Recently I have been talking to a number of racers about me getting out there on the grid, because pushing it in the canyons is just lame compared to the track, for multiple reasons. Almost everyone I talk to mentions this super street class or whatever, and I am not for it. If I decide to race, I am going to put forth the effort and prep my bike accordingly, being secure in the knowledge that everyone else has gone through the same efforts. worrying about oil on the track due to split factory case covers, no belly pans, etc. is something that I want to be at the bottom of the list of things running through my head as I am running around the track.
Yes, shit happens, but the more prepared you are for it when it hits, the better IMO.
This being said...I conviced myself (along with some encouraging word from others) yesterday that I am going to make an honest effort to get out there next year. I won't be the fastest guy out there, but everyone has to start somewhere, right?
so as of now, this is whats keeping ME from the grid
a) MRA school
2) AMA membership
c) case covers/bodywork/safety wire
4) tire warmers
e) a big brother/sister to show me the ropes
6) a CC with a sweet rewards program