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Hi everyone I'm new to 400 racing and new to this board and I must say there is plenty of banter, help and knowledge around here. I'm looking forward to many an hour getting bollocked by the wife for spending more time here than with her; she'll just have to remember that when she becomes a font of knowledege on 400's then me and her will see a little more of ecah other.

Well I've just purchased my first ZXR 400 (L) and I'm in need of some assistance. It's a race bike and I intend to do a few road meetings on it which will include the Manx Grand Prix, however because it's of a standard build (it's in race trim - standard motor) I was wondering what is out there to make it handle better, go faster or stop quicker?

I dont know where to start even with the gearing for the road. The road meetings that I'll be doing are the S100, Jurby Road and the MGP and Olivers mount.

Basically what should I buy or do? Do I purchase some Dymags, race generator, cams or kit ignition, drop it through the yokes 5mil, raise the back up 10mil - you tell me as I'm pi**ing in the wind at the moment with what to do so I seek your expert opinions.

Thanks for any help out there It's really appreciated.
Jonesyiom

Hello there

As a newbie to racing myself at the start of this year (now completed about 14 races and destroyed one bike!) I would ask how much track time you have had. Road racing is a very different kettle of fish to track so unless you have done lots of track action I'd point you in that direction first. You'll stand more chance of learning how to set up you bike by doing lots of trackdays and then some track races rather than plunging in at the "Roadrace" deep end.

As for the bike, each to their own in terms of what to do, but I suggest small changes so you can feel/understand what you are doing. The cheapest performance mod is simply to lighten the bike by stripping all unwanted shizzle off. Then, just get some grippy tyres, make sure your bike is well serviced and go get on with it. You'll be thrashed by most given your bike will be much slower than others, but then you'll be thrashed anyway given that its all new. Better to crash/trash a cheap bike than one with dymags and all. Its gonna cost you enough without tuning etc.

Just the opinion of someone who was where you are a few months ago Enjoy

Oh, and can you road race on a Novice or Novice Inter license?

Thanks for the reply Max4music.

I have competed in road races for a few years now albeit on a 600 and I have always fancied a razz on a 400 as a few of my mates have Yams and they say how good 400 racing is. I managed to locate one recently and it's pretty standard so I was looking for any hints and tips in order to pep her up.

I know there are RMKD bikes out there and they always seem to be well prepped but the RMKD website appears just to give results and the like as opposed to a list of what they sell or what they can do.

Thanks for you advice though; it refreshing to see a wise head rather that someone who says make her 90bhp and that'll do her yessir.

Thanks
Jonesyiom

Forgot to say. The Isle of Man (Andreas Racing Association) have a road race where a Clubman licence holder can compete in a full on road race. The only one in the country if not the world!
Next May will be the next race.

Cheers
Jiom

If you want to know what Roger (RMKD) can do just give him a call.He is very freindly and will give you good advice on what works and what dosnt.