What would get you to watch local or national Superbike racing?

[CHOPPA]

The promoter of the New Zealand Superbike series round 1 at Ruapuna on the first weekend of Jan is looking to make there round the biggest and best that we have seen in NZ.

His main goal is to improve more of the experience for the crowd rather then make the racing better.

What would get you and your family to the track?

[Deano]

We're already going to be there ! :first:

[yungatart]

Lower gate prices, decent food, something for the kids to do (besides watch racing...), clean toilets

[avgas]

Lower gate prices, decent food, something for the kids to do (besides watch racing...), clean toilets
What she said.

These days I barely get time or money to go watch racing. So pretty much limited to Paeroa.

But if you dropped the price and told the world via free advertising I could get a bunch of mates to convince the misses that I should be allowed to go watch.

[kiwifruit]

Free entry. Decent food on site

[rachprice]

I dont mind paying but not an excessive amount maybe $10 a day?
Good food would be good too.....

Though ill be watching anyway if Im not working

[Mental Trousers]

Low (free) entry, decent (read NOT grease on a stick) and something interesting for those who aren't watching the bikes to do.

[imdying]

A loudspeaker system that doesn't sound like shouting down ten tunnels at once? Then maybe a real commentator to use it? I'm pretty sure we've had this thread before.

[Crasherfromwayback]

Nude chicks delivering hotdogs.

[White trash]

Nude chicks delivering hotdogs.

Thankfully, some common fucking sense in this thread.

Double the gate entry costs, and offer HOT naked chicks serving hotdogs and cold Steinlagers.

McDonald for MNZ Prez :first:

[Crasherfromwayback]

Thankfully, some common fucking sense in this thread.

Double the gate entry costs, and offer HOT naked chicks serving hotdogs and cold Steinlagers.

:

Thanks...I forgot about the bevies mate!

[yungatart]

Thankfully, some common fucking sense in this thread.

Double the gate entry costs, and offer HOT naked chicks serving hotdogs and cold Steinlagers.

McDonald for MNZ Prez :first:

None of that does anything for me, don't like Steinlager, greasy hot dogs :sick:, and naked women...why would I want to pay double what is reasonable for that?

[vinducati]

A good commentary and Pa, been to events where we had no idea what was going on. As in no PA at all.
Like to se interviews with riders on grid before main events.

No stop for lunch, that is really a drag.Please I know people work hard but can't we drop lunch off to them.

Stunt riding between races.

Having people like Crosby,Slight etc there. Parade laps type thing.

Stuff for kids.

[yungatart]

A good commentary and Pa, been to events where we had no idea what was going on. As in no PA at all.
Like to se interviews with riders on grid before main events.

No stop for lunch, that is really a drag.Please I know people work hard but can't we drop lunch off to them.
Stunt riding between races.

Having people like Crosby,Slight etc there. Parade laps type thing.

Stuff for kids.

That's fighting talk! Short answer! NO!!

[Kiwi Graham]

The promoter of the New Zealand Superbike series round 1 at Ruapuna on the first weekend of Jan is looking to make there round the biggest and best that we have seen in NZ.

His main goal is to improve more of the experience for the crowd rather then make the racing better.

What would get you and your family to the track?

Excellent thread Chop.

We too (AMCC) are working along the same lines, aiming to make round 4 Hampton Downs appeal to far more than just the racers and are in the early planning stages already 5 months out from the event.
Entertainment for the children, trade stands, food stalls a band, fire works and a huge BBQ to name some of the things being arranged. The plan is to appeal to mum, dad and the children.

We need to make these events appeal to a far wider sector of people than we have been, the simple adage that a lower entry price will be offset by higher numbers through the gate makes perfect sense.

Looking forward to see some good ideas we can look into putting into practise.

[st00ji]

what are the entry costs we are talking about, out of interest? i have never been to a bike day - could be keen to get along to hampton downs.

[cmoore]

A good PA that is clear so you know what is going on
Some form of Winner cermony at the end of day/race
Finish "box" for the top three bikes each race
Good communication when there are delays
Bike Rally / vintage / classic / whatever to coincide with the racing
NOT running it when other bike events are on in the area
A good Program of the event
Bike dealers / retailers showing bikes and gear

[slowpoke]

For all those who haven't been to Ruapuna you're missing out big time. It's a great track, best in NZ in my humble opinion, and also very spectator friendly. You can drive your car straight up on to banking that surrounds large parts of the circuit and have a primo view of the whole thing in comfort. Forget the thought of crispy maggot packs: take your own food/drink supplies and enjoy the best riders in NZ, on the best bikes, at the best track, in the comfort of your own car.....or just use the car as a supply base as you lounge on the grass banking or get up close and personal with some of the legends and/or up and comers.

The pits aren't your average tarmac area either, with plenty of tree'd/grassed areas where kids can kick a footy, ride bikes and generally run amok....or where parents/wives can retreat to relax.

Suggestions for the organisers? How about a speed gun/display at the end of the front straight? Or at various parts of the track as the races progress?

Onboard footage from one or two of the bikes displayed trackside...even if it's not actually live it would be cool to see onboard footage of a race you've just seen from trackside.

Live timing trackside.

Given that you can park your car trackside, instead of a P/A broadcast the commentary over AM or FM radio.

[Grant`]

Now sorry if I have missed this being covered off by someone else.

But you never hear about these events - Especially if your not a member of the forums. Maybe I am looking in the wrong places but there is hardly any communication if any that I have seen for any of the events other than the likes of Paeroa/Wanganui Street races.

There needs to be a lot more publicity to these events, people will come for a great day out if they actually know about them, I know I would! Get in with the bike shops/bike mags (more)/some cheap tv advertisement/email lists and reminders to people so they do get kept in the loop for it, Put some signs on the road even if they are hand painted 'Motorcycle Racing come on in'. etc

[otter]

In all honesty, I'd rather ride on a track than watch others do it. I'm entertained by others riding for all of 5mins before I just wana jump on my bike and go do it too.

[Ender EnZed]

What would get you to watch Local/National Superbike racing?

Lots of crashing.

[jellywrestler]

Lower gate prices, decent food, something for the kids to do (besides watch racing...), clean toilets
Lower gate prices than what? Seriously there's usually about seven hours of tracktime at a national championship, what price would you expect to pay for that?

[Katman]

Sunshine. :sunny:

[onearmedbandit]

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Move the friggin bike numbers from the non-existent tail sections and put it on the lower section of the main fairing. Then, maybe just then, spectators will know what bike/rider is going past. Back that up with a quality PA system and 98% of the paying spectators will have a clue as to what is actually going on.

Do this and I don't care about paying $10-20 for a days entertainment whilst eating chips and hotdogs.

[Oakie]

To be honest I'm happy with the gate price ($15 last time?)
I'm happy with the facilities although a closer toilet blocks or a few portaloos spread around would be good
PA and commentators are good
Access to the pits to gawk is good.

What would really improve things for me though is more shade to watch the racing from ... be it covered seating, shade sails or somthing like that. Ultimately the odd tree spread along the top of the viewing banks would be good although I guess trees and raceways don't really mix.

[huff3r]

Some publicity so I know it's on would be helpful. Call me ignorant, but the only events I know of are Paeroa and Cemetery Circuit, the latter being the only I know the date of... :shutup::facepalm:

[onearmedbandit]

PA and commentators are good


You can't tell me you were at last years round of the nationals at Ruapuna. People who didn't even know each other were laughing together about the garbled screachy feedback riddled crap coming out of the PA. I've never heard our national anthem murdered like that either. Well at least the general consensus was that it was our anthem, it sounded a bit like, well, the jury is still out.

[boman]

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Move the friggin bike numbers from the non-existent tail sections and put it on the lower section of the main fairing. Then, maybe just then, spectators will know what bike/rider is going past. Back that up with a quality PA system and 98% of the paying spectators will have a clue as to what is actually going on.

Do this and I don't care about paying $10-20 for a days entertainment whilst eating chips and hotdogs.

Yup. Damn fine idea

[tigertim20]

The promoter of the New Zealand Superbike series round 1 at Ruapuna on the first weekend of Jan is looking to make there round the biggest and best that we have seen in NZ.

His main goal is to improve more of the experience for the crowd rather then make the racing better.

What would get you and your family to the track?

for one, better advertising. I often dont hear about these events until the week before them, and by then its too late to plan a trip. and I trawl this and several other NZ forums on a daily basis, so, forward notice.

Also, its about bikes, why not, I dunno, chick in a show n shine in the carpark or something? section for cruisers, classic and sports or something? - make it a day where theres more than just racing, I could personally watch racing all day but not everyone can, and if people can bring the family out and look at some shiny bikes with their kids etc, maybe a few more will come out?

Oh, and Im a fat cunt. i love food, Plenty of food vans/ ice cream trucks on site will keep me there till they run outta chips and ice cream.

[onearmedbandit]

A lot of these things we are asking for can't happen without a decent sponsor tipping in considerable support. And without decent TV coverage that won't happen. So we need decent TV coverage, how do we get that? By having more people interested in the sport. Which requires more money. Which would require a decent sponsor. Which would require decent TV coverage...

[CHOPPA]

Hey guys thanks heaps for you comments! I will be passing them all on for sure.

Some of the ideas they are chucking around are....

Trade Shows
Parade Laps
Hot Rod Shows
Freestyle MX
Stunt Shows
Autograph Sessions
No long periods with no entertainment
Good Toilets
Good Food
Bouncy Castles
Decent Programs

All these suggestion coming through are great. It seems ticket price is a major and id agree. If it was going to cost me $30 or $40 to take my family then thats good. Mind you it costs about $50 to go to the movies or ten pin bowling these days

[onearmedbandit]

All that yet they are not considering making the bikes identifiable, so we can actual understand what is happening in the races, the bit we've actually paid to see?

[Marmoot]

Maybe tell us non-hardcore bikers of when and where the events will take place? Like, maybe advertise on normal mass media (TV or NZH/Stuff) 2 weeks prior?

[marty]

Thankfully, some common fucking sense in this thread.

Double the gate entry costs, and offer HOT naked chicks serving hotdogs and cold Steinlagers.

McDonald for MNZ Prez :first:

sorry mate - all the hot girls are working somewhere else. lisa lewis is looking for a job at the moment though

[Oakie]

You can't tell me you were at last years round of the nationals at Ruapuna. People who didn't even know each other were laughing together about the garbled screachy feedback riddled crap coming out of the PA. I've never heard our national anthem murdered like that either. Well at least the general consensus was that it was our anthem, it sounded a bit like, well, the jury is still out.

Actually, yes, you are correct. I did miss it last time around.

[flyingcrocodile46]

The promoter of the New Zealand Superbike series round 1 at Ruapuna on the first weekend of Jan is looking to make there round the biggest and best that we have seen in NZ.

His main goal is to improve more of the experience for the crowd rather then make the racing better.

What would get you and your family to the track?

More than anything, atmosphere. Contagious excitement, the buzz of being there.

[Berries]

Bouncy castles my arse. Try advertising it to a wider audience.

[ellipsis]

...run and feature a post classic class and promote the sport, on the ground...

[Paul in NZ]

Simple - get a promoter who isn't a motorcycle racer or sponsor or even interested in motorcycles to run it..... Fuck me, the school kindy annual gala usually pulls a bigger crowd.

[jellywrestler]

lisa lewis is looking for a job at the moment though
BOBFOC
Body Off Baywatch;
Face Off Crimewatch

[scracha]

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/61003-What-would-bring-YOU-to-watch-a-race-meeting

Decent shade around the track (you kinda cook in leathers).
Free Helmet storage
WiFi broadcast of bike positions screen that race control office sees to our nice smartphones.
Footage from previous meeting shown between races.
Minimum of 10 bikes in a race.
Cheap water - real fuckin bugbear of mine is getting gouged for a drink of H20 when it's 30 degrees Celsius.


That said, it's 2011. I still think organisers would get better value for spectators and sponsors by concentrating on Internet viewing. Make on-board cameras compulsory for the bikes (not like they're expensive) and spend a few bob on editing. Throw on youtube.

Seen the crowds at the MotoGP night race? Neither did I. Did you care?

[Jay GTI]

Some good suggestions so far on how to make it an exciting event, but I agree with the advertising idea, you need to let people know it's going to be worth going. But I also understand that advertising on a level required to reach a large enough audience is expensive. If you need to raise ticket prices to pay for the advertising, then you're kind of being counter-productive, so it's a fine balance...

I've not been to a superbike meeting (have an off-road/MX bias) but do you have programmes for the events? I love the idea of a programme, with a short bio on each rider, so that you can find out a bit about who is riding in which class and then pick a favourite to watch over the season. Just charge a price to cover printing costs, $5-10 sort of thing. A couple of years ago I went to the British round of the World MX champs and I got a huge kick out of getting my programme signed by Josh Coppins at the official signing session held at the Yamaha pits (at 36, surrounded by kids :innocent:), so perhaps arrange a signing session for the main teams/riders and put that into the programme as part of the event?

[Quasievil]

From a Mobil 1 perspective Ive been talking to the organisers about how to get it going a bit better, really tho as pointed out earlier a company needs people to justify its expenditure, without people there in numbers its not feesable.
It isnt really the job of the company to bring the people through the gate either.

Anyway Im thinking as to how we can get involved, possible the new Mobil 1 truck and drop a GTR R35 and the 997 Porsche out the back and take a few competition winners (on the day) for a blast
Or I can get the Britten there and get a rider to blast around on it thats a crowd puller
Or we can get a bunch of Chicks with big tits to wiggle them in your face for $10 a pop

its a tuff one, but its ALL about people through the gate

oh lastly, I have blabbed on about "the big show" something for Mom, for the Kids, something also thats got some Cars there, mixed up a bit

A Car vs a Bike

A Celebrity race

A Drag bike vs a BMW S1000 RR drag

Burn the rubber a bit, racing is good but after a bit its kinda drab without some fun bits to

mix it up

OH and forget the races no one cares about F1, F2, F3 thats it !!

[Murray]

The promoter of the New Zealand Superbike series round 1 at Ruapuna on the first weekend of Jan is looking to make there round the biggest and best that we have seen in NZ.



But if you dropped the price and told the world via free advertising


But you never hear about these events - Especially if your not a member of the forums. Maybe I am looking in the wrong places but there is hardly any communication if any that I have seen for any of the events other than the likes of Paeroa/Wanganui Street races.

There needs to be a lot more publicity to these events, people will come for a great day out if they actually know about them, I know I would!


Some publicity so I know it's on would be helpful. Call me ignorant, but the only events I know of are Paeroa and Cemetery Circuit


for one, better advertising. I often dont hear about these events until the week before them, and by then its too late to plan a trip.


Maybe tell us non-hardcore bikers of when and where the events will take place? Like, maybe advertise on normal mass media (TV or NZH/Stuff) 2 weeks prior?


Bouncy castles my arse. Try advertising it to a wider audience.

Agree with all of this!!!
Ruapuna is on first week in January - Its in the Kiwibiker Calendar:facepalm::facepalm:

Hello NO IT's NOT!!!:shutup::shutup:

[imdying]

These I like:


You can drive your car straight up on to banking that surrounds large parts of the circuit
How about a speed gun/display at the end of the front straight?
Live timing trackside.
Given that you can park your car trackside, instead of a P/A broadcast the commentary over AM or FM radio.
more publicity to these events
Move the friggin bike numbers from the non-existent tail sections and put it on the lower section of the main fairing
Do this and I don't care about paying $10-20 for a days entertainment whilst eating chips and hotdogs.
To be honest I'm happy with the gate price ($15 last time?)
Access to the pits to gawk is good.
Trade Shows (TOOLS!!)
Stunt Shows
Autograph Sessions
No long periods with no entertainment
Minimoto racing on the main straight (it's wide enough for a track in itself) at lunch time!!

DO NOT WANT

Parade Laps
Hot Rod Shows
Freestyle MX
A Car vs a Bike

[SVboy]

Be careful not to dilute what is our premier RACE series in NZ. Yes to a better PA, yes to lunchtime entertainment of a bike nature, more bike related trade displays and better pre meet advertising, but it is what it is-a NATIONALS BIKE RACE Round-not a crusty demons meets the fair entertainment extravaganza! Yes it needs a polish up to appeal to a more mainstream audience, but never lose sight of bike racing being the main focus.

[tigertim20]

Be careful not to dilute what is our premier RACE series in NZ. Yes to a better PA, yes to lunchtime entertainment of a bike nature, more bike related trade displays and better pre meet advertising, but it is what it is-a NATIONALS BIKE RACE Round-not a crusty demons meets the fair entertainment extravaganza! Yes it needs a polish up to appeal to a more mainstream audience, but never lose sight of bike racing being the main focus.

good point.
Id like to see some supersport and superbike vs car races just for fun at lunch time, say a one lap from standing start or something.
trade shows, tools etc would be great, but stunt shows does lean a tad more towards the off road dirt bike stuff, thats gonna detrect a bit.

