How to build your own track bike

Introduction

So, you think you may be spending lots of time at the track, either doing track days or racing. It only makes sense to have a dedicated track bike, if only so you don't have to worry about crashing your daily ride. Here's a general list of things you will need. Keep in mind that all tracks have slightly different requirements. Also, if you're going to be racing, you'll have to follow the guidelines published by the sanctioning body for your event(s). So, read up. This will get you started.

See also: Reducing weight on a track bike

The Bike

(Looks don't matter; function does)

• Low mileage w/ good-running engine

• Ugly OK

• Busted-up fairings OK

• Dented exhaust OK

• Broken bars OK

• Broken turn signals and mirrors OK

• Thrashed seat OK (should be repairable)

• Dents in tank OK

• Scratched paint OK

• Broken headlight OK

• Crashed is fine, but not crashed "hard"

• Wheels perfect or nearly so

• Frame / Forks not bent

To Do List

• Quality rear stand

• SS brake lines (buy) (optional *)

• Woodcraft Lowered Risers

• Woodcraft Rearsets (optional)

• EBC HH or other quality front brake pads

• Have head ported (optional *)

• Drill oil filter and drain plug bolts & safety wire

• Oil and filter change (quality stuff)

• Clean or rebuild carbs

• Ugly aftermarket exhaust (optional *)

• Spend $ on dyno to verify jetting

• Quality rear shock

• Redo forks to race spec

• Install quality tires (Dunlop GT501)

• Verify wheel alignment and runout

• Proper chain tension and worthiness

• Learn how to work with fiberglass and

• repair fairings as needed (cosmetics no biggie)

• Buy/make bellypan (optional *)

• Modify front fender

• Change out antifreeze to "water wetter" and water mix

Remove

• Headlight assembly

• Turn signals

• Mirrors

• Chain guard (optional *)

• Rear fender assembly

• Smog system if installed

• Rear brake light assembly (optional *)

• Speedometer cable (optional *)

• Side and center stands

Inspect and Repair/Replace/Adjust as needed

• Steering head bearings

• Wheel bearings

• Chain & sprockets (stock gearing is fine)

• Front fender

• Radiator

• Handlebars and grips

• Control pods

• All cables

• All electrical connections

• Axles and hardware (washers, spacers and nuts)

• Rear brake pads and fluid

• Fork oil and dust seals

• Chain tensioners

• All nuts, screws and bolts

Minimal Bike Spares list

• Front brake and clutch levers

• Footpeg and bracket assemblies (optional *)

• Spare handlebars (optional *)

• Clutch and throttle cables (optional *)

• One set spare spark plugs

• Oil and filter

• Electrical tape and 6 ft. of 12 gauge insulated wire

• Duct tape (of course!)

(optional *) items aren't really required, fractionally enhance bike performance, are too expensive, time consuming, or are not absolutely required for track days.

NOTE: Be aware that plenty of EX250 race bikes are sold each year, usually from October through March. You will likely get a better, cheaper, completely set up bike buying one of these than doing all this on your own. But then, what fun would that be?

For another look: Here's a site that recommends parts and mods for a race bike. Good links, too.