ERC Track Day 2006

Monday, September 4th, 2006 (Labour Day)

After conducting several track days over the past several years, the Motorcycle Rider Course of the Ottawa Safety Council is hosting another ERC Track Day at the Shannonville Motorsport Park facility on Monday September 4th, 2006.

Dear Experienced Rider,

The Ottawa Safety Council (OSC) and the Motorcycle Rider Course are happy to give you this opportunity to join us on our Experienced Rider Course Track Day.
     Over the years, we have found the Experienced Rider Course (ERC) to be very effective in the topics on which it is focused (slow speed riding, braking, swerving, etc.). However, in its current form, it lacks the ability for experienced riders to practice cornering skills at real world speeds in a safe environment free of cars and curbs.
     The solution is a closed circuit such as the track at Shannonville Motorsports Park. It is the ideal environment for riders to practice higher speed cornering skills under safe conditions in a controlled professional environment.
     The emphasis of the ERC Track Day will not be for riders to increase speeds and lower lap times. Rather, riders will be encouraged to corner consistently and smoothly at realistic speeds. This event is not a training program providing instruction on riding technique; is simply a track day for experienced riders to practice their skills while having fun in a controlled environment.
     To ensure the safety of the novice track rider, a number of safety measures will be implemented, such as escorted lapping sessions, and monitoring/supervision by both on track and off track marshals. Additionally, smaller group sizes and enforced overtaking rules ensure a greater safety margin for all riders. Riders will be classified into categories to ensure that riders of similar levels will be lapping on the same sessions. Instead of the regular ambulance service usually found on the typical track day, the ERC Track Day will have a team of trained paramedics track-side in case of emergencies.
     Below is a registration package which includes a registration form, event description, rules and a schedule for the day. Please read the package carefully and understand that this is not a race day, race event or racing school.
     If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the office.

Warning: Your motorcycle insurance will not cover you while you are on the track.

This is Not a Race Day

This is not a race day or a race school. It is intended for "everyday riders", who might otherwise never ride on a track, to have the opportunity to practice their cornering skills in this ideal environment. Speeds and rider behaviour will be strictly controlled.

This announcement, other information, and the registration form, can be downloaded as a PDF file by clicking here.

Contents

• Registration
• Refund Policy
• Rider Classification
• Technical Inspection
• Motorcycle
• Riding Gear
• Riders' Meetings
• Rules of the ERC Track Day
• Schedule

Highlights

• Classroom informational session
• Track side Riders' Meeting and Tech Inspection
• Corner workers and paramedics for your safety
• Lapping of Shannonville Motorsport Park Long Track

Registration

This track day is open to all riders but there is a limit to the number of riders allowed. Registration will be done on a first come first served basis according to the date registration is completed.  Registration is completed once fee payments have been received.  In previous years, these events have sold out, with hopeful track riders showing up at the track to register on the day of the event, only to discover that all the slots have been filled. Pre-register to avoid any disappointment.  Furthermore, early registrants will be offered a reduced rate.

Refund Policy

The ERC Track Day will run "rain or shine". Refunds will be given only if notice of cancellation is received:

• at least 15 business days notice
• refund minus a $30 administration fee

Exceptions: If you can find another rider to take your spot, you are entitled to the refund minus $30 administration fee once the replacement rider completes registration for the track day. The Ottawa Safety Council reserves the right to approve the replacement rider.

Rider Classification

Motorcycles and their riders will be broken down into classifications so that comparable motorcycles and riders will be on the track on the same sessions. When registering you must choose one of the three classes available. The classifications are as follows:

Beginner Class is for new or less experienced track riders interested in a safe non-threatening track ride. This class is ideal for the rider who wants the time to learn the proper track lines and practice the art of cornering. Passing is not permitted in corners.

Intermediate Class is for experienced riders with some track experience, who are comfortable on the track at a moderate pace. These riders should be skilled at cornering on the track at speed. Passing is permitted, but overly aggressive passing will not be tolerated. If you want to race, go elsewhere.

Advanced Class is open to riders who are extremely comfortable on the track with their bikes and ride at a quick pace. This class is open to racers, ex-racers and some skilled non-racers who ride a motorcycle that is properly track prepped. Riders in this group have a solid knowledge of track riding and are very experienced in this environment. Although the pace is quicker than the other classes, a large emphasis will be put on safety. Since all the riders in this class are highly experienced at a race pace, these riders are expected to have the greatest comfort zone since they are not at race speeds. Passing is permitted but overly aggressive passing will not be tolerated. Again, this is not a race.

