Bay Area Grom owner here. Thought I would share some track info for those interest tracking their Grom. The track offers a ideal environment for rider's to improve and hone their riding skill-set.
My own testament - had I not participated in track activities (Mini-moto Road Racing and Track Days) back in 2003, I would not even be close to the rider I am today.
Here's a list of our local tracks within the Bay Area....
Lil 99 Stockton Raceway:
1658 S. Airport Way
Stockton, CA 95206
Cost: Scheduled Track Day Events - $40 (non-members), $30 (paid member). Non-scheduled Track Days - $30
Stockton Lil 99 Class / Session break down (typically):
Keep in mind, early in the day when there are fewer bike(s) attending, all bikes are allowed on the track at a time. Once safety becomes a concern, that's when Group Sessions (listed below) typically begin, for the safety of all riders.
C Group Session: Beginner, Pocket Bikes, 50 ~ 80cc 4t, and small displacement 2T bikes
B Group Session: Mini-Moto 50cc ~ 65cc 2T, 100cc ~ 150fcc 4T bikes, *Novice Big Bikes
* Novice Big Bike etiquette should be to allow faster mini-moto riders to pass freely on the faster sections of the track, not hold them up in the corners. Otherwise, they belong in the A Group.
A Group Session: 80cc 2T and up, 150r 4T and up bikes (Novice ~ Expert riders)
****NEW RIDERS: If attending a track (or race) day for the first time, let them know you are new or new to the track, inquire with the track director (or who is in charge) of what type of bike(s) you plan to ride, and inquire which Class / Group (or race class) session you are eligible to participate within.
Here's a race video that was put together back in 2005, when I used to race at the Stockton track (Formerly known as Stockton Motoplex / SMRRC). Although a bit dated, the fun factor and competition still remains. Additionally, there are tons of mini race videos to be found on the internet.
-----------------------------------------------
Infineon / Sears Point), Simraceway:
29359 Arnold Drive
Sonoma, CA 95476
Cost: $60 full day, $40 half day (cost may be subject to change)
https://simracewaydrivingschool.com/events/ <<<< click link for scheduled dates. Dates labelled as "Supermoto" are open track days for moto's
NOTE: After entering the main gate, take the side road to your left, and up the hill. Once you reach the upper level lot, keep to the right and proceed until you reach the track pit area. There is a building nearest to the track. Enter the building to sign a liability waiver and pay for your track day.
-----------------------------------------------
Atwater / Tom Dash Memorial Speedway: Currently closed to karts and moto's
500 Industry Way, Atwater (just off of Hwy 99, towards Merced)
Cost: $25 (may vary depending on whom is hosting a track day).
a fast and fun track!
-----------------------------------------------
Kinsman Kart Club located in Dixon (near Fairfield):
4975 Rio Dixon Rd, Dixon, CA 95620 (second driveway / gate from the main road). Look for the Kinsman Kart Club sign
Kinsman Kart Club has opened up their track to moto's. For more info or moto day events, Join their FB group.
Cost is $40 per rider
"This is new to the club. So you really won't find much. Yes we allow the larger moto's. We want sliders , handle bar covers , foot pegs that fold up. Then you need the safety gear for a rider. There is no dirt to ride on . This is just the asphalt track." ..... their last moto track day posting.
-----------------------------------------------
There is another track outside the Bay Area I'm aware of; Prairie City, located in Rancho Cordova (just outside of Sacramento, off Hwy 50). but don't know if there is a provider that offers it open to moto's. For those that live in that neck of the woods, I encourage you to inquire at the park. IIR, it is a State property. I had raced and tracked there back in 2003. This is an awesome track! If anyone has details about this track, please feel free to post details.
-----------------------------------------------
General Track Info
NOTE: Prior to attending a Track Day or Race Day - Be sure your self are physically fit, and the motorcycle(s) being ridden have NO mechanical issues. In other words, YOU, the rider and or the motorcycle being ridden will NOT pose a potential safety threat or hazard to others sharing the track with you.
General Bike Prep:
Slider Protection:
1) Bar End sliders (or hand guards) are a must. I highly recommend "delrin" (plastic) type sliders, not metal.
