Thunderhill - 4th of July Weekend!
Man, what a great time I had this weekend! After so many amazing trackday experiences with Zoom Zoom, I really didn't think things could get THAT much better, but I enjoyed some of the best riding and learning ever during the two days at Thunderhill, July 1 & 2.
First of all, I was feeling pretty good on Friday from the moment I put my wheels on the on the track. It was a hotttt day, but my rock hard tires like the heat and actually felt a little grippy! I decided to speak to Jay at Vision Wells about video taping a session or two. We decided to do the helmet cam, which is something I've never done before. What a trip! It was so cool to see that perspective on the track. I am sure analyzing that video will help me find a second or two for the next AFM race July 17. As soon as I get the video hosted, I'll post a link.
On Saturday, it was BUSY! As usual, weekend events are well-attended, but this was also a holiday weekend and there were a ton of riders wanting to have some fun. I was busy all morning helping out with registration and the riders' meeting, and I was DYING to get out on the track. Finally got out for before lunch. I was feeling even faster and smoother than Friday. It's great to have two days back to back. I should've had Jay do my video on Saturday! But he was pretty busy too.
Then, I got a request to help out instructing. I had never tried it before, but after Vik suggested it, Mr. Keane seemed to agree I was ready. Another girl on an EX250 was doing her first track day and having some difficulty getting up to speed. Chris asked if I'd help her out. Of course! I remember all too well what it was like doing some of my first track days on my little EX feeling totally overwhelmed and underpowered. I was sure it would be helpful for her to get some instruction from someone on the same kind of bike who really understood its limitations and quirkiness.
I met Linda and we headed out for the first session after lunch. What a trip! First, it was soooo strange to go super slow on the track, looking behind and in front, making sure she was with me and getting what I was trying to show her. After we got off, I gave her some pointers and described some reference points. She was very eager to try them out. Next session, noticible improvement! What a cool feeling, I had helped her figure some stuff out. After that session, Linda told me she really enjoyed having me help her on the track, she felt much more comfortable with another EX250, as I thought she might.
Linda gave me some awesome compliments, but the best feeling came from seeing her improve and watching her confidence grow. I am definitely going to have to try this instructing stuff again! But, my bike didn't like it very much, I overheated a bit after our second time out. Believe it or not, that little motor was built for speed. I don't want to upset my delicate built engine, I may have to keep instructing to a minimum to protect it.
Or, possibly get another bike....
At the end of the day, Zoran asked me if I'd like to try one of his SV500s. I believe it started life as an SV400 and Zoran used his magic to make it more. I have never ridden another bike on the track(except for my first two track days on my old SV650, which I don't even remember), so I was a little apprehensive. But it was a real compliment that Zoran thought I could handle it, so I said yes. DAMN! Am I glad I did! What an amazing ride! I believe it was Joe Sickle's bike Zoran offered up (so thanks to Joe too!). Joe's done some amazing stuff on this bike, but I decided to just have some fun and keep it mellow. Riiiiight.....
Zoran warned me about the throttle, 'Don't give it too much! It is way more power!' Yeah, I felt that from the moment I started out in the pit. What I wasn't prepared for was the brakes! I am used to the mushy shit that suffices for a front brake on the EX. As soon as I gave the SV's brake a squeeze, I was like, 'Oh shit! All I need to do is *touch* these!.' Then I noticed the suspension--sooooo smooth! I didn't know it could feel like that, really. I am so used to riding a wet noodle on the track, the SV felt like it rode itself.
After a couple laps, I started opening it up a teeny bit more. I am sure I didn't get to a tenth of the bike's capability, but it felt so great. The best part was having the power to pass people so easily. I get so frustrated doing track days on the EX getting stuck behind bikes with more power who hold me up in the corners, only to pass me in the straights when I finally get around them before the cycle starts all over again. The SV handled it so easily, it was just right for me. I loved it.
Zoran said all I need to do to get one of my own is get an SV650 and he'll stroke it down for me. Crafty bastard! Just like the pusherman, the first one is free...
Vik better watch his bike....
Seriously, I think this might be a great bike for me to try racing next season. I am going to seriously look into it. Damn you Zoran!
