usually Thur-Sun every week . If a member with a motorcycle wants to run, there will be a motorcycle group. On a member day, they will rotate through cars, open wheel race cars, motorcycles...skipping groups that don't have anyone there. If you're the only bike out there, they will run your group so you'll have thet track to yourself. Nice thing about MSR is that they usually have at least the 1.3 open to the members. For example, last Saturday, while AMS Ducati had the 1.7 track, the members were running the 1.3. They usually do group deals on memberships (at least they used to) so if several sign up at once, the deal MAY get better. I may also get one next year but I usually end up getting enough track days just running with track day groups that it never made sense to me. Keep me in the loop when/if you decide to sign up. I wouldn't be ready until next Spring though.
Quote from: cm on October 21, 2008, 09:32:00 PM
You can go to the track anytime it is open to members which is usually Thur-Sun every week . If a member with a motorcycle wants to run, there will be a motorcycle group. On a member day, they will rotate through cars, open wheel race cars, motorcycles...skipping groups that don't have anyone there. If you're the only bike out there, they will run your group so you'll have thet track to yourself. Nice thing about MSR is that they usually have at least the 1.3 open to the members. For example, last Saturday, while AMS Ducati had the 1.7 track, the members were running the 1.3. They usually do group deals on memberships (at least they used to) so if several sign up at once, the deal MAY get better. I may also get one next year but I usually end up getting enough track days just running with track day groups that it never made sense to me. Keep me in the loop when/if you decide to sign up. I wouldn't be ready until next Spring though.
Thanks CM, I just found out that my 14 year old son wants to get involved now. He's never driven a motorcycle! He got so psyched looking at the pics of the track day and a Kawi 250 Ninja he said he wanted to get into it. So, I may see what the difference is between membership and track days cost and figure out what I can do. But I'd be ready by spring too.
So can anyone else attend this track day or is it full?
Quote from: Kevin848 on October 24, 2008, 07:24:56 PM
So can anyone else attend this track day or is it full?
according to Carlo, it's only 3 peeps with Ty, but I really don't know. If it is only 3 and something happens where 1 of us cant attend, would you be interested?
The track is actually open to members that day so there will be some other people on the track. The 3-person limit is for those getting instruction with Ty since he doesn't really recommend more than that because he wouldn't be able to provide the level of instruction that he would like. If other people are interested, please PM me (or reply to the thread) and I"ll find out whether he has guest priveledges for more.
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on October 24, 2008, 07:41:09 PM
according to Carlo, it's only 3 peeps with Ty, but I really don't know. If it is only 3 and something happens where 1 of us cant attend, would you be interested?
Yes I would be interested.
Quote from: cm on October 24, 2008, 08:24:15 PM
The track is actually open to members that day so there will be some other people on the track. The 3-person limit is for those getting instruction with Ty since he doesn't really recommend more than that because he wouldn't be able to provide the level of instruction that he would like. If other people are interested, please PM me (or reply to the thread) and I"ll find out whether he has guest priveledges for more.
Let me know Carlo, thanks! [thumbsup]
d@mn, this sounds like fun...
Ribs and thumb are good to go! I am excited!! [moto]
Quote from: Bonwilder on October 28, 2008, 07:11:12 PM
Ribs and thumb are good to go! I am excited!! [moto]
Really???
Quote from: Bonwilder on October 28, 2008, 07:11:12 PM
Ribs and thumb are good to go! I am excited!! [moto]
WoWsErS!!!!! A miraculous overnight recovery!!!!! ;D
Quote from: Sir L'Blur on October 29, 2008, 06:54:17 AM
WoWsErS!!!!! A miraculous overnight recovery!!!!! ;D
except she still cant open a can of soup or pull a pan out of the oven :P
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on October 29, 2008, 07:26:31 AM
except she still cant open a can of soup or pull a pan out of the oven :P
well, prolly about time you learnt how to do that anyway ;D
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on October 29, 2008, 07:26:31 AM
except she still cant open a can of soup or pull a pan out of the oven :P
Time for Ocean to graduate from bartender to chef [thumbsup] ;D
Quote from: Bonwilder on October 28, 2008, 07:11:12 PM
Ribs are good to go! I am excited!! [moto]
Ah reminds me of HC. [thumbsup] [drink] [bacon]
Mmmm.... Ribs [thumbsup]
[bacon] [bacon] [bacon]
[bow_down]
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on October 29, 2008, 07:26:31 AM
except she still cant open a can of soup or pull a pan out of the oven :P
whatever.
Quote from: Sir L'Blur on October 29, 2008, 07:35:01 AM
well, prolly about time you learnt how to do that anyway ;D
[laugh]
Quote from: Sir L'Blur on October 29, 2008, 07:35:01 AM
well, prolly about time you learnt how to do that anyway ;D
Quote from: Bonwilder on October 29, 2008, 06:33:40 PM
whatever.
[laugh]
Learned how to do that a long time ago..........
Quote from: Sir L'Blur on October 29, 2008, 08:43:11 AM
Mmmm.... Ribs [thumbsup]
[bacon] [bacon] [bacon]
[bow_down]
Somebody I know may have a private trackday with Ty on the 9th ? [clap] !
Quick update since I just got back from an out-of-town trip...
Weather looks good for Sunday, so we should be on track for this.
Regarding a private track day with Ty on Nov 9th - that's probably incorrect. I know Ty is teaching his typical Level 3 class at the RideSmart track day on the 9th. Fee is $50 above the $120 RS trackday (but could have as many as a dozen students if I recall).
Later!
Okay guys - track day update!! My day ended a little early. I wrecked...........again! :P Grabbed too much front brake, tanked slapped a little and then hit the track and slid off. Won't be riding anymore track days until I get a track bike - the PS didn't fair quite as well as I did. I picked up the bike and realized immediately that I wouldn't be riding it out of this one. That really left my heartbroken, considering I love the PS and it loves me too.... :'(. It can be fixed though! Anyway - i am feeling pretty good - +11tyb for being in shape!!! ;)
Hope Kevin and Carlo have a great day! You guys be sure to post up and let me know you made it home ok!
I am going to make a drink and lay out in the sun! Peace out! :-*
Wow :o Glad to hear that you are OK [thumbsup]
Quote from: Slag on November 02, 2008, 02:06:23 PM
Wow :o Glad to hear that you are OK [thumbsup]
+1 [thumbsup]
Quote from: Bonwilder on November 02, 2008, 02:04:50 PM
Okay guys - track day update!! My day ended a little early. I wrecked...........again! :P
Damn, girl! I'm glad to hear that you walked away from this. Sorry to hear that the PS didn't fair so well.
I think you should revise your name to simply, 'Wilder'.
Relax and get to feeling better - physically and emotionally. We feel your pain about the bike - we'll leave the bumps and bruises up to you.
Quote from: Bonwilder on November 02, 2008, 02:04:50 PM
It can be fixed though! Anyway - i am feeling pretty good
Awesome! ;)
Very sorry to hear your trackday was cut short... :'(
I hope all heals quickly and your wheels are 100% soon! [moto]
Quote from: SUPER DUKE! on November 02, 2008, 03:31:40 PM
Very sorry to hear your trackday was cut short... :'(
I hope all heals quickly and your wheels are 100% soon! [moto]
What Duke said !!! +1 !!!
Glad you walked away - again! [clap] +1 track bike (with sliders).
Take it easy girl.
Get to feeling better and keep the shiny side up!
bonnie you are the beez kneez! the cat's meow! for you to go down once and then jump on and hit the track a few weeks later gains more respect from me then you can ever imagine. [thumbsup] just think of how many have had accidents and completly given up ridin'. it's the same reason that so many in this group get so much respect from me. i know of at least two that had minor accidents and gave up ridin'. it takes guts to get back on that horse and ride. i bet your kids think mom is crazy but at least she don't quit and neither will i. get well and i shall see you at the next westie dinner although i think it may be on my "right from start" night.
Thanks guys - no worries here! I would have tried to finish the track day, but the PS gave me a big "make the beast with two backs you - learn how to brake pregnant dog!" .......and I agreed. [laugh] Anyway - yeah I will see you guys at the next westie dinner - riding one of those bikes out in the garage - possible the purple scooter......we'll see! :-*
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on November 02, 2008, 05:37:52 PM
yeah, but you'll be riding pregnant dog.......Morgan says you can't ride hers.........she's seen yours
[laugh] [clap] [popcorn]
When does Morgan begin her MotoGp career? Start them young = profit!!
Very sorry to hear about the track day, Bonnie. But I'm glad to hear you're O.K. - you're made of some pretty tough stuff that's for sure! Take care and I hope you're back on the PS soon [thumbsup]
damn.
just.... damn.
Glad you're OK [thumbsup]
Hope the PS heals up soon :P
I hope you didn't injure yourself.
Heal up and we'll see you in a couple of Thursdays.
cdc
ECR was a lot of fun... way more demanding than MSR!
Bonnie, glad you could walk away ... so very sorry you could'nt finish out the day and the PS got busted. I know we will see you on the track again! [thumbsup]
CM thanks for brining this up to the board, I wouldnt have known about it otherwise. I think it was really beneficial to my on and off track riding, Ty was very helpful and the chase videos really helped me to understand where I was making mistakes... oh and congrats on the SV I think I need to sale the S2R and get me one of those!!! [thumbsup]
I just cleaned up my bike at 2am......it looks good from the right angle. :)
Quote from: Bonwilder on November 03, 2008, 01:06:46 AM
I just cleaned up my bike at 2am......it looks good from the right angle. :)
I keep telling myself I look good from the right angle hoping one day everybody else will agree with me [laugh]
Shouldnt you be resting? ;)
Bon, it's very good to hear you are ok. I hope you get to feeling better this week. As the Cowboys will be doing maybe a bye week will do you well. [thumbsup] You said it at MSR bikes can be fixed. We're pulling for you.
Andi says she hopes you get to feeling better soon too.
Carlo checking in here...
First of all, I'm glad Bonnie is ok (if you feel funny in the slightest bit, please get yourself checked out. Internal bleeding is always a danger).
The rest of the afternoon went very well. Weather was PERFECT for a track day with the wind just picking up in mid afternoon. The tires were getting warm from just being in the sun.
