Here is a guest post from the other side of the pond by Matt Seigneur about Motorcycle Insurance.org.uk.
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Motorbike trackdays give you the edge on the road
It's a common misconception from fuddy-duddies and some motorists that trackdays encourage racing on the roads. In fact, it's the complete opposite. With some bikes being able to go beyond the national speed limit within a matter of four seconds, a trackday can relieve riders of the temptation to tempt fate with their license. The fact is, with some practice, experience and even a little racing instruction, bikers are one of the best and most aware motorists on the road. The full bike test is more difficult to pass compared to a car license, and by having the opportunity to test your bike fully on track, you can be even more 'at-one' with your machine.
By having a safe environment to understand how your bike reacts to curbs, long-fast sweeping corners and hard braking will give you an edge on the road. In most circumstances, it's necessary to have the correct motorcycleinsurance or a specific trackday insurance, however as it's becoming more of a trend, some insurers will have a bolt-on package for each trackday. When you have other bikers around you testing their bike's limits around you, the chances of having a collision are just as much as they are on the road, except they are usually at higher speed.
No one wants to see how much gravel rash their fairings can take so before your trackday, ensure your tyres have good tread, or invest in some trackday tyres, and that they engine is in tip-top condition. With a safe, well-maintained bike you can enjoy your trackday more. With your bike in rude health, you need to make sure you've slept well and have had a good meal, to maintain your strength and fitness when flip-flopping your way down the Craner Curves.
A few pointers for newbie bikers that are encountering their first trackday:
• Make sure you have a good helmet and leathers
• Listen and learn from the track officials
• Make sure your bike passes scrutineering (and no, bunging £10 to the tester isn't what I mean!)
• Don't punch above your weight and go into the advanced group. No matter how much road experience you have, if it's your first track day then you're a newbie and should go in the beginner class.
• Don't get over-zealous. You want to be able to do another trackday, right? Then make sure you keep it on two wheels.
So, you've sorted out your motorbikeinsurance and you have taped up your lights, ensured you're fit and healthy, and have a leak-free motorbike. Warm up your tyres, check your mirrors for faster bikes and let them get on with it, and ride your own 'race'. Practice perfecting your lines, braking zones, exit speeds and being smooth and in control. This will guarantee you have a more enjoyable day that you can look back on with a beer (when you get home!) and plan your next trackday. Chances are you won't want to ride your bike fast on the roads ever again.
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So, If you ride in the UK and need insurance, check them out.
Ride on,
Torch