[imdying]

Stunt shows are going to detract from the day but piece of shite 4 wheelers aren't? :scratch: Agree that the stunters should be on road bikes.

Fuck cars:
<img src="http://i667.photobucket.com/albums/vv34/rainelawliet/Blog/Vader-Do-Not-Want.jpg" />

[tigertim20]

Stunt shows are going to detract from the day but piece of shite 4 wheelers aren't? >

not when theyre getting whipped by a bike for laughs

[jellywrestler]

Be careful not to dilute what is our premier RACE series in NZ. Yes to a better PA, yes to lunchtime entertainment of a bike nature, more bike related trade displays and better pre meet advertising, but it is what it is-a NATIONALS BIKE RACE Round-not a crusty demons meets the fair entertainment extravaganza! Yes it needs a polish up to appeal to a more mainstream audience, but never lose sight of bike racing being the main focus.
Agreed but there's only a few people addicted to this the rest need some other entertainment to keep them and their families entertained during the day otherwise boredom, and boredom means they don't get value for money and dont want to go back...

[Crasherfromwayback]

Agreed but there's only a few people addicted to this the rest need some other entertainment to keep them and their families entertained during the day otherwise boredom, and boredom means they don't get value for money and dont want to go back...

And as far as trade displays go...bit hard to attract the 'trade' untill you can show them the numbers!

[jellywrestler]

And as far as trade displays go...bit hard to attract the 'trade' untill you can show them the numbers!

what numbers do you the trade need?

[Crasherfromwayback]

what numbers do you the trade need?

I reckon it'd be hard to get many in the trade excited unless there were a few thousand peeps there. But I could be well wrong. Again.

[onearmedbandit]

I reckon it'd be hard to get many in the trade excited unless there were a few thousand peeps there. But I could be well wrong. Again.

Last national rounds I've been to there would have been thousands there.

[scott411]

I reckon it'd be hard to get many in the trade excited unless there were a few thousand peeps there. But I could be well wrong. Again.

i was thinking the number needs to be more like 10,000,

on the whole issue, i think you need to look at the motorsports that do get decnet crowds in NZ,

1st is the street races, they get big crowds, they offer short races with big fields, and lots of them, close racing, and because the races are short,

2nd is speedway around the country, they again offer short races, with quick turnaround, reverse grid starts to bring out action, also in a 3-4 hour window, (speedway lives off the crowd, the drivers to not pay entry fees so they gear the show around the crowd)

now I find a national road race meeting boring, to many gaps between races, the longer races tend to get boring, just my view,

[White trash]

The first round of the Nationals that AMCC hosted at Hampton had awesome crowd numbers. Unfortunately, the pooch was screwed so royally, the majority of them will not return.

[Crasherfromwayback]

i was thinking the number needs to be more like 10,000,

,

Probably...

[rachprice]

I reckon it'd be hard to get many in the trade excited unless there were a few thousand peeps there. But I could be well wrong. Again.

Getting use to that now huh?

[Mad-V2]

I'd like to see:
stunters on roadbikes come out after every race to pass time.
lolly scrambles for the kids
spectators could pay some money to run round on their own bikes under track day rules at lunch time.
You could have a spectators Bike show running all day that you pay to enter, with winners announced at the end in order to keep people there all day.
txt competitions to guess winners, this will make people read the programme and get excited about the racing.
And good tight racing instead of 10 bikes spread over the whole track running on their own.

Oh, and T.V advertising

[Brian d marge]

For all those who haven't been to Ruapuna you're missing out big time. It's a great track, best in NZ in my humble opinion, and also very spectator friendly. You can drive your car straight up on to banking that surrounds large parts of the circuit and have a primo view of the whole thing in comfort. Forget the thought of crispy maggot packs: take your own food/drink supplies and enjoy the best riders in NZ, on the best bikes, at the best track, in the comfort of your own car.....or just use the car as a supply base as you lounge on the grass banking or get up close and personal with some of the legends and/or up and comers.

The pits aren't your average tarmac area either, with plenty of tree'd/grassed areas where kids can kick a footy, ride bikes and generally run amok....or where parents/wives can retreat to relax.

Suggestions for the organisers? How about a speed gun/display at the end of the front straight? Or at various parts of the track as the races progress?

Onboard footage from one or two of the bikes displayed trackside...even if it's not actually live it would be cool to see onboard footage of a race you've just seen from trackside.

Live timing trackside.

Given that you can park your car trackside, instead of a P/A broadcast the commentary over AM or FM radio.

you have just gone smoked yourself retarded
Ruapuna, as a track is Fri Gen awesome, but as. spectator its a hell hole
a hot little of chips, while watching the same three people go round and round, I fact the last time I actually got a Hard on at puna was watching a Tz and a Cbr 6 go toe to toe, the z was shaking its head ...awesome, loved it ....the rest of the day was crap
seriously if you want to make road racing interesting, make my wife wet her knickers

don't care how u do it ...my friend here is a bigger petrol head than most on KB, why? she wanks over vettel, Louis Hamilton was taking a hammering until the shop keeper told her to put the magazine back
Here in japan I race in the vets class, try free BBQ, and in the big, races the crew chief of Honda racing ( my kids don't know him from a grain of salt) but he takes then round the workshop, and well ..fun, even though he is getting the bike ready for the next race.. wife is shopping
honestly ...I could in one foul swoop make bike racing a major sport ..but the retards ( sorry dont like using that word) ..."
keep trying to push their own agendas
a couple of simple changes, and nz bike sport would ( and is sometimes) ..fantastic

go on challenge me, how would I do it..... ?

the answers might not what you expect....

I will review this post, ...long lunch much wine, all good .......

stephen

[Mad-V2]

I challenge you to, "in one foul swoop make bike racing a major sport" in N.Z
And to proof read your posts.

[SVboy]

you have just gone smoked yourself retarded
Ruapuna, as a track is Fri Gen awesome, but as. spectator its a hell hole
a hot little of chips, while watching the same three people go round and round, I fact the last time I actually got a Hard on at puna was watching a Tz and a Cbr 6 go toe to toe, the z was shaking its head ...awesome, loved it ....the rest of the day was crap
seriously if you want to make road racing interesting, make my wife wet her knickers

don't care how u do it ...my friend here is a bigger petrol head than most on KB, why? she wanks over vettel, Louis Hamilton was taking a hammering until the shop keeper told her to put the magazine back
Here in japan I race in the vets class, try free BBQ, and in the big, races the crew chief of Honda racing ( my kids don't know him from a grain of salt) but he takes then round the workshop, and well ..fun, even though he is getting the bike ready for the next race.. wife is shopping
honestly ...I could in one foul swoop make bike racing a major sport ..but the retards ( sorry dont like using that word) ..."
keep trying to push their own agendas
a couple of simple changes, and nz bike sport would ( and is sometimes) ..fantastic

go on challenge me, how would I do it..... ?

the answers might not what you expect....

I will review this post, ...long lunch much wine, all good .......

stephen

All well and good in a centre with a very large population base-Japan, UK, Europe. I am not making excuses for our series being a little 2nd rate by comparison, but given the comercial realities, our riders and promoters do ok on limited resources and a small potential audience. Yes there is room for improvement, but within realistic expectations.....However please feel free to bring your one fell swoop back to NZ and "improve bike racing" here. I am sure the "retards" would fall to their knees in astonishment and admiration..................!

[Crasherfromwayback]

,a couple of simple changes, and nz bike sport would ( and is sometimes) ..fantastic

go on challenge me, how would I do it..... ?

the answers might not what you expect....

I will review this post, ...long lunch much wine, all good .......

stephen

I think you may need toilet paper instead of a napkin.

[Kiwi Graham]

The first round of the Nationals that AMCC hosted at Hampton had awesome crowd numbers. Unfortunately, the pooch was screwed so royally, the majority of them will not return.

Disagreeing with you there trashy.

I'd be really keen to learn in what respect the "pooch was screwed"

The reason for the large numbers on our first HD try out was
A. first big bike event held at HD
B. the weather

We had a major oil spill and a massive learning curve to deal with.

Second time around the weather couldn't have been worse unfortunately and it effected the number of spectators massively.

This time we are starting the planning now (well a week or two ago actually) and hope to make the event appeal to a wide variety of people. Often for the bloke to get the weekend pass to go to a bike race there has to be something for the rest of the whanau, we haven't provided that but we plan to change that this year.

It would be good for the KB crowd to ask and seek answers to the OP's question beyond this site. It is very clear people are trying to make this series better than it is and appeal to more than just bike racers.

