Quote:
Originally Posted by 0836whimper
- Get Insurance (CCI provide 5 days included it as mentioned)
- Choose a track with plenty of run-off. Bedford is great as it's huge, flat (takes out a whole dimension for you to have to think about) and has no barriers, gravel etc, it's not a race track. Don't choose a narrow track with humps and overhanging trees etc....
- Think about an airfield day first, just to get a feel for the car at the limit of traction
- Be wary of days that basically allow race cars to test at the same time, they don't take any prisoners and find it hard to get out of 'race' mode
- Try a marque/owners club day first if there is one planned
- Keep Traction control on, then put MDM on if you feel like it. Don't turn it all off unless you are very experienced no matter how much Shimmy looks down on you 
- Most incidents happen in the morning as everyone rushes on with cold tyres, be patient.
- Build speed slowly, it doesn't matter that MX5's and Novas are overtaking you as you warm up
- Back off and give the car a cooling lap or two
- Don't leave handbrake on in the pits once parked following some hot laps
- You'll probably find half of the attendees have left by 3pm, so you'll have a much quietier time then
- Get some AP's if it's not a one-off. It's so worth it.
- Don't go on a the track in a CSL and then expect to want to sell it....they are epic on track and you will love your car more than ever |
As someone reasonably new to trackdays myself, I worship at the alter of these words.
I sit in the caf for an extra coffee to let the cold-tyre gang slip and slide then go out slow letting oil get to ~100 degrees before ramping the pace. Last half hour before lunch is usually hectic as is first one back after and the final hour too.
Check your tyre pressures before going out.
No-one's judging and ultimately, any price paid is paid by you so take your time and build it up slowly.
APs will probably sell for what you pay for them so they are very worthwhile - as are Alcons etc. They make a world of difference.
Shimmy et al will help you to the ends of the earth.
Above all, get proper tuition sooner rather than later. I trained with Colin and Paul at CAT and enjoyed every minute in the car and out so I can recommend them, and others will have their own recommendations also.
Nick at BMWUK car club runs trackdays and although he'll twist your arm for a raffle ticket, these days are extremely well run, the nutters are elsewhere and there's some free tuition thrown in sometimes - although it's basic, it'll give you proper lines and a bit on balance.
iRacing has a lot of UK tracks - it's cheap and a good heads-up.
That all sounds a bit self-richeous - but that's not hows its meant