Getting started in dirt track?

[milkman]

G'day fellas,
I've searched around for some answers but to no avail
If I want to start racing some vintage track, what do i need exactly, bare bones, to have a go?

I have a couple of old ag100's, ag175's laying around, and I know they wouldn't be the fastest, but I wouldn't mind punting them on a track - then if i like it, I can go from there

So do I need a licence, club membership, what do i need to pass scrutineering? I've tried to find the information in posts regading rules etc, but they're more specifics for present competitors. A beginners guide would help 

Any info mos appreciated.
I'm down near the 'gong, so I assume Nepaean is my closest track

cheers
Steven

[Motoman]

Hi mate,

Nepean is a great place to ride/race your bikes. All sorts of vintage machinery show up from Postie Bikes and CT90s to 650 twins and more "exotica"! Basic MX bikes and side cars as well, both vintage and modern.

They hold practice days the second Saturday of every month from Feb to November. You can get a day license and pay the practice fee on the day. If you are going to do many practice days and race with St George or City of Penrith Club it works out cheaper to get an MANSW license. First thing to get a license is join a club. Have a look at Nepean's web site for ride fees and at St George and MANSW sites as well.

You will need a trials tyre or dirt track tyre on the rear, no knobbies are allowed on the rear but are the way to go on the front.

Back protectors are mandatory for racing and as far as I know for practice days as well, (always best to wear regardless). Obviously helmet, gloves, boots, eye protection as well.

If you race the bike will need to go through scruitineering. You can down load the 2010 manual of Motorcycle Sport from the MA web site which will describe what you need.

Come to the first practice day and ask around. The people are a nice bunch and will be happy to let you know what you will need to do to your bike to race. Don't worry about being slow. As far as the races go, there are only 3 1/2 laps and while not easy to get lapped in such a short race, if you hold your line you will keep your self out of trouble and have a great time doing it!

[milkman]

Cheers Motoman, I'll download that and have a look

[oldyzman]

Hey Milkman, All you gotta do is:
Join STgeorge MCC or another
Pre register for the race and get a day licence the week prior.
Turn up on the day with a tight bike:
Plug the handle bar ends,
Make sure the swing arm and spokes are tight
Run a block pattern rear tyre (Trials universal)
sort out a number for yourself justy ask around and take some masking tape with you in case

My sincere advice is Do not do a practice day- as it will scare the shit out of you.
Race days are real safe as you race against similar bikes- there is only three and a half laps, so that means that you dont get lapped. and the first straight sorts out the pecking order a bit. You will never have as much fun for the $100 invested (Approx) for the day. Top bunch of blokes

if you want to call me for any info please feel free, I will PM you my number in MY Messages

Jim and Nathan were really helpful for my first races via this forum. and at the track matcho mick, noel, motoman, Neville were just a few of the welcomeing gents.

Brett     Number 95

[TT5 Matt]

i was thinking of another go on the track after a long lay off from long track racing of about 23 yrs which i did on half and mile tracks at Pt piree and morgan in sa so what clothing can you get away with ie jeans overall's or do you have to have full leather's like the old days?

[oz555ktm]

Also The A.C.T MCC  ( Canberra ) Runs Vintage Dirt Track and have rec-ride days

 In 2008  thay ran the Vintage Dirt Track Nat and was a Big Hit .

 Call Pat Pitter on 0419905410

 Its a Top Track ..

[Motoman]

You have a point there Brett....race days are more "civilized"!! I have found that at a practice day a newbie can ask for a couple of laps (2 or 3) on their own or with other slower riders before the swarms join in. It might even be possible for a short session of new riders, girlfriends, "sportsman riders" etc. The day is fairly casual and I have found the organizers can be a little flexible. There are plenty of laps available to all. For me, I would find starting off on a race day too stressful worrying about what race, what round, etiquette, etc.

As far as clothing goes MX gear is popular, but jeans may not be acceptable. keep in mind that MX pants have inner lining and the material is designed so you slide if you hit the ground and skin is not chafed against the ground or clothing. Long sleeve T shirt will do for a top for sure.

[matcho mick]

i agree,go the race day!,took my mate who hadn't raced (roadracer) for over 20 years to  Nepean,a St Geoge race day,put him on my XL350 (actually has his race motor),he had a ball,"last man standing" in pre 75 unlimited,went home with 1st place trophy grinning all the way!!,riders are more aware at race days,they will look out for you,always offer friendly advice,as for race gear,bellstaff pants,or jackets acceptable,(my mates attire)you will need back protector,body amours optional i think?,just go for it ,

[milkman]

Thanks everyone for the advice
I've got back armour and riding gear, so that should be ok.
Just need to get a bike sorted and have some spare coin for fees etc before I can start

[oldyzman]

A bit of advice that i took from Nathan was just circle the date on the calendar and do it. Because its real easy to let the year go by...
Brett