The vintage superbike class offers riders the chance to race machines that are fast, reasonably reliable, and ideal for the taller rider. There are races all over the US specifically for these bikes and they can always be raced in more modern events in the open classes.

Getting involved in motorcycles racing, especially for the first time, is fraught with problems and pitfalls. First off, which bike to buy can lead an inexperienced enthusiast down a very expensive path.

Many fall into the trap of trying to save money by converting a street bike into a racer. Although that can, and is, done, it is often better to search for a known racer that is within the budget of the potential new rider. However, a buyer must remember that a used racer (or any used motorcycle for that matter) is nothing more than a collection of used or part worn parts. How worn are these various parts? That is a question a buyer must ascertain the answer to—before purchasing!

The Bikes

Early Japanese superbikes included the Kawasaki Z1000 and Suzuki's GS1000. However, early superbike racers also included European bikes from BMW, Moto Guzzi and Ducati.

For many series, the cutoff date for eligibility is 1982, which opens up the possibility of some very interesting machines. However, someone new to racing in general and superbikes in particular, is well advised to research the records and see what bikes were popular in the various national championships at the time when a particular bike was current.

Buying or Building a Bike

The question of whether it is best to build or buy an already built/prepared racer is down to two considerations: 1) cost, and 2) mechanical ability and facilities.

The cost of a race ready superbike will depend on its condition, race history and standard of preparation (including a log book of all replaced parts along with their usage or mileage details).

Building a superbike requires considerable mechanical skills and knowledge along with the facilities to work from. To build a superbike racer, the first item on most people's list is the bike, but they should first prepare the workshop before buying a bike (see below for equipment needed).

The bike in question should ideally be in good general condition with a relatively low mileage (less than 20,000 miles, for example). The buyer should perform a cylinder compression cranking pressure test to ensure reasonable condition of the engine's internals, and a basic test ride to ensure the gearbox is operational.

Preparation

Preparing a race bike properly is imperative. Transporting a machine hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles only to break down on the first lap is both costly and frustrating. In addition, any motorcycle used in competition will be pushed to its limits and, therefore, checking all safety aspects of the bike is also imperative.

Further reading:

Preparing Bikes for Racing

Riding

The good news about superbike riding is that most of the bikes are street legal. This allows the owner/rider the chance to test the bike (at legal speeds, of course!) on the street. Although this testing is typically limited to ensuring the engine and gearbox are working properly, the owner can check a few different settings of the riding position, for example, too. Additionally, basic carburation settings can be evaluated too on the street before going to a race track. (Note: The location where the carburation was checked is a base line as weather or altitude will affect the final choice of jets etc.)

If the rider is new to racing, it is very important for him or her to get as much "track time" as possible. With this in mind, most of the organizing bodies have a race school or open day before their events. Even experienced riders generally take advantage of this extra track time to fine-tune their riding and/or their bikes. (Note: The majority of riders will notice their lap times improving as the event progresses, which proves how valuable track time is.)

Cost of Racing

The cost of racing a superbike varies considerably. If the rider competes every weekend from April to September, for example, his or her costs will be considerably more that someone doing the occasional race.

For the average owner/rider, transportation costs, and entries and parts will be the biggest expenses. However, initial costs for items such as tools, equipment and riding gear will be high for the first time racer. Often riders will share certain expenses such as a transporter (van or trailer), fuel costs and accommodation at the races (an RV, for example).

For a small team (owner/rider) sharing costs, a budget of around $1000 per race weekend is typical.

Further reading:

Costs of Racing a Classic Motorcycle

Equipment Needed

Essential equipment includes items such as a quality set of hand tools, front and rear wheel stands, timing and scoring equipment, fuel containers, and bike spares (including a basic kit of crash parts: levers, grips footrests etc.).

For home builders, the list of essential equipment increases considerably. However, most home builders will trust machining and welding work to a local fabrication shop which will reduce the cost of home based equipment considerably.

The workshop should have a hydraulic ramp to enable the mechanic to work in relative comfort on the bike, and the shop must be well lit. Specialist tools such as cylinder compression testing gauges can easily be acquired on an "as needed" basis from a local auto part’s store; many automotive parts’ stores offer a free tool lone system.

Note:

Anyone considering racing for the first time is advised to seek the guidance of a seasoned professional. In addition, if at all possible, he or she should try riding on a race track before becoming too deeply involved. Many new riders find they do not like riding on a race track as it is very different to riding on the street. Most race tracks have "track days" where riders can bring their street bikes and ride within controlled groups (novice, intermediate, or expert) on the race track.