Croix en Ternois

Here’s a detailed motorcycle-trackday oriented overview of the Circuit de Croix-en-Ternois (in Nord-Pas-de-Calais, France) — what to expect, how to prepare, and whether it might suit your riding goals.

✅ Basic Info & Layout

The track is approx 1.9 km (1.18 miles) in its current configuration.
It’s quite compact compared to many mainstream European circuits.
The layout: a long-ish straight, then a series of tighter corners and chicanes, so rhythm and precision matter more than sheer top speed.
The circuit is homologated for motorcycle use (by the FFM) so trackdays are well supported.

🏍️ Rider Experience: What Makes It Interesting

Because the lap is short, you’ll see frequent traffic and quick lap turnarounds — good for getting reps in and seeing your mistakes quickly.
The mix of a straight plus tight corners makes it a great place to work on braking, exit speed, and corner transitions rather than just long straights.
It’s accessible: being in northern France, it’s a reasonable drive from much of western/central Europe, making it manageable for a one-day outing.
For those newer to trackdays or wanting a “less intimidating” environment than big GP tracks, this can be a good stepping stone.

⚠️ Things to Consider / Limitations

Because of the short length and tight corners, it won’t feel “big” or have the long high-speed straights of larger circuits (e.g., Spa, Silverstone). If you’re chasing top speed and long flow sections, you might find it somewhat limited.
With shorter laps and many corners, it can feel more hectic (lots of braking, throttle, change of direction) — this can wear you and your bike (tyres, brakes) if you’re inexperienced.
Noise / bike prep: As with many French tracks, ensure your bike meets noise and technical requirements. The circuit website lists “essais libres moto” sessions (friday, saturday, monday) with pricing apparently ~€95-€105.

🔧 Setup & Ride Tips

Tyres/Warmers: Because the corners come thick and fast, warmers are strongly advisable. You’ll want good grip quickly.
Brakes/Suspension: Many corners equal many heavy braking zones. Ensure your front end is supported, brake fluid fresh. Suspension setup should allow quick direction changes and carry momentum.
Focus on exit speed: Due to the shorter nature of the track, one of the major gains comes from good exits rather than extreme lean angles.
Riding groups & pace: Given lap time is short, grouping by pace is important to avoid bunching and ensure safe overtaking.
Bike condition: Because of frequent decel/accel, your bike’s chain, tyres and clutch will be under load—check sprockets & chain.
Noise compliance: Even smaller tracks enforce noise limits—check your exhaust meets the requirement to avoid being black flagged.

🧭 Trackday Format & Logistics

The circuit offers “essais libres moto” (free practice) sessions on dedicated days (Friday, Monday, Saturday) for different levels.
Pricing: Example rate listed: €105 for a Saturday, €95 for Friday or Monday. For two days ~€180.
Groups: They list group levels: débutant (beginner), intermédiaire, confirmé, expert. Good for progression.
Facilities: According to the track website: paddocks, boxes, restaurant, nice visibility of the entire circuit.
Track days announced via local organisers; example: “Journée open / circuit… 6 sessions / 15 minutes each” for motorbikes.

✅ Who Is It Best For?

Riders newer to trackdays who want a simpler / less intimidating environment.
Intermediate riders looking to polish technique (corner transitions, exits, rhythm) rather than top speed.
Riders on 600cc or similar bikes who may not need huge straights.
Clubs or groups wanting a shorter distance trip from mainland Europe (if you’re based in northern France, Belgium, the Netherlands) and good value.

💡 Key Pro Tips Before Your Day

Ride your first session with caution, learn the layout & braking zones — especially the tighter corners where data shows users have slipped.
Use video or onboard footage of the track in advance — even though small, the sequence of corners and exits is key for smooth laps.
Check your noise & technical compliance before you travel — difficult to be turned away after arrival.
Book early for the groups (beginners/intermediate) because shorter tracks often fill quicker for bike days.
Plan for tyre & brake wear — the frequent transitions will wear the kit. Budget accordingly.
Bring good paddock gear — though not huge, the facilities are decent and visibility is good; enjoy the off-track too.