Hi guys,

I was wondering what the protocol was for getting on a track - besides having a racing helmet, is there any prior training/schooling necessary? Or could I just show up in any car and after paying money, get on the track?

I'm new to the whole track scene, so I'd like to get as informed as possible before doing anything.

i think it depends on the track i know our local one you just need a helmet....some make you run with windows down, soem will check your car...beware: I have heard stories of mitsu reps writing down plate #' and voiding warranties....

well bring a helmet and jeans.

drive around the water pit.

pull up til the first yellow light turns on. wait for the next guy to turn his yellow light on. the pull up a lil to make your 2nd yellow light turn on. then dump the clutch when the 3rd redlights goes out. right as teh green light is turning on.

Okay...let's say I wanted to spend a day at Laguna Seca. How would I know when there's an available date? On their website I just see a lot of "buy tickets to watch racing" and nothing about actually getting on the track yourself.

A real big track like that is probably alot tougher to get seat time on. Are there any other smaller tracks near you?

I know the track by me holds flat out fridays where you just pay money, they tech inspect your car and if you pass you are good to go. All you need is helmet and pants, I would also recommend some non-bulky shoes.

i think it depends on the track i know our local one you just need a helmet....some make you run with windows down, soem will check your car...beware: I have heard stories of mitsu reps writing down plate #' and voiding warranties....

That would suck sooo bad!

Okay...let's say I wanted to spend a day at Laguna Seca. How would I know when there's an available date? On their website I just see a lot of "buy tickets to watch racing" and nothing about actually getting on the track yourself.

I havent done it myself yet but i do know how....

Hook up with a group like speedventures.com.

Getting a track to yourself would cost a couple grand, going with a big group organized through speedventures or something, it will run under 200 for a full day. Groups like this have sign ups, registrations along with calendars for future events and clubs.

Check out the FAQ on that site!

Looks like laguna seca will run around 350 bucks.
california speedway under 200.
150 for buttonwillow.

hope this helps!

I havent done it myself yet but i do know how....

Hook up with a group like speedventures.com.

Getting a track to yourself would cost a couple grand, going with a big group organized through speedventures or something, it will run under 200 for a full day. Groups like this have sign ups, registrations along with calendars for future events and clubs.

Check out the FAQ on that site!

Thanks! Does EvoX have group events as well? Anyone who's been on the track want to give some feedback as well?

A real big track like that is probably alot tougher to get seat time on. Are there any other smaller tracks near you?

I live in the Bay Area, so I have access to lots of places - Laguna Seca, Infineon, and Thunderhill are a few.

Infineon is spectacular if you get the chance.

Infineon is spectacular if you get the chance.

Yeah I saw some videos; it looks like a beautiful course.

Another question - if I've never been on a track before, will I have to go through a day of training with instructors? I heard classes are reaaally expensive. I feel like I know most of the basics of racing (from racing sims and videos) and just want to experiment myself to get used to the real thing.

Call them and ask :) Worst thing that happens is they say that yes, you have to be certified.

You're going to want to find a club that is running what is called a "high performance driving event" (Or HPDE for short) in your area. Try checking here to find an event and group in your area.

http://thetrackschedule.com/

You'll pay your fee ($350 - 600 depending on the group and track) and then you'll be registered as a Novice where you will be assigned an instructor.

Things you will need:

-Fresh brake fluid
-Plenty of pad material or, even better, a set of dedicated track pads
-Long pants, long sleeve shirt
-SA2000 or better helmet (Check ogracing.com or saferacer.com if you need to buy one; currently, SA2005 is the standard, SA2010 will come out in the next year or so)

The group should give you instructions as to when you're expected to be at the track, usually it's before 8AM. You'll go through tech, meet your instructor, check your lug nuts and tire pressure, and you should be good to go!

Just remember that you're there to learn and approach the experience with an open mind. Don't go out expecting to pass everything and everyone. Listen to your instructor, recognize your limits, and of course, have fun!

I hope this helps.

You're going to want to find a club that is running what is called a "high performance driving event" (Or HPDE for short) in your area. Try checking here to find an event and group in your area.

http://thetrackschedule.com/

You'll pay your fee ($350 - 600 depending on the group and track) and then you'll be registered as a Novice where you will be assigned an instructor.

Things you will need:

-Fresh brake fluid
-Plenty of pad material or, even better, a set of dedicated track pads
-Long pants, long sleeve shirt
-SA2000 or better helmet (Check ogracing.com or saferacer.com if you need to buy one; currently, SA2005 is the standard, SA2010 will come out in the next year or so)

The group should give you instructions as to when you're expected to be at the track, usually it's before 8AM. You'll go through tech, meet your instructor, check your lug nuts and tire pressure, and you should be good to go!

Just remember that you're there to learn and approach the experience with an open mind. Don't go out expecting to pass everything and everyone. Listen to your instructor, recognize your limits, and of course, have fun!

I hope this helps.

^Excellent post.:+1: