What equipment do I need?

These are the basic items needed to take part in all motorcycle trackdays:

• A valid licence
• A roadworthy vehicle
• ACU approved full face helmet (not off road MX style motorcycle helmets)
• Either one-piece or two-piece leathers that zip all the way round (no skin/undergarments shown when rider raises arms above the head)
• Leather motorcycle boots (up the calf muscle) and motorcycle gloves beyond the wrist
• Full-length back protector

First of all, you must be aged over 18 and hold a valid motorcycle licence issued by the ACU or the equivalent licensing authority in the driver’s country of residence.

It’s always a good idea to keep your bike regularly serviced and in a road or trackworthy condition. All bikes must have a front brake lever or hand guard fitted.

How safe are trackdays?
A trackday is just about the safest place to explore the limits of your vehicle. On some days, you’ll have the option of running in groups of bikes with similar performance or with riders of a similar experience level. Trackdays are also run with the same strict controls as race events so there are experienced operators in the control room who observe riding standards in liaison with marshals around the circuit, and monitor every inch of the circuit. The marshals also use the same flag signals as race events, so you’ll be warned if there’s anything happening on track.

Do I need insurance?
Not all operators will require you to hold trackday insurance, but be aware that your road policy is unlikely to cover any events that happen on track.

What formats and events are there?
Across the MSV group of circuits, there are literally hundreds of trackdays each year. During a standard week, there’ll be trackdays at each venue running in different formats. Some will be run as “open pitlane” format, allowing you to ride on and off the track as you please, while others will run in a sessioned format, with bikes or riders grouped together, usually according to performance levels or experience.

What does a standard day look like?
You will need to arrive at the circuit around 60-90 minutes before your track activity starts. This will be so you can sign on for the event, complete a noise test (except at Donington Park), and view the safety briefing. Then you’ll take part in slow speed familiarisation or sighting laps, before your track time begins.

How do I book?
Booking is extremely simple. Via our calendar, you can view a full listing of available trackdays across all operators at all our circuits. Prices will vary depending on the nature of the day, time of year and the operator you are booking with. Affordable evening trackday options are also available on selected days between April and September.

Can I overtake slower bikes?
Yes you can. Overtaking can be either side but always with plenty of space. Overtaking can be on the brakes leading up to the corner and when accelerating out of the corners, with caution. Do not overtake after the point when the rider is about to turn in or mid corner. The rider in front always has priority. It is the responsibility of the rider behind to make the overtake safely. 

Can I bring friends or family to watch?
Spectators are welcome at trackdays (though some restrictions apply at Bedford Autodrome), with viewing areas usually open free of charge around the circuit. They can also access the garages but shouldn’t enter the pit lane. 

What happens if my bike has a problem and stops on track?
Breakdowns are rare on trackdays, especially with well-maintained bikes. If your vehicle does stop on track, you will be best to stop it as far from the track as you can, and as close to a barrier as possible. This will allow a quick and safe recovery of the vehicle. 

What else should I do?
Simple things you should check before a trackday begins include tyre condition, engine oil levels, and the condition of your brakes. It’s often requested that you tape your lights (headlights, indicators, taillights) so that any glass debris is kept off the track in the event of them breaking.

What other things could I bring with me?
You can make your life even easier by bringing a small selection of other tools and consumables. Your fellow trackday riders will also help if needed.  

What if I want to improve my riding ability?
Trackdays have professional experienced instructors on hand, and will be able to give guidance on the day and more detailed advice with a small additional charge. Trackdays also have a great friendly atmosphere, and fellow trackday customers will also be happy to share advice and tips with likeminded enthusiasts!