As for me, I was pretty happy since I took delivery of my new toy - an SV650 track bike! I found a well set-up one (been raced in CMRA for a little over 2 seasons and came with a lot of the goodies, including upgraded suspension and woodcraft pieces) locally and the seller seemed very honest. Also helps that Ty was familiar with the bike (he said I'm the 3rd person that he's given lessons to on that bike - and the others are now in riding in CMRA expert classes...). More importantly, it should be reliable and was very easy to adjust to (about half a session and I started feeling comfortable on it). It also had a few spares (including a brand new set of fairings, front/rear stands, and tire warmers). Needs some cosmetic clean-up (being a track bike, it has gone down, but has been repaired) but runs great. Also has limited power (probably around 65hp) so you don't have to worry about the throttle as much, and it does provide you incentive to work on braking and corner speeds (which is what I really want to learn anyway). I was able to get my right knee down for the first time ever! I had so much fun with the SV that I didn't use the 748 the rest of the day!
Kevin was flying! He also had a ton of fun getting BOTH his knee sliders scraped up on the last session. I think he should easily be Intermediate at the next AMS track day (and possibly could even run in Advanced/Expert if he wants to escape the crowd judging from what I saw last time).
Regarding the instruction, Ty really has a knack for quickly identifying what you have to work on and he says the simplest things to allow you to figure it out. For me, he really helped me understand how to fix my issue with my right turns (my body position is just awful on right turns) and I now know what to look out for. He also clarified how much I needed to hang off and how to do it properly (not the wrap around the tank thing that you hear about). PM me for his info if you'd like to set up a session. If the weather holds up, I may be up for another one before the year is over.
A few other bikes (quite a number of Ducatis) showed up at ECR as well so we had about 6 or so other riders on track, but I really would only see 3-4 per session (as they lapped me).
Ok, now back to the reality of Monday mornings!
Quote from: cm on November 03, 2008, 05:59:27 AM
Carlo checking in here...
First of all, I'm glad Bonnie is ok (if you feel funny in the slightest bit, please get yourself checked out. Internal bleeding is always a danger).
The rest of the afternoon went very well. Weather was PERFECT for a track day with the wind just picking up in mid afternoon. The tires were getting warm from just being in the sun.
As for me, I was pretty happy since I took delivery of my new toy - an SV650 track bike! I found a well set-up one (been raced in CMRA for a little over 2 seasons and came with a lot of the goodies, including upgraded suspension and woodcraft pieces) locally and the seller seemed very honest. Also helps that Ty was familiar with the bike (he said I'm the 3rd person that he's given lessons to on that bike - and the others are now in riding in CMRA expert classes...). More importantly, it should be reliable and was very easy to adjust to (about half a session and I started feeling comfortable on it). It also had a few spares (including a brand new set of fairings, front/rear stands, and tire warmers). Needs some cosmetic clean-up (being a track bike, it has gone down, but has been repaired) but runs great. Also has limited power (probably around 65hp) so you don't have to worry about the throttle as much, and it does provide you incentive to work on braking and corner speeds (which is what I really want to learn anyway). I was able to get my right knee down for the first time ever! I had so much fun with the SV that I didn't use the 748 the rest of the day!
Kevin was flying! He also had a ton of fun getting BOTH his knee sliders scraped up on the last session. I think he should easily be Intermediate at the next AMS track day (and possibly could even run in Advanced/Expert if he wants to escape the crowd judging from what I saw last time).
Regarding the instruction, Ty really has a knack for quickly identifying what you have to work on and he says the simplest things to allow you to figure it out. For me, he really helped me understand how to fix my issue with my right turns (my body position is just awful on right turns) and I now know what to look out for. He also clarified how much I needed to hang off and how to do it properly (not the wrap around the tank thing that you hear about). PM me for his info if you'd like to set up a session. If the weather holds up, I may be up for another one before the year is over.
A few other bikes (quite a number of Ducatis) showed up at ECR as well so we had about 6 or so other riders on track, but I really would only see 3-4 per session (as they lapped me).
Ok, now back to the reality of Monday mornings!
Thanks for the encouraging words Carlo. You were running really quick yourself! Even with the HP advantage I had, it was WORK to keep up with you at times! [moto]
I may have to try and do one of these private lesson days next year. If time permits :-\
I wouldn't mind doing as many track days with instruction (or even without) as I can...
I like the AMS Ducati track days a whole bunch.
There is something to be said about the guy next to you having as much (or more) money in his bike as you do. There is a lot to be said for not having a bunch of kids on used R6's finding out what they don't know, on the inside of you, mid-turn! If I or a friend have a problem with a bike everyone at a Ducati track day has similar equipment, spares, knowledge, etc. And of course there is the AMS crew for help too.
I have never ridden as fast as I can behind Jeff Nash!
Like skiing behind a nine year old kid (for those that have -you know they are so good they'll piss you off!)
just follow his lines and mimic his technique and away you go!
...but his track days were usually during the week -and work often has me tied up.
I was talking to Toni about that the other day and she said the last Saturday track day was a big success
and they were looking into possibly doing more on Saturdays (and MAYBE Sunday too).
If this is something you would want CALL THEM (or stop by) and voice your opinion.
I'm sure I could learn a lot from most any good rider (certainly Ty Howard is in that group!)
but I still have a long way to go before I can say I've learned all I can from Jeff
and I feel "safe" in the enviornment he has at his trackdays.
After all, I don't want to push too hard on the learning curve.