Cheers

KG

[Marmoot]

Oh, and please make the bike more attractive. A white unpainted fairing with some stickers on it don't make a good spectacle.

[White trash]

Disagreeing with you there trashy.

I'd be really keen to learn in what respect the "pooch was screwed"

The reason for the large numbers on our first HD try out was
A. first big bike event held at HD
B. the weather

We had a major oil spill and a massive learning curve to deal with.

Why is it, that as soon as someone points out a failure at a bike event, someone else from the committee involved gets defensive and starts making excuses?

How many of non involved spectators have you spoken to following that event Graham? By "non involved" I mean just normal paying customers who knew no one, or weren't part of the organisation.

Sure, there was a major "oil down". That's something that the club has no control over but is, let's face it, a very fucking real possibility at a road race event. Did any of the thousands in attendance know there'd been an oil down? No, because there was no PA system except for the poxy one in the pits. Now, because we're all agreed that oil on the track is a very real possibility, what procedures were in place for alternate entertainment while it was cleaned? That's right, obviously none or alllllll those people sitting in the stands and on the hill would have has something to watch for the HOURS it took to clean up. They wouldn't have known why they weren't watching the bike racing they'd PAID to watch due to no PA, but hey, they'd be entertained.

A massive learning curve it may have been, but haven't AMCC been running road race events for over half a century? The shit should really be in one sock by now. Seriously.

I seem to recall a severe shortage in places serving food and drinks as well? Maybe that was a different meeting.

Here's the deal. Me and my mates EACH paid $25 to get through the gates. I think we paid more for a program also. What we got for our $25+ each, was a hot day of standing around with BIG gaps between the races, one of which was 2 hours long and we had no idea why, no service, no updates.

"You guys that claim is was a clusterfuck are wrong, we had a massive learning curve and some oil on the track so it's not our fault. Look forward to seeing you again and taking your $25" doesn't wash sorry mate.

[gonzo_akl]

The Hampton Downs meeting was the first local bike race meet i attended after getting back into riding as BAB.

I agree with the sentiments expressed by white trash above, but doubt I can express them with the same eloquence.

I thought the racing was pretty damn good, but i found that identifiying the bikes/riders was near on impossible because the race numbers are hard to read, so coupled with little or no commentatory it was hard to follow the day. From memory the various championships were very tight and results critical. For those in the scene they could probably easily identify the riders - but as a noob I had no frigging idea what was going on half the time.

True I was there was a major oil spill but again little information about what was going on, we gave up and left early and missed the last race.

Lasting memory is I got kinda bored with all the delays, I never went back the following year, can't remember exactly why could've been the weather or prior commitments but it didn't appeal enough to go.

I think the racing is key for the day so good fast bikes and lots of them. the super bikes and the 600s (i don't even know the correct class names). I understand the need for feeder classes but personally don't find them so interesting.

Trade Stands would appeal but not so keen on the whole bouncy castle, for a start I'd ride to the event and I doubt the family would come separately.

The other highlight is also walking around the car park checking out others bikes, there are some cool bikes around to drool over.

Just my 2c

[onearmedbandit]

Does anyone know how the BSB run their events? I seem to recall that their numbers dropped significantly and that was turned around.

[Clivoris]

Price is critical for me. If it costs more than $50 to take my family, it gives me pause. It doesn't matter at all to my son, who hassles the shit out of me to attend the NZV8's at Manfeild every year because he gets to collect posters and have them signed by the peeps he sees out on the track. He gets free entry there. He also likes the Battle of the Streets meetings and the nationals, but not as much. I know that bike racing is still better value than the movies as far as cost is concerned but I don't often go to the movies because of the expense.

[Kiwi Graham]

Why is it, that as soon as someone points out a failure at a bike event, someone else from the committee involved gets defensive and starts making excuses?

How many of non involved spectators have you spoken to following that event Graham? By "non involved" I mean just normal paying customers who knew no one, or weren't part of the organisation.

.

thanks mate.

I'm not the sort that looks for excuses and ducks for cover when things go tits up. I/we are looking to make changes and more importantly improvements.

I'm not defending anything, we were acutely aware of the shortfalls and to be fair didn't have a great deal more in place for the for last season.

This season will be different.

Part of our problem has been a lack of people (that don't race) doing the organising. On the day you just don't have the time or focus for anything else other than preping your bike and racing.

I/we haven't spoken to any 'non involved people' to be honest, I don't know any. I have asked the question in this thread to get feed back from people in KB land. This is exactly the feed back we need to broaden the events appeal.

As I said this season will be different,.

We have secured several people (who wont be racing) to help organise leading up to and on the day.

The admission price concerns I will take to the committee, several people have commented on it.

Food, we are governed by the contracted caterer at HD, but I can certainly express the need for more outlets.

P/A, this is improving and they do have a circuit radio station, perhaps we should have cheap radios available for spectators. I don't believe the P/A extends around the circuit yet.

Delays, yes they are a frequent evil and something to fill this time is important clearly. What do you want to see? bearing in mind if its to fill time for an oil spill track access will be restricted (depending where it is)

Advertising, this is so bloody expensive it untrue, we are considering having big signs printed and attached to the back/sides of trucks, road side bill boards, papers, magazines, web sites, radio and a few TV. It costs $$$ thousands.

For Hampton Downs to be a viable venue for AMCC we need it to appeal to more people, like it or not it is the revenue from the gate that make or breaks a big event. People are what we need and its these people we must appeal to.
I think we put on a good event for the racers in organising a programme and supporting the teams in terms of facilities (bearing in mind the circuit is still being developed) and your right we have been doing it for decades, but what we haven't been doing is catering for the spectator very well.

[flyingcrocodile46]

Stunt bikes would make an acceptable and very entertaining show as part of the days activities and could be popped onto the main straight as a gap filler when things like oils spills cause big delays.

[Deano]

P/A, this is improving and they do have a circuit radio station, perhaps we should have cheap radios available for spectators. I don't believe the P/A extends around the circuit yet.

Advertising, this is so bloody expensive it untrue, we are considering having big signs printed and attached to the back/sides of trucks, road side bill boards, papers, magazines, web sites, radio and a few TV. It costs $$$ thousands.


They sold little radios at Philip Island for the GP - I still have mine. Only $5 from memory. But if you advertise the fact maybe some people will dig their old tranny (radio) out of the closet and bring it along ?

Do you make use of as much free advertising as possible ? Many bike mags have a calender section of upcoming events, free radio (community public notices), newspaper articles - only need to be small. Once you have a paper on side you are sweet. Even some TV programmes have (or used to have) an upcoming events section - free too.

Facebook, Kiwibiker etc etc etc - all free advertising.

Apologies if it sounds like I'm telling you how to suck eggs.

[White trash]

Sweet KG, I never took you for an excuse maker, just pointing out a disturbing trend in other threads.

Admission price is only a small issue I believe. I'll happily pay $25 or $50 family fee for a good days entertainment, that's cheap in the scheme of things really.

At the round where Derek and Phil tragically came together, it just so happened that young Kevmo and his dad were at the track with the stuntbike on the ute. A quick scout out found him and had him performing on the front straight while investigations were underway and a cleanup took place. Very fortunate for the club and spectators but it filled the gap nicely.

The PA/Comentary issue is a big one I reckon. Without it, no one even knows who won a race unless they're parked at the finish line.

Glad to hear it'll be bigger and better this year mate. Hope to make it up for a look.

[DEATH_INC.]

No long periods with no entertainment
This is the single most important part!!!!!

[Crasherfromwayback]

Sorry if it's been mentioned...but what about grudge drag races for spectators and their bikes?

[imdying]

Oh, and please make the bike more attractive. A white unpainted fairing with some stickers on it don't make a good spectacle.I guess that's just more money when some people have already spent all they have. I can live with that in any case if the numbers on the bike are big enough, and they're racing within coee of other bikes. It's no fun watching 10 bikes all circulating on their own.


P/A, this is improving and they do have a circuit radio station, perhaps we should have cheap radios available for spectators.If I turned up there, and that was the case, would I buy this (http://www.dealextreme.com/p/fm-radio-with-headphones-xiboman-as-875-7983) for $10? I sure would :yes: If you go to that effort, make sure the guy transmitting has something good to say, otherwise it's a wasted effort.

[DEATH_INC.]