Riders should place themselves in the classification that best suits their motorcycle and riding style. Riders will be asked to change classifications if it is observed that there has been misclassification. Riders riding at a level above their classification have the option of slowing down to comply with the other riders, or moving into a faster classification. A rider moving into a faster classification will be subject to the rules of their new classification. Be accurate and realistic when choosing your class and it will save a lot of headaches later. The Ottawa Safety Council will have final say in the riders' classifications.

Technical Inspection Information

The technical inspection will be held the day of the track day once the rider completes sign-in. Only riders and motorcycles that pass tech will be allowed to participate in the track day. Riders that have a problem with their motorcycles not passing tech will be given as many chances as needed to pass tech. However, if it is the rider's riding gear that doesn't pass tech, the only course of action is for the rider to get proper riding gear. Therefore, it is extremely important that all riders attend the informational session in Ottawa. The tech inspection will be briefly explained but most importantly, riders may ask questions. If you are unsure about your riding gear, bring it to the information night… it will save possible disappointment at the track.

The tech inspection is very brief and looks only for the most obvious safety faults listed below. It is up to you as the bike's owner/rider to ensure there is oil in the engine, all filler and drain plugs are tight, and the engine and other components aren't about to fail. We require you to maintain your motorcycle in top shape, thoroughly examine its mechanical condition prior to each session and provide whatever maintenance and/or repairs necessary before participating.

The Motorcycle

1. Overall: Good condition and clean
2. Brakes: Clean brake fluid, pads, rotors, calipers, and lines in good condition. We will check brakes for action, but you are responsible for their mechanical and functional soundness. Do they work properly? Will they last the day?
3. Throttle: Check to see smooth operation and that the throttle doesn't stick
4. Engine: No fluid leaks of any kind (gas, brake, forks, radiator, engine, and battery).
5. Suspension: Inspection of shocks, springs for operation and leaks. We will check brake bolts, steering head bearings, and handle bars for looseness.
6. Tires: Tires in good condition with tread depth for the event and proper rating. It is up to the rider to check axle nuts, pinch bolts, and to ensure tires are inflated and not too old for proper traction (good tires are cheap insurance).
7. Body work: No loose parts, glass/lights must be removed and any glass left on the motorcycle must be duct taped. Use your discretion on instrumentation and the windscreen.
8. Side Stands and Centre Stands: Stands that are obtrusive or have weak springs should be removed if possible or wired to stay up.
9. Chain: In good condition, properly tensioned and lubricated.
10. Oil drain plugs safety wired or secured with a temporary silicone sealant such as "goop".
11. Coolant: Glycol based coolant (antifreeze) is extremely slick if spilled on the track, and its cleanup will drastically reduce everyone’s track riding time. For these reasons, riders are encouraged to replace their coolant with water and/or “Water Wetter”. This practice is required for the advanced group, and highly recommended for the beginner and intermediate groups.
12. Bikes should be numbered for easy identification.

Beginner and Intermediate Class riders must prepare their bike as described above.

Advanced Class riders are expected to have more experience on the track and their speeds will be quicker than the other two classes. Due to the greater risk of injury if an incident occurs, in addition to the bike preparation described above, this class will have the following stricter preparation requirements. Glycol (anti-freeze) will not be permitted; only water or "Water Wetter" will be allowed. Mirrors and other non-essential equipment must be removed.

The tech inspectors ask you not to bring hot (engine temperature) bikes for inspection. If it can't be avoided, please warn the inspector beforehand.

In addition to the inspection list, the rider is responsible for checking the following items on their motorcycle:

1. Swingarm bushings, rear axle, wheel bearings and steering head bearings.
2. The chain and adjusters for proper adjustment and lubrication.
3. Suspension components must be correctly adjusted.
4. Tires must be in good condition.
5. Battery strapped down.
6. All fluids check for condition, level and age.
7. Check oil drain plug, radiator condition, all fluid hoses and lines.
8. Check over for anything that is or could become loose.
9. Double check oil level and tightness of oil drain plug.

Apparel and Riding Gear

1. Leather one piece or two piece suit with jacket and pants attached (AeroStich or comparable suits can be used at your own risk). Organizers will have final say.

If your jacket and pants are separate pieces, they must fasten together with a zipper -- or you can duct tape them together.

2. Good condition late model (1995 or newer) full-faced helmet with a working visor.
3. Leather boots that cover the ankle
4. Leather "gauntlet" style gloves with fully covered fingers.
5. A back protector is required to ride in the advanced group, but is recommended for all riders.
6. No jeans will be permitted. No exceptions.

