| .0> (they're having a big thing this weekend in the
.0> White Mountains or Bershires or something like that). Anyway, he's
.0> really into it and I'd like to learn something about it so I know what
.0> he's talking about.
.0>
.0> Can anyone direct me to any informative notes (regarding DIRT BIKING)?
.0> I'd really appreciate it.
Boy, I'm having trouble restraining the smart-ass tendencies. If they
got away from me I'd suggest learning the difference between the
Berkshires and the White Mtns would also be a good move...
Oops, guess they got away. Sorry.
First lesson, racers are not noted for sensitivity. Except maybe to
things like trailing-throttle oversteer (dirt bikers may call it
something else, I'm not that familiar with dirt biking).
Anyway, why not have him teach you? That serves several purposes, like
letting him know you're motivated enough to try to learn and share his
interest. It also introduces you to the second lesson, which is a
phenomenon known as "bench racing". Probably also will introduce you
to the unusual thirst for cold beer that seems to result from racing,
even the bench variety.
Also, whether it's racing or any other interest, paying enough
attention to distingush the White Mountains from the Bershire Hills is
a generally good idea. Going with him could be a good way to learn
about his interest, and about how the two of you get along in a more
natural (?) environment. If he's really into racing, you better find
out sooner rather than later whether you really want to invest in the
relationship. (FWIW, I probably would not have been interested in
getting as serious as I did with my (now) wife had we not camped
together for four days in an October downpour at Watkins Glen early in
our relationship, it showed a lot different side than I'd seen before.)
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.2>> -< racing can be a stressful place >-
That's the first point! When someone is getting ready for a race they can
be under quite a bit of stress. It may be hard to imagine the kind of
stess caused by: trying to get the tires mounted, car filled with gas,
find the cause of the stumble as you get on the gas coming out of turn
three, adjust the clutch (or replace it as I've had to do), find and fix
the understeer in the slow speed turns... in the forty minutes between
qualifying sessions! A racing weekend is often not a relaxing time
for people who are racing. You should definitely expect to bring a bit of
patience with you.
.2>> ...four days in an October downpour at Watkins Glen...
Sounds like someone has been to the F1 races!
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| Beth, if you're new to racing (dirt bikes, cars, anything) take it from
someone who's been there (and wouldn't want to be ANYPLACE else)...
Stand by Your Man. Racing season is one of toughest things on a
relationship if you both aren't equally committed to it (actually the
pre-racing season isn't that much different since you're in Prep mode!)
Find your own levels of "equality" - time you spend on his interest and
the time he spends on yours. It's all a compromise. But when the
checkers start coming through, as they are for us now after 4 years, it
makes all the missed dinners, movies, parties, late nights, blood,
sweat and tears, etc. all worth while.
Another word of wisdom, and this is dependent on how much time dirt
bikers spend towing to different tracks, etc. (us road racers do it
ALOT!) -- save that vacation time!! It becomes REAL scarce as the
racing season winds down. I've only go 24 hours, no personal choice
and no location choice days. You may need to be "creative" in
stocking up on time.
Good luck with your effort. Keeps us noters posted how you (and your
friend) made out at the races!1
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