The track is the safest place to explore cornering speed and lean angle. There is no oncoming traffic, there are no junctions, the surface is consistent and there is run-off. Most organisers require the following.

Rider

• One-piece or zip-together leathers, back protector, race boots and gauntlet gloves, and a full-face helmet in good condition
• Get a good night's sleep, drink plenty of water, eat light, and leave your ego at home

Bike

• Mirrors removed or taped, and lights and number plate taped
• Tyres in good condition. Set pressures as the tyre manufacturer advises for track use, measured the way they specify (hot or cold)
• Brakes with plenty of pad, fresh fluid, no leaks, and drain plugs and filler caps secure (often lock-wired)
• Many organisers require coolant to be replaced with water, because glycol is extremely slippery on track
• Check the noise limit for the circuit

Dig deeper

• California Superbike School: the Levels curriculum
• Yamaha Champions Riding School (Nick Ienatsch)