I do enough paint and body work as it is! ;D
Not to take anything away from Ty, but I'll wait for his point of view until I learn a little bit more
-or until he comes to a Ducati track day! [thumbsup]
Yeah, to me it was a totally different feel at the private track day than with the Ducati group. It was pretty dead there, just a bunch of Porches, Corvettes and couple of Mazdas. I think with the exception of CM's new trackbike and his 748, the Paul Smart was the "cheap bike" on the track. I've never done a Ride Smart track day, but I can only assume it's filled with kids on R6s doing whatever they think is right. Fortunately for Kevin, Bonnie and Carlo the other riders there were members only and seemed to be seasoned riders.
But like I said earlier, it was a completely different feel. It was like....you're on your own. Bonnie and her bike hit the track (not dirt) really hard and I swear she got up and stood there beside her bike waiting for someone to come help her. I would bet it was atleat 5-7 minutes before the "rescue" truck showed up. She got tired of standing beside her downed bike and finally fealt that she would pick it up herself. She then walked across the track to the flagger who never even went down to help her. It was really weird.
That's one thing I can say I really appreciated about the AMS track day, you had corner helpers and Jeff was always right there to help.
[thumbsup] Awesome commentary on the trackdays Duke & Pipeliner - I'm learnin' just reading ! I appreciate your candor & your opinions ! I really feel for BWilder and her painful learning experiences, the dedication is inspiring ! [bow_down]
Quote from: SUPER DUKE! on November 03, 2008, 06:25:10 PM
I wouldn't mind doing as many track days with instruction (or even without) as I can...
I like the AMS Ducati track days a whole bunch.
There is something to be said about the guy next to you having as much (or more) money in his bike as you do. There is a lot to be said for not having a bunch of kids on used R6's finding out what they don't know, on the inside of you, mid-turn! If I or a friend have a problem with a bike everyone at a Ducati track day has similar equipment, spares, knowledge, etc. And of course there is the AMS crew for help too.
I have never ridden as fast as I can behind Jeff Nash!
Like skiing behind a nine year old kid (for those that have -you know they are so good they'll piss you off!)
just follow his lines and mimic his technique and away you go!
...but his track days were usually during the week -and work often has me tied up.
I was talking to Toni about that the other day and she said the last Saturday track day was a big success
and they were looking into possibly doing more on Saturdays (and MAYBE Sunday too).
If this is something you would want CALL THEM (or stop by) and voice your opinion.
I'm sure I could learn a lot from most any good rider (certainly Ty Howard is in that group!)
but I still have a long way to go before I can say I've learned all I can from Jeff
and I feel "safe" in the enviornment he has at his trackdays.
After all, I don't want to push too hard on the learning curve.
I do enough paint and body work as it is! ;D
Not to take anything away from Ty, but I'll wait for his point of view until I learn a little bit more
-or until he comes to a Ducati track day! [thumbsup]
It was funny how I was just mentioning to the group that went on Sunday that everyone seems to have a 'favorite' track day and puts a little bit more negative light on other track days. I hope that these statements were made with some research and actual experience. Having attended track days from MOST of everyone that puts them on over the last 3 months (ok, I haven't made it the one put up by Eurocycle in Ft. Worth or Buell but let me see...RideSmart, Texas Track Days, Lone Star Track Days, private member day, private instruction with Ty, and of course AMS Ducati's track day....and several of them multiple times), this is precisely the type of attitude that puts a little bit of that negative (snobby) light on Ducati owners.
C'mon guy, doesn't it seem a bit odd that you want to be on track with someone that has as 'much money (or more) in their bike'...I guess I must be doing fine since I just chose to bring some cheap old bone stock 748 to the track...everyone else has as much or more in their bikes than me...
Here's an objective opinion of the AMS track day - the prevalence of the Ducati marque and the euro brands definitely lend a different feel to the event and that's something to enjoy. The red bikes, the banners, the sound of the the desmo motors and dry clutches...However, I wouldn't call it a much 'safer' environment , at least compared to other track days. It's only 'safer' than some events because there were less bikes on track, but in terms of number of corner workers, adherence to safety rules, etc...it's not a whole lot different than other track organizations. For example, the last TTD event at MSR actually was 'safer' , i.e. no crashes of any sort and actually had someone get kicked out for violating safety rules. The AMS Ducati day had at least 2 crashes and I don't recall any enforcements for violating the safety rules. In terms of rule violations - the instructors were busy breaking their own rules...I personally was passed approaching the apex of Little Bend by one of them riding a Desmo. That's passing in a corner (on the inside no less, at least they should pass on the outside) as I was already darn close to my full lean for that corner...in Intermediate group which doesn't allow passing in corners. Another one recounted how he was passed around Rattlesnake/Wagonwheel in Novice by another instructor on a Desmo (don't know if it's the same one). There was also a Desmo on track during one of my sessions with brakelight on and mirrors untaped. Gee, how did that bike pass tech?! (brakelights are a safety concern with bikes because the lights are very distracting...and mirrors catching the light at the right time is another one).
Jeff Nash is a great instructor (and I am still trying to find time to try his version of the private track days) and AMS puts on a good show (for almost twice the price as the cheapest track day organizer - it better!), but the real news is that most track days are more similar to each other than you would think. It's the riders that make a difference and to a certain degree, a more mature crowd did show up at the last AMS track day. However, that isn't to say that everyone 'behaved' more or less than ANY OTHER track day.
