First time at the Track, Is it worth the investment?

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My Motorcycles:
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[@dww527]

Why didnt you take those mirrors off ? Obstructs your view, looks dorky, and slows you down a wee bit.

[@HeroRR]

I knew I should have explained that in the video. The reason why is because I was being lazy and didn't want to rip apart the fairings to unplug the mirrors and run the wire out. If I had to do it again I would 100% remove the mirrors. I agree with you completely, they were definitely obstructing the view.

[@dww527]

Remember my first TD 2011 scary fun, and after 4 more it became comfortable. Remember after session 3 after lunch many start to crash, inexperience overconfident. Dont follow close to anyone who is not smooth and consistent. Novices blow by you, blow the braking zones and generally cause havoc. Be safe and smart. If you find a safe fast rider ask if you can follow and if he can follow you after showing you the lines for some pointers.

[@dancarlos1216]

And less stuff to replace if you go down.

[@ThermicLight]

@@dancarlos1216 - Really? Your concern is looks dorky and being a bit slower? It was only his first track day. Not as if his there racing.

[@ihateeverything3972]

Doesn't matter. He's a beginner, the rider is what needs to improve not little things on the bike. The fact he isn't worried bout it is a good thing, the bike doesn't make the rider.

[@EzioAditore]

I went to my first track day just two months after getting my bike and did unnaturally well. I've always been fast at picking up technical hobbies, but the bike really speaks to me; I love it. My coach asked a few times after a couple of the sessions if I was lying about it being my first track day. At the end of the day, he told me I ride some of the cleanest laps he's seen, and when I told him I started riding only two months prior, he couldn't believe it. He told me I have some serious natural talent and to keep training. I then let it all go to my head and crashed on the street a month later. I hit a curb going around 50mph in a tiny roundabout. I almost made it, but I panicked, froze up, and didn't lean enough. After getting flung into the air, my bike landed tank first on my left hand. I had racing gauntlets on that thankfully stopped my hand from becoming a mangled stump, even so it surprisingly only broke one bone. Other than that, I was doing great with just some scrapes, but I currently have three pins in my left hand that are to be removed three weeks from now, and I'm still going through the insurance process to get my bike fixed. Moral of the story, confidence is great but don't let yourself have to much of it. And screw roundabouts. lol

[@StackedOdds76]

Once you get your own suit that you feel comfortable in especially your boots it gets a lot better and you will feel more comfortable and confident in yourself. Love your videos btw

[@_Napoletano_]

I had to buy a older beater bike for me to get more comfortable on track. I had the same worries about someone crashing into me or lowsiding my bike.

[@matthijskoster2669]

That's not a great track to start doing trackdays , with all the height differences and very poor quality asphalt.. I think a better track next time will give you more confidence and fun.

[@TheOriginalCoda]

Agreed. It looked terrible.

[@mickd2076]

You are correct it is a bumpy track with a few blind corners and several elevation changes. This is the only track I have ever ridden. Despite its physical challenges, which I concede, from talking to more experienced riders, who have done several tracks, if you can master the NHMS infield course, you can ride any track.

[@kobayashimaru8114]

I have an '07 track bike and it felt nostalgic watching this. While I still get excited about track days there's something especially exciting and nerve racking about your first time. I remember I felt both sick to my stomach and excited lol. Regarding braking... once you're comfortable to the point where you're chasing faster lap times, there's a LOT of time to be found in braking zones.

[@Oilyhands749]

Absolutely love your honesty, I think this is what’s stopping me doing one , can’t thank you enough for telling it like it is . Excellent vid .

[@croissantleclerc8650]

Love this video! No ego riding or talking smack, just straightforward and shows the learning experience of the first track day, makes me wanna do one now. Subbed

[@brahimmhamed5454]

I tell you what! You've done great. You went there, you had a nice experience, you did not hurt yourself, you did not damage your bike. I think your experience is a huge success. It seems like you are underestimating your performances. Do it again. If you don't mind about the 500 dollars, it is worth it doing it again. the same truck. It is your cure. You inspired me thanks a lot.

[@BlueDevilMoto]

11:29 you might have the concept of "trail braking" a little bit confused. Trail braking is staying on the brakes into the corner and holding pressure until you see the corner exit and can hammer the throttle. Not just braking with the rear.

[@ihateeverything3972]

I think he didn't explain well. What I'm getting is that he is trailbraking with the rear only. Trailbraking while using the front is a whole new animal, but he'll figure it out I'm sure if he stays at it. I'm always timid with that front tucking on me.

[@richoney5489]

I had the front on my dyna wash last summer, stab reaction my fault, but I came immediately off and it corrected itself, random braking story that vaguely related... 🍻

[@rampage3337]

i never got the impression of him saying you just use the rear brake. he said you use the rear brake when trail braking not that you only use rear brake

[@rampage3337]

@Thomas B kind of hard to get wrong unless you really aggressive. thing is that trail breaking is something you don't attempt until you are at least comfortable with the bike and att that point you are experienced enough to not just grab a fist full of brake. i would say trial breaking is probably the safest when you first start doing it as you are not trying to push your limits while ones you get comfortable that's when you might go to far

[@johnbrewer8954]

If you are trailing your brakes into a corner then "hammer the throttle" you will fall off.

