
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Circuit Dijon–Prenois from a motorcycle trackday rider’s point of view:
🏁 Circuit Overview
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Layout & Length: The Grand Prix configuration measures ~3.801 km (2.362 mi) with 12 turns—trading tight chicanes for fast-flowing sweeps and a long climb to the finish straight
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Elevation & Flow: Undulating terrain with natural camber and elevation changes—often called a mini-Spa—gives the circuit unique flow and rhythm .
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Width & Surface: A 10–12 m wide racing surface that’s smooth, grippy, and recently maintained a
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Noise Limit: Enforced at approximately 100 dB dynamic—dry-run compliance is essential .
🏍️ Riding Experience
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High-Speed Thrills: A climbing straight of over 1 km allows bikes to hit top speeds before heavy braking into a sweeping complex
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Technical Corners: Notable sections include the Esses des Sablières, the Parabolique, and Pouas—a challenging uphill right-hander blind on entry
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Physical & Mental Rhythm: The blend of long sweeps, elevation changes, and cambered corners demands endurance, focus, and precise throttle management.
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Rider Feedback:
“Dijon is nice, but a tough track to perfect… that first corner is never-ending, and most corners are blind. Dijon is only nice for 1000 cc bikes though.”
🧰 Trackday Format & Facilities
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Session Structure: Typically 6 sessions of ~20 min, often split into ability groups; full or half-day coach-led options with video and live riding correction available
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Instruction & Coaching: Partnerships like BMC Moto provide trajectory training, braking-techniques, chassis tuning, video playback, and timing feedback
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Paddock Services: Paid pit boxes with electricity, café/restaurant, restrooms/showers, tyre fitting, and timing services are provided
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Logistics: North of Dijon, the track is accessible by motorways, with local accommodation options in Burgundy
😊 Rider Feedback
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Surface Quality: “Amazing run‑offs and top marshalling… surface is pretty good so no nasty surprises”
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Track’s Nature: “Fast sweeping bends with natural gradients and cambers… almost worth the trip just to ride turns 1–4” .
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Challenges & Rewards: Blind entries and elevation changes make it tricky, but mastering its rhythm delivers huge satisfaction .
👍 Pros & ⚠️ Cons
✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
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Fast, flowing, and undulating GP layout | Blind corners require caution—novice-unfriendly |
Smooth, grippy surface with good run-off | Noise limit and compliance needed |
Strong coaching support & services | Long straight favors liter-class bikes |
Excellent paddock infrastructure | Slight remoteness—plan logistics accordingly |
🎯 Rider Tips for Dijon
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Sound Prep: Fit and test a dB‑killer on both static and dynamic checks.
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Group Selection: New riders should consider coach-led groups with LRC; experienced riders can join free-flow sessions.
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Warm‑up Thoroughly: Tyres need heat before tackling the sweeping complexes.
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Focus on First Sector: Turns 1–4 are technical—learn them slowly before opening up
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Bring Extras: Spare bodywork, tyre sets, fuel jerrycans, and side‑stand pucks recommended.
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Hydrate & Recover: Warm, long sessions on a flowing track can be tiring—pace rest and fluids.
✅ Summary
Circuit Dijon–Prenois offers a richly rewarding motorcycle trackday: a fast, cambered layout with natural elevation and challenging bends that sharpen technique. Supported by top-tier facilities and coaching programs, it suits riders aiming to elevate precision, flow, and pace. Expect physical sessions, careful line work, and big smiles on the long straight.