track days

California Superbike School

I'm excited to tell you that I've signed up for a trackday with California Superbike School

I've read and heard great things about the school, the training and the experience from friends and the interwebs. The school was founded in 1976 by pavement god Keith Code, it was the first to offer one on one track instruction. He's written several books including the famous "Twist of the Wrist, Volumes 1 and 2".

I've had a couple track days and I've had 2-3 interactions with track coaches to give me advice about my riding. However, I'm really hoping that I'll get more consistent feedback from a coach who can watch me throughout the day to see how I'm doing from start to finish. It's an all day class, starting promptly at 7am and presumably finishing up in the afternoon. They even provide lunch and drinks/snacks.  

"You will improve. You are a far better rider than you’ve ever let yourself hope to be. We have a system that works." -superbikeschool.com

I'm not here to race, I'm certainly not here to ride better than everyone else. I want to simply ride better than Myself. Improving our riding skills is always something that we're responsible for as individual riders. One on one instruction and attention is difficult to get a regular track day, so I wanted more. I'm not necessarily looking for someone to stand next to me the entire day (which would also be cool) but having input every time I get out on the track sounds like a great way to improve my skills. 

There are some misconceptions about track days, that they're only there to teach you how to race your motorcycle. False. California Superbike School is one of the many exceptions to this rule. If you have a high performance machine, you owe it to yourself to learn how to ride safer and simply become a more capable rider. 

Because I've never ridden with them before, I start at Level 1

"Level I addresses the six most common errors riders, from novice to world-class racers, make and why. " -superbikeschool.com

YES! I love this. 

For $475, I signed up for a 1 day course on July 31st at New Jersey Motorsports Park. I will be riding my own bike, so the cost is a bit lower than renting their BMWs. I can't wait to take Goldie to the track again with Keith Code and friends. Hopefully he's there so I can get a selfie! 

Mesmerizing Video of a Rider Mastering the Machine

It doesn't matter what you ride. Watch this video and you'll learn a thing or two about riding your motorcycle, I guarantee it. Smooth lines, perfect setups, a wonderful pace and exquisite technique. I found myself sitting on my couch leaning left and right to see if I could keep up with him.... ;-)

Overview of the High Racer Gloves

Racer Gloves have always been my favorite brand. I own four pairs that are over 5 years old because I have never found another glove to give me the same comfort and protection that I have come to love. 

Check out my first video overview of these gloves (as well as my first video review). Hope you enjoy, let me know what you think and look for more video reviews soon!

The Dainese Women's Torque D1 Boots Don't Fit Me

2017 UPDATE! I purchased these boots earlier this year and made them work. Click here to find out how. 

Last month I posted about these amazing boots that Dainese created just for women. Race level boots with full lateral, ankle support. Something my Sidis just don't offer. :-(

I tried on the Dainese boots in 37 (my size when shoes run tight) and they're just TOO NARROW! *Cry* I couldn't get my amazing insoles to fit either, even a size up. The good news is, if you do have a slimmer instep, you will LOVE these. They also have a speedlace system, which allows you to cinch the ankles down even more! (Oh how I already envy you!)

This photo is from the back of the boot, all Dainese Race style boots are rear-entry. They also have velcro adjustments on either side of the boots (red circles) so you can adjust your calf fit, depending on what kind of pants/race suit you're wearing, or general calf size.

I wasn't trying to put the entire thing in side (all three pieces together). I could barely get my foot in as is. I have a high instep, so a lot of shoes in my size (6.5 US) are small at the opening so I can't get my foot in.

Maybe that's why I love my Sidis so much, they fit me so well and are so damn comfortable. I can add my magic insoles and I'm good to go.

But I really wanted more protection, in the form of full lateral support. Meaning, the boots make it almost impossible for your ankles to move sideways in case of an accident.

I also tried sizing up again (to 38), which helped so I could get my foot in. But then there was almost 2 inches of toe space :-( Looks like I'll be keeping my Sidis for awhile longer.... *sigh*

The good news is, if you have pretty, feminine narrowish feet you will be fine!

#firstworldproblems

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