Bottomline, if you bring a bike to the track, or even ride it on the street, you take risks. Track days are NOT races so I always judge their 'safety' by adherence to the safety rules and consequences of breaking them. In my book, the AMS track day was generally average in that regard....and remember, to someone out there, a 1098r is probably worth as much as some used R6, and if they cause my bike, and more importantly, me any injury, I don't think the type of bike they are riding matters.
By the way, objectively speaking again, Ty's sessions at ECR cost the same as Jeff's private sessions and there are a LOT more students in Jeff's sessions (though I think he brings Derek along also). We had a 3-1 student/instrucor ratio (and really more like 2:1 most of the day when we were doing 1-on-1 videotape feedback after every session).
FYI, I also don't need to be going to track days for track time (I can do member days at Eagles Canyon whenever it's open for cheaper than any track day and far less bikes)...but I go because it's fun being out with different people and enjoying the track camaraderie. Also, different instructors say things differently and teach differently, so exposing yourself to other qualified points of view besides Jeff Nash may just turn on that light bulb! I was thinking about it the other day but good riders ride by feel...and any instructor can only teach you so much (and mostly limited to what they can visually give feedback to)...so the only way to get better is to take some feedback and get some seat time.
If I just waited for AMS track days, I don't think I'd be able to improve as much as I have in 3 months...
Anyway, I hope to see everyone out there on the track more and yes, I will try and stop by AMS and let them know that I enjoyed their track day and they need to do more! The more motorcycle track days are out there, the more the tracks may pay more attention to motorcycle 'stuff' since all the tracks are predominantly car tracks and are maintained with cars in mind as first priority.
Quote from: cm on November 03, 2008, 07:27:58 PMC'mon guy, doesn't it seem a bit odd that you want to be on track with someone that has as 'much money (or more) in their bike'
It doen't seem odd to me.
For the same reason when the D16RR's were all on the track nobody else was.
I would hate to make a mistake that would put one of those at risk.
I didn't mean to come across as snobby,
-just cautious.
sorry.
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on November 03, 2008, 07:02:31 PM
Yeah, to me it was a totally different feel at the private track day than with the Ducati group. It was pretty dead there, just a bunch of Porches, Corvettes and couple of Mazdas. I think with the exception of CM's new trackbike and his 748, the Paul Smart was the "cheap bike" on the track. I've never done a Ride Smart track day, but I can only assume it's filled with kids on R6s doing whatever they think is right. Fortunately for Kevin, Bonnie and Carlo the other riders there were members only and seemed to be seasoned riders.
But like I said earlier, it was a completely different feel. It was like....you're on your own. Bonnie and her bike hit the track (not dirt) really hard and I swear she got up and stood there beside her bike waiting for someone to come help her. I would bet it was atleat 5-7 minutes before the "rescue" truck showed up. She got tired of standing beside her downed bike and finally fealt that she would pick it up herself. She then walked across the track to the flagger who never even went down to help her. It was really weird.
That's one thing I can say I really appreciated about the AMS track day, you had corner helpers and Jeff was always right there to help.
Member days are different in that you are on your own...By the way, corner workers are NOT supposed to come down and help. They are supposed to keep the flag waving and stay there. I happened to know the corner worker on Corner 3 and he is a very experienced corner worker and safety guy (also flags for Porsche races). If I rider is standing up, and seem ok, they will make sure that everyone else on track doesn't add to the incident. There was an incident at one track day I attended were the corner worker ran to the downed rider who had spilled oil all over the entrance of Turn 6. There were at least 2 other riders that went down since there was no flag in sight.
The rescue cart/trailer had to be rigged up to a truck which is what caused the delay. If Bonnie did not get up, there would have been a different reaction. Ty is basically another rider that has to follow the same rules on a Member day. He's not allowed out there like any other rider.
The number of support personnel during an organized track day is far greater than a member day. There are usually a ton of vendors that can provide equipment support for bikes, etc. that are not present during member days.
I wouldn't expect any more support for any of the AMS private sessions either. I haven't been to one so I don't know if they do anything special, but I've been to member days at MSR as well and it's pretty similar to ECR (though they now have some businesses based there so there may be more luck finding more 'support').
...and if you all ever decide to rent a track on your own (about a dozen or so of us did that at TWS several years ago with cars), it's all your choice on how many corner stations are manned (if at all), or whether you even have a crash truck...
By the way, Ridesmart events definitely have more of the younger crowd (hey, there was a 10yr old there that was flying in his minibike last time I went out with them). There's that price filter in place for other events (Ridesmart charges $120 and gives discounts to several clubs...even military personnel). However, I wouldn't stereotype it as 'full of kids on R6's doing what they want'. They're definitely more represented but there are others out there as well that I would trust to ride with. In fact, there are some regulars (graybeards) that were more similar in look/profile to some of the members riding on Sunday (one of those guys was racing since 1981!) and I would feel safer riding with them (well, for the brief periods I see them when they lap me). Not sure whether the big Ducati contingent arrived after you and Bonnie left but last Sunday had a lot of Ducs on the track.