Note: Grom's are factory equipped with metal type bar end sliders. If bars have been changed or altered, some type of bar end protection must be added.
2) Axle Sliders - are preferred, but not enforced. Supermoto's, may be a requirement .... check with track provider. Sonoma / Infineon track may be a requirement.
3) Foot Peg Sliders - are preferred to those who have "fixed" style footpegs. Most commonly required are supermoto bikes, not road race bikes. Foldable style pegs are not required to have sliders. Sonoma / Infineon track may be a requirement.
Groms / Z125, and alike: Remove peg feelers from bottom side of each foot peg, to improve ground clearance. As speed increases, so does lean angle, and the pegs WILL scrape the track surface. Additionally, I recommend shaving down that portion (corner edge) of the peg (each side) a bit for additional ground clearance. Otherwise, install after-market peg risers or rear sets - China type seem to be a popular choice, cost wise.
4) Frame Sliders (optional)
Safety Wire: (optional, but may be required for those who race)
Axle Nuts
Brake Caliper mounting bolts
Oil Drain plug bolt
Alternatively to Safety Wiring, Red RTV (silicon) may be acceptable. Check with your local race and or track provider.
Catch Bottle / Can Requirements:
Water-cooled bikes: insert Over-flow tubes into catch bottle. Additionally, replace coolant with Water-wetter, by Redline. This is a premix solution (w/ distilled water).
Carburators: All over-flow tubes inserted into catch bottle
Lights: I suggest to remove them, so they are not damaged in the event of a crash. Otherwise, disconnect them or remove bulbs. Additionally, tape up the light lenses (using painters tape, or alike). If racing, lights must be removed.
Mirrors: Must be removed
-----------------------------------------------
Self Protection:
Any variety of Motocross Protection is considered minimal (Pants, Armour, Jersey, Boots, Gloves, Chest Protector, Helmet (dirt w/ goggles or full face), 1 or 2 piece Leather suit w/ riding boots, gloves and helmet. Work type boots are permitted. Back Protectors are highly suggested.
-----------------------------------------------
Track Etiquette:
Disclaimer: Due to the nature of the sport, the track environment, understand and accept that there is risk (potential to close calls, contact, and or crash(ing)). There will be a variety of motorcycle displacements, as well as rider skill level (beginner ~ expert) sharing the track at any given time. Rider(s) participating not only are there to have fun, but to improve their skill level and confidence of the machine being ridden. At times, expect that some riders will have some competitive fun amongst each other. Also, be aware that Club Racers may be participating to improve their lap times. However, ALL riders should follow the guideline noted below.
Experienced Riders: Be courteous and mindful of new and younger riders when sharing track time, for the safety of ALL riders. More especially, going into the corners.
New Riders: It certainly helps to know an experienced rider to show you lines, brake points, and fundamentals. However, if you attend by yourself, there is always someone there that is willing to tow a newbie around and share insight.
Most importantly, choose a consistent and predictable line around the course, so that faster rider(s) can predict your intentions of getting around you safely. Your focus is what's ahead of you. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. If you know (or see that) faster traffic is approaching, it's safer to stay on coarse of travel, but be prepared to be passed. ONLY if / when safe to do so, moving off "The Race Line" to allow faster traffic to get by is ok. Again, ONLY if safe to do so. Be prepared to be passed. DO NOT make a erratic / unpredictable lane change, or quickly slow down or come to a complete Stop to allow a faster rider(s) to get by. Especially in the middle of a corner. Again, for the safety of all riders, continue a predictable coarse of travel.
* The Race Line: known as the fastest line / path around the road coarse.
In the case a rider should need to pull off the track, for whatever reason, Raise a Hand to warn others you may have a potential issue, then when safe to do so, proceed to ride / move off the track surface and onto the shoulder closest to your point of exit, and away from the track area. Avoid to Not quickly slow down or come to a complete stop on the track surface, as approaching rider(s) could potentially run into the back of you. Again, move off and away from the track surface as safely as possible.
Exiting The Track: On the approach of exiting the track towards pit lane, move off The Race Line, to the line or lane nearest to the pit lane exit. Additionally, as a courtesy to others behind you, put your hand up (typically left hand) to signal to others that you are exiting the track.