[@dancarlos1216]

As you start to go quicker into the brake zones just be mindful the 600RR doesnt have a slipper clutch. Check out a channel called Master Yoshi, his stuff could help you out I think.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s great to hear what you have learnt as it will make you a better and safer rider on the road. As an ex Australian Superbike racer (who started racing in the Australian 250cc production class on a Suzuki RGV-250 v-twin two stroke, road going race replica). Phillip Island was my home track and I’ve possibly done 1000 laps. I’ve actually, even to this day, never done a track day. What you did was a track day experience. They can’t compete, nor teach you as much as you learn from racing. My first race was on a short course in the dry. I thought I was going really fast. 6 weeks later after two other weekend’s racing at different tracks (including PI) I returned to where I started. This time it was cold and wet, same brand of street legal tyres as in the warm dry conditions. When I came back in after my first session my mentor (who ended up being my manager) asked how I went. For me it was a simple answer. Slow. He just smiled and showed me my lap times, which were quicker than when I thought I was going fast in perfect conditions. It’s all about learning the art. When racing you can learn by watching and following better racers. 👍😎🇦🇺

[@OneZoNinja]

Great insight! You were really honest with your take on not only a track day, but your take on your comfortability level. You didn't come back saying yeah I passed everyone I'm the best now. So Kudo's bro. Great insight, great vid.

[@cbarbas]

Hi, I am following you a couple of years now and I really appreciate your honesty man, just keep doing it, thank for the videos.

[@pingchow4640]

Just watched your video. I just want to say that you are a breath of fresh air. Your humble personality and honest outlook is fantastic. I too wish to do a track day in the not too distant future. Thanks for being you.

[@ramankrishnan8552]

Subscribed! Great honest, humble recount with very useful comments. Keep it up and thank you.

[@BonjobyBasketball]

Hey Hero, nice to see you get out to track. I'm really sorry that your experience with that class wasn't the best. I barely rode on the street for about 1 year before I got into track riding and now I almost exclusively ride on track recreationally and only ride on road to commute to work. Honestly, I would recommend going to regular run of the mill track days before commiting to full on training schools. regular track days in my experience focus more on getting people in the right groups and rider safety etc. Most track days have optional tutorage available for cheaper than what the riding school by the figures you threw at us from the top. I would love to see more track day content from you man. Love to see it.

[@warrensmith792]

Glad to hear ya had fun and found it helpful! Body position is so so important even on easy road cruises. Racecraft is a hard thing to learn as well. I enjoy the kind of riding I get to do on the road. 55's and a cheek off, I'm happy👍

[@seth462]

The video was awesome!! I taped some rides on my 600rr and there is no way to portray the feelings you get while riding on film. Looks so much fun!! I would give my left nut to experience a track day. Wish I was still in Oz so I could do a track day at Phillip Island. That particular track doesn't look in good shape, but it's still a race track and you got to do it, so respect. Great info!!

[@mikaelbro2136]

Got the same bike as you. Been to som track ridning. Love it! Makes Road ridning som much safer. Going again soon. Really looking forward to it!

[@bxl1121]

I did my first track day last year and it was very bad ! I could not believe how bad I was! Guys on the track cheered me up and said everyone had the same experience at first. After few sessions I felt so much more comfortable. Absolutely fell in love with it. Got my knee down first time. I do it every weekend now and encourage everyone to do it just don't expect to much from yourself at first because no matter how good you ride on twisty roads you are going to suck on a first track day:)

[@jamestorres5582]

I think your approach was spot on . Look at the bright side . You're learning . Great job and stay focused

[@gregmccauley1687]

I think I'm in the same camp as you. Ripping ass is really fun, but I don't want to wreck my bike trying to be like Rossi on a track. It seems like there's no middle ground. If you go to the track you should be trying to push yourself and your bike to the limit. I love my bike too much to risk taking a corner at the highest speed I can muster.

[@dancarlos1216]

A normal track day is better, they move people around and everyone finds where they fit.

[@dondrap513]

I'd never take the one nice bike I own to the track for my first time - or maybe ever - unless I was well off enough to replace it without blinking. I'd buy something cheap, that if I don't wreck it, I could resell eventually and get most of the money back. A smaller cheap bike won't hinder anyone assuming it's not falling apart. The 600 he's on is way more bike than anyone can harness in their early track days, imo.

[@dancarlos1216]

@@dondrap513 I started on a GSXR600, have only done about 10-12 days total and now I’m on a Panigale 959 in A group with four different organizations. It just depends on how well you learn and apply yourself. Always seek further education through all our available outlets these days

[@mickd2076]

@@dondrap513 Understood. You can rent bikes from Penguin. They are Ninja 650's with clip-ons and rear sets, if you don't want to risk your own.

[@KimmyR3]

ripping on the streets has much more risk than on the track. If you can do it on the street, then it should be doable and safer on the track. Also, a track day is not a race.. we're out there to practice and learn skills most of the time.. you can about the track on whatever 'reasonable' speed you want.. no need to push you or the bike to the limit.

[@phxbeanbun1884]

very informative, saving up for my first day, planning beginning season next year! thx for sharing!

