Stuff

Along with the obvious things needed such as the motorcycle, there are quite a few other things that are needed in order to campaign on the track. These things include front and rear bike stands, tire warmers, a track suit (single piece preferable), boots, back protector, battery charger, portable compressor, fuel containers, a GOOD set of tools, shop manual for the bike, track tires, and pit crew. There's certainly more, and I will catalog it all as I go forward.

Many of these items can be obtained off of craig's list, or the local racing forums. I was immediately able to get front and rear stands (pitbulls) off of craig's list. Pitbull stands are apparently the choice among most of the riders on the forums. They are light, strong, well made and work very well. Those stands at harbor freight weigh a bunch more and look like they might drop your bike. Used pitbulls are just as good as the new ones and might come with some entertaining stickers on them from the previous owner. (What the hell is a 'cougar catcher' anyway?)

Winter is a good time to find deals on new gear at the dealers as well. I found a new 2009 track suit from Rev'it at a local dealer that was marked down over $500. You can find good deals on used suits, but, ick. I've done a lot of summer riding and my leather usually soaked up enough sweat to rival my gym clothes. Finding a good deal on a new suit will prevent you from having to wear the equivalent of an unwashed giant leather tube sock found in an NBA locker room. Also, you can try on suits at the dealer to make sure you're getting a good fit. Another good reason to get a new suit is that you'll know that you're starting with new materials and stitching. Having a poorly repaired seam come open when you're sliding along at 90 is bad business. Avoid skin grafts. Get a new suit.

I picked up a new Haynes manual for my Daytona off of Amazon, which saved about $100 over the price for the manufacturer's version. This may not be a great decision, but so far the Haynes product has been accurate and useful. I found a new tail light assembly on Amazon as well. However, per my note on the track suit above, not all deals are necessarily going to be found online. Sometimes supporting your local shop can get you a customer loyalty card that adds up to additional discounts and helps keep the lights on at one of your best resources for information and support.

As for getting the pit crew, see if you have any friends that might be willing to work for beer. If they're the right size, you can also have them model used track suits.