A newbie, how much prep is really needed?

[Gixxer124]

Geez Steve! Your makin me cry. :'((I,m trying to talk my brother into buying your 600.)
Baltobuell, Thats where I,m coming from.
 Dave, Bart Shiflet, Middleweight Supersport and Heavyweight Supersport, (I think they were called something different back then) in 1996 or 97. Read, National Championship. Daytona. :)

[TZDeSioux]

The stock suspension is pretty good on a 2003 TZ250 but you still have to change out the springs unless youre a smurf.

[TZ_Boy]

Did someone forget to mention hardened engine case covers?  I thought this was a requirement for GSXR's.  You definetly need someone to help you at least adjust your stock suspension.  You can only run slicks in certain classes but you need to buy race compound tires!  These should last at least 3 or more weekends at what sounds like your beginning level.

[TZDeSioux]

Did someone forget to mention hardened engine case covers?  I thought this was a requirement for GSXR's.  You definetly need someone to help you at least adjust your stock suspension.  You can only run slicks in certain classes but you need to buy race compound tires!  These should last at least 3 or more weekends at what sounds like your beginning level.

PAUL!

[TZ_Boy]

What's this crap about you winning 10 LGP races next year! ;D

[TZDeSioux]

What's this crap about you winning 10 LGP races next year! ;D

Why? Is there more than 10 races for our region?  ;D  ;D ;D ;D

[lbk]

Now that we've all sufficently scared the crap out of this guy. I want to remind him, CCS is just alot like a track day. The big difference is you get a finishing position with guys that have done it before.  So don't be too hard on yourself,  don't worry too much, keep a smooth line and a level head. You'll be fine and you'll have a blast.

THANKS!!!! I really needed this. I think the problem here is that a lot of you guys have a lot of experience and you assume that when someone asks what's needed they are asking what's needed to win races. What Baltobuell pointed out is really all I'm expecting to get from my first season. Keep in mind I want to learn how to ride fast, then once my skillz increase I'm sure my need for aftermarket parts will increase.

For everyones information I am only 146lbs, the bike already has a steering dampner, and I planned on having someone help me adjust the suspension. Basically this year all I'm trying to do is work on my riding skills, and get a taste of what racing is like. Then if I decide it is for me, I will gladly fork out additional money for things I "NEED".

As for the case covers, is this true? See that is the type of thing I need to know. What is required so that I can go out there work on my ability to ride, not be a hazard to others on the track, and most importantly HAVE FUN!!!! I'm not looking to go pro, win regional or national level events, I'm looking to have fun. If my skills wind up to be enough that these wins become a realistic goal, then that is great. If they aren't guess what I'll enjoy riding just the same.

I appreciate everyone's comments I really do, I just was looking for what IS NEEDED! From there some time in the saddle will tell me what else seems wrong. As for tires, I'll have to buy a new set anyway after my first trackday so I'll probably go race tires then and try them. See how they feel.

[tigerblade]

I thought that a steering damper was required (mandatory)?  Not so?

[Gixxer124]

lbk, Sorry, I forgot about the engine case covers. A GSXR requires left and right side as per the rules. You can pick them up for around $200 for the set. (or buy them used) I would also move the steering damper to the must have list. Other than that I think I gave you a pretty good starting point. What Dave said about the brake pads is a good idea also. The stock pads cost about the same as race ones. Use them up and replace with the good stuff. With your weight, you'll need stiffer springs. Go to RaceTech.com. They have a questioner you can fill out and will give you a baseline set-up. I don't know if Lindeman or Traxxion offer this.

[Gixxer124]

Steve crashed how many times? 2 or 3? KC crashed 0 times. Must be that kick @ss suspension I have :P

[sdiver68]

ZERO in races, or race days :P

Twice at trackdays...both times pushing the envelope for when I need it to pass you in races ;D

But, since crashing in testing is a bad thing...I guess we'll have to let Rossi, Edwards, Yates, etc... know the bad news about thiem all losing their rides.... :P

[Gixxer124]

ZERO in races, or race days :P

Twice at trackdays...both times pushing the envelope for when I need it to pass you in races ;D

But, since crashing in testing is a bad thing...I guess we'll have to let Rossi, Edwards, Yates, etc... know the bad news about thiem all losing their rides.... :P

Those guys must really suck! They have the best money can buy and they still fall on their heads. ;D