HPDE / Track Day 101 with The Little Speed Shop
jill vanvalkenburgh
So you want to drive on track? We want to help! The Little Speed Shop specializes in track prep and service but did you know the majority of our clients who drive their cars on track, drive their street cars? Yes, like the car they drive to work everyday.
FAQ:
What is an HPDE / DE / Track day?
HPDE stands for High Performance Drivers Education. All these names are used interchangeably and events are listed with all these names. The object is to get you on track, at speed - to learn how to safely and properly drive the specific track you are on. There are sessions separated by experience level to group like drivers together and you move up in groups as you acquire skill. You will start as a Novice driver then move to Intermediate and Advanced as you learn. Most clubs or schools have both on track and in classroom instruction to break down the sections of the track and go over all the intricate details of driving like: acceleration zones, braking zones, turn in, turn out, passing, etc.
Do I need any experience?
No! Most clubs accommodate all experience levels and we can help you pick the best suited event for your needs/ wants.
What car would I drive?
Yours! As mentioned before, you can absolutely drive your own car (within reason of course.) It does need to pass a technical inspection and should have a couple very light services done to meet the requirements of track driving.
We also offer rental options for track day driving - if this is something you’re interested in contact us!
Do I need to modify my car or do any upgrades for track driving?
Not necessarily! We, as well as the clubs hosting the event, recommend simple services like:
Checking your tires for proper tread depth and longevity. Its not safe to drive on track with old or worn tires.
Flushing your brake fluid -brake fluid tends to accumulate water and we need to make sure the fluid is doing the work of absorbing extra heat from hard braking on track - its best to have fresh fluid and we often upgrade brake fluid to higher temperature rated fluid if you plan on track driving. We offer many brake fluid options from standard DOT 4 to Motul 600, Motul 660, Castrol SRF and more.
General check over of the vehicle to make sure all suspension and safety components are working properly.
Checking brake pads for sufficient pad life. You don’t necessarily need to change your brake pads for your track event but we will make a recommendation based on your car, experience level, length of the event, etc. We may offer to simply replace your brake pads with a new set of factory pads to meet your needs or set you up with a higher temperature rated or thicker pad. Again this isn’t always necessary.
The possibilities are really endless for what you can do to your car to make it withstand track driving, handle better and brake faster - if you’re ready for that we can point you in the right direction.
What safety equipment do I need?
Helmets are required for all HPDE / track events. We do offer helmets for sale, as well as rentals but if you are going to continue track driving or participate in autocross events regularly its worth purchasing your own helmet. Helmets are released every 5 years and are good for track day driving for up to 10 years (race requirements are typically up to 5 years.) A Snell 2015 rated helmet would meet the requirements for track day driving until 2025. Some clubs accept DOT rated helmets but do not recommend them over a Snell rated helmet.
It’s also smart to pack long pants, socks, sneakers/closed toe shoes and a long sleeve shirt as many clubs require these for drivers and non-drivers alike in the paddock and in the car.
Other things to consider: Gloves, Racing Shoes, HANS and Hybrid head and neck restraint devices - none of these are required but in our opinion everyone should have an up to date and properly fitted helmet as well as a HANS or Hybrid neck restraint. For quick reference HANS devices are for vehicles equip with racing seat belts and Hybrid devices work with factory seat belts or racing belts. We are happy to help with any questions on safety equipment or fit you for either of these devices.
Where do I find events and how do I sign up?
Your local car clubs - BMW, Porsche, Mini, Audi, Corvette, etc. all host or participate in track day events. They will list them on their websites and joining those clubs is a good way to drive on track with similar makes and models. We have all the Watkins Glen International HPDE events listed on our website with resources on where to go to sign up. You can always contact us or your local club for more information.
I’m signed up, what next?
Each event has specific instructions for technical inspections and prep. Please refer to any communication from the club/ event you’ve signed up for. Most will require a technical inspection of your vehicle within 30 days of your event. We highly recommend booking this service at least two weeks prior to your event to ensure if you need repairs, tires, brakes, etc. you can get them in time during a busy season to make your event. Even if you don’t think you need any repairs or services, its still a good idea to get in early - you never know what may arise.
What happens if I’m at the track and I need help?
Good news! The Little Speed Shop has a location at Watkins Glen International (in the South end of the garages) to make small repairs, change brakes and tires and help with anything you may need. We also have a shop with race related goods like gloves, helmets, shoes, fluids like oil, coolant and gear oil, HANS and Hybrid devices, communication devices like Chatterbox, some Go-Pro accessories, batteries, apparel, and so much more.
If you catch the need for more or have any car related questions stop and see us! We always have experienced and educated staff there to help. Most also participate in DE driving so they’re a wealth of knowledge all around.
We also offer services like Arrive and Drive, Transportation, Car Rentals, Track and Race Support if you feel those may be the next step in your track day journey.
Extras:
If you have a Go-Pro, use it! You’ll be required to tether or securely mount cameras, have a solution before you get to the track. Its always nice to review video when learning. You can also utilize your phone - we recommend purchasing a RAM mount to secure to your windshield or dash and you can download the Harry’s Lap Timer app. Quick tip - don’t worry about video or lap times your first event, you have enough to think about and it can quickly become overwhelming.
Bring WATER or drinks like Gatorade to keep you hydrated. Track driving can take a toll physically, especially if its hot outside. Snacks are also a great idea, something quick like granola bars to eat in class.
There will be places to put your bags, food, etc. at the track but its not a bad idea to put these things in a plastic bin in your car to be easily removed for tech line when you get there.
Some other things to consider - sunblock or some kind of shade for your area in the paddock. The garage spaces are typically rentable for anyone participating - you can inquire with the club about renting a garage space. Even if you don’t get a spot you can find a friend to store your things with inside the garage if needed.
If you ask anyone who’s driven on track, they’ll admit it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Most are left wanting more and its easy to understand why, the thrill of driving on track is like no other. We’re here to be your resource at any and every experience level.