I’ll be at Barber this weekend with STT.
On one hand, it’s just another track day.
On the other hand, I’m stacking up a lot of firsts at the same time, which is usually not my preferred approach.
First track time since a low-side during practice at the WERA Grand National Finals. More on returning to riding after serious injury and adaptation here: returning to riding after serious injury
First weekend on a fresh set of Q5s—I usually run Sportmax.
First outing with changes to the bike’s geometry, courtesy of G.M.D.
First attempt at running a GP shift pattern after a lifetime of one down and five up.
And even the weather forecast has a sense of humor.
Managing Too Many Variables
Dealing with major changes robs your focus. You only have so much of it.
This weekend, I’ve changed several things at once. It’s obviously in my head.
I need to remind myself: this is a track day. There is nothing to prove.
My goal is simple:
- Get comfortable with the bike again
- Relax and rebuild rhythm
- Work through each change without overthinking it
- Enjoy a day at one of my favorite racetracks
Adjusting Back to the Bike
If the geometry changes work, the challenge may just become carrying more speed and recalibrating braking and turn-in markers.
There’s also the muscle memory piece—years of shifting one way don’t disappear overnight.
One at a time, the first sessions should be interesting.
Closing Thoughts
If anyone reading this will be at Barber, stop by the tent.
What I’m really looking forward to is the start of the season and all the new challenges it brings.
If the weather cooperates, great.
If it doesn’t, Barber has a way of teaching lessons in the rain too.