Have a Emergency contact(s) with you and or taped somewhere visibly (somewhere closest to the cockpit) on your motorcycle.
Crash / Accident: In the event of a crash, if able to, get yourself and your motorcycle off and away from the track tarmac, for the safety of everyone. Prior to re-entering the track surface, do a assessment of your body and motorcycle for any injury and or motorcycle damage. If yourself or motorcycle poses a potential hazard, due to injury and or motorcycle damage, DO NOT re-enter the track surface. Safely, walk your motorcycle to the pit area, and or ask for assistance from other riders, if necessary.
Fluids and Debris: After the event of a crash, also inspect the track area for any fluids and or debris where the crash occurred. Remove any debris from the track surface (and nearest of the track), if any. Moreover, if fluids have spilled onto the track surface, warn / flag approaching riders of the hazard. Report the fluid remnants to a flagger or to whomever is in charge, so immediate action to have the area cleaned up can be done.
If immediate emergency attention is needed, flag down the next rider(s) for help. In the case a flagger is not present or near the immediate area.
Hand / Feet Gestures: A hand gesture (wave or hand up), generally means "Thank You" (allowing a safe passing) or an apology (in the case of an un-intentional close call or aggressive passing). Foot out gesture generally can be interpreted equally as a hand gesture, or something on the track surface that can potentially be a hazard.
-----------------------------------------------
FLAGS: For the safety of yourself and all others sharing the track with you, please obey the flag rules listed below
GREEN: GO! the track is safe to ride.
YELLOW: Caution Ahead. Observe the safety hazard(s), approach slowly and safely.
RED: Extreme Safety Hazard. If safe to do so, Stop immediately (depending on safety hazard), or slowly proceed, then exit the track.
BLACK: If the BLACK flag is waived or pointed at you, either your bike poses a safety threat or you the rider poses a safety threat to others, you MUST safely exit the track (stay off the "race line") or track surface. Follow flagger instructions.
BLUE or BLUE w/ Yellow stripe: You are being lapped; Caution, faster rider(s) are approaching. If safe to do so, either move off the race line, or continue your path and prepare to be passed.
WHITE: One Lap remaining.
CHECKERED: Session or Race has expired. Proceed track coarse and safely and slowly exit the track.
My own testament - had I not participated in track activities (Mini-moto Road Racing and Track Days) back in 2003, I would not even be close to the rider I am today.
Here's a list of our local tracks within the Bay Area....
Lil 99 Stockton Raceway:
1658 S. Airport Way
Stockton, CA 95206
Cost: Scheduled Track Day Events - $40 (non-members), $30 (paid member). Non-scheduled Track Days - $30
Stockton Lil 99 Class / Session break down (typically):
Keep in mind, early in the day when there are fewer bike(s) attending, all bikes are allowed on the track at a time. Once safety becomes a concern, that's when Group Sessions (listed below) typically begin, for the safety of all riders.
C Group Session: Beginner, Pocket Bikes, 50 ~ 80cc 4t, and small displacement 2T bikes
B Group Session: Mini-Moto 50cc ~ 65cc 2T, 100cc ~ 150fcc 4T bikes, *Novice Big Bikes
* Novice Big Bike etiquette should be to allow faster mini-moto riders to pass freely on the faster sections of the track, not hold them up in the corners. Otherwise, they belong in the A Group.
A Group Session: 80cc 2T and up, 150r 4T and up bikes (Novice ~ Expert riders)
****NEW RIDERS: If attending a track (or race) day for the first time, let them know you are new or new to the track, inquire with the track director (or who is in charge) of what type of bike(s) you plan to ride, and inquire which Class / Group (or race class) session you are eligible to participate within.
Here's a race video that was put together back in 2005, when I used to race at the Stockton track (Formerly known as Stockton Motoplex / SMRRC). Although a bit dated, the fun factor and competition still remains. Additionally, there are tons of mini race videos to be found on the internet.
-----------------------------------------------
Infineon / Sears Point), Simraceway:
29359 Arnold Drive
Sonoma, CA 95476
Cost: $60 full day, $40 half day (cost may be subject to change)
https://simracewaydrivingschool.com/events/ <<<< click link for scheduled dates. Dates labelled as "Supermoto" are open track days for moto's
NOTE: After entering the main gate, take the side road to your left, and up the hill. Once you reach the upper level lot, keep to the right and proceed until you reach the track pit area. There is a building nearest to the track. Enter the building to sign a liability waiver and pay for your track day.
