Autocross racing is something that few people know much about. Due to its unique combination of affordability and competition, autocross is rapidly gaining in popularity. Autocross is time trials in which one car is racing against the other. The competitors’ vehicles do not race against one another on the track. Therefore, the drivers compete against the clock and not with other cars. Vehicles that finish the course in the fastest time are the winners.
Autocross can be a good starting point for anyone who wants to become a racecar driver. This is an affordable and safe way to get involved in competitive racing. The SCCA is generally responsible for running autocross events. It’s the Sports Car Club of America. The SCCA either approves these events or they are run by other clubs that follow their rules. Solo II is the SCCA’s name for their autocross events. Any street-legal vehicle that is safe can participate in autocross events Solo II. Every driver gets a classification based on the car’s potential performance (including modifications), and occasionally, racers’ autocross experience. Novice classes are only for new drivers. You can also find open classes as well ladies classes. All drivers are welcome to attend open classes, while ladies classes can only be used by women. To determine the class that your car belongs to, order a copy SCCA Solo II Rulebook. This includes a breakdown of classes according to vehicle modifications. The course layout is generally done using traffic cones. It is often set up in large parking lots. The autocross course is designed to improve the driver’s skills in car control and set-up. Faster cars can reach speeds of up to 70 MPH.
Throughout the summer, the SCCA and other independent clubs host events at various locations across the country. Searching for local clubs in your region on any of the popular search engines is the best way to discover them. You can register online or at the event if you have found a club.
An autocross competitor must possess the following requirements: a valid driver’s licence, at least 16-years old, a car that passes a basic safety inspection, and a DOT or Snell certified helmet. Many clubs will lend you a helmet if yours is not available. You should remove all objects from your vehicle, including your spare tire, jack, floor mats and subwoofers. Also, take out any cargo or loose items that could get in your shoes while driving. If you’re under 18 years old, your driver’s license and helmet are required. To be prepared for the day, you must arrive at the race track early.
The autocrossing event is usually all-day and participants should plan to stay for the entire day. The event will begin between 8:30am and 9:00am. It gives you enough time to check in, make sure you change your tires (if applicable), inspect your car, and have it number for the event. You can also use masking tape for numbering. If your experience at several events has made it easier, magnetic numbers are a better option. After your car has been checked-in, it is time to take your vehicle to the tech inspection to have it approved for racing. Your car will be checked by the tech inspection team. Your vehicle will be inspected for wheel studs, battery safety, fluid leakage, and numbered. You can then return to your car and prepare for the race once they’ve cleared it to compete. Your car is ready for action if your tire pressures and gas levels are correct.
It is a good idea to take a walk around the course after the inspection. This will give you an overview of the layout so that you can plan your route. A good option is to take a friend along to help you navigate the course. Organizers will often offer the opportunity for novice drivers to walk the course before they start the event. Or you may just want to find someone who can help. To get an idea of the layout and how to navigate it, you should try to complete the course at least two times.
After the tech inspection is complete, and registration has been closed, the drivers will meet. They will then announce their work order and the run order. Large events usually have three heats with vehicles racing. One heat will need to be run and one heat must you work. Working may include picking up cones from other drivers or announcing the starting or finishing line. There will be a heat in which you do not have to run or work. During this time, you can usually watch the drivers and gain an idea about how they are running. Watching how the other drivers brake, accelerate and accelerate can give you a better idea about what to expect when you start running. You will be ready for your run when it is your turn. Follow the instructions and run to the starting line. You will need to follow the instructions on the course. Try your best. After you have finished, return to the starting line and start your next run. For beginners, the most important thing is to work on your times and not worry about winning. It is important that you focus on your race, not winning. You will get better with time and practice. Sitting time is the best thing about autocross. You will get better as you do more.
Auto-crossing usually involves three to five runs. After that, you return to the lot. You can report to the tent, get your assignment and then head out to the course. You will be able to work for about 2 hours if you’re not working. However, it’s best to observe others to learn as much as possible from their running. You may be able to take a ride along with an experienced driver and learn about their driving style. Ask around to find others who are willing to let you ride along. After you are done with the day, you can go back to work or run again. It’s time to head back home and pack up your car.
Autocross can be as satisfying as playing well at golf or tennis. The reason is that driver skill is more important than how much money you spend on your car. If you are a good driver at autocross you can be proud of your accomplishments and not just because you spent more than everyone else. A driver’s ability to drive is often responsible for 75% of the success. There are also classes available for modifiable vehicles if you love to tinker with your car. While these classes may be expensive, the owners can express themselves with various modifications.
Autocross is a type of racing you won’t forget once you try it. This is an exciting and fun way to spend your Sunday afternoon. You might even find yourself attending multiple events in the summer. You will get better as you compete, but it is a process that takes time. You don’t have to win the trophy right away. Experienced drivers are better than you and they know how to race. You can find more information about autocross at the following websites:
http://www.scca.org Rules and Local Regions
– http://www.tirerack.com/features/solo2/handbook.htm Novice Handbook- Great Read!!
I trust you’ve learned enough to be able to understand the basics of autocrossing today. Autocrossing is something everyone should experience at least once. Additionally, you will learn performance driving techniques that can be used to improve your everyday driving. Enjoy the video and take a look at it!!