Any good track-oriented GPS apps out there?

[Sidewinder600]

I'm just getting into track riding and don't really need/want some super fancy and expensive racing GPS system, but I'd like something that at least roughly tracks on-track stats. I'm looking for something within a few mph and feet of actual speed and position. Not looking for decimal-level accuracy as I'm not going to be all that consistent at first anyway. Any recommendations?

I'm thinking an app would be nice for obvious reasons, but I know there are GPS limitations with even the newest phones. Wouldn't be opposed to a dedicated system, but I'm looking for cheap over most other factors as I'm already blowing most of my budget on the bike and track days themselves.

[J_Copeland]

Google search Harry's GPS Laptimer

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[r1crusher]

IMO, just buy a simple lap timer.  You only need to know how consistent you are from lap to lap.  You don't need a speedo either, they're just distracting on the track.  Put a piece of tape over it and don't worry about it.

 

Edit: actually as new track rider you shouldn't even be worrying about your times on the track. Work on the basic skills first then worry about your times. It will all come with time, trust me.

Edited April 17, 2014 by r1crusher

[Sidewinder600]

That Harry's thing looks pretty cool, might give that a shot. I'm not really looking for anything to display while on the track. Hell, my speedo isn't even hooked up. I'm just looking for something I can turn on and throw in my pocket to log sessions so I can go through them afterwards. I'm just going to be focusing on technique for a while but I'd still like to have some metrics to show what's working where and by how much.

[Helmutt]

Got a GoPro?  You can approximate lap times with it afterwards, as well as see where your lines/braking markers were working or not.  I'm with r1 though, just focus on the body position and control fundamentals before sweating the laps times until you KNOW what changes help to make you faster.   I used my GoPro to review my lines and estimate lap times after a trackday, it definitely helps

[redkow97]

Harry's lap timer is what I have always seen recommended as well.

 

JB and I got inexpensive (Amazon?  Ebay?) lap timers for pretty cheap.  They're great for the XR's, because we won't cry if we crash and break them...  They have worked well for us.

 

And I totally agree that new riders should not be worrying about lap times, but I also understand how gratifying it can be to see your times fall, and look back and laugh at your times from weeks or years prior.

 

Put the lap timer on your tail section where you can't see it.  Then check after the session, or at lunch time if it will store enough laps.

[blue03636]

Put the lap timer on your tail section where you can't see it.  Then check after the session, or at lunch time if it will store enough laps.

 

This, I still don't look at mine on track.

[RHill]

If you are going to use an app you need to use an external gps receiver like the QStar.  I hope you are not using your current phone...just in case.  I bought trackmaster, but only used it once without the external receiver....useless.

 

I check my lap timer occasionally when turning trying to push my limit, but if I'm learning a track or off pace I don't even put the timer on the bike.  I always try to keep the timer in the GoPro field of view....just nice to watch a clip and have the time displayed without any legwork.

 

IMO, it isn't even close:

GoPro and time in reviewing the footage is much more beneficial than a lap timer.  Like it was mentioned earlier, you can use the gopro to figure out times, but realize there is error and a subjectiveness to it.

[C-bus]

Just go straight and you'll eventually get there. Not sure you need a GPS to navigate a track. I'm just a cruiser guy though.