Getting into Track Days
We’ve all thought about it. We’ve pondered whether we could get away with heading down to our local race track and taking our car around for a few laps of honour. But a lot of people never take the plunge into track days, mainly because they are unsure how to go about it and are worried about damaging their pride and joy. Well never fear, we have broken down the essentials for you so you can make an informed choice.
Does my insurance cover me for track days?
Generally no, however there are some policies that do, so it is worth checking. There may be a few policies that do cover you but they are becoming increasingly less common so don’t assume you are covered. Your current insurer may be able to extend your coverage for the day for a bit more money and it will probably increase the excess.
Can I get special track day insurance?
Yes, there are companies that specialise in insurance for track days and for racing cars. There are plenty to choose from and a quick search on the internet will give you an idea of the plans available. The price can vary as much as road insurance can, depending on all sorts of factors. However, with specialist insurers you don’t always have to insure the full value of the car, you can set a limit but remember that you are going to be driving quickly and if something goes wrong the repair bill won’t be cheap. In terms of warranty on your car, you may have to read the fine print as manufacturers are often describing track day use as a form of ‘abuse’ which can void warranty.
What happens if I’m in an accident that’s not my fault?
If this happens - the same rules as racing apply. You are responsible for your own car, whatever damage is caused to your car is your responsibility and not the other drivers. Damage to barriers or other parts of the track form part of the track day company’s insurance - that is why you will hear organisers talking about you not being allowed to take lap times as it voids their insurance.
Do I need to modify my car?
Not at all. The car has to be road-worthy but you can take a standard road car to any track day. There will probably be racing drivers there with their track cars but there is nothing to stop you going with any road car. However, you need to be aware that with standard road car components you may need to limit the number of laps you do in a session. The tyres will heat up very quickly and you can boil your brake fluid if you are braking hard at every corner. It is worth replacing the brake fluid with one that can operate at high temperatures and it may also be worth getting some better pads. Just don’t make the mistake of fitting full racing pads as these need heat to work and won’t give you the same stopping power on the road.
You can fit a roll cage if you want but a fitting a full cage is not a small modification and is unnecessary for track day use. You would be better off spending your money on a racing seat with a proper harness. When driving at speed you can get thrown around in a standard car seat and seatbelt. You will feel much more in control if your body is held stable as you drive.
We’ve all thought about it. We’ve pondered whether we could get away with heading down to our local race track and taking our car around for a few laps of honour. But a lot of people never take the plunge into track days, mainly because they are unsure how to go about it and are worried about damaging their pride and joy. Well never fear, we have broken down the essentials for you so you can make an informed choice.
Does my insurance cover me for track days?
Generally no, however there are some policies that do, so it is worth checking. There may be a few policies that do cover you but they are becoming increasingly less common so don’t assume you are covered. Your current insurer may be able to extend your coverage for the day for a bit more money and it will probably increase the excess.
Can I get special track day insurance?
Yes, there are companies that specialise in insurance for track days and for racing cars. There are plenty to choose from and a quick search on the internet will give you an idea of the plans available. The price can vary as much as road insurance can, depending on all sorts of factors. However, with specialist insurers you don’t always have to insure the full value of the car, you can set a limit but remember that you are going to be driving quickly and if something goes wrong the repair bill won’t be cheap. In terms of warranty on your car, you may have to read the fine print as manufacturers are often describing track day use as a form of ‘abuse’ which can void warranty.
What happens if I’m in an accident that’s not my fault?
If this happens - the same rules as racing apply. You are responsible for your own car, whatever damage is caused to your car is your responsibility and not the other drivers. Damage to barriers or other parts of the track form part of the track day company’s insurance - that is why you will hear organisers talking about you not being allowed to take lap times as it voids their insurance.
Do I need to modify my car?
Not at all. The car has to be road-worthy but you can take a standard road car to any track day. There will probably be racing drivers there with their track cars but there is nothing to stop you going with any road car. However, you need to be aware that with standard road car components you may need to limit the number of laps you do in a session. The tyres will heat up very quickly and you can boil your brake fluid if you are braking hard at every corner. It is worth replacing the brake fluid with one that can operate at high temperatures and it may also be worth getting some better pads. Just don’t make the mistake of fitting full racing pads as these need heat to work and won’t give you the same stopping power on the road.
You can fit a roll cage if you want but a fitting a full cage is not a small modification and is unnecessary for track day use. You would be better off spending your money on a racing seat with a proper harness. When driving at speed you can get thrown around in a standard car seat and seatbelt. You will feel much more in control if your body is held stable as you drive.
Can I buy a racing car?
Of course. Britain has a lot of motorsport series that use converted road cars and purpose-built saloon racing cars. There is also the option of buying Caterham-style sportscars which are great for track day use. There are also ready-built racers such as Radicals, however single-seaters will usually not be allowed due to safety concerns.
Do I need to buy any racewear?
Full racewear is required for test days but not for track days. You are required to wear a helmet but you can usually rent them from the track. However, it is probably best if you go shopping for one that is a good fit - they are not as expensive as you think. Full race helmets are expensive but motorcycle helmets are acceptable at just about every track day. Gloves and boots will help the feeling behind the wheel (gloves especially as your hands will sweat) but are not essential. Racewear can be very expensive because it is generally flame-proofed with Nomex or similar materials. Karting boots and gloves are cheaper as there is no flame-proofing and are just as good for track day use.
Will I be under pressure to drive quickly?
Not as much as you might think. There are a lot of novice track days that you can book which limit the drivers who can attend depending on how many track days they have done in the past. MSV tracks also run taster sessions that are just for novices which are very cheap and only last about 20 minutes. These are good for easing nerves if you have never driven on a track before.
Before any track day begins, every driver has to follow a pace car for a lap or two so use that time to familiarise yourself with the layout of the track. Ignore the speed of the car in front and focus on the track.
At most track days there will also be ARDS qualified instructors who can sit in the car with you to offer tuition - at a small price.
Any other tips?
When you return to the pits after a session, never put the handbrake on. The brake discs will be very hot and putting the handbrake on will only begin to melt the pad. Leave the car in gear with the handbrake off. Also, it is worth doing a cool-down lap or two before coming in. Go round at three-quarters speed to get air flowing through the radiators.