Quote from: SUPER DUKE! on November 03, 2008, 07:40:51 PM
It doen't seem odd to me.
For the same reason when the D16RR's were all on the track nobody else was.
I would hate to make a mistake that would put one of those at risk.
I didn't mean to come across as snobby,
-just cautious.
sorry.
The D16RRs being on track by themselves was a bit snobby (and some marketing) in my opinion. What bike was being ridden had nothing to do with the rider's ability and to be safe. It was a 'statement' that someone had to have $70k+ to be able to run that session (or at least access to someone who had the cash) and sure made a great marketing video/scenario. Sure, a portion of our track fees and track time was allocated for those sessions and it was really entertaining seeing those bikes on track so it was worth the price of admission. However, putting it in perspective, cars costing twice that much (or more) are put on the race track with a lot less exclusion. In the world of the track, bikes are cheap. $70k doesn't even get you a properly prepped Porsche GT3...so why all the fuss? ;D
I wasn't trying to knock the track day, I knew it was worth doing after talking to other people about it and especially reading Kevin and your reactions following. When I say it was weird, it was different than the one and only track experience I have had previously. The corner worker in track 3 I'm sure was doing his job, I just thought it was weird that standing at the top of the hill I was watching all the action and the track was black flagged and all riders were pitted and the rescue truck was still sitting in the same location. The flagger in 3 knew she hit pavement hard and black flagged the track. Bonnie was standing there and walked across the track after several minutes of noone showing up. Who knew if she even knew what her name was at the time. The whole time I was watching I kept thinking, please tell me that guy has a radio, noone's moving and the track is cleared. What's the deal.
As far as Ty was concerned, I thought he was a cool easy to talk to instructor. Being someone who teaches AMA pro's I knew he could teach us. I knew he couldn't react to a crash, he was riding a race bike and would have to lay it down to help someone else. Ty really did a great job as an instructor and he even had great video of Bonnie and was able to give her good positive input about her riding. I am looking foward to doing a track day with Ty, but I believe I will get a "cheaper to me" dedicated track bike. If I had the money right now, Slag's R6 would be a steal. My R1 would make a suitable option too.
Also, the other riders there were pretty cool and easy to talk to. The guy on the Black and Yellow CBR1000RR race bike was entertaining to watch. I think his name was Matt (maybe owns a Honda dealer) He only used 1 wheel on every straight. From the time he left the corner till he reached his braking zone was a continuous power wheelie. That bike had some power! and he knew how to use it.
Quote from: pipeliner1978 on November 03, 2008, 08:17:27 PM
I wasn't trying to knock the track day, I knew it was worth doing after talking to other people about it and especially reading Kevin and your reactions following. When I say it was weird, it was different than the one and only track experience I have had previously. The corner worker in track 3 I'm sure was doing his job, I just thought it was weird that standing at the top of the hill I was watching all the action and the track was black flagged and all riders were pitted and the rescue truck was still sitting in the same location. The flagger in 3 knew she hit pavement hard and black flagged the track. Bonnie was standing there and walked across the track after several minutes of noone showing up. Who knew if she even knew what her name was at the time. The whole time I was watching I kept thinking, please tell me that guy has a radio, noone's moving and the track is cleared. What's the deal.
As far as Ty was concerned, I thought he was a cool easy to talk to instructor. Being someone who teaches AMA pro's I knew he could teach us. I knew he couldn't react to a crash, he was riding a race bike and would have to lay it down to help someone else. Ty really did a great job as an instructor and he even had great video of Bonnie and was able to give her good positive input about her riding. I am looking foward to doing a track day with Ty, but I believe I will get a "cheaper to me" dedicated track bike. If I had the money right now, Slag's R6 would be a steal. My R1 would make a suitable option too.
Also, the other riders there were pretty cool and easy to talk to. The guy on the Black and Yellow CBR1000RR race bike was entertaining to watch. I think his name was Matt (maybe owns a Honda dealer) He only used 1 wheel on every straight. From the time he left the corner till he reached his braking zone was a continuous power wheelie. That bike had some power! and he knew how to use it.
I didn't think you were trying to knock it...just wanted to explain what they were doing since I knew you weren't experienced on the track (as well as a private/member day). Bonnie being up meant there wasn't any sort of emergency. The flagger in 3 did not see her go down, FYI. He saw her as she was already sliding since he was also trying to follow the other bike that was slightly ahead on track. Like I said, if Bonnie stayed down on the ground, you would've seen a whole lot of scrambling.
Good idea on the track bike but to be honest, the track bike is financial insurance only on the bike portion. I personally treat the track bike very similarly to any other bike (with respect). Personally, in a crash, I'm more concerned about me than the bike...but a cheaper track bike definitely makes good financial sense. I sent Bonnie a PM on some thoughts about how I approach riding on the track that I thought I'd share in the hope that she has as much fun (and continues to go) as much as I do.