The above information is to ensure that all riders arrive at the track prepared. If you have any questions or concerns about preparing your bike, please bring them forward at the information session in Ottawa and not at the track. If you are unsure about your riding gear, bring it with you on the informational night or contact us with your questions.

Warning: Your motorcycle insurance will not cover you while you are on the track.

Informational Session

An ERC Track Day informational session will be held at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, August 22nd, 2006. This session will be in the OSC Lecture Hall in Ottawa. Although not a requirement, all riders are encouraged to attend this session. In addition to covering the ERC Track Day rules and describing the proceedings, this meeting will cover other topics of interest to track day participants, and serve as a forum to answer any questions you may have about the track day. Attending this meeting is your best bet to ensure your participation in the event runs smoothly.

Track-Side Riders' Meeting

All registered participants planning on riding must attend the riders' meeting, which is held in the morning, before the track is opened. To ensure that we have everyone's attention and 100% participation, registration and tech will be closed during the meeting and attendance will be taken.

The meetings are held to prepare and advise participants of track procedures in effect for the day. Topics covered will include pit lane procedures, entering and exiting the track, track safety, marshalling and a quick run down of the flags to name a few. We will also take this opportunity to discuss any concerns that you may have. All constructive input will be welcome.

Rules of the ERC Track Day

All motorcycles must meet or exceed the safety requirements of the class in which they are categorized. Advanced Class riders are expected to have extensive track experience and their motorcycles must be prepared accordingly. For more information regarding the safety requirements for your motorcycle, please consult the Technical Inspection Information section or ask us at the informational session.

This is NOT a race day. There are rules that will be enforced to ensure that everyone rides safely. We want everyone to enjoy himself or herself and no one will enjoy crashing, especially if the incident was caused by the actions of another rider. Depending on the severity of the incident, warnings may not be issued to the offender before having track privileges revoked.

Some of the many rules:

1. Safety always comes first. Any infraction not listed will fall under this rule.
2. This track day is not a race! Riders looking to race - please go somewhere else. Any riders caught racing will be asked to leave - no refund !
3. It is the responsibility of each participant to be fully aware of the rules and guidelines.
4. All registered participants must read and understand the waiver form, show photo ID, and sign up prior to participating.
5. All riders shall attend the Riders' Meeting to be held in the morning. Riders not attending will not be allowed onto the track.
6. Participants must not tamper with any of the markings, or tags. For example wristbands, registration stickers, or tech inspection tags.
7. All motorcycles must be in top mechanical condition and pass a technical inspection prior to being allowed on the track. All crashed motorcycles must be re-inspected before re-entering another session.
8. All riders must wear appropriate leather or approved gear suitable for the track day. This includes two piece suits that can be fastened together. Footwear and hand protection must be appropriate for motorcycle use. Helmets must be full-faced, SNELL M95 or equivalently approved, be in good condition and fit the wearer properly. Riders in the advanced group must wear a back protector.  Each of these items will be checked.
9. Riders will not consume mind-altering substances, or anything that could impair their ability to operate a motorcycle safely. Anyone caught breaking this rule will not be permitted to ride for the remainder of day.
10. All riders must listen to the corner workers and obey the flags.
11. Anyone allowing an unregistered person to ride their bike on the track will lose their privileges for the remainder of the day.
12. Never ride opposite to the direction of traffic, including paddock and pit areas.
13. All passing must be done with the greatest of safety and with plenty of room. Any passing deemed dangerous by the Ottawa Safety Council will not be tolerated. In addition, passing in the Beginner Class will not be allowed in turns.
14. In the event a rider passes another, good sportsmanship and safety shall apply. The rider being passed should not block a faster rider. The slower riders must give way to faster riders. However, it is always the responsibility of the faster rider to ensure that the pass is made in the safest possible manner.
15. Any riders that looses control of their motorcycle, on or off the track, and causes another rider to go down, may lose all riding privileges for the day. All situations will be assessed accordingly.
16. Safety Monitors will be circulating during the lapping sessions, so behave. There will be Safety Monitors in specific corners taking notes as well.
17. All decisions made by the Ottawa Safety Council are final. All participants will agree to abide by these decisions during the event.

ERC Track Day Rider Schedule

Important: Dangerous and careless driving on the track will not be tolerated. Riders are warned to ride safely and remain in control of their motorcycles at all times. Should riders not behave in a safe manner, the organizers reserve the right to revoke the rider's track privileges for the remainder of the day without warning or refund.