First track day questions
 

Hey guys,

I need some advice on my first track day. Ridge Motorsports near Seattle WA has a track night event through SCCA. The cost is just 180 and I am planning to be in a novice group.

1. Does it sound like a good idea as a first track experience or should I look for 1on1 instructions?
2. Any suggestions for helmets?
3. On website it doesn't say anywhere that I need tow hook, should I still get one? I assume car came with one.

Overall I really like TNiA events as they are low commitment, convenient hours and fairly cheap. They can be a great intro into track driving.

1. So long as you're reasonable on track and try to remember the novice paced lap you should be okay. I started with a couple of non-instructed days followed by school-instruction format without in-car instruction. I'm sure in-car instruction is better for developing as a driver, but I doubt you'd really be able to learn much in the first few days anyway. Plus instructors can be hit-and-miss, especially volunteers.
2. Despite the common mantra of "do you have a $10 head? Then buy a $10 helmet", all helmets that pass Snell certification are safe. Paying more typically gets you lighter weight and some amenities that you don't need for HPDE (water straw hookup, cutouts for headset, better aero for open cockpit cars, etc.), not more safety. Head shapes do matter so if you can find a shop and try out different manufacturers, that would be ideal. I threw the dice on measuring my head and buying a Zamp RZ-59 online and it fit fine. Make sure to buy Snell SA2020 certified.
3. I did a couple of TNiA and they didn't ask for a tow hook. I did put the tow hook from the trunk in the front. No need for a fancy aftermarket one.

First track day questions
 

TNiA is a start, but I don’t think it’s that great of an option. The cost is just appealing but the value isn’t really that great when you consider you are getting 3 15 minute sessions depending if they run on time or if there is an incident. I’ve never been to a TNiA that ran on time. Running with T2, or HoD is actually a better value at the Ridge, and will get you better one on one and more time. T2 is like 375 for the day and you will get at least 5 sessions. HOD I think is 6 sessions plus classroom time for novices for around 500. I know guys that instruct for all 3.

1. I am sure getting help won't be an issue. Also I bet you could ride with someone else to get a feel for the track as well. Most track people are very friendly.
2. Bell
3. Yeah the car should have a tow eye it's what I been using myself.

Go sooner rather then later, if tnia fits the schedule send it. If you don’t like it try at least one other group before giving up. As above I liked HOD and enjoyed my two coaches with them before moving to solo.

Tow hook is in the trunk, screw it into the front before going out. Get an SA2020 helmet, tnia may have loaners or something.

My thoughts.

1. I've only done one track day so far, but it was with an instructor. I think it made the day worth the time IMO. Going around the track fast is fun, but for me being able to learn the right line and other driving techniques which allowed me to get progressively faster each lap/session and do it safely made it a lot more fun. You don't realize how much you don't know until you share a car with someone who does.

2. I have a HJC AR10 (H10 is the SA2020 version I think) and still really like it after four seasons of autocross. Helmets are pretty personal due to head shape. I found HJC and Pyrotect fit my head the best. If you are in a hot climate or will be wearing it for a while , think about ventalation too. That's one reason I really like my HJC.

3. Already covered. It's in the trunk.

Also, swap to some DOT 4 brake fluid. The Ridge has about 5 braking zones that you need to shed 50+mph and will put a good amount of heat into the system.

Thank you guys.

I looked for helmet shop nearby that has SA2020 rated helmet but could not find one. Ended up buying Zamp RZ-59 online.

Seems like just front tow hook is enough, I would put it on when I get there.

I don't think I am going to have enough time for installation of Hawk brake fluid and pads and camber bolts which I already have.

My oil level is slightly low so I will top off oil with 5W30 that I have (I also have 10 quarts of 0W20).

Thanks. HoD even in on 12th and it's sold out for 1on1 lesson and novice needs track experience. I will definitely catch the next one in August. I am not able to find T2 on google, what's the complete name?

If you're just getting your feet wet, like first time on track ever, Track Night in America (which it sounds like this is) is good for that. Price is cheaper and if it's run correctly, the novice group should be taking it 8/10th and not pushing it. You point to pass and all that. You shouldn't really need a 1 on 1 instructor to just start.

I use a Pyrotect open face Snell 2020. I like the open face design to see more and be more comfortable. Up to you. It should be fine for what you're doing and also autocross if you ever want to try that. Cheaper too. I think mine was around $150.

Tow hook is in the trunk, so just install that. You can buy a second one from the dealer or used online for the other end of the car. They just need that installed in case something happens to your car and they need to pull you off track.

I would also 100% suggest you go over the entire car top to bottom yourself. Definitely have enough oil and even overfill it a hair. Double check for leaks anywhere, tires are aired up (and you have a gauge with you), coolant is all good, brake fluid in good condition. You likely won't need updated brake fluid for your first outing or even pads, but it's not bad to replace it if you can.

After reading stories about stuff (chunks of rubber, gravel, car parts) flying through the open window on track I prefer a full face helmet and run with the visor closed. I have glasses and it is annoying to put the helmet on but I'd prefer to keep my pretty face pretty :lol:

You do have a point. I do way more autocross than track day stuff, but I've noticed when I ride with others and they spin, I have gotten rubber, debris, etc in my face and it isn't fun. I'm not driving, but if I was and on a track at speed, that wouldn't be a good combination.

Also, small note on glasses. I got a pair of prescription sunglasses made specifically for driving. They were like $50 or something through Zenni online. Well worth it for keeping the sun out of your eyes.

T2 can be found on MotorsportsReg.com, or Facebook.

https://www.motorsportreg.com/orgs/turn-2-lapping

If you have questions you can also email tom@turn2lapping.com or call 425-417-3675.

If you sign up with T2 see if Gabe is available to instruct. He is probably the fastest NA twin in the NW, 1st or 2nd gen. There is also an older gentleman named Bob who has an orange FRS that instructs a lot for T2.

Few updates guys, booked the event, found few people who will be part of the event on facebook.

Received the helmet, Zamp RZ-59 in small, it fits perfect on head, feels like it pushes my cheeks more than I like but livable.

I will be installing factory tow hook on front.

I am going to participate without any mods as of now. Depending on how things go I would probably do one more similar event after that install hawk HPS 5.0 brake pads, camber bolts and Castrol SRF Racing Brake Fluid. Then register for "Novice with One-on-One Coach" hooked on driving event.