-----------------------------------------------
Atwater / Tom Dash Memorial Speedway: Currently closed to karts and moto's
500 Industry Way, Atwater (just off of Hwy 99, towards Merced)
Cost: $25 (may vary depending on whom is hosting a track day).
a fast and fun track!
-----------------------------------------------
Kinsman Kart Club located in Dixon (near Fairfield):
4975 Rio Dixon Rd, Dixon, CA 95620 (second driveway / gate from the main road). Look for the Kinsman Kart Club sign
Kinsman Kart Club has opened up their track to moto's. For more info or moto day events, Join their FB group.
Cost is $40 per rider
"This is new to the club. So you really won't find much. Yes we allow the larger moto's. We want sliders , handle bar covers , foot pegs that fold up. Then you need the safety gear for a rider. There is no dirt to ride on . This is just the asphalt track." ..... their last moto track day posting.
-----------------------------------------------
There is another track outside the Bay Area I'm aware of; Prairie City, located in Rancho Cordova (just outside of Sacramento, off Hwy 50). but don't know if there is a provider that offers it open to moto's. For those that live in that neck of the woods, I encourage you to inquire at the park. IIR, it is a State property. I had raced and tracked there back in 2003. This is an awesome track! If anyone has details about this track, please feel free to post details.
-----------------------------------------------
General Track Info
NOTE: Prior to attending a Track Day or Race Day - Be sure your self are physically fit, and the motorcycle(s) being ridden have NO mechanical issues. In other words, YOU, the rider and or the motorcycle being ridden will NOT pose a potential safety threat or hazard to others sharing the track with you.
General Bike Prep:
Slider Protection:
1) Bar End sliders (or hand guards) are a must. I highly recommend "delrin" (plastic) type sliders, not metal.
Note: Grom's are factory equipped with metal type bar end sliders. If bars have been changed or altered, some type of bar end protection must be added.
2) Axle Sliders - are preferred, but not enforced. Supermoto's, may be a requirement .... check with track provider. Sonoma / Infineon track may be a requirement.
3) Foot Peg Sliders - are preferred to those who have "fixed" style footpegs. Most commonly required are supermoto bikes, not road race bikes. Foldable style pegs are not required to have sliders. Sonoma / Infineon track may be a requirement.
Groms / Z125, and alike: Remove peg feelers from bottom side of each foot peg, to improve ground clearance. As speed increases, so does lean angle, and the pegs WILL scrape the track surface. Additionally, I recommend shaving down that portion (corner edge) of the peg (each side) a bit for additional ground clearance. Otherwise, install after-market peg risers or rear sets - China type seem to be a popular choice, cost wise.
4) Frame Sliders (optional)
Safety Wire: (optional, but may be required for those who race)
Axle Nuts
Brake Caliper mounting bolts
Oil Drain plug bolt
Alternatively to Safety Wiring, Red RTV (silicon) may be acceptable. Check with your local race and or track provider.
Catch Bottle / Can Requirements:
Water-cooled bikes: insert Over-flow tubes into catch bottle. Additionally, replace coolant with Water-wetter, by Redline. This is a premix solution (w/ distilled water).
Carburators: All over-flow tubes inserted into catch bottle
Lights: I suggest to remove them, so they are not damaged in the event of a crash. Otherwise, disconnect them or remove bulbs. Additionally, tape up the light lenses (using painters tape, or alike). If racing, lights must be removed.
Mirrors: Must be removed
-----------------------------------------------
Self Protection:
Any variety of Motocross Protection is considered minimal (Pants, Armour, Jersey, Boots, Gloves, Chest Protector, Helmet (dirt w/ goggles or full face), 1 or 2 piece Leather suit w/ riding boots, gloves and helmet. Work type boots are permitted. Back Protectors are highly suggested.
