A day on the track with your motor: the ultimate dream for many motorcyclists! Have you never ridden on a circuit and want to know what to prepare for? Or are you already experienced and want to make sure you don’t forget anything? Together with Dainese, we’ve created a list of 10 essential items for a successful track day. Read on!
The 10 essential track day items
1. A helmet with a dark visor
Racing helmets have a more specific shape than regular motorcycle helmets, often with different spoilers to improve aerodynamics. A full-face helmet with a double D-ring closure is the safest (and often mandatory) option.
Unless you’re riding in the rain, it’s always best to use a dark smoke visor. This dark tint helps reduce eye fatigue, which improves your concentration. Don’t forget tear-offs, so you don’t have to stop to clean your visor. On very hot days, it’s highly recommended to use an internal hydration system connected to the hump on your racing suit.
2. One-piece racing suit
A leather racing suit is essentially modern armor. A good suit provides maximum protection combined with flexibility. The latest generation of one-piece suits from Dainese are equipped with the D-air® airbag system, which activates the moment you need it.
Something often overlooked are the metal plates on the shoulders, elbows and knees of all Dainese suits. Plastic sliders may catch on the asphalt, but the chance of that happening with metal is minimal. Thanks to the elastic panels on the back, knees and torso, the suit is comfortable in any riding position. Naturally, it’s designed specifically for riding, not standing. You can even fully customize your Dainese suit through Dainese Custom Works.
3. Back protector
Never forget your back protector. Since its introduction in the late 1970s, the back protector has been one of the most essential pieces of protection on both the track and public roads. There are various types of back protectors, some specifically designed for track use. They are lightweight and compact. All D-air® suits come with an integrated back protector for this purpose. The protector is light and perfectly integrated into the suit.
4. Gloves
Racing gloves must be long, made of leather and equipped with sturdy carbon or metal plates on the back, knuckles and fingers. All stitching should be reinforced with aramid fiber, a material resistant to the high temperatures generated by friction with the asphalt.
5. Boots
All Dainese racing boots feature the Axial Distortion Control System: a hinge mechanism that prevents the ankle from bending in unnatural directions. IN models are worn under the suit, improving aerodynamics, reducing weight and increasing protection. When the boots are integrated into the suit, the foot is better protected against twisting and there’s less chance of anything catching on external objects.
6. Base layer
Always make sure to wear proper base layers, especially on warm days. A thin, breathable layer between your skin and the suit keeps you dry and much more comfortable. Base layers also reduce friction between your skin and the suit when putting it on or taking it off. This reduced friction also helps in case of a fall, minimizing the risk of abrasions. Base layers come in different materials and thicknesses depending on the temperature.
7. Socks
Long or mid-length socks are the best choice. Ankle or sneaker socks are far from ideal when wearing motorcycle boots. Although boots can be comfortable, the seams and Velcro areas can rub against your calves and ankles.
8. Drinks and supplements
It’s very important to stay hydrated on an intense track day, especially in hot weather. Mineral salt supplements are very useful and better than tap water because they help rehydrate your body. Ideally, you should have your energy drink with you during your session, made possible by the integrated hydration system that can be connected to AGV racing helmets.
9. Shower items
Is there anything better than a warm shower after a sweaty day in a leather suit? Bring everything you need to freshen up after a long day on the track. A good circuit always has showers available.
10. Your motorcycle key
Most riders load their bikes onto a trailer or van the night before and take the keys home. Don’t forget to bring them the next morning! It may sound obvious, but imagine arriving at the circuit only to realize your keys are still in a drawer at home…
Now that you know our 10 essentials for a successful track day, you’re ready to hit the circuit fully prepared. Check out our complete Dainese collection and ride with confidence.