First Time Guide

Your first trackday should feel exciting, not disorienting.

This guide condenses the legacy TPM first-timer advice into a cleaner sequence: choose the event, prepare the rider, prepare the bike, get to the track, and make the day smooth once you arrive.

When, where, and how Prepare the rider and bike What to bring Getting there At the track

When, where, how

TPM runs trackdays throughout the riding season. Weekend events usually draw more riders. Weekdays can be a good choice if you want a different paddock rhythm. ART CORE is offered at trackdays for riders who have never been on a track before.

Different tracks suit different riders and different phases of progression. Some layouts are easier to learn. Others become more rewarding once you have repetition and pace.

Simple signup path

Create your TPM account.
Choose guest access or a membership.
Select your trackday.
If you have never ridden on track, take ART CORE.
Complete payment and keep your confirmation.

Rider prep

Quality full-face helmet with eye protection.
Full leather suit. One-piece preferred, or a full-circumference zip-together two-piece.
Gauntlet gloves and over-the-ankle boots.
Back protector.
Gear in good condition, not just technically present.

Need equipment? Review the gear rental options before your date.

Bike prep

Tires in solid condition with proper pressure.
Brakes with good pad life and no soft feel.
No fluid leaks, no loose fittings, functioning kill switch.
Bodywork secure, mirrors and lenses taped, lights handled correctly.
Advanced groups have stricter prep requirements, including coolant restrictions.

If you are not bringing your own bike, plan early with the rental bike page.

Bring for yourself

Water, food, and a cooler.
Chair, canopy, towels, charger, sunscreen, and a fan on hot days.
Earplugs and a few personal comfort items that keep you focused.

Earplugs Amazon Canopy Amazon Folding Chairs Amazon Trackside Fan Amazon Extension Cord Amazon Cooler Amazon Microfiber Towels Amazon Phone Charger Amazon

Bring for the bike

Basic metric tools, tire gauge, and air source.
Fuel can.
Brake cleaner and shop towels.
A plastic bin helps keep repeat trackday essentials together.

Tool Set Amazon Tire Gauge Amazon Air Compressor Amazon Gas Can Amazon Brake Cleaner Amazon Shop Towels Amazon Tie Downs Amazon Storage Bin Amazon

Getting there

Most experienced riders trailer their bike. Open trailers work. Enclosed trailers work even better if you do enough days to justify them. Riding the bike to the track is possible, but not recommended: fatigue, weather, mechanical issues, and crashes turn the ride home into the weak link in the plan.

Still deciding between tracks? Start with the FAQ and then check the schedule.

Night-before advice

If you are more than a short drive away, staying near the track the night before usually makes the day much better. Better sleep and less morning stress translates directly into a better first session.

Day-of flow

What happens once you arrive

1. Set up

Enter the paddock, find a practical place to park, and get settled near registration if you are taking a school.

2. Register and tech

Be on time. Bring your ID. Registration and express tech are the gateway to your sticker, wristband, and eventual track access.

3. Attend the rider meeting

The rider meeting is mandatory. Missing it can cost you the day.

4. Meet your instructor

If you are in ART CORE, report where directed immediately after the rider meeting so you can be staged correctly for your first session.

5. Final checks

Fuel, tire pressures, water, bathroom, gear, and group-call awareness. Handle the simple things before they become stupid problems.

6. Enjoy the day

Ask questions, talk to coaches and staff, and treat the day like a learning opportunity, not a pass-fail exam.