Entertainment!
A good commentator, that knows his shit, and more importantly can entertain and get the crowd involved, rather than some guy rambling on about stuff no-one cares or knows about is real important. (trashy, you'd be good)
Whatever is used as fill ins needs to be good, not just some guy that can do skids and the odd wheelie, but someone really good. Anyone see the drifters at Hamilton? All the top guys (actually a couple of them would be a good filler too) Not just lower end guys doing little skids.
Drags may be fun, but you'd all hafta go to wherever they are to see it. Same with stunters etc, you need 3 or 4 so the whole crowd is kept amused.

Dunno, it really depends how far ya wanna go, I doubt NZ will ever get like europe or england, so maybe just keep it like it is and just accept it?

[yungatart]

I guess that's just more money when some people have already spent all they have. I can live with that in any case if the numbers on the bike are big enough...


MNZ has already adressed the issue with numbers not being big enough to read. If they don't comply the bike won't be on the track.

I agree with others re entertainment in the breaks...
And the programmes need to be up to date, which means racers need to get their entries in on time, so they are actually in the programme. Nothing worse than looking in the programme to see who is on bike #xyz, only to find it isn't there

[White trash]

Entertainment!
A good commentator, that knows his shit, and more importantly can entertain and get the crowd involved, rather than some guy rambling on about stuff no-one cares or knows about is real important. (trashy, you'd be good)

Fuck yeah! I can ramble on for hours about stuff no one cares about :D

[Mad-V2]

I still think that lunch time spectator rides (spectators ride the track on their own bikes under trackday rules and prices) would bring in alot more people.
I know I always want to get on the track after watching some racing and the people in the crowd will like it as they will be watching their mate/missus/hubby going for a blat.
Forget about advertising on trucks/busses/billboards and spend that money on T.V and radio.
Those are the best forms of advertising out there.

[Brian d marge]

I think you may need toilet paper instead of a napkin.

You may bring it on a silver platter

and you still didnt ask how I would do it

Stephen

[jellywrestler]

Food, we are governed by the contracted caterer at HD, but I can certainly express the need for more outlets.

the catering at the first nats at HD was a major dissapointment tahnkfully the crew have moved on since then and are doing it way better.
40mins to get a can of drink and i was sweating like an anorexic at laxative factory too. They underestimated the size of the crowd but could've had two lines at the foor outlet, one for off the shelf items and one for things that had to be made coffees etc, that was a simple solution to one issue, like i said thye've moved on
one thing i've suggested to the man from Austins (caterers) is to have a projector and a big screen in the function dome, pretty easy nowadays to pop any form of entertainment on and with that going the commentaters can point the bored that way any time of the day, especially when there's a major break happening..
he also complains that car guys dont stick around yet bike people do, if he had said system set and played on board footage after an event i'm sure he'd get a few more people in.

[SVboy]

You may bring it on a silver platter

and you still didnt ask how I would do it

Stephen

Lets hear it fella!

[Brian d marge]

Lets hear it fella!

anyone who signs with fella , I'm guessing isn't actually interested in the answer , but here is a whole 2 cents worth ....

Well how would I "fix " racing, well for a start I would look at what you have, what is working and not reinvent the wheel.

What's working , first you need to define working, My definition would be grids with 20 or more bikes and a large looking crowd, from a promoters view, a reasonable profit.
What's working, I would say paeroa and the Burt Munro for a start, Paeroa, a nice day out, food isn't bad, shops open, a pub of sorts ....but even then the last time I went, the mother and wife went shopping in Napier, had no interest in coming with the boys.

Burt Munro, is a celebration of motorcycles, lots of events lots to do, ( I assume) but again I couldn't imagine the wife sitting on a windswept beach watching motorcycles go round and round, let alone Ruapuna on a windy day ....

Looking at filling the grid, classes... well lets face it most people have no money, guessing here I would say the average despoable would be around the fifty dollar mark. So the racing has to be affordable and at the same time allow access or exposure to higher levels of experience, if one wanted to follow that avenue
Hence don't reinvent the wheel and use what is affordable to most. ( older more stock machinery)

What is the most easily accessable higher level of competition, I would say Australia , America or here in japan. So the bikes would have to be usable in said places so just copy the rules of the most accessible and compeditive classes, in say Australia. I use Australia as i assume it would be the most accessible to new Zealand, unless you moved and lived in another country , As some have done.

Secondly training, a class needs to promote learning in all areas of motorcycle racing, from the setup, engineering to race craft so that a youngster who want to make a living from motorcycles has a solid base of knowledge and experience. Aka formula fsea and red bull rookies....and there is a conciderable amount of this talent , just very hidden I feel.


So how would I do this,
Make the 600 the premier class, running both modified, aka Australian rules, and stock with times within 10 % or so
250 fourstroke aka the new moto3 and stock or modified stock, times within say 20 %
And finally buckets aka streetstock Ala formula fsae using the university's and polytechnic s to promote engineering ( what is already happening but for motorcycles not cars
Finally pre ( say) 1990 something that you and I could afford to race on a family two kids budget ....all in times within 10 % , the same as what Australia already does


As for the entertainment and getting the wives interested, some sort of warm wind free relaxing food/drink place with alternative form of entertainment, say short land street or what ever is popular on TV or what ever
Doesn't really matter, this is just a quick thought, but what really needs to happen is, clear transition paths, where you can sell one bike and move up, 2; affordable in today's environment and 3; incentive for people to participate whether to gain experience in engineering,or to spectate ..... to promote skills or businesses, ( no I don't mean a cheap sign) I dont see much sign of this....
And finally if the ladies and kids WANT as in actually want,,,, to come then that's the magic formula right there, rembering its the wife that buys the car the husband just thinks he does ......
Don't get this as all negative there is some really good stuff going on, but honestly, sitting on a windswept field, watching the same few bikes going round and around isn't even worth fifteen dollars, I can get a few beers and download wsbk, for the same money....



Me, I would go to ruapuna for, custom bike show, a BBQ and cheap and a beer, on a semi warmish day ( a place where I could relax , ) ....and for that an easy fifty would leave my pocket ...the racing would be secondary to me ......and interesting second when Ive had my fill of the other stuff ....

There are my thoughts, same as the last time, and this time next year the same threads will be popping up .........


Baseball isn't a game...... its a family entertainment ........for all the family.

Stephen.

[ellipsis]

...you didnt actually vary too much from whats been recorded , thus far...next...

[Kickaha]

Secondly training, a class needs to promote learning in all areas of motorcycle racing, from the setup, engineering to race craft so that a youngster who want to make a living from motorcycles has a solid base of knowledge and experience.
Which is exactly what is being done with streetstock but only in the South

Ala formula fsae using the university's and polytechnic s to promote engineering ( what is already happening but for motorcycles not cars
I like that idea there are a couple (at least)Formula fsae guy who have posted here before, it would be interesting to get their views on that

Finally pre ( say) 1990 something that you and I could afford to race on a family two kids budget ....all in times within 10 % , the same as what Australia already does
If you looked at what some people spend on those classes you'd see the word affordable doesn't really work

[Brian d marge]

Which is exactly what is being done with streetstock but only in the South

I like that idea there are a couple (at least)Formula fsae guy who have posted here before, it would be interesting to get their views on that

If you looked at what some people spend on those classes you'd see the word affordable doesn't really work
thats all good new then , things can always be made to work , point still stands about two kids affordable ,

Stephen

[dean boy]

Hi just some more information, it's on eventfinder, I think this link will work


http://www.eventfinder.co.nz/2012/new-zealand-motorcycle-road-race-championship-rd1-nzgp/christchurch-city

[avgas]

i was thinking the number needs to be more like 10,000
I would be curious to see what numbers the 4&Rotary nationals pull this year. In comparison to the biggest NZSB event......

Yet I imagine there are probably just as many bike nuts as rotor nuts in this country......if not more.

[SVboy]

anyone who signs with fella , I'm guessing isn't actually interested in the answer , but here is a whole 2 cents worth ....

Well how would I "fix " racing, well for a start I would look at what you have, what is working and not reinvent the wheel.

What's working , first you need to define working, My definition would be grids with 20 or more bikes and a large looking crowd, from a promoters view, a reasonable profit.
What's working, I would say paeroa and the Burt Munro for a start, Paeroa, a nice day out, food isn't bad, shops open, a pub of sorts ....but even then the last time I went, the mother and wife went shopping in Napier, had no interest in coming with the boys.

Burt Munro, is a celebration of motorcycles, lots of events lots to do, ( I assume) but again I couldn't imagine the wife sitting on a windswept beach watching motorcycles go round and round, let alone Ruapuna on a windy day ....

Looking at filling the grid, classes... well lets face it most people have no money, guessing here I would say the average despoable would be around the fifty dollar mark. So the racing has to be affordable and at the same time allow access or exposure to higher levels of experience, if one wanted to follow that avenue
Hence don't reinvent the wheel and use what is affordable to most. ( older more stock machinery)

What is the most easily accessable higher level of competition, I would say Australia , America or here in japan. So the bikes would have to be usable in said places so just copy the rules of the most accessible and compeditive classes, in say Australia. I use Australia as i assume it would be the most accessible to new Zealand, unless you moved and lived in another country , As some have done.

Secondly training, a class needs to promote learning in all areas of motorcycle racing, from the setup, engineering to race craft so that a youngster who want to make a living from motorcycles has a solid base of knowledge and experience. Aka formula fsea and red bull rookies....and there is a conciderable amount of this talent , just very hidden I feel.


So how would I do this,
Make the 600 the premier class, running both modified, aka Australian rules, and stock with times within 10 % or so
250 fourstroke aka the new moto3 and stock or modified stock, times within say 20 %
And finally buckets aka streetstock Ala formula fsae using the university's and polytechnic s to promote engineering ( what is already happening but for motorcycles not cars
Finally pre ( say) 1990 something that you and I could afford to race on a family two kids budget ....all in times within 10 % , the same as what Australia already does


As for the entertainment and getting the wives interested, some sort of warm wind free relaxing food/drink place with alternative form of entertainment, say short land street or what ever is popular on TV or what ever
Doesn't really matter, this is just a quick thought, but what really needs to happen is, clear transition paths, where you can sell one bike and move up, 2; affordable in today's environment and 3; incentive for people to participate whether to gain experience in engineering,or to spectate ..... to promote skills or businesses, ( no I don't mean a cheap sign) I dont see much sign of this....
And finally if the ladies and kids WANT as in actually want,,,, to come then that's the magic formula right there, rembering its the wife that buys the car the husband just thinks he does ......
Don't get this as all negative there is some really good stuff going on, but honestly, sitting on a windswept field, watching the same few bikes going round and around isn't even worth fifteen dollars, I can get a few beers and download wsbk, for the same money....



Me, I would go to ruapuna for, custom bike show, a BBQ and cheap and a beer, on a semi warmish day ( a place where I could relax , ) ....and for that an easy fifty would leave my pocket ...the racing would be secondary to me ......and interesting second when Ive had my fill of the other stuff ....

There are my thoughts, same as the last time, and this time next year the same threads will be popping up .........


Baseball isn't a game...... its a family entertainment ........for all the family.

Stephen.

Sorry, the "fella" tag was aimed at a what I considered a somewhat arrogant post. Lets put it down to the lunch time wine. You have a great summary of ideas there, but as Kikaha says, its mostly been said. I agree that events such as the burt etc are successful as more accessable entertainment, but the OP is more concerned about the Nationals racing series. I personally dont know if a reoganisation and streamlining of classes would work-people have made their investments into their various classes, and to exclude them would risk alienating ground roots racers. You make good points about attracting new blood etc, but I would wonder if NZs current economic climate would be condusive to these reforms. I am not being reactive I hope, just a little more in tune with the realities of trying to personally support my own very limited racing here in NZ. I do hope promoters can add appeal to the Nats racing, but I feel its important for the racers to control their own destiny, not those in charge of entertainment. I go to Ruapuna for the racing and other things are very secondary for me.

[onearmedbandit]

Just how exactly do we control the weather?

[White trash]

If I was on the MNZ RR Commission, I'd be pushing for an introduction of our own "Moto 3" class for the 2013 season and announcing it NOW.

There's some clever bastards in NZ, and good equipment is cheap enough. It could very quickly become the best racing in NZ.

[liljegren]

Just a thought, but I know alot of people who have no idea that HD exists. How come there is no fkn big sign(S) either side of the track with details of whats on and coming? What about a 'quick pull off'. It would be easy to arrange detailed signage at the top of the pulloff roads either side. Wouldbe punters could just nip up the offroad, let the dog and the kids have a quick pee (at the toilets which arent there yet). Nobody on the freeway knows theres bike racing on at HD today, until they drive past the track. Maybe a few more would stop and check it out if they knew about a KM back?

[slowpoke]

Just a thought, but I know alot of people who have no idea that HD exists. How come there is no fkn big sign(S) either side of the track with details of whats on and coming? What about a 'quick pull off'. It would be easy to arrange detailed signage at the top of the pulloff roads either side. Wouldbe punters could just nip up the offroad, let the dog and the kids have a quick pee (at the toilets which arent there yet). Nobody on the freeway knows theres bike racing on at HD today, until they drive past the track. Maybe a few more would stop and check it out if they knew about a KM back?

Good point! This was the case a couple of years back when I went up for the first NZSBK there and it struck me there was no signage, but it was very early days. I honestly thought it had to have changed by now.......:facepalm:

[Murray]

Hi just some more information, it's on eventfinder, I think this link will work


http://www.eventfinder.co.nz/2012/new-zealand-motorcycle-road-race-championship-rd1-nzgp/christchurch-city

Thats pretty good but as I pointed out pages ago the event is not even on the Kiwibiker calendar:facepalm::facepalm:

Our group of 10-20 riders always look at the calendar every month to plan rides etc

[Kiwi Graham]

Thats pretty good but as I pointed out pages ago the event is not even on the Kiwibiker calendar:facepalm::facepalm:

Our group of 10-20 riders always look at the calendar every month to plan rides etc

It is now, cheers

[RobGassit]

If I was on the MNZ RR Commission, I'd be pushing for an introduction of our own "Moto 3" class for the 2013 season and announcing it NOW.

There's some clever bastards in NZ, and good equipment is cheap enough. It could very quickly become the best racing in NZ.

That's a bloody good idea. Dollar say's they find 15 reasons why it can't be done.:facepalm:

[Nonbeliever]

one thing bike people like to do is look at bikes, have a discount at the gate for guys that arrive on their bike to spectate. More bikes that show up will give people more to look at while the sidecars (gocarts) are racing.

[jellywrestler]

one thing bike people like to do is look at bikes, have a discount at the gate for guys that arrive on their bike to spectate. More bikes that show up will give people more to look at while the sidecars (gocarts) are racing.
Giving discount to Solo riders is just like giving discounts to pensioners, they both are in need of help

[Brian d marge]

Sorry, the "fella" tag was aimed at a what I considered a somewhat arrogant post. Lets put it down to the lunch time wine. You have a great summary of ideas there, but as Kikaha says, its mostly been said. I agree that events such as the burt etc are successful as more accessable entertainment, but the OP is more concerned about the Nationals racing series. I personally dont know if a reoganisation and streamlining of classes would work-people have made their investments into their various classes, and to exclude them would risk alienating ground roots racers. You make good points about attracting new blood etc, but I would wonder if NZs current economic climate would be condusive to these reforms. I am not being reactive I hope, just a little more in tune with the realities of trying to personally support my own very limited racing here in NZ. I do hope promoters can add appeal to the Nats racing, but I feel its important for the racers to control their own destiny, not those in charge of entertainment. I go to Ruapuna for the racing and other things are very secondary for me.
if you imagine, opening a thread and seeing pages and pages of all been through this before, ...and the wine, then you have an understanding of the feeling behind the post
thank you for you measured reply, ,to dress some points the cost, or what is spent on bike is easily solved with a 5000 dollar claiming rule, any bike can be purchased for ( my figure and a made up for an example only ) for 5 k this would ( if you were clever) mean that the mods you sell the bike with give the most bang for the less bucks
I also race here in japan, in fact is a part of my business so am aware of the money side ...
Thing is then if its all or even half of it is being done, then the advertising isn't working as has been pointed out
the structure is or advertising is not clear, just look at the names, buckets, super stock ... .......doesn't really tell you what you can do
as for the wife, and this is a big big point as if you were to come here I would show you the pocket bike series, mom dad and wee Yuki San ..with a van full of spares, a BBQ and a great day out ...
when Yuki grows ( as some of these kids are only about 6 or 7 ...) he gets a 100 CC rs100 Honda, dedicated race bike, still on the same track, then if he still likes racing its a MD 250 and off to mitering, same van same mom and dad ....then St 600 and etc ....
mom will follow the kids, but she must have something to keep her amused ..
incentive, everyone there must have a reason why they ( honestly want to go there ...
I feel get rid of the people with old or personal agenda's, ask the average person what would make them go to the racing....then try to deliver as cheaply as possible
I be got a article on American football which breaks down the event into ins components, hot dogs, football gifts etc ....and the game is only a small part of the income stream ......
stephen

[dean boy]

The promoter of the New Zealand Superbike series round 1 at Ruapuna on the first weekend of Jan is looking to make there round the biggest and best that we have seen in NZ.

