So I haven't posted much as tracklife has been almost non existent over the last few months. Winter is a major drag.
The biggest news is that I doubled my lockup/workshop space, so now I have enough room to swing a cat, or crack fox (or second bike)... and its cheaper!! I found out there is a tool shed onsite, from which I borrowed an angle grinder! There is only one water tap onsite, so sunday was BYO hose.

Now that I am getting more set up, I have a constant feeling of de ja vu. It's kinda strange to be creating a garage and track kit from almost scratch, especially when I write it down. As you can tell from the items listed below I have managed to do a few things in the cold months. Nothing major. I had the pleasure of doing my fork seals twice thanks to either All Balls cocking up, or supplier of all balls cocking up, where the seals were just a tiny bit too big and were leaking oil almost instantly. Buying some OEM seals and they measure 1mm different!

A few things that I have bought or made to help with the self servicing aspect and getting the bike ready for the season.
and some things.. just because;

(pics coming)

Work Bench!
access ramp
Vice
Fork spring compressor
Fork holder - servicing
Fork oil level tool
Fork bleed tool
Fork seal driver
head lift stand
Inverter Generator
fuel jug
wheel balancer

New bits of kit:
Hel braided lines
Vesrah pads
adj levers
front discs
disc bolts
clip ons
Brake fluid
fork oil
engine oil
oil filter
distilled water
spark plugs
tyres
lubes
dog tags - yep, required for racing! no blood type, just name and DOB. I find that very strange.

and still need a 2kg powder fire extinguisher for the van. no vehicles in paddock without extinguishers!


Another big development, I have completed the theory and practical elements of racing licence application - an hour in class room mainly talking about classes and flags, and a couple sessions on track to show I know where the throttle is. Plus a practice race start.
After getting my eyes tested (mandatory) I have sent off my form. Now awaiting plastic card.

Costs are spread over different areas but I think its on par with MA.
Prac and theory £80 (normally £125)
Eye test £15
Club Membership £35
Application £48

But, unlike MA, its only £48 to renew with eye tests required every 2 years.

So, my first race this year was to be on the 21st march at snetterton....however with 3 days at Jerez booked a week later, the TDO has decided to collect bikes for shipping on the 21st march! bummer. Now my first race will be at Oulton Park on the 11th April. Then every fortnight or so for a few months.

I will upload some photos so this post makes a bit more sense and isn't just me rambling about shite.