Killarney Riding School - attended by Susan
Track Day - 24 July 2005
In 1991 a group of enthusiasts led by a local motorcycle shop got together and held a “riding school”. The main intention was to improve road safety by encouraging track racing as opposed to the dangerous practice of racing on public roads and over the local passes.
Now, in 2005, the WPMC Motorcycle Section runs a number of riding schools each year. Students range from first time motorcycle owners to the everyday/weekend riders and the would-be racers. The committee obtains sponsorship for the day, in this instance the day was sponsored by Boland Bikes and RST Leathers.
On arriving at Killarney, I was amazed at the number of bikes there – some beautiful machinery - quite a few new Suzuki GSXR1000’s and R1’s and of course Blackbirds & Hyabusas. I had arrived on my old Suzuki GSXR 1100 and the great thing about the riding school is that you are there to learn, practice and enjoy the day rather than race to be the “winner”.
The rider fills in the necessary paperwork and pays R200 for the day. Here is where you decide which group you would prefer to ride in – Fast, Medium or Slow. If it’s your first time at the track it is advisable to start in the slow group from where you can always progress to the medium group. Then it’s off to your motorcycle to apply tape over flickers, headlights, taillights, mirrors and the number plate. Once this is completed your motorcycle will be checked/scrutinized by a marshal.
All those in the medium and slow groups then gather in the pit area to attend an informative speech, while the riders in the Fast group start their 20 minute session on the track. Some of the topics covered are the importance of having a passive – not aggressive - attitude while riding and being comfortable on the motorcycle. A Marshal then displays and explains the different flags that could be shown to a rider whilst on the track.
The medium group then starts their 20 minute session on the track and those left in the pits are given more instruction on braking and gearing techniques, including the art of counter-steering.
Finally it was the slow group’s turn on the track! The instructors took us out five at a time and led us around the track, showing us the line to take in the corners etc. Then they pull off and now it’s up to the rider to start getting a feel for the track and practicing cornering, braking and gearing. The instructors ride around the track and if they notice you doing something incorrect, they will ride in front of you, guiding you until you get it right. By the end of the 20 minute session I was really enjoying myself! During the rest of the day we rode two more 20 minute sessions.
At the end of the day I had learnt a lot and was definitely cornering better. I would recommend that any rider attend one of these riding schools for a fun day of learning and riding.
For more details on the next track contact: (021) 975-2117 or 0827482805.
Thanks to David Bolding of Nomads for inviting me.
Susan James
