Firebird Main

We had track day last weekend in preparation for the races next weekend. New track for us, Firebird Main. Firebird is divided into several tracks. We have ridden on the East and West tracks, but the Main track was all new to us.

Main is made up of a large snaking back track and then a turn around the Firebird drag strip tower, then on to the 1/4 mile plus drag strip. The turn on to the strip was slick. Several riders slide out early on, but it cleaned up and warmed up to be a fast transition. Skyler kept working the turn and eventually figured out the apex that worked best for him.

We were also blown around this afternoon by the winds coming across the desert. This is also the same day many of the fires in So. California started up. We had to take down our tents to prevent damage. Can't imagine fighting a wildfire in those winds. I use to be in fire investigation, so I can speak with some experience. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those in California impacted by the fires. The track day sponsor took down the timing beacon about halfway through the day, so we were not able to keep accurate track of our times. Skyler however was thrilled with the opportunity to open the bike up and hit 5 gears in the strip. Against my better judgement, I let him convince me to give him my GOS to track his speed. The bike has been modified and only the tach works on the instrument panel. GPS came back with top speed at 150 MPH. Oh, that makes a Dad feel good, NOT! A few more prayers each trackday please. The 1000cc bikes go even faster. Skyler of course wants a bigger bike.

The day overall went well. No get offs, and no damage. We need to check a few suspension things, but otherwise we are set for the next race.

Our bike painter, Tom Hilsdorf, did a beautiful paint job on his bike ,only to have a slide out soon after he rode of for the first time. This was a few weeks ago. Thsi week he came back with some hilarious stickers made up like bandaids to draw attention to the damage and his bike. LOL.