To go fast you need to go slow.
Want to be quicker on track?
With modern superbikes pushing over 200hp stock, litre bikes are faster than ever before. But to compensate for this huge amount of power the bikes have about the same level of technology you would see in a post-cold war fighter jet, with IMU’s, data loggers and non-invasive slide control.
Because of this tech loads of people (mostly men) buy litre bikes, and even with all the electronic aids they struggle to go fast, but why? This leads me to my initial point; they haven’t gone slow. Dramatic I know, but hear me out. Learning to ride a bike fast on track is like learning to play an instrument, where you break things down into easier more manageable chunks, as to not overload your cranium. And keep working at it until it feels natural, as good things take time.
Having 200+hp on tap can be very distracting, so learning finesse on a less powerful bike is a great way to prepare for the bigger ones. Finesse comes mainly from saddle time, but also from attending a track riding school or an off-road riding school, as the experiences contribute to mastering the art bike control.
Also, in the Moto 3 paddock you see young lads constantly wheeling and stunting bicycles. Whilst it looks like they're pissing around they are actually honing in their skills and bike control, albeit slowly. So, dust off the old push bike from the shed, and get practicing!
Check out this epic example of slow speed control by Moto E racer Jesko Raffin:
To sum up, try not to let the allure of a big power figure and high top speed limit your ability to improve and learn. On track, if you’re having fun and enjoying riding, you’ll naturally be quicker and more consistent. And don’t worry this isn’t my gospel, it’s what every track day instructor preaches: ‘‘just enjoy it”.