His main goal is to improve more of the experience for the crowd rather then make the racing better.

What would get you and your family to the track?

Hi all, Just want to put a big thankyou out there for your great ideas, we didn't use them all but if you came i hope you had a great day.

I'm still learning this promotion thing so if you where their please give me some feed back on what we did well and how we can improve. canterbury.dean@gmail.com

Big thanks to all the riders, promotors, officials i hounded for feed back

Kind regards Dean James Motorcycling Canterbury.

[SVboy]

Definitely an improve from last year. Well done to you and your team, Dean. I was around the back of the track and PA quality was still an issue, but better than last year-hard to hear? Food truck right there by our stand-well done! Quad bikes-well done-shame you were let down by your other lunch time display people-but having enough time may have been an issue. I liked the timetableing too-having the 600s and 1000s earlier in the lineup opened options. Saw some advertising prior to the event-I think you need more. Didnt hear any radio promo? I think you deserved more people imho.

[dean boy]

Definitely an improve from last year. Well done to you and your team, Dean. I was around the back of the track and PA quality was still an issue, but better than last year-hard to hear? Food truck right there by our stand-well done! Quad bikes-well done-shame you were let down by your other lunch time display people-but having enough time may have been an issue. I liked the timetableing too-having the 600s and 1000s earlier in the lineup opened options. Saw some advertising prior to the event-I think you need more. Didnt hear any radio promo? I think you deserved more people imho.

Thanks for feedback, we had 50 % more people thru gate and had heaps of radio time on Radio network, will talk to lloyd at canterbury car club about PA quality and had heaps more displays organised but they let me down in the end ( shit happens ) anyway i had a awesome day running the event and racing in clubmans did my PB to.

[Kiwi Graham]

Thanks for feedback, we had 50 % more people thru gate and had heaps of radio time on Radio network, will talk to lloyd at canterbury car club about PA quality and had heaps more displays organised but they let me down in the end ( shit happens ) anyway i had a awesome day running the event and racing in clubmans did my PB to.

Need to touch base with you mate and pick you brains, will give you a bell next week some time.

[dean boy]

Need to touch base with you mate and pick you brains, will give you a bell next week some time.

cool as mate we had a great day, and i'm finally with my kids having some r & r there was no way i could have done this without the support of my family, was a huge cost to them.............

laptop by pool so back for a swim :2thumbsup

[SMOKEU]

Some stunt riders on the track would be good (obviously not at the same time that racing is occurring, but it would be good in between races). Also maybe some motocross ramps in the grassed area in the middle of the track with stunt riders doing some nice big jumps.

[dean boy]

Some stunt riders on the track would be good (obviously not at the same time that racing is occurring, but it would be good in between races). Also maybe some motocross ramps in the grassed area in the middle of the track with stunt riders doing some nice big jumps.

Yes we had some aranged but there bikes fell thru from Aussie, we had quads out there doing burn outs and drifting how did it look to you ?

With time always a issue we didn't plan a lunch break for Saturday, but we thought we had time to have a lunch break on Sunday and then superbike drama and extended time made us shorten our club support class races ( sorry guys and girls )

The plan was just to have stunting on when we had a issue with rider down or long recovery, if i had my time again i would have not had a lunch break

[AD345]

Can't be arsed reading the whole thread but did anyone mention naked women?

[Mully Clown]

I was there from about 11-5 each day. Both days were worth going to, even the qualifying. Really liked the ATV display, I'd happily go just to watch these (does anyone know when/where they race?).

There were a few signs around saying that race commentary is broadcast on 88.3FM(?), I'll take a radio next time so I can keep track of the racing no matter where I am on the circuit.

Impressed with the advertising/promotion for a change. I actually saw adverts out in the public, not just hidden away inside forums and magazines.

Simple thing: Find a sponsor to provide ear-plugs, hand them out at the gate and perhaps 1-2 other places around the track. The amount of little kids there with no ear-protection is quite ridiculous.

Dreaming: It would be great to have a couple of big screens providing some insight into what's happening at the part of the track that you can never quite see properly.

[Oakie]

'Twas a great day. Happy to go again if similarly organised. A bit more shade would be nice but I reckon you can only do so much. Nah. Well done.

[dean boy]

I was there from about 11-5 each day. Both days were worth going to, even the qualifying. Really liked the ATV display, I'd happily go just to watch these (does anyone know when/where they race?).

Contact Ian Ffitch at ifracing@xtra.co.nz they have a awesome club and very thankful for there support on Sunday.

There were a few signs around saying that race commentary is broadcast on 88.3FM(?), I'll take a radio next time so I can keep track of the racing no matter where I am on the circuit.

Yes that's a great idea, maybe we should have promoted that, i know we have some weak spots with track PA system.

Impressed with the advertising/promotion for a change. I actually saw adverts out in the public, not just hidden away inside forums and magazines.

What promotion did you see or hear ?

Simple thing: Find a sponsor to provide ear-plugs, hand them out at the gate and perhaps 1-2 other places around the track. The amount of little kids there with no ear-protection is quite ridiculous.

Yes totally agree and will try to find a provider for future racing.

Dreaming: It would be great to have a couple of big screens providing some insight into what's happening at the part of the track that you can never quite see properly.

Yes there is a number of idea's going around and you never say no, it can't happen, that was on my wish list to but budget only so big.

Cheers Dean

[dean boy]

'Twas a great day. Happy to go again if similarly organised. A bit more shade would be nice but I reckon you can only do so much. Nah. Well done.

Thanks for your feedback and vey pleased you had a great day.. did you go Saturday or Sunday and what promotions did you see ?

I hear you about shade, so where, maybe we should look at some marquee's along grass bank ?

[jellywrestler]

Can't be arsed reading the whole thread but did anyone mention naked women? pretty sure I did but never got any...

[Tony.OK]

Thanks for your feedback and vey pleased you had a great day.. did you go Saturday or Sunday and what promotions did you see ?

I hear you about shade, so where, maybe we should look at some marquee's along grass bank ?

Sounds like an opening for some marketing for someone.................cheap printed umbrella's? Maybe some of the bike companies/sponsors could get on board with branded brollies?

[gatch]

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Move the friggin bike numbers from the non-existent tail sections and put it on the lower section of the main fairing. Then, maybe just then, spectators will know what bike/rider is going past. Back that up with a quality PA system and 98% of the paying spectators will have a clue as to what is actually going on.

I'm a fanboy so I'll go anyway. But these are a few things that bother me.

It's hard to see the numbers on bikes with tiny little tails, it's also hard to see the numbers when every cunt has a different colour number board. Make them big, make them the same and put them where they can actually be seen 254867

It seems to be a theme, shit PA systems. The crowd wants to know what race is coming up next, they want to know why it is taking 500 years for the track to be cleared, they want to know when the wet tshirt contest is about to start. PA system - GET ONE.

Also has been mentioned, better food. Those hotdogs are actually battered tumors.. Some other entertainment, like has been mentioned, stunters, maybe a few laps of flagship demo bikes from dealers, a bike wash, a ride as pillion on a fast bike etc etc.

[Oakie]

Thanks for your feedback and vey pleased you had a great day.. did you go Saturday or Sunday and what promotions did you see ?

I hear you about shade, so where, maybe we should look at some marquee's along grass bank ?

Just Sunday. Promotions? Well we looked at the nice old cars and the painter fella's work. It was nice to see some local dealers out there with bikes on display too. Four wheel bikes ... well the two faaaast ones were pretty awesome. Food ... about what you'd expect ... I mean you don't go there for a dining experience ... but I must say that the chips were about the best ever! So good when cooked in clean oil at the right temperature. Good coffee was a welcome treat.

As for shade, I guess there are safety considerations. Marquees could be blown onto the track in wind, as could umbrellas. Trees along the top would be good eventually but then you'd have leaves on the track so probably not the right approach either. Perhaps some sort of suspended shade cloth (the landscaping netting type ... not a shade sail.) Either that or an opportunity for someone to sell cheap wide brimmed hats?

PA has been mentioned but I guess that depends where you are on the track as I had no problems with it.

Oh yeah ... and what Gatch said ... bloody numbers are hard to read!

Good day though which I, and more importantly, Mrs Oakie enjoyed.

[BMWST?]

Yes we had some aranged but there bikes fell thru from Aussie, we had quads out there doing burn outs and drifting how did it look to you ?

