~120mph on a 28degree banked turn = badass!

[DSC]

Well, I'm at a friends college dorm right now cauz it's too late for me to make the 6.5hr drive back home...considering I was on the road at 4am to make it to the track.

Anyway, it was a total blast.  I learned a ton and have changed my car-related future plans because of it.  I'm tired as hell but I took almost a hundred pics, I'll post the good ones and more info tomorrow afternoon.  Just thought I'd let you all know it went well and I didn't wreck or anything, cept my tires are totally fuxored...

[CoasTek240]

dude, that sounds soooo sweet. i wish i coulda been there.. thanx for offering man.. i won't pass it down next time.. (my girl was in town) can't wait to see the pics.. tell me all bout it when u get back.. peace

[adey]

nice! <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':cool:'> &nbsp;What have you learned, and what plans for your car have changed? I'm curious as to what a track experience does for you/one in terms of modification plans.

[DSC]

What plans changed? &nbsp;Well to this point I have been working on brakes and suspension only, so when I went to the track I'd be able to go faster. &nbsp;Now I realize...all the mods in the world won't make me any faster, I've got to go do this more <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/thumbs-up.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':thumbsup:'>
So what changed is that I'm done modding for a while...other than changing some bushings out to make braking from 110 or so down to 40 for a 90 degree turn a little less scary (steering wheel shakes like a mofo) [turn 1 from nascar track onto interior road course]

what I learned:
Falken Azenis tires are too soft for newbies. &nbsp;Mine melted, I will not be buying them again for a good while. [i took pics]

look up damnit! &nbsp;or your gona die. <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':0'> no, your going 100mph...farther up!

No matter how much you read, or how much you practice on the street, your still gona suck the first session <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'>

hondas can pass on the left

firebirds can pass on the left

miatas can pass on the left

240sx's can pass on the left <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'>

brake early when your new

trailbrakeing is the devil

understeer is the devil

Instructors are brave, brave people

when every other lap a car spins at turn one...that should be a clue, its hard as shit.

My instructor was really cool <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'> &nbsp;said he really liked 240's. &nbsp;He commented on how they are an especially good car for a beginner with their good suspension "ok" brakes and not too much power.

I like nasa (the host of this event) a lot. &nbsp;Some ppl might find it frustrating that they are pretty disorganized, but it was really a laid back thing. &nbsp;I think someone their said NASA is hosting an event at VIR next month...hopefully I can go to that one too.

[KiDyNomiTe]

Sounds like fun, can't wait to start my AutoX Careerm but it is going to be a looooong wait (summer of 2003 <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/blush.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':blush:'> )

[SR20Fastback]

Wheres the pics Dave?!? Well sounds like a good time, you gotta post what tires arent too soft for the track!!

[sykikchimp]

I have to run right now, but I will post up my thoughts/impressions later..

Here are some pics from the event:
<a href="http://charles.sykikchimp.org/nasa/" target='_blank'>http://charles.sykikchimp.org/nasa/</a>

[SR20Fastback]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (sykikchimp @ Sep. 08 2002,3:25)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">I have to run right now, but I will post up my thoughts/impressions later..

Here are some pics from the event:
http://charles.sykikchimp.org/nasa/</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
Very nice &nbsp;<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/thumbs-up.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':thumbsup:'> Maybe I should build a track here &nbsp;<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/hmmm.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':hmmm:'>

[DSC]

hehe, you miss turn 1 a little bit there chimp? <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/hehe.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':hehe:'>

Well the camera I used only cost 20 bucks off e-bay but its digital so I use it <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/thumbs-up.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':thumbsup:'> no zoom or anything just kinda takes pics.

http://www.steamymirror.com/dsc240sx/trackpics/helmet1.jpg

http://www.steamymirror.com/dsc240sx/trackpics/tires2.jpg

http://www.steamymirror.com/dsc240sx/trackpics/z321.jpg
*setting up for a drift*

http://www.steamymirror.com/dsc240sx/trackpics/chimp2.jpg
Chimp!



Yeah, so I got to meet sykikchimp yesterday, took some pics of him going around the track. I meet boostins13 also, and derek greaser. I have a bunch more pics to edit and put up, but for now, here's the list of pics I do have up.
Lowes Motor Speedway HPDE/Hyperfest 9-7-02 (http://www.steamymirror.com/dsc240sx/framepics/framepics.htm)



Edit: just found a track map. Click here (http://www.nasaracing.net/7Sep02/lowesinfield.jpg) to see where we raced. Note: turn 1 is by the "11" dot.

[adey]

oh my lord!! I haven't seen tires in such a bad condition since these! -->

http://www-scf.usc.edu/~adrielch/tires.jpg

<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'>

[s13cruzer]

whats with the tape on the headlights?

[DSC]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (s13cruzer @ Sep. 08 2002,12:22)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">whats with the tape on the headlights?</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
If i were to hit a wall or something the tape would hold my headlights into large peices rather than a lot of tiny little shards to clean up. &nbsp;I think it's more for people with glass headlights but everybody with plastic ones did it too *shrugs*


I'm adding stories/info as I remember it or as I feel like typing more <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'> so I'm running a mix of 100 and 93 octane right now. &nbsp;I used up almost all the gas in my car (1/4 tank) during the 1st 20minuet session and didn't have time to leave to get regular gas so I bought a 1/4 tank of 100 octane @ $4.50 a gallon <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':0'> I paid $2 per drink (normally $0.75-$1.00 froma coke machine, whatever size bottle that is) and $4 for a chicken sandwitch the size of a happy mean burger.

[gmgs14]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (adey @ Sep. 07 2002,11:22)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">oh my lord!! I haven't seen tires in such a bad condition since these! -->

http://www-scf.usc.edu/~adrielch/tires.jpg

<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'></td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
My tires looked like that once on my old car. Too much lowering and no camber correction=expensive new tires.

[Tricky1980]

MAN!!! see that is something i would love to do... but again i would have to pull a 6 hour drive too to get somewhere.. but ok i do have a question how much was this weekend event thingy?

[DSC]

Weekends are usually between $200-$400 including classroom time and a lot of track time. I didn't have that kind of money to spend so I just did 2, 20 minuet track sessions @ $40 a peice. I hope to be out at VIR mid oct doing one of the full weekend things like chimp just did. I'm addicted already...

Edit: BTW, http://www.nasaproracing.com was the host of this event with http://www.hyper-fest.com ...for those who would like to do something like this in the future.

[bbp]

Very cool DSC!! &nbsp;It is way cool that you got out on track! &nbsp;I am glad you had a blast! &nbsp;

That &nbsp;camera takes some funky pictures, not bad, just kinda different looking colors and depth. &nbsp;

If any of you guys are looking to get out on Mid Ohio we are gaining entries to the NASA event on Oct 2. &nbsp;Please check out
this page for registration infomation. (http://www.gerstonline.com/nasa.htm) &nbsp;It will be very safe, organized and professionally run event. &nbsp;We will have 4 sessions on track with in car instruction.

[HippoSleek]

Welcome.

Travis, bbp, and I will make a lot more sense now. &nbsp;You will understand why we shrