Seeking Knowledge

[Nicolas07]

I'm not a racer yet, but in the upcoming season i will chase after that whole deal. But i have always been confused about one thing, that actually results in many things. Now i've read the whole rule book and everything, but i'm just wondering how it all works? Like what kind of people do i need in the pit, or do i even need people. Do i need to get sponsered or can i do it all myself? It would be great if i could get some help.

Thanks

[Steve]

Hey Nicholas,

Welcome to the club. To answer your questions, you don't technically need someone in the pits but if you were to crash and have to be taken away, you would need someone to deal with your stuff. If you do happen to be racing alone, it would be wise to introduce yourself to your closest pit mates and provide them with contact numbers in case of an "event." That way they can call someone to come get it.

As far as sponsorship, though nice, it's also not required. I would highly suggest looking in to LP's Privateer program as the discounts on parts for racers is well worth it. Plus you don't have to have a "resume" to get sponsored.

Last thing...Plan on spending twice as much money as you think you will need. Yes, it can be done fairly inexpensively depending on what bike and classes you choose to race but from my own experience, a season can cost you some coin.

Hope to see you out there next year!

[Nicolas07]

Thanks so much! I really appreciate it!

[whtnxt?]

Hey kid,
I'd also suggest the local Expereinced Rider's Course and checking out the Lee Parks, Total Control book. The first class is good for geting the bike and you interaction up, while the second is a decent first building block for enhanced bike control. Lee is a former WERA national champ, SV national champ, and former editor of Motorcycle Consumer News.
As a 3rd year novice(mostly due to work issues and lack of bike prep time), I can definelty attest to the fact that bike control is the biggest issue out of being on the track with 30 other novices. The major wreck I had in Portland was due to another guy with a mechanical didn't hole his outside line and crossed down on me going into turn 1. I've also been lucky and avoid others who've blown into turns and tried to cut back down or just not hold a decent line.
I've also been lucky in getting a local dealership to cut me a great price break on parts and service work. Plus the tire companies have doen a good job of stepping up contingency plans. Again, support the compaines that support the sport.

Dave
#843
MSF RiderCoach
SSgt USAF