With time always a issue we didn't plan a lunch break for Saturday, but we thought we had time to have a lunch break on Sunday and then superbike drama and extended time made us shorten our club support class races ( sorry guys and girls )

The plan was just to have stunting on when we had a issue with rider down or long recovery, if i had my time again i would have not had a lunch break

you dont need a lunch break for the crowd or riders but you have to make some arrangements esp for the officials

[Oakie]

you dont need a lunch break for the crowd or riders but you have to make some arrangements esp for the officials

Actually the lunch break on Sunday was just about perfect length. (30/35 minutes?) Just enough time for a potty break (sorry to the guy in the next cubicle ... I've had a crook guts) and enough time to get a bit of food, look around a bit and stretch legs before starting again.

[Mully Clown]

What promotion did you see or hear ?
Cheers Dean

I might be making this up (I hope not) but I seem to recall seeing television adverts and a billboard in Riccarton.

As for the food. The Pure Espresso van had some fantastic toasties going on.

[tigertim20]

in case the organisers etc wanted some feedback . . .
I wasnt able to go to the event due to travel/money constraints, however I noticed a significant amount of advertising, including a TV AD. A lot of people from work etc who know I ride asked me if I was going to go. These are people who are not interested in bikes at all, but merely asked because they had seen the advertising and thought I might be interested in hearing about it.
So the advertising side was great, keep it up and I will definitely get to a few rounds:2thumbsup

[cowpoos]

What would get you to the track?

I have been internalizing a very complecated situation in my head....and I think Boobies...lots of boobies would be the answer!!:yes:

[dean boy]

PA has been mentioned but I guess that depends where you are on the track as I had no problems with it.

Oh yeah ... and what Gatch said ... bloody numbers are hard to read!

Good day though which I, and more importantly, Mrs Oakie enjoyed.[/QUOTE]

Great, can you ask Mrs Oakie how we can improve it for our wifes and partners, yes some numbers are hard to read........

[dean boy]

I have been internalizing a very complecated situation in my head....and I think Boobies...lots of boobies would be the answer!!:yes:

cost, $ 200 to $ 300 a day ...............

[dean boy]

I might be making this up (I hope not) but I seem to recall seeing television adverts and a billboard in Riccarton.

As for the food. The Pure Espresso van had some fantastic toasties going on.

That's great, yes we had advertising billboard, and TV advert, yes they had great coffee to and i survived on souvlakis all weekend

[dean boy]

in case the organisers etc wanted some feedback . . .
I wasnt able to go to the event due to travel/money constraints, however I noticed a significant amount of advertising, including a TV AD. A lot of people from work etc who know I ride asked me if I was going to go. These are people who are not interested in bikes at all, but merely asked because they had seen the advertising and thought I might be interested in hearing about it.
So the advertising side was great, keep it up and I will definitely get to a few rounds:2thumbsup

Yes we do want feedback, and thanks

[jellywrestler]

I'm a fanboy so I'll go anyway. But these are a few things that bother me.

It's hard to see the numbers on bikes with tiny little tails, it's also hard to see the numbers when every cunt has a different colour number board. Make them big, make them the same and put them where they can actually be seen 254867

It seems to be a theme, shit PA systems. The crowd wants to know what race is coming up next, they want to know why it is taking 500 years for the track to be cleared, they want to know when the wet tshirt contest is about to start. PA system - GET ONE.

Also has been mentioned, better food. Those hotdogs are actually battered tumors.. Some other entertainment, like has been mentioned, stunters, maybe a few laps of flagship demo bikes from dealers, a bike wash, a ride as pillion on a fast bike etc etc.

we're you even there?

[Fast Eddie]

I saw the Nationals / GP event in CHCH advertised in the inflight magazine on my flight from Auckland to CHCH. I thought that was mint! Haven't seen any TV ads though.. But could to have advertising going

lets give some more mention to the sidecars ;) get those numbers up. crowds usually love watching them get up to mischief :D could be another crowd puller with a bit of effort.

[Oakie]

Great, can you ask Mrs Oakie how we can improve it for our wifes and partners, yes some numbers are hard to read........

Dunno about improving it further but she did enjoy watching the yunguns in the supporting classes and especially the young ladies who were racing. I guess that's just a matter of having info via programmes or the PA on a few of those individuals and allowing people identify a bit with the riders. Apart form that ... just shade.

[Oakie]

cost, $ 200 to $ 300 a day ...............

Is that each or for a pair?

[cowpoos]

cost, $ 200 to $ 300 a day ...............

Sweet order a few dozen!

[Mully Clown]

I must say that it's bloody hard to find an official listing of all the rounds!

[dean boy]

I must say that it's bloody hard to find an official listing of all the rounds!

http://www.nzsbk.com/p/nzsbk-series-2012.html

This is a site run by Ian, great guy and some awesome information all up to date, we had his team as our commentators and would like them back for next year.

Cheers Dean

[dean boy]

Sweet order a few dozen!

Ha Ha I maybe able to order half a dozen, but don't tell the wife............... i'm prepared to do personal interviews to keep the standard high..........:laugh:

[jellywrestler]

Dunno about improving it further but she did enjoy watching the yunguns in the supporting classes and especially the young ladies who were racing. I guess that's just a matter of having info via programmes or the PA on a few of those individuals and allowing people identify a bit with the riders. Apart form that ... just shade.

the two commentators walked the pits for several hours with rider profile sheets, and the Canty club had their own at sign in.
there were quite a few came back but a number didn't bother. I did point out i wanted both ends of the riding spectrum to mention not just those at the front overall the response was what i expected with a few chuckles along the way.
We read them out quite oftyen during the day and i'm printing off more for timaru today.
thanks for your input
spyda (one of the commentators)

[Kiwi Graham]

the two commentators walked the pits for several hours with rider profile sheets, and the Canty club had their own at sign in.
there were quite a few came back but a number didn't bother. I did point out i wanted both ends of the riding spectrum to mention not just those at the front overall the response was what i expected with a few chuckles along the way.
We read them out quite oftyen during the day and i'm printing off more for timaru today.
thanks for your input
spyda (one of the commentators)

PM sent mate

[Berries]

What would get you and your family to the track?
For the series in general more notice. I'm a couple of hours from any tracks here but used to go to quite a bit of racing. Finally got to sit down and read the paper about four o'clock this afternoon. Saw an ad for the superbike round at Levels, today and tomorrow. Well that ad was a waste of money. If it had been in the paper last week or the week before I might have made plans.

[Oakie]

the two commentators walked the pits for several hours with rider profile sheets, and the Canty club had their own at sign in.
there were quite a few came back but a number didn't bother. I did point out i wanted both ends of the riding spectrum to mention not just those at the front overall the response was what i expected with a few chuckles along the way.
We read them out quite oftyen during the day and i'm printing off more for timaru today.
thanks for your input
spyda (one of the commentators)

Exactly. She picked up the info off the program and through the PA and it really made it interesting for her.

[Kruzah]

I just found this thread and read through every comment!! One thing I saw come up a lot was stuntbikes. I've been confirmed to ride the Hampton Downs round on the 17-18 of march. I've been in contact with a lot of racing event organizers, and the general reaction is "there's no left over money" now I find out that they were trying to get Aussie riders over?? Don't get me wrong, the Oz boys are amazing, but the costs involved would be 3 times getting the few killer riders in NZ down there. And yeah, it definatly ya definatly need more than 1 rider, but we'll see how HD's goes!! Sounds like the organizers have put a shit load of effort into this one, so please everyone support it!!! Check out www.stuntnz.com for videos, tried to embed off YouTube, but couldn't find them on my phone!

But yeah, it's the old "need more people so we have more money to get more stuff to get more people but have no money to start with" problem...

[dean boy]

I just found this thread and read through every comment!! One thing I saw come up a lot was stuntbikes. I've been confirmed to ride the Hampton Downs round on the 17-18 of march. I've been in contact with a lot of racing event organizers, and the general reaction is "there's no left over money" now I find out that they were trying to get Aussie riders over?? Don't get me wrong, the Oz boys are amazing, but the costs involved would be 3 times getting the few killer riders in NZ down there. And yeah, it definatly ya definatly need more than 1 rider, but we'll see how HD's goes!! Sounds like the organizers have put a shit load of effort into this one, so please everyone support it!!! Check out www.stuntnz.com for videos, tried to embed off YouTube, but couldn't find them on my phone!

But yeah, it's the old "need more people so we have more money to get more stuff to get more people but have no money to start with" problem...

Sorry if it sounded like that but he was an existing club racer returning from Aussie who was really keen to help the club out, but his bikes hadn't arrived in time. He and his mate are awesome stunt riders.
will be great to see you out there at HD

Cheers Dean