[@sicxdgixxd6326]

Makes me thankful for the nice track I ride on, totally repaved no confusing cones on where to go, and that track has repairs everywhere. But good video

[@MuhammadHammadAshraf]

Loved the video. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. Ride safe!

[@ShunHax]

Kudos to you for trying it out! I tell absolutely everyone, even a single day at the track is going to help you learn MUCH more then on the street... I absolutely fell in love with my first track day, and have been hooked ever since... Yeah I still street ride from time to time, but I find that my enjoyment come more from track days and learning from every corner I go through rather than being able to be free and travel the roads. I do still plan on street riding, but not on a sportbike, moreso a cruiser or something that a lot more comfortable. As far as the braking, you know you're at full brake when the rear wheel starts to lift up off the ground and you have to then start finding other ways to scrub off speed... leg dangle trail braking, etc. Once that tire is hot it takes a LOT to break traction with the ground. As far as body positioning - You should be able to fully lean off of the bike, have no hands on the bars and be able to hold yourself up with your outer leg on the tank, and your inner foot on the rearset... It also feel like you're WAY further off than you think lol. I can promise you're not nearly as leaned over as you believe... Body positioning takes time to master, and practice makes perfect! As far as the speed, I also tell everyone that is a track day beginner that you WILL get fast, but you first need to get comfortable. Get comfortable leaning, get comfortable braking, get comfortable with the g-forces felt under hard acceleration... Speed comes with comfort and pushing yourself just a hair. No need to blast into a corner, but try going just a bit faster while maintaining 80% of your effort. Leave room for mistakes, cause they will happen. The other few things I try and tell people bringing their street bikes to the track: - If you can avoid it... DO NOT BRING YOUR OEM/NICE FAIRINGS!... It's gonna be on your mind the entire time "what if I go down, I'll ruin my fairings". The last thing you need on the track is a distraction... - Don't look at... no... don't even THINK about the rear brake (unless you're off track in the grass). I've been tracking my 08 600rr for two years... my rear pad is still at like 95% life left... YES YOU CAN TRAIL BRAKE WITHOUT THE REAR BRAKE, I do it all the time... - Stop looking at your tach and speedo... it's not relevant on the track. Go off of feel... Are you freaking out cause you feel like you're going too fast? You're pushing past the 80% effort zone... Stop doing that. It's also another distraction you don't need on the track. Throw tape over it and go off of feel. - HAVE FUN... track days are about learning and having fun. You're surrounded by a group of people who are more than willing to assist you to get better and faster... As a whole the goal is to be safe, and have fun... getting fast comes with time, and everyone learns at their own pace... (FYI, if you ever try out another track day, I'd like to get back out to a north eastern track and show you some stuff! HMU!)

[@IndyMotoRider]

I've never done a track day. Footage wouldn't have bored me at all lol. Sounds like a great experience overall!

[@Bers3rk_tv]

I just did my 1st track day on my 21 MT07. And while wearing all the gear and boots, you really do feel like it's your 1st time on a bike. Everything feels out of place and even shifting was tricky at some points. Meaning the boots didn't give off any feel, unlike my riding shoes. But still learned a lot and had a blast.

[@78logistics]

Eight years? Took me five months. What a blast. Been twelve times now one year on. Get your own suit , wear it often and it will feel like a second skin. I can not begin to describe the leaps and bounds my skill level took with each successive track day. I recently took a race course and aim to try one by end season in addition to getting my new Gixxer 750 out there in lieu of my learner Ninja400. I don't get owning a sport bike and not taking it to the track. Good on you 👏 and your friend. BTW I am 63 and just completed five track days in one week. New Dunlop Q3+ rubber helped immeasurably. Get yourself a beater Ninja400, R3, KTM 390 or similar and thrash it hard....great learner bike IMHO . Money spent on quality training and mentoring is money well spent. Hope you go again...soon as possible.

[@glennquagmire835]

HeroRR, cool video. I did my first track day in 2007. Even though I have been riding for quite a long time, my first endeavor, with a track day, was with a "Beginners" class. I did that to learn things I did not know at the time and, as a matter of fact, I did learn something from the instructors (although the pace was painfully slow for my experience but followed the Control rider's direction). But, like I said it was my first track day, so I wanted to start at a level where I did not over-exceed my abilities at the "Intermediate Class" or above. For me, I found that participating in track days, somehow lessened my daily enjoyment of road riding as on a track, one does not have to worry about other on-coming traffic, wildlife, road debris or "5-0". I even did a track day where it rained all day and since the day was paid for, our track time was done in the rain (it really helps teach one to learn throttle and brake controls in wet conditions). I have not participated in a track day for a couple of years; but if you are willing I would give it another GO if you were ever to consider coming to Wisconsin to enjoy the 4.2 mile, high-speed circuit called, "Road America". (Proud owner of a CBR 600 F4i).

[@jg109426]

I have been riding for 4 years and finally feel ready to hit the track ! Great video bro thanks for putting this up

[@400chevlc]

Well done. It takes courage to do what you did. I was exactly the same 4 years ago and now absolutely live for track riding and club racing. Onwards and upwards friend.

[@SoloBlack313]

Hey man I look forward to my first track day, love your honesty

[@souvikdas2774]

Love your honestly dude, keep it up and thanks for sharing your thoughts, really inspiring !!

