The ultimate motorcycle trackday checklist & guide

IF YOU'VE thrashed your bike at a trackday then you'll know they can be massive fun. But you might also understand how frustrating it can be turning up without your driving licence or running out of fuel halfway through the day. So it's worth assembling a few essentials beforehand to help ensure your day goes as smoothly as possible, so you enjoy maximum track time. We've compiled a simple list of stuff we'd recommend taking with you to the circuit. Some of them are obvious, some aren't but they should all help iron out any glitches which could otherwise spoil your day.

Don't forget to check out our motorcycle track days guide here. It includes UK circuit guides and a full trackday calendar. Enjoy!

1. Know where you're going

Sounds daft, but try finding Mallory Park if you've never been before, especially when signing on starts at 7:00am. Make yourself au fait with where you're going the night before and take along the circuit's phone number in case you get lost.

2. Your kit

Get all your riding kit ready the day before. Boots, gloves, leathers (preferably one-piece) back protector, helmet and spare visor. A set of waterproofs is a good idea if the forecast's looking pants. Stuff the lot in a big holdall, so you can grab and go.

3. Documents

Most trackday organisers now insist on seeing a full motorcycle licence before letting you out on track. No licence means no taking part. If you've a new photocard licence then take both halves.

4. Food and water

Most trackdays I've been to serve tasty but rather stodgy (and expensive) food at lunch, which isn't a good idea, as digesting a big meal will slow down your reaction times. Take along a light salad, some fruit, cereal bars and drink plenty of water.

5. Fuel can and funnel

Take along plenty of fuel and a decent funnel, as your bike will usually double its normal fuel consumption when you're gunning it flat out. Keep the tank topped up between sessions.

6. Tools

It's worth taking along a basic tool kit, as you never know what kind of mechanical gremlins may turn up. You might also want to adjust your suspension. The kit should consist of some sockets, spanners, flat and cross head screwdrivers, pliers, tie-wraps, wire, duct tape and a tyre pressure gauge. There are usually loads of folk that'll help out if you get stuck for tools but it's always better taking your own.

7. Spares

If you're unlucky enough to have a light spill then you may be able to get back on track with little work. Snapping a brake or clutch lever doesn't mean your day's over if you've a spare in the tool kit.

8. Bike

Last of all, don't forget your bike. We've heard stories of people turning up to trackdays without their bike. Or, perhaps even worse, without their keys.