Trackdays for road cars - Marlin Motorsport

TRACKDAYS FOR ROAD CARS

The perfect trackday device
As our roads have become more and more congested, drivers have increasingly looked to the motor racing circuits and converted disused airfields to enjoy driving their cars safely and legally.
The lightweight, powerful and responsive Marlin 5EXi makes the perfect trackday car, in full road trim (so you can drive it to and from the trackday event), or stripped-down form. Find our more at Trackday and race cars.

Marlin trackday events
Marlin occasionally organise trackday events for all Marlin owners and potential customers alike, where you can come along and take your car out along side the Marlin team or simply have a look at these lovely cars and maybe catch a ride to get a real feel of what it's like to be out in a Marlin........... be it a Sportster, EXi or the latest Avatar One avatarsportscars.co.uk/avatar-one/ – check out the events page to see if this is happening this year and if so come and meet fellow owners and the Marlin team.

More about trackdays…
To find out more about trackdays, we have run a FAQ section below – and below that, links to companies who run trackdays throughout the UK.

Frequently asked questions about trackdays

Should my car be specially prepared?
The 5EXi and Avatar One, even in standard road trim, are ideal for trackday use. Most trackday companies (see below) ask that your car is to MOT standard. Most trackdays will welcome stripped-down versions, as available from Marlin, providing they comply with basic MOT regs.

What equipment will I need?
You should wear clothing that covers your arms and legs (some more serious trackday drivers wear race overalls, but they are not compulsory), and a helmet, which you can usually buy or hire from the trackday operator – ask when you book. It’s also a good idea to take some electrical tape (to tape up the lights to stop shattered glass scattering in the event of an accident) and firmly secured, but accessible fire extinguisher (although they’re not compulsory and there will be marshals around the circuit).

What about paperwork?
Just a full driving licence.

Are there any special rules I should know about?
You will be reminded that motoring events can be dangerous, and there will be some simple rules to keep you and others safe – but if you break them, you will be sent home.

How do I prepare my car for a trackday?
Trackday driving can be very demanding on your car, so check the following:
•    Brake disks and pads should be in good nick – if you need new ones, make sure they are bedded in. Regulars often upgrade brake disks, pads and fluid to cope with the extra workload.
•    You need good tyres too and some people adjust their pressures – but remember to change them before driving home.
•    Your engine will work much harder than it usually does, so check filters and belts are in good order and pay particular attention to the oil level. Take some extra oil with you to top up.
•    Suspension and steering components determine how your car handles, so ensure they are in good working order.
•    Remove everything from the car that is not firmly fixed. You’ll be able to leave stuff in the paddock, but nothing valuable, for obvious reasons.

What about tools?
Hopefully you won’t need them, but a few simple tools is a good idea.

Anything else to remember?
Sounds obvious, but you will get through a great deal of fuel, so make sure you’ve got at east half a tank. If you run out, some operators will push your car to safety and leave it there.

How much time will I get on the track?
Different trackday operators, at different circuits, run different systems, so check them out before booking and don’t be afraid to ask questions. There will usually be details on their websites.

What if I have an accident?
In fact there are very few at trackday events. Everything is done to keep things running smoothly and safely and anyone driving badly will simply be sent home. If the worse happens, there will be fully trained marshals and paramedics on site. You will obviously be taking part at your own risk, but some insurance companies will cover you for a small extra premium. Ask them.