-----------------------------------------------
Track Etiquette:
Disclaimer: Due to the nature of the sport, the track environment, understand and accept that there is risk (potential to close calls, contact, and or crash(ing)). There will be a variety of motorcycle displacements, as well as rider skill level (beginner ~ expert) sharing the track at any given time. Rider(s) participating not only are there to have fun, but to improve their skill level and confidence of the machine being ridden. At times, expect that some riders will have some competitive fun amongst each other. Also, be aware that Club Racers may be participating to improve their lap times. However, ALL riders should follow the guideline noted below.
Experienced Riders: Be courteous and mindful of new and younger riders when sharing track time, for the safety of ALL riders. More especially, going into the corners.
New Riders: It certainly helps to know an experienced rider to show you lines, brake points, and fundamentals. However, if you attend by yourself, there is always someone there that is willing to tow a newbie around and share insight.
Most importantly, choose a consistent and predictable line around the course, so that faster rider(s) can predict your intentions of getting around you safely. Your focus is what's ahead of you. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. If you know (or see that) faster traffic is approaching, it's safer to stay on coarse of travel, but be prepared to be passed. ONLY if / when safe to do so, moving off "The Race Line" to allow faster traffic to get by is ok. Again, ONLY if safe to do so. Be prepared to be passed. DO NOT make a erratic / unpredictable lane change, or quickly slow down or come to a complete Stop to allow a faster rider(s) to get by. Especially in the middle of a corner. Again, for the safety of all riders, continue a predictable coarse of travel.
* The Race Line: known as the fastest line / path around the road coarse.
In the case a rider should need to pull off the track, for whatever reason, Raise a Hand to warn others you may have a potential issue, then when safe to do so, proceed to ride / move off the track surface and onto the shoulder closest to your point of exit, and away from the track area. Avoid to Not quickly slow down or come to a complete stop on the track surface, as approaching rider(s) could potentially run into the back of you. Again, move off and away from the track surface as safely as possible.
Exiting The Track: On the approach of exiting the track towards pit lane, move off The Race Line, to the line or lane nearest to the pit lane exit. Additionally, as a courtesy to others behind you, put your hand up (typically left hand) to signal to others that you are exiting the track.
Have a Emergency contact(s) with you and or taped somewhere visibly (somewhere closest to the cockpit) on your motorcycle.
Crash / Accident: In the event of a crash, if able to, get yourself and your motorcycle off and away from the track tarmac, for the safety of everyone. Prior to re-entering the track surface, do a assessment of your body and motorcycle for any injury and or motorcycle damage. If yourself or motorcycle poses a potential hazard, due to injury and or motorcycle damage, DO NOT re-enter the track surface. Safely, walk your motorcycle to the pit area, and or ask for assistance from other riders, if necessary.
Fluids and Debris: After the event of a crash, also inspect the track area for any fluids and or debris where the crash occurred. Remove any debris from the track surface (and nearest of the track), if any. Moreover, if fluids have spilled onto the track surface, warn / flag approaching riders of the hazard. Report the fluid remnants to a flagger or to whomever is in charge, so immediate action to have the area cleaned up can be done.
If immediate emergency attention is needed, flag down the next rider(s) for help. In the case a flagger is not present or near the immediate area.
Hand / Feet Gestures: A hand gesture (wave or hand up), generally means "Thank You" (allowing a safe passing) or an apology (in the case of an un-intentional close call or aggressive passing). Foot out gesture generally can be interpreted equally as a hand gesture, or something on the track surface that can potentially be a hazard.
-----------------------------------------------
FLAGS: For the safety of yourself and all others sharing the track with you, please obey the flag rules listed below
GREEN: GO! the track is safe to ride.
YELLOW: Caution Ahead. Observe the safety hazard(s), approach slowly and safely.
RED: Extreme Safety Hazard. If safe to do so, Stop immediately (depending on safety hazard), or slowly proceed, then exit the track.
BLACK: If the BLACK flag is waived or pointed at you, either your bike poses a safety threat or you the rider poses a safety threat to others, you MUST safely exit the track (stay off the "race line") or track surface. Follow flagger instructions.
BLUE or BLUE w/ Yellow stripe: You are being lapped; Caution, faster rider(s) are approaching. If safe to do so, either move off the race line, or continue your path and prepare to be passed.
WHITE: One Lap remaining.
CHECKERED: Session or Race has expired. Proceed track coarse and safely and slowly exit the track.