Glossary
- Apex
- The point where you ride closest to the inside of a corner. Hitting a good apex sets up a fast, safe corner exit.
- Trail braking
- Easing off the brakes gradually as you lean into a corner, instead of finishing all braking while upright.
- Run group
- A group of riders sorted by pace (for example beginner, intermediate, advanced) who share the track during a session.
- Session
- A block of track time for one run group, often around 20 minutes, repeated through the day.
- Tech inspection
- The pre-ride safety check of your bike's tires, brakes, fluids, and fasteners.
- Knee down
- When a rider's knee touches the ground in a corner. It looks dramatic but is a byproduct of lean and body position, not a goal in itself.
- Line
- The path a rider takes through a corner or series of corners. The 'racing line' is the fastest safe path.
- Late apex
- Turning in a little later so you apex further around the corner, which usually gives a better, faster exit.
- Corner worker
- A trained volunteer stationed around the track who watches for hazards and waves flags.
- Off / off-track excursion
- Running off the racing surface, usually into a run-off area. Common and usually harmless at beginner pace.
- Leathers
- A leather riding suit, one-piece or zip-together two-piece, required for track riding.
- Slicks
- Treadless track tires for maximum grip. Most beginners use DOT-legal track tires, not full slicks.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a race bike?
- No. Most street sportbikes can do a beginner track day with minor prep, or you can rent a track-ready bike from us so there's nothing to sort out.
- Do I have to be fast?
- Not at all. Beginner run groups are full of first-timers. The point is to ride well and learn, not to be quick.
- Is it dangerous?
- Riding has inherent risk, but a track day is far more controlled than the street: one direction, sorted by pace, with flags, run-off, and clear passing rules.
- What's the difference between a track day and a coaching day?
- A track day is open track time you manage yourself. A coaching day pairs you with a pro-racer coach who gives you feedback on your actual laps. See our guide comparing the two.
- Can I rent a bike and gear?
- We keep rental bikes on site. Some track-day organizations also rent gear. Ask us and we'll point you the right way.
- How do I get a racing license?
- You attend a new-racer school run by a club organization, demonstrate the required skills, and earn a license. See our guide on getting a racing license.
Still have a question? Get in touch and we'll answer it straight.
Ready to ride with a coach?
The fastest way to put this into practice is a coaching day with a pro-racer coach. Bikes are on site.