6 Recommended Resources for Motorcycle Racing
Revving up the adrenaline, motorcycle racing demands not just courage but skilled precision. This post delivers practical resources for racers aiming to sharpen their techniques and mindset. From mastering body positioning to building mental toughness, each recommendation is a gear shift towards racing excellence.
- Watch Simon Crafar's 'Motovudo' Videos
- Enhance Corner Speed and Braking Techniques
- Master Body Positioning for Better Control
- Participate in Track Days for Real Experience
- Analyze Professional Racing Lines
- Build Mental Resilience for Competitive Racing
Watch Simon Crafar's 'Motovudo' Videos
My racing journey benefited immensely from various resources, spanning books, documentaries, and online content. Simon Crafar's "Motovudo" videos, though considered "old but gold" by many, are exceptionally valuable. They brilliantly demonstrate fundamental riding techniques and, importantly, illustrate optimal racing lines on many popular circuits. These are key for decreasing lap times. Another cornerstone was Keith Code's "Twist of the Wrist" documentary. While the book is also fantastic, the documentary format beautifully illustrates the principles of smooth, controlled riding, which are crucial at higher speeds.
Beyond structured resources, don't underestimate the power of informal learning. Simply talking to fellow racers at the track - the paddock is a goldmine of real-world advice and diverse perspectives! Often, sitting back and observing other riders, both faster and slower, reveals invaluable lessons. You can learn from their successes, but also by spotting mistakes and inefficiencies.
For body position insights, "Life at Lean" provided significant understanding, this is an essential part of racing and can help decrease lap times. The late racer and YouTuber Luca Savadori also created excellent videos that expertly analyzed his own racing techniques, offering a rider's-eye view of applying theory. Sylvain Guintoli's instructional videos are great on hand and foot position, but the initial spark for understanding foot placement came from an old, obscure amateur video showing Troy Corser's techniques during an instructor session. This highlighted that insights can come from unexpected places.
And finally, to get that sense of adventure, of what racing is, I turn to something a little different. The German YouTube channel and podcast "Alte Schule" (Old School), although primarily focused on automotive racing history, captures the raw, untamed spirit of motorsport's past. Their stories, often featuring legendary drivers and daring feats, remind me of the inherent roughness and adventurous soul that underpins all forms of motor racing, serving a sense of purpose. All these elements, combined with focused track time, are invaluable for continuous growth in motorcycle racing.
Enhance Corner Speed and Braking Techniques
Enhancing corner speed and refining braking techniques are crucial elements in motorcycle racing. Knowing when to accelerate and decelerate can dramatically improve lap times and overall performance. Racers often practice these skills consistently to gain a natural feel for their bike's capabilities.
Perfecting these aspects can lead to smoother, faster, and safer rides on the track. Prioritize developing these techniques to gain a competitive edge in your races.
Master Body Positioning for Better Control
Body positioning plays a significant role in maintaining control and stability while racing. Proper positioning can help distribute weight more effectively and improve aerodynamics. This involves training your body to instinctively shift and adjust during different phases of the race.
It is a skill that separates novice racers from experienced ones. Focus on mastering body positioning to navigate every race with precision and confidence.
Participate in Track Days for Real Experience
Participating in track days provides invaluable real-world experience that books and videos can't offer. These events offer a safe environment to test your limits and apply what you've learned. Observing and interacting with fellow racers can also provide insights and tips to enhance your skills.
It's an excellent way to simulate actual racing conditions and make necessary adjustments. Make track days a part of your routine to evolve as a motorcycle racer.
Analyze Professional Racing Lines
Studying the racing lines of professional riders can provide a blueprint for your own racing strategy. Watching and analyzing their techniques can reveal patterns in their cornering, braking, and acceleration. This process involves closely observing videos or live races to understand the intricacies of their actions.
Implementing these insights into your practice can lead to significant improvements. Start analyzing professional races and see how it transforms your approach.
Build Mental Resilience for Competitive Racing
Building mental resilience is essential to handle the pressures that come with competitive racing. The psychological aspect of racing can affect focus, decision-making, and overall performance on the track. Techniques such as visualization, meditation, and controlled breathing can help strengthen mental resilience.
Having a strong mental game can make the difference in high-pressure situations. Work on your mental toughness to stay calm and perform your best during races.