The Breakdown: Budds Creek
Friday, June 22, 2012 | 11:30 AM
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PrintBy Gary Bailey
Professor Bailey here with a look at a few things from the Budds Creek National. I have been so wide open working with riders getting them ready for the Loretta Lynn Regional Qualifiers that I have not had a chance to just hang out at a National for the weekend before now. On Saturday, while I was sitting in the press tent at Budds reviewing the video and photos that I shot, I was approached and asked to do this week’s Breakdown. I welcomed the opportunity because with so many cool shots from the day, it seemed only right to share some of them with you
I wound down my Budds Creek weekend watching the amateur races on Sunday while helping out my boy Cooper Webb, and with so many ideas are swirling in my head that it is difficult to pick just one thing to discuss. But since it wouldn’t be Budds Creek without Henry Hill, I guess I will begin by focusing on an interesting little section right before Henry Hill.
In this section, there were lots of ruts and everyone had a different idea about where to go. Some lines were smoother, but for sure they were not the shortest.
Andrew Fredrickson photo
Ryan Dungey, by far, was the fastest guy on the track by a second or more a lap. Dungey had a great line in this section and was fast here (as he was in so many places on the track).
I know there are those that are going to jump right in and say, “Well that’s only because Stewart or Reed or Villopoto or whoever else were not there.” That may be true, but the fact is Dungey was there and healthy and that is all part of racing.
So let’s have a look at a slidshow of some still photos.
Now let’s take a look at Dungey’s line selection in this section. I'm not sure whether Dungey spent much time looking for the smoothest line. For sure what Dungey did do was to select the best line, whether smooth or not, that would allow him to carry the best momentum through this section and around the track. It just so happens that the best line in this section was right up the middle.
By picking the line in this section that would allow him to carry the best momentum, Dungey demonstrates what good racers know and that is: the most important part of going fast is not going faster, but carrying the best momentum. Once you learn to carry more momentum to go fast, rather than just trying to go faster by overriding the bike, you actually become faster. If you watch all other forms of racing it’s about lines and momentum, don’t override the bike or overdrive the car.
The next thing I want to review in my Budds Creek footage is how many riders don’t use the clutch and talk a little about why they should. At least let’s talk about why it is a good idea to have your finger on the clutch. First, we’ll look at the Lites riders and then the 450 guys.
Happy trails, keep the wheels pointed down.
- Gary Bailey
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I think you mean Waldo?
Having the video with the narration is a huge improvement to an already GREAT column. Thank you to Gary Bailey, and Matt Walker for doing these columns.
Very cool.
Like the videos and what Bailey says most of the time. I think using the clutch is important and for most amateurs we can't really use the clutch the way pro's use them because we can afford to put in a new clutch every 3 weeks.
While Bailey's comments always deserve to be written down and studied (because he is right), I do believe that a modulated delivery would be more effective rather than the brutal, direct approach. Just like his clutch rant (which of course is true), he needs to use his verbal clutch to make a better technical case. Just like modulating throttle to enhance traction and ameliorating wheel spin, he needs to surgically implant his wisdom with the least wound to the confidence, rather than machine gunning his gems into his disciples.
He needs to work on his trigger words, delivery, and explain the reasons in a positive light if he wants to elevate his game. Just like riding a bike, there is always a better way, IMO.
That being said, he is 100% correct. He has to be. He IS Gary Bailey.
Man, I really like the pictorial narrative. Taking it up another notch for sure. Great job GB!
When I first started riding, I got your tapes which were and are a huge help. It's always great to hear how you analyze this complex sport. I, for one, really appreciate these articles. Thanks, Gary Bailey.
I don't think many people are saying "if so and so was here" anymore. He's proven in 2011 and this year he is - at worst - as fast as 7/2/22/41.
@super fro daddy There are always going to be those who say "if so and so was here" but you are 100% correct in saying he has proved that he is as fast as any rider in the world. Certainly not his fault they are not there to race this summer. A true joy to watch ride. Keep up the awesome work RD
I too, must compliment Gary on all of his articles, but this one was over the top. Good job for sure. And yes Matt's columns are awesome as well. I am a little surprized by the racer turned writer type guys we have here. Gary, Matt, Ping, David Bailey, David Vullimen, and so on. Always thought racers were racers-not the type to sit down and pen a story. But these guys all do a good job. And is it just me or do the rest of you get kinda I don't know, maybe "giddy" for lack of a better word, about the fact that these guys probably come back here and read/occasionaly respond, to our posts? That is cool. Some of the responses from Racer X are neat too as they sort of follow up on the original story. This and the fact that we are communicating with people all over the world is about as good as it gets. Sometimes I wonder what I did to entertain myself before I discovered this site!
First of all thanks guys thanks for your comments for sure everyone is going to have an opinion. The reason for this column is to give ours as we see it and to help you guys and gals with some tips that will help you when you go riding. As far as the clutch goes it is more be ready for when you need it and when you do use it don't abuse it. What I mean is use it to control and build the power for more control of the power to the rear wheel. If you do this right you will not be going through clutches every 3 weeks. Check it out guys this could make our lives easy, all bikes automatic with ABS brakes. Thanks again, have a good day and ride safe.
"I'm gonna give all my secerts away" great tune Gary Bailey. Enjoyed the column.
Who is #8 when the screen shows the word LINES?
Gary has forgotten about that thing called the Rekluse....I personally have my finger on vag most of the time....f the clutch...finger the vag..and possibly the ane ane...www.plaguemx.com.
What a treat! "The Breakdown" is becoming my favorite attraction on the site. Narrative from the Professor himself! I feel like I'm back in riding school and I'm very glad to be here!
Thanks to Gary Bailey and Matt for taking the time to pass along your knowledge of the sport. You keep sending 'em, we'll keep reading and watching 'em! Well done.