Hey everyone!

So I'll be attending my first track day, EVER, on June 15th at Streets of Willow. I have my cousin that I'll be going with, and he'll be meeting some of his friends there. This will be the first time for the both of us.

I have a question on something that might sound funny to most of you (considering I'm a track n00b). My girlfriend, along with some of her girlfriends, and some of my other girlfriends, want to come watch. Now, I have absolutely no knowledge on the matter. I don't even know if they can sit down and watch from anywhere, or if the track is the type of format that can be watched (i.e. non-forest environment, short and oval, etc). So, before I give them a definitive answer on whether or not they can go, I figured I'd ask /26 on their experiences with this track. Are fans allowed? If so, is it worth it for them to go? I don't want them to be bored because the only view of the track is a 3 second straight. Any input?

TIA.

P.S., yes it will be the girl in my avatar, along with other girls (my friends are hot too).

 

Most tracks they can watch pretty easily. Just make sure your gf and friends are aware that this day is kind've about you. You'll be riding your sessions, then in between will have either classroom sessions (not sure of how the groups out there work) or will just want to sit and rest, do a little work on the bike, etc... She can't expect your full attention. Depending on how your girl is it may be best to leave her home. Unless her and her friends plan on being in bikinis and are umbrella girls for all in attendance. Then in that case be my guest as you'll be a big hit in the paddock

 

I would say, unless you have a very cool GF its gonna be a pita, she is gonna be bored and wanting to go home etc. Take her to your second trackday better, when you see how the track works.

Have fun track > *.*

 

If she goes with other friends and there is some shade with a cooler full of ice-cold beverages, and she isn't the clingy intrusive type, it could be done.

Maybe they just want to check out all the guys in tight leathers, who knows?

 

lol I'm sure that has something to do with it.

 

Streets has a grandstand where they can sit and watch, but they will not be able to see some parts of the track from there (the "Bowl" and the back straight). Going out and walking outside of the fence is not a pleasant thing to do, but it can be done. I'd bring at least umbrellas, ideally an EZup/canopy so they can put that over part of the grandstand to sit.

Typically all people have to pay admission to the facility, regardless if they are riders/participants or just spectators. IIRC it's $10/person. Since it's a Monday, though, there may not be an admission fee. There are restrooms available, but they're not all that nice. It's been over a year since I've been though, so maybe the accouterments are nicer.

It would be a good idea to have one "free" car available (not hooked up to any trailer, not in use, etc) so they can go on a food run for you guys during the trackday. There are a few places to grab some grub just off the exit you take for Willow Springs.

The good thing for spectators is there is usually some other event at Big Willow, so you can see two things going on.

Stay hydrated out there! It's easy to forget when you're amped up about the trackday. Chug at least a bottle of water when you get off the bike, especially if it's hot out (there isn't any standing shade, just what you bring). And be sure you've got the bike-key with you before you leave home.

And....congrats on popping your track cherry! Streets is a good place to do it.

 

perfect!! just the info i was looking for! Thanks

 

Also check to see if the little bar/grill at the Big track is open. Good burgers and sandwiches and they don't rob you like you'd expect. Have fun and be safe.

 

Fixed.

 

damn optimus, didn't even know you rode?

I might make it out to this trackday just to hang out with your gf in the paddock

have fun and remember to ride within your limits and soak up info like a sponge! and welcome to the addiction! I'll see you at the track soon, i'm sure.

 

can't really add anything else here as everything has been said.

congrats on the trackday cherry poppin' you're going to love it. let your girl know there is going to be many more trackdays in the future... this sport is ADDICTING!!!

 

Translation:

Rob here is a very comforting individual should your gf be lonely when you're gone.

 

I've been riding, to some extent, since 2003. I have been riding consistently since 2007, but never really was a canyon/track rider. I have always just rode for recreation/commute. I think it's time I ride the bike in a style that it was designed for :p

lol If you make it to this track day I hope it's to ride!

 

haha, no worries, i only have eyes for the track

 

Yes brother they can watch easily go for it wish you best of luck.

 

Personally, after doing a lot of track events I would say that unless she is really into watching racing she will probably be bored after an hour or two. Hell, even I get bored if I'm not driving/riding at track days.