By the way, Matt is the GM for Maxim Motorsports (Honda dealer in Allen). He's been racing for a long time...the funny part is he 'took' Bonnie's spot for one session and while he's been racing for 25+ years, Ty actually saw something in his riding form, and when he tried it during the last session, he was amazed at how much faster he was. He actually accused Ty of holding out on him until after he retired from active racing ;D The advice - Matt (even as fast as he was), was using more lean angle than necessary so he was at the tires' limits but not necessarily the bike's limits. Ty showed him how he can improve his body position and allow the bike to have less lean angle to allow for faster corner speed and also be able to get to full throttle faster. Matt was so happy about that little discovery (and this guy was a racing veteran!). Matt was also a good guy and lent me some extra tie down straps. I had asked the seller to bring some extra straps for me to be able to take the bike home but he forgot to leave them :o . Fortunately, Matt came through (even gave me a couple of soft ties) and the two bikes are now next to each other in the garage. I'm about halfway done removing all the decals and numbers. I've got a paint scheme in mind for the new body work and I can't wait to get that done later in the year (Dec/Jan).
My overall impression from ECR was good. Ty was great, the facility was great and I really liked the fact that there wasnt very many people on the track at any one time... the last session was just me and Carlo. I was a little surprised that there was no tech inspection before you were allowed on the track.
I was probably the least experienced rider there and I never saw anything from anyone else on the track that gave me concern... well the guy on the R6 with the open exhaust annoyed me every time he passed me but other than that, all was cool. [thumbsup]
I thought it was a nice track - Ty was a great instructor - and not a big deal that it took them a while to get there with the wreck - it was my stupid mistake so I can pick up my own damn bike! Just sorry that the whole group had to clear the track because of me. Everyone was very nice and I would recommend the private track day for anyone who is interested! [thumbsup]
Now I will tell you how I really feel - I am glad I missed this whole shity conversation yesterday (even if I was stuck in lab doing ultrasound on the piriformis). The fact of the matter is that while I am fully capable and unafraid to twist the throttle, I should probably do a little less of this until I learn some f'ing skill without eating pavement. I am pissed that I have wrecked twice in two weeks, but shit happens and I am not going to beat myself up about it. I am glad that I walked away both times and most importantly - that I didn't cause anyone else to wreck. I am done with this conversation.
How about we focus on the positive things that have happened on the last two track days, like Kevin and Bryant got their knees down and cm got an awesome new bike - and that we are all privelaged enough to be able to do track days and then sit around and talk about that and lots of other stupid bs! There are worse things in life, you know? ;)
A membership at Cresson would be a great idea for some of you. It is very laid back, and normally there are less people. I have spent many sessions alone out there. They also send out there 4 wheeler whenever anyone wrecks.
Quote from: Slag on November 04, 2008, 05:24:33 AM
A membership at Cresson would be a great idea for some of you. It is very laid back, and normally there are less people. I have spent many sessions alone out there. They also send out there 4 wheeler whenever anyone wrecks.
I was thinking of getting one at ECR mainly because its much closer to me. The track was a little more interesting too but not quite as nice or moto friendly.
Quote from: Bonwilder on November 04, 2008, 05:17:54 AM
Now I will tell you how I really feel - I am glad I missed this whole shity conversation yesterday !
How about we focus on the positive things that have happened on the last two track days, like Kevin and Bryant got their knees down and cm got an awesome new bike - and that we are all privelaged enough to be able to do track days and then sit around and talk about that and lots of other stupid bs! There are worse things in life, you know? ;)
Wow - I really enjoyed CM's & Pipeliners detailed and candid discussions and felt like I learned some stuff. I've really been disinclined to go to a track but this discussion has me more interested. BWilder you are one tough cookie !! I don't know much of anything about tracking moto's but what I know about progress in other sports & skillsets tells me you have to go through crappy, mediocre, average, and O.K. on your way to excellence! I hope your learning curve smooths out a little but I admire your attitude & tenacity ! [thumbsup]
Quote from: Cyclone on November 04, 2008, 06:29:32 AM
Wow - I really enjoyed CM's & Pipeliners detailed and candid discussions and felt like I learned some stuff. I've really been disinclined to go to a track but this discussion has me more interested. BWilder you are one tough cookie !! I don't know much of anything about tracking moto's but what I know about progress in other sports & skillsets tells me you have to go through crappy, mediocre, average, and O.K. on your way to excellence! I hope your learning curve smooths out a little but I admire your attitude & tenacity ! [thumbsup]
Thanks Cyclone - didn't mean to stomp all over Tommy and cm's conversation - I agree that there was some good content there! Talk about focusing on the the positive, huh? lol! Anyway - yeah it's not how many times you fall down - it's how many times you get back up, right? I am sure my next track day will be successful and I certainly learned a lot from the first two! [thumbsup] [moto]
Although I've only ridden ECR once, I greatly prefer the layout, length, elevation changes etc. over MSR's.
The ECR run-off SUCKS, and their facilities are mediocre to non-existent, so MSR wins that one.
Quote from: Bonwilder on November 04, 2008, 05:17:54 AM
How about we focus on the positive things that have happened on the last two track days, like Kevin and Bryant got their knees down and cm got an awesome new bike - and that we are all privelaged enough to be able to do track days and then sit around and talk about that and lots of other stupid bs! There are worse things in life, you know? ;)
And cm also finally fixed his right turn problem and got a right knee down for the first time! [beer]
Quote from: cm on November 04, 2008, 06:36:59 AM
And cm also finally fixed his right turn problem and got a right knee down for the first time! [beer]
Awesome job cm!! Were you on the Duc or the new bike??
