Here’s an in‑depth look at Circuit de Folembray from a motorcycle trackday rider’s standpoint:
🏁 Circuit Overview
- Length & Layout: ~2.05 km (1.27 mi), 8–13 corners depending on configuration—often run as the full technical layout with 8 turns.
- Elevation: Built in a wooded valley, it delivers meaningful uphill and downhill sections—almost 50 m total elevation change.
- Surface & Run‑off: Smooth asphalt, 9.2 m wide, with a mix of sweeping and tight corners, bordered by grass and gravel run‑off—pedestrian, not pro‑grade.
🏍️ Riding Experience
- Technical with Rhythm: The circuit demands a strong sense of line and throttle control—constant left/right transitions, a steep ascent into a hairpin, and a high-speed descent through a kink around a house.
- Corner Variety: From fast sweepers to the “house kink” and descending dual-rights, each sequence is distinct—riders must stay sharp.
- Physical & Mental Engagement: With few straights, it’s relentless—ride flow, brake-light transitions, and elevation shifts keep you busy.
🧰 Trackday Format & Support
- Session Structure: Most events run ~6–8 x 20 min sessions grouped by skill. Mixed formats include “Open Moto” and coach-led “Stage Moto” days.
- Coaching Options: On‑track briefings and trajectory coaching offered; videos and pole‑to‑pole feedback are popular.
- On‑site Services: Pit garages (limited), tire fitting, transponders, photography, and catering. Fuel requires external supply—bring jerrycans.
😊 Rider Feedback & Tips
- Learning Curve: The technical layout is ideal for improving corner transitions and braking; new riders appreciate gradual introduction.
- Surface Grip: Generally high grip, though bumps exist in slower corners—manage brake release carefully.
- Safety Margin: Grass/gravel run‑off is forgiving, but reference markers are sparse—mental maps earn confidence.
- Common Pitfall: The downhill kink after the house often catches out riders—beware of target fixation and misjudged braking.
👍 Pros & ⚠️ Cons
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact, varied layout refines skills | Few reference points—requires memory |
| Great for technique: lines, braking, flow | No on‑site fuel—logistics needed |
| Run‑off is safety‑oriented | Small garages—early book recommended |
| Coaching and structured events | Noise limit (~95 dB static)—prepare a baffle |
🎯 Rider Tips
- Noise Compliance – bring and test a dB-killer ahead of the day.
- Fuel Strategy – bring jerrycans; nearest pumps are off-site.
- Reference Markers – create visual cues (e.g., the house, pit exit) to manage blind braking and corners.
✅ Summary
Folembray is a gem for riders focused on developing technique: a compact, elevation-rich, and varied circuit that rewards flow, control, and precision. It suits those learning race craft and anyone wanting to refine fundamentals in a safe, coach-supported environment.
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