[@thorvelasco1467]

Congratulations! After my first track day, I always wear my leathers on the street, group rides etc. Some jeers, some laughs, then I unzip my suit to show no scars. All my friends have leathers now and ride street and track that way. You did good, you got a taste of going fast with no traffic, cars. You got to feel what Honda engineers were thinking when they developed your bike. Coaches are great as well. They can see what you are doing either leading or following to give you helpful advice. Can't wait to see more adventures.

[@Propaganda66]

Really cool seeing the guy who inspired me to buy a 600RR do his first track day through the same organization and at the same place I did. I did a “track experience” with Penguin at NHMS in May and that being said, you are right it’s definitely more of a race school than a track school. Personally I enjoyed the environment (my group had only one or two people who had previously done a track day), and I plan on going back. For you I would recommend TTD or Fishtail since it sounds like you’re looking for more of a “track school” and a nicer track. Loudon definitely has some character LOL.

[@turborsx5740]

Good job man! Nothing boring about your track video, at least you go to the track, unlike many people out there that gets 1000cc as their FIRST bike and doesn't go to the track. I'm also a new rider and going on my second track day this month. I do it to learn and to use my Ninja400 to it's full potential.

[@G3CK0S]

Awesome video. Thank you for your honesty!

[@Para-ni5lx]

Wow nice experience for ya! I’d love to try that too! Thanks for sharing

[@anselherz837]

Glad you did it man. I've been planning to make a video on this but I'll break it down real quick - I have a '10 600RR and after two years of riding went to my first track day last year. Like you, I signed up for the school, but reached a similar conclusion - sometimes the schools feel too limiting or discouraging. In my case I got an instructor who sucked, and another novice rider left early because he was so de-motivated. Since then, I've done three more trackdays, none with formal instruction, but each time I've met good people, had fun, learned things, and have since moved up to B group. I was pretty turned off by my experience with the instructor that first time, but really glad I stuck with it and went back on my own. Sounds like you're on the right track (pun intended lol) to do something similar - I think it will be worth it. A single trackday out here goes for $200, so look for something in that vicinity and it won't feel like such a financial lift. Also, since you're such a good mechanic, consider getting a beater bike (consider a 300 or 400) that you can whip into riding condition so you're not worried about crashing. You'll have more fun :-)

[@ramankrishnan8552]

You know it. Great suggest.

[@kirkdunn1379]

yeah i can see a dedicated bike and even a smaller cc bike to improve technique and not rely on power

[@dancarlos1216]

I’m sure that is a great way to improve quickly, but he is used to faster bikes. Personally I feel like being good enough to have fun and being on a bike you will enjoy are most important. Not everyone wants to hurry up and jump into racing.

[@magicstorm1]

Lol i just did a track school 2 days ago and one thing I noticed is some of the instructors were definetly fast but they are obviously not good at teaching. I thought I got lucky because I was assigned to an instructor that have won intermediate club championships .Cool,I got a private instructor. He was nice dude but oh man he was not good at conveying information that a beginner could easily understand. Turns out he is new at teaching and I guess I got used as a practice student 😂. It was actually not too bad, the key is I keep asking questions because if you don't then he won't know what your struggling to understand.

[@mickd2076]

Great video. I was there, I did the two days in June 2023. I spotted myself on the track walk. Compared to my first track day, I think you did very well, but you apex too early at turn six (the bowl), something I did my first time. I should point out I am not, nor will ever be a racer. I roll off the throttle at the 4 board on the straight! I do them to build my skills. As you expertly pointed out, you lean lower (no chicken strips) and brake harder than you ever do on the street. This gives you more of an emergency reserve on the street and makes you a much safer rider. The added bonus, who doesn't want to ride with no speed limits, no speeding tickets, no incoming traffic, and a clean road. I love Penguin track days and plan to do many more on my Yamaha FZ09 rat bike.

[@HeroRR]

That's cool man, glad you found this video. I've made some improvements. I really like the canaan track, it's a lot less intimidating. Maybe i'll meet you again in the future. Be safe & have fun

[@ZediMaster]

Gr8 vid, hero. Sounds fun and safe. Ride safe, god bless u.

[@famguy2]

I really liked my 4 days I've done so far at Hallett in Oklahoma. I know you aren't local to there but the course is so small it encourages you to work on everything you wanted to work on. Most of my time when I was working on something I would actually cap my speed and just focus on good entry and exit. Some sessions it would be braking, some sessions it would be smooth throttle and body position. I don't know your area but I would look for smaller courses if there are any, that may scare off the people who just want to go fast and not follow passing rules.

[@MrHan93]

HeroRR the main thing you enjoyed yourself and you learned a lot from it, you're a braver man than me! Loved the video great to see it from a beginners point of view ✌️

[@KyleMicena]

I just did my race license certification at Loudon earlier this year. Nothing like going to the track. I used to be a street rider up until a few years ago. About 10 track days later I decided to start racing. Loudon is a old school tight and technical track. I highly suggest going to as many trackdays as you can at other tracks as well. Loudon does have some sketchy parts too it. I’ve done 7 different tracks and Loudon is as tough of a track to get right. I would suggest if you’re a New England area rider to go to Palmer, NYST, NJMP, Poconos.

