[Thanks Paul And Misti]

I returned to Mid Ohio on August 4, 2008 to participate in the level 4 program for a second time ( 4.1 as Keith liked to call it). Misti was my off track coach and Paul the on track coach. I really focused on refining my turn in ability with a review of 2 step and Hook turn techniques. Paul was instrumental in assisting me to improve with his on and off track coaching. Misti kept the focus on what skills needed to be reviewed to meet my goals.

 

I Just got back from Mid Ohio yesterday and I ran a 1:38. Not bad for a trackday junkie. I shaved 4 seconds off my previous best time. More importantly, when I came in from my first session I did not expect anything dramatic as I did not feel I was pushing my limit. How suprised was I to see 1:38 on the lap timer. Not only did it seem relatively easy but I was able to reproduce similar lap times every session.

 

A big thanks to Misti and Paul for all their help!!!!

 

See you guys next year!

 

Tim O'Toole

[Thanks!]

Hey OTOOLE,

 

Mid-Ohio is one of my most favorite tracks. Can you elaborate more about how you approach the keyhole and what specific pointers or advice you were given by your coaches? I find the mid-turn "drop off" a particular challenge and when I try to sacrifice entry speed and lean angle there, it seems other guys just stick it up the inside on me.

 

Thanks,

racer

 

Sorry it has taken so ong to reply but a 1 year old son has almost all my attention these days.

 

Protecting the inside line on the entrance is key to keeping the others from passing. Stay tight against the curbing as you enter. The turn point I used was a footpeg mark in the pavement about 4 feet deep if it is still there. Tighten the turn in towards the curbing and continue to roll on the throttle. Be careful there is one area that leeches water when wet right in the line about 2/3rd's through the turn. You can really get a good drive if you stay tight but if you go wide at all it is really easy to lose traction and you can't roll on the throttle anywhere the amount that you can if you stay tight.

 

Let me know if that helps?

 

OToole

[Thanks!]

CSS Crew

 

I just attended Level 4 Program at Mid Ohio on August 6th and as with each of the other levels I have attended, I have experienced another epiphany in my riding abilities. Paul, my on track riding coach, was able to identify areas of my riding which needed refined especially avoiding charging into the corners at the loss of drive on the exit. Lonnie, my off track coach a.k.a. Riding God, was able to impart his wisdom of attacking the Key Hole which allowed for a killer drive down the back straight. Level 4 was not only excellent at addressing my known weaknesses but also identifying other areas of weakness as well. Overall my experience with level 4 has allowed me to ride more aggressively while feeling completely in control.

Looking forward to next year to refine my riding skills once again.

 

Thanks!

 

Tim O'Toole

[What's Your Favorite Track?]

I would have to say Mid Ohio since its been resurfaced is one of the best tracks in the US. Elevation changes, fast corners, tight slow corners, +/- camber, blind turns, a little bit of everything. Only it's not so fun in the wet with the seam sealer being realy slick.

 

OToole

[Needs Tire For School]

I am attending Level 4 at Mid Ohio Aug 6th. Who do I need to contact about getting my bike fitted with Dunlops for the day?

 

Thanks

 

Tim

[Fear Of Lean Angle]

This is somewhat of a loaded question due in part to the affect of different factors.

Here is a list of things to consider in a progressive order:

1) Tire Pressure specific for your tires

2) Supension set up. Proper free sag and rider sag. Followed by adjustments of rebound and compression dampening settings. This info is available in many performance riding resources.

3) Type of tires and age.

4) Body positioning.

5) Throttle control

6) Time in the saddle

 

Try the least expensive and time conservative things first.

 

If you have not already taken formal training I highly suggest you take a class such as CSS Level 1. The track time is invaluable and you learn 10x more 10x faster than you can on the street. I have completed 3 levels and am taking level 4 later this year and I have found that each year I become noticably faster post each level.

 

Hope this helps,

 

Tim

[Elka Suspension ...whats The Word]

I know that you guys have them on the instructor bikes but how are they in comparison to ohlins and penske. Im in the market and was considering them...whats your feedback and who is the go to guy/girl in regards to valving on them and whatnot.

 

Any info would be greatly appreciated

 

We've had them and they work well. Will raced the Elka and when he got it right, he really liked it. Don't know who supports them, Will sent it back to the factory to be changed. Dave at GP Suspension is good, we've used him. Not sure if he works on the Elkas or not, you might try him---(503) 723-7793.

 

LOL, I like the "when he got it right, he really liked it" I did a lil research and found out that only Lindemann and MAx at traxxion work on elkas.

 

Well I hope this works out for me because I think Im getting one

 

Traxxion Dynamics has excellent service and support. I purchased an AK20 fork kit and a Penske shock 6 months ago and their follow up with questions post has been great. Hope that helps.

 

O'Toole