As an avid motorcyclist, few things excite you more than the prospect of a track day. The thrill of pushing your bike tyres to their limits, carving through corners, and experiencing the raw performance of your machine is unmatched. However, my recent track day taught me a hard lesson about the importance of proper tyre preparation.
I had always been meticulous about maintaining my bike, but I had underestimated the significance of bike tyre choice and condition for the unique demands of the track. The best tyres for bikes on the street are not necessarily the ideal choice for the track, where the stresses on the tyres are far more intense.
The Importance of Tyre Inspection
Before heading to the track, take the time to thoroughly inspect your bike tyres. Look for any cuts, cracks, or excessive wear, paying close attention to the inner edges that are often overlooked. If your tyres are approaching the wear indicators, it’s best to replace them before the event, even if it feels premature. The consequences of a tyre failure at track speeds far outweigh the cost of new tyres.
Choosing the Right Tyre
When selecting tyres for your track day, consider the following factors:
Tyre compound: Look for tyres with a softer compound that offers better grip and heat management.
Tread pattern: Slicks or tyres with minimal tread are ideal for dry track conditions, while rain tyres are essential for wet weather.
Bike tyre price: While cost is a factor, prioritise safety and performance when buying tyres online or from a local retailer.
Remember, the best tyre for bike track use may not be the same as your everyday street tyre.
Tyre Pressures and Warm-Up
Proper tyre pressures are critical for optimising grip and handling on the track. Start with the manufacturer’s recommended “cold” pressures and adjust them based on your bike’s specific needs and the track conditions. Keep in mind that track sessions will quickly heat up your tyres, causing the pressure to rise. Regularly check and adjust your pressures between sessions to maintain optimal performance.
Before pushing your bike tyres to their limits, allow them to gradually warm up over the first couple of laps. Cold tyres lack the grip and flexibility needed for aggressive riding, increasing the risk of a crash. Be patient and build up your speed gradually to avoid cold tearing or sudden loss of traction.
Tyre Maintenance and Aftercare
After each track session, take the time to inspect your tyres for any damage or debris. Vibrations and hard use can quickly exacerbate existing issues, so don’t rely solely on your pre-event checks. Address any concerns promptly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your tyres.
Safety First
While performance is important, never compromise on safety when selecting and preparing your bike tyres for the track. Choose reputable brands like Eurogrip, which offer a range of high-performance tyres suitable for track use. Their Protorq Sport tyres, for example, provide excellent grip, stability, and feedback, allowing you to push your limits with confidence.
Track Your Grip and Safety With Right Set of Tyres
Proper tyre preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable track day experience. By selecting the right tyres, inspecting them thoroughly, maintaining proper pressures, and allowing for adequate warm-up, you can avoid the costly mistakes I made during my track day disaster.
Remember, investing in quality bike tyres like those offered by Eurogrip not only enhances your performance but also gives you peace of mind knowing that you have reliable grip and control when pushing your bike to its limits.
Don’t let poor tyre preparation ruin your track day. Learn from my experience, prioritise tyre maintenance, and enjoy the unparalleled thrill of exploring your bike’s potential on the track.