Quote from: Slag on November 04, 2008, 06:45:23 AM
3rd person is SO Bob Dole ;D
Bonnie got both knees down...at the same time [evil] [evil]
True dat!
make the beast with two backs you smartass lol [laugh]
Quote from: DLS on November 04, 2008, 06:36:41 AM
Although I've only ridden ECR once, I greatly prefer the layout, length, elevation changes etc. over MSR's.
The ECR run-off SUCKS, and their facilities are mediocre to non-existent, so MSR wins that one.
Yeah, elevation changes at ECR is nice. The 1.3 track at MSR isn't bad for bikes but too short. Run off is still pretty decent but I don't think ANY track compares to MSR. I've been to tracks all over the country and I've never seen one with so much run-off room! Other tracks have guard rails and concrete barriers in a lot of turns (which quite honestly, has kept me a lot more conservative since I started at TWS where they had more of those, vs MSR).
ECR will be good in a few more years. The member garage area is already getting built and they're starting to do some more landscaping to keep erosion in check.
I remember MSR when they didn't even have the main clubhouse building and they only had portapotties! It's gone a long way! I hope ECR goes the same path. Kevin and I met David and Linda Cook (ECR's owners) and they were very nice. They didn't want to rush us packing up so they just told us that we were the last ones there and if we could padlock the gate behind us, it would be great!
Dammit!! I deleted that ;D Thought better about the knees comment. Could be misconstrued!
Quote from: Slag on November 04, 2008, 06:49:12 AM
Dammit!! I deleted that ;D Thought better about the knees comment. Could be misconstrued!
I am leaving it.
Quote from: Bonwilder on November 04, 2008, 06:42:46 AM
Awesome job cm!! Were you on the Duc or the new bike??
the SV! I was nervous since I haven't really ridden anything else but the 748, but it took about half a session to start getting comfortable with it. On the last session, I was definitely faster around the corners on the SV. I will have to see if it translates back to the Duc at the AMS track day. The SV also had better 'feel'. I guess that's why people upgrade their suspensions (the SV has upgraded front and rear, including Penske tripleclickers).
Quote from: DLS on November 04, 2008, 06:36:41 AM
Although I've only ridden ECR once, I greatly prefer the layout, length, elevation changes etc. over MSR's.
The ECR run-off SUCKS, and their facilities are mediocre to non-existent, so MSR wins that one.
Other than the facilities and run-off (which had me a little scared before I even started the day) :P, ECR wins because the track is much more interesting and challenging - IMO [thumbsup]
CM, I am glad that the SV is working out for you.
Quote from: cm on November 04, 2008, 06:50:55 AM
the SV! I was nervous since I haven't really ridden anything else but the 748, but it took about half a session to start getting comfortable with it. On the last session, I was definitely faster around the corners on the SV. I will have to see if it translates back to the Duc at the AMS track day. The SV also had better 'feel'. I guess that's why people upgrade their suspensions (the SV has upgraded front and rear, including Penske tripleclickers).
Good deal! Wish I could have seen you on that bike - you were doing really awesome on the Duc! [bacon]
Quote from: Slag on November 04, 2008, 06:54:09 AM
CM, I am glad that the SV is working out for you.
Thanks! I think the slower bike will be good for me as I get started. It doesn't make me feel all that good when another bike takes off on the straightaways, but it's a lot of fun when the next corner comes up. I bet the SV can keep up with a lot of bikes at the MSR 1.3!
What shitty conversation is Bonnie talking about? ??? Did I miss something?
I've known Matt Maschmann since 1981-82. Great guy and yes, a very experienced rider/racer. To say the least. Known him from Al Lambs to North Dallas Honda/Suzook years ago and stumbled into him in a liquor store parking lot several years ago when he was out of motorsports. I bet we spent over an hour catching up on our lives. Then last Nov/Dec I was in McKinney late one afternoon taking care of estate business at the airport. Traffic on 75 SUCKED!!! heading south so when I hit Allen I dove for the McDermott exit. Ah, Honda shop, no traffic, sanctuary. [thumbsup] Bingo, spot Matt right off! Great catching up. Hell, I think I was there to damn near closing. Anyway, long winded BS story (gee, what a surprise!) but the point is he's a great scooter guy and extremely knowledgeable about the motorsports industry. Maxim is lucky to have him as Manager! [thumbsup]
Quote from: fastwin on November 11, 2008, 07:18:26 PM
What shitty conversation is Bonnie talking about? ??? Did I miss something?
I've known Matt Maschmann since 1981-82. Great guy and yes, a very experienced rider/racer. To say the least. Known him from Al Lambs to North Dallas Honda/Suzook years ago and stumbled into him in a liquor store parking lot several years ago when he was out of motorsports. I bet we spent over an hour catching up on our lives. Then last Nov/Dec I was in McKinney late one afternoon taking care of estate business at the airport. Traffic on 75 SUCKED!!! heading south so when I hit Allen I dove for the McDermott exit. Ah, Honda shop, no traffic, sanctuary. [thumbsup] Bingo, spot Matt right off! Great catching up. Hell, I think I was there to damn near closing. Anyway, long winded BS story (gee, what a surprise!) but the point is he's a great scooter guy and extremely knowledgeable about the motorsports industry. Maxim is lucky to have him as Manager! [thumbsup]
Sorry, please disregard the comment I made. :P