[@Knoxvillemoto]

My first track day was pretty similar. I bought a RS660 as my first bike and took it to the sandia speedway (in ABQ, NM).it is a similarly old track. I only had 10 or 11 months of riding experience when i did it, and i was absolutely the slowest or second slowest person out there. I had actuallybought my leathers the day i bought the bike, so i was pretty familiar with them and how they felt. I was certainly very intimidated. I tend to think thats pretty normal. We only had 2 people go down but i really didnt want to be one of them so i was really careful. I was super proud to have faced my fears and accomplished my goal. Id love to go back to another track. Congrats on doing something most people are to scared to do.

[@alexanderm4098]

Cheers for the insite on Track days, it’s also on my todo list! But I’ve first gotta get a new bike 😅 Always enjoy ya videos! Keep up the good work!! 💪

[@elvispusley3515]

Awesome video. I appreciate your honesty.

[@ToothDecay7758]

Great video, Hero. Would love to see you upload a video with just track footage and I'm sure others would too

[@User6327]

Awesome! I love watching people’s first time at the track. You’ll easily be addicted. Also, lol at the poor guy that showed up to the track walk in his leathers.

[@Dmytro-Shcherbyna]

I'm happy to see you did it exactly in the right way!

[@Dat335is]

Hey man I actually just picked up a 2007 Cbr600rr a month ago after watching all your videos. I actually watched one where you said your located in Massachusetts, I am too! If you ever wanna meet up man and cruise I’d love to get some tips from you. Your an awesome KZbinr and seem like a cool guy. Cheers ! Ride safe. Definitely let me know !

[@Dr.T-Bomb]

Great video! Track days definitely run very different at different tracks and courses and countries!

[@4krider20]

There is nothing like your first track day - very exciting time. Good video and good job on the track.

[@chihuahuaverde425]

Great video as always! Thank you.

[@noelcatanzaro3405]

Dude, everything you said sounds just fine and you have the correct attitude and respect for the sport ! I think everyone has all those feelings their first track time You went to a race school so they were prepared for you and beginner racers. You may have been more comfortable with a track day in beginner but without a coach or experienced friends it would have felt the same or even more sketchy. Most track days have plenty of coaches that will spend time to tuck in behind and progress at your pace ! That's how they get free track time, by coaching and safety monitoring . You never stop learning no matter how long you do it ( that's the best part of the sport ) your approach and attitude makes you a perfect student for this. Nothing but up from here ! Just remove the mirrors next time maybe a small obstruction but much better IMO. Maybe run water wetter instead of coolant. Just in case . Great video !!!!!!

[@603mike]

Whaaat!? All this time watching you and I now realize you’re literally the state over from me. I was there that weekend racing. NHMS is a super bumpy and technical track. I highly recommend trying out other tracks as well, and even other organizations, Tony’s Track Days, Fishtail Riding School. I was in your same shoes back in 2020, I was getting blown out of the water on my RSV4, but after a couple track days you’ll get much more confident. I got hooked, and ended up getting my race license. I’m doing NYST this upcoming weekend with Penguin. I have a couple videos on my channel at NHMS if you wanna see the racing line and faster paced lap. Tony’s and Fishtail has the “level up” kinda of pace that you’re talking about.

[@ZuminaZX]

I've watched a lot of your vids and have been encouraging you to go to the track for years. I would say don't get discouraged because you're significantly slower than those other guys. Your riding pedigree is just different and you will gain confidence and get faster with more experience.

[@DanielDunn]

Dude, Kudos to you on first track day, and for being honest and open to what was going on. I hope to do my first day soon, I'm a BRAND new rider, but dying to do this stuff. Looks fun, but kinda scary. 😆😆 But great job on the video and your day.

[@PLVC3BO]

Just a note for people hauling their bikes... this is after years upon years of doing so. You absolutely DO NOT need to strap from the handlebars (so many issues can occur with this method). A more effective way is to simply anchor from the front wheel axle (between the fork ends and the wheel). This way, you are not playing with suspension compression since anchorage point is below it, making the actual bike suspension work naturally when you hit bumps, and also the fact that it is anchored lower makes it more stable. Try it out, it's so effective that you could even not tie up the back, although, I still do it just in case.

[@MrTkshiu]

Good job. Thanks for passing on this information.

[@edwinrijos6679]

Yeah man love it that more people are doing track days. Quick tip is not necessary but i would advice you getting cheap body fairings so you can change them and ride with more confidence. at least you have in mind that your nice fairings wont get damage if something were to happen. Or you can get a cheap dedicated track bike is what i did. I have a K5 600 for street and my 99 sv650 as dedicated track bike. Yes you are correct most novice guys been stuck their for a long time some do it for fun others cause they want to improve. Had a guy tell me he could not catch me my 2nd day and he has been in novice for quit some time now. Love your vid bro keep improving👍

[@geoffmcwiggan2814]

Could I recommend California super bike school. Highly recommend…. You will learn a lot at your own pace with people that are at you same riding level. They are world renowned! Best of luck to you my friend 👍🇦🇺

[@glennmcc64]

I did a 1 day advanced rider training course a few years ago. The training was fantastic, yes body position and lines was the major take away. When it comes to the other riders, well they all have their own personalities, the quickest guy in our group was riding a 250, but I think he had the red mist when he was on the track, going fast, but not really applying what the lessons were about. The slowest was on a H2, I think the bike scared him, quick on the the straights, but nearly stopping for the corners, what a pain, he get in front of me on the straights, and hold me up on the corners, I did a few runs through the pits to get away from him.

[@kevinmckeon2543]

Well done dude, don't worry about levels and who's doing what at this point, just do your own thing and put the time in, and have fun. It will come. Similarly, I rode street only for over 10 years before getting on track, and like it or not you'll have some bad habits, but also some good carry over like probably pretty good throttle control. The thing with the groups is you can get all kinds of crazy stuff, like I've seen advanced riders go out in the beginner group because they don't wanna push that day, then of course they're ripping around full lean. You have to do your own thing and be patient, aim for full throttle on the straights, pick conservative braking markers and slowly work them forward, don't get overloaded with information.

[@flightbc]

I’m glad you get to try the track day. But you should try to find riding school instead of racing school. Keep it up. And I love your attitude about first track day. Keep it up. You are doing great

[@kirkdunn1379]

Good for you bro!.....it definitely cant be a bad thing and sure you learned alot you can transfer over to street......i always knew to ease on brakes and that braking actually sets up the chassis in place for maximum traction from motocross......i just got my first streetbike and offroad experience totally made me feel more comfortable right away.....i know alot of moto GP riders also ride MX...i would totally take a class like you did and everyone gotta start somewhere......am sure it will make anyone a better and safer rider overall.......

[@MrLunithy]

Mate way to go! bloody good stuff.

[@nothingtoseehere293]

I know I'm late, no strips yet? Keep looking. Still can't believe I watched reviews from a guy who didn't know how to ride for so long. 8 years though? The community loves you btw. Progress at your pace!!!

[@MalShakur]

I raced CCS there years ago. Thanks for sharing.

[@rcayabyab8994]

You should look into Tony’s Track Days (TTD). They’re based in Central MA and they have the best Class Time, as well as overall Organization. The Staff are fantastic (with a few who also take part in Loudon’s NEMRR Race Program). And many of the Customers there are more than willing to provide a helping hand to those in need.

[@philip5798]

Congrats don’t let this first experience put you off. The more you do it the better it gets. Keep at it and maybe try the California Superbike School if you get the chance

[@powamoto]

Amazing experience congrats bro 🙌

[@techo61]

I've always loved your video style H, and I'm sure everyone is very appreciative of the time you put into editing (because recording while riding is fun right?). Now is there any chance you can get the 954 on the track? I took my ZL1000 Eliminator to Oran Park for my advanced riders course and the boys on their R1/GSXR/Aprilia & BMW S1000Rs thought I was crazy how quickly I was overtaking them on the entrance to the main straight, not crazy risky but crazy how a 230kg shaft drive cruiser with a top box and my laptop inside could be so quick.

[@dem0n1k]

Good stuff HeroRR! First track day is always a ball of nerves! :D Just riding without mirrors is so freaky at first but you get used to it. Nice to see they allow helmet cameras at that track.. they only allow bike mounted cameras here. The main thing is to have fun without the worry of speeding fines XD BTW: I just got a 2007 Honda CBR600RR to use as my dedicated track bike! :D

[@NHlocal]

What?!?!? 😳 I was there both days, with the one exception of the quick thundershower 5 minutes before lunch the weather was great. I've grown up on and around motorcycles and I'm 56. I "discovered" track days last summer and will never forget my first track day which was with Penguin Racing School. I was terrified but also so excited I could barely breath. I was completely overwhelmed(and I still am most of the time) and to be honest extremely intimidated thinking I was going to make a fool out of myself and of course crash my bike. Learning how to ride the track on a ZX10R is a bit of a challenge to say the least. I was in a class - group of about 20 other riders and there were several that were "track day virgins". The coach/instructor did a great job of easing the anxiety and shared a whole lot of helpful information. I can't remember if I had John Donald on my very first day but he was one of my first coaches. The most important lesson that I learned on the first day, and I repeat it to myself often every time I ride is, be smooth. Smooth with the brakes, smooth with the throttle, smooth changing body position..... To be confident riding at the track the first time is not common. Having other motorcycles blowing by at crazy speeds and not having mirrors can be extremely intimidating and discouraging. Stick with it for at least one more track day, I think you'll enjoy a second day much more than the first. I have only gone to the Penguin school and for me it has been a great experience. I haven't been to a Tonys Track Days(yet) but the feedback I have heard is all good. As far as the price I "slowly" added to my gear before I went to a track day so all I had to invest in was the cost of the school for a day. I live 20 minutes away from NHMS so I ride my bike there and my wife follows in the car with my gear. They have a "Learn to Fly" program that can save you money depending on how many times you go. It is so very addicting, once you're hooked you can't get enough. I hope you will go to more track days and post up a bit more "on track" video. Just a side note, putting a GoPro on your bike to get video of yourself riding can be a big help to improve your riding technique..... one on the front, one on the back and both facing you. Thanks again for the great video. Just subbed ya'. Keep yourself safe! 😃👍❤🏍 Randy

[@HeroRR]

Haha that’s awesome I had a feeling someone from there was gonna see my video. Thanks for the advice I’ll look into ordering some more cameras :)

[@NHlocal]

@@HeroRR I have never had so much "fun" on a motorcycle. The "kids" that blow by me on their Ninja 400s keep me very humble and also encourage me to get at least good enough to be able to follow for a lap or 2..... there's always more to learn. 😃👍❤🏍 Hope to see you there again. Keep yourself safe!

[@geese7484]

I’m in Advance group, but I enjoy watching new riders on the track. You’re doing good bro! Keep it up. You’ll be fast asf in no time. Track days will definitely humble you. Since it’s “beginner” group, you’ll have different level of beginners and some do stupid shit like passing on the inside or whatever. Some are fast B and some are really slow… like really slow. My first track day, I thought was going to be a fast beginner and I got shitted on my so many people lmao leave your ego at home and ride your ride.

[@thealvaco]

Track riding really helped my skills as a road rider. Never knew how hard you could brake, how hard you can lean, how fast your bike is... And its really fun.

[@clashwithmoi8926]

hey man, just want to say, for a 08 CBR, your bike is in very very good condition. good job on taking care of it

[@ChaseN194]

Penguin is a really great racing school, but it is a school more designed for racing, doing your first day with them can be a bit rough because a lot of the other riders have practiced with other groups(such as TTD or Evolve). It also goes to show you, you have been riding 10s of thousands of miles not even knowing the limits of your brakes, road riding really does not prepare us to handle even a 600cc sportbike, let alone allow us to really experience how amazing these bikes can be. I would SERIOUSLY go to a Tonys Track Day event(especially since they are closer to you in mass), they are very organized and a lot of the coaches race at a pro level, and they have a much more structured curriculum as well as body position seminars and 1 on 1 coaching sessions. Tonys also rides mostly at Palmer Motorsports park, THompson and NYST where are MUCH smoother tracks(and larger). Tonys has 4 classes, 1st class for 1st time track riders, 2nd class is for intermediate semi-experienced riders, 3rd classof riders is advanced, 4th class is pro. They also do NOT allow block passing or inside passing, inside passing is strictly forbidden in all TRACKDAY organizations, but you went to a RACEDAY organization. Penguin is a REALLY great school, but for upper advanced riders, it can be really intimidating for beginners or first timers, where as Tonys is MUCH more organized for first time track riders and their classes are tailored to each class of rider. Tonys non-member days are also MUCH cheaper than Penguin, TTD(Tonys) is about 200-300 a day instead of 500, and a LOT of the coaches pro race at Loudon just like Penguin.

[@Propaganda66]

I will say that Penguin is only 250/day, he did 2 days. It’s on par with TTD/Fishtail.

[@bit0fun]

NYST does have rookie days, with tickets only at $125! Signed up for the one in a few weeks myself; should be fun

[@ChaseN194]

@@Propaganda66 Penguin is a great value for people looking to get their race license after already getting used to track riding with a more tame/safe trackday organizer such as Tonys or Evolve. They are arguably one of the best race schools in the usa and are well known. But as a first trackday spot, I could see how the riders going to penguin could be really anxiety inducing for brand new riders that have never been to a trackday.

[@ChaseN194]

@@bit0fun ehhh, better than a race school, still a bit more rowdy than an organizer. Nyst i a great vibe tho, never can go wrong with any group at nyst.

[@richoney5489]

I've been watching a cpl years. I love the bikes. Do you have any experience in Gran Tourismo, Forza, etc? I think teaching you what your bike can do at (your) limit is what a track days all about and that absolutely makes you a better rider all around. I had an 83 CX650 custom @16 and CBR 6 F2 @ 18... @ 40 I'm on Dyna but I still use all the skills I've gained in 34 yrs since that pw 50... I hope u go back. Cheers

[@olis790]

Track days are nice. I found that with the way they group riders you can have slow and fast riders in the same group. Here white group is for beginner or first time track riders. I was in this group on my VFR800 it had a mix of learner riders on ninja 300s and guys on 600s and 1000s. I found it to be quite dangerous. But will definitely go again just go a group higher.

[@v4pilot331]

I appreciate your enthusiasm.

[@TankToChest]

Hell yeah man as a road racer I feel very confident about actually riding at a track day. I’ll find something I like and pound it over and over again going faster. Gonna eat some corners fer breakfast.

[@AgricUltra]

I love your honesty. Great vid. I’m also a first timer.

[@chestypuller4591]

Try the Yamaha Champ school if it comes your way. They have classes that are designed for street folks. Good riding gear required. They also run classes if you are more into gaining racing technique. Full race gear required. Worth a look my friend. Their online courses are excellent as well.

[@meds4all]

I am feeling that it's time for me to do a track day. I haven't been on the stretch much the last few years simply because the roads around me have not been taken care of. And I'm not a cruise around town type rider. I'm currently talking with some friends to see of they are interested. Mostly cause until ya meet new folks having a buddy there is a nice crutch to start with, and share travel expenses also. I think it'll be next year and not sure Maybe Evo or N2 or stt Pitt raceway is 6 hours but have a free place to stay and Pocono is just at 2 hours but would need to camp or hotel it.

[@jamest5149]

Tracks with multiple layouts and bank turns (overalls) where they use the in field are hard to learn and work your way around… inshore just focusing on the ribbon of tarmac, kerbs and etc which are easy to see and follow, using cones to mark the layout is difficult especially when tyre rubbber on the track suggests one direction for a previous layout then you find the cones direct you totally different. Also concrete is the best either. These tracks are typically made for car racing and have little run off and high concrete and metal barriers right next to the track.

[@drasticthompson1995]

Hero My Guy, have you never watched Twist Of The Wrist 2? I have watched it probably 100x and listened to the entire video playing in my pocket at least 50x! Everything you are talking about is in it. I have contoured my riding to that and Canyon Chaser’s video’s and YCRS vid’s. I have not been to a track yet but all I have done for the last 15k miles is trail braking and body positioning. I ride the street like I am on a track. But I stay in one lane. Once at the track I will have the entire way to pick my lines! Stay safe Bruddah and thanks for sharing.

[@ChaseN194]

twist of the wrist is a great start, and Keith Codes school is also a great place to learn, his son does a great job, but its a START, nothing beats having a coach on track showing you how to apply it.

[@willterhart6767]

This has nothing to do with track riding, but honestly that 600rr is IMO the best looking sportbike I have ever seen, regardless of power or year. I fell in love with this year and model and colorway from using it in the excellent racing game Ride 4 years before I had seen your channel. When I watched your vid about all the mods you did to it, I had the thought that Merriam Webster should have a pic of this bike under the "supersport" or "sportbike" entry. That is to say, to me, it is exactly what a sportbike should look like, and all the modding is tasteful. Thanks for the video and please keep treating that beautiful motorcycle well.

[@professorvoluck9311]

It’s definitely the best looking CBR they built. Looks damn modern for 15 years old.

[@willterhart6767]

@@professorvoluck9311 Its true what you say. I think its similar for all the big 4 supersports. The 2009 GSXR600 is another example, and so are the 2004 R1 and the 2008 ZX6r. Obviously I am a bit biased toward late 90s and 2000s sportbike aesthetics because of my age, but I dont think that explains it 100%. If any of those 3 were first released for sale next week, even really young riders would think they are appealing. In my eyes the current crop of supersports are sort of "futuristic" in that they look like their designers were aiming to create something that will reach peak appeal in 10 or 15 years. Its a trend that you can see all the way back to the late 80s in stuff like the RC45 and ZXR750

[@wenerassis8435]

Nice 👍 I'm planning go to my first track day next spring, getting more information now... 🤣

[@brianrasmussen7155]

Hello. Nice video. I had my first track day on my Honda vfr 800 f 1 month ago and am excited to try again next Monday on a new track. My bike is new (2021) and I paid a lot of money for it, so I'm pretty careful too. I wonder if I'll take my old 1989 Honda 600 next time, I'm less afraid of dropping it on the track.

[@nhzxboi]

Track: You get to do the same thing over and over again w/o concern(mostly) of unexpected things...cars, animals, gravel, etc. Good experience. Code's school with the locked triple-tree training bike provided a good education for those that think 'leaning' causes a bike to turn. it does not. Counter steering does. I never went to the Penguin but wanted to.

[@englishsteel-nz6im]

The courses are awesome but a lot of non-track riders who are very skilled in anything like the California canyons are going to find that some of the skills transfer over well and will be faster than they think.... should be obvious but a lot of people don't realize it. Guys that competently tear it up in the canyons are pretty good riders! Also you get these "don't ride fast in the twisty's, save it for the track"... the first thing I want to say is the people who say this very likely have limited riding skill and the 2nd thing is "fast" is subjective. What is within someone's comfort zone and skill level to ride safely for one rider is not the case for the next and I've known people who've been seriously injured at the track as well despite it being a controlled environment. Riding within your own limits, no matter what the pace is --- that's the key to minimizing risk.

[@reqxxiii6376]

Welcome to NH. You got a good coach at the beginning. I know him from work, really good people.

[@HeroRR]

I forget his name but he was excellent. Very nice guy with lots of knowledge and patience.

[@rcayabyab8994]

That’s John Donald (NEMRR 42). Great guy at Penguin. There are a ton of NEMRR vets out there that you should network with and they can really provide you some pointers as well to progress as a Rider.

[@Motolympics]

I would say you did good on your first time out. Also you’ll like Thompson Motorspeedway

[@F3udF1st]

You seem like a super wholesome dude, right on. No insecure squid tendencies and rocking the CBR. I wish I could get the new 2024 version but I'm afraid I'll be too tall and awkward on it.

[@HeroRR]

Thanks man!

[@g.p.880]

Just a quick tip for tying down your bike to trailer. you wanna avoid strapping the handle bars, best place is bottom of forks. Do a loop around the fork and strap it down. This way it prevents putting pressure on the bars and shocks. Check out srkcycles, on KZbin for a quick vid on it. Hope that helps.

[@coolguy8439]

Great video!

[@nickv3085]

This was a cool video thanks man. I daydream about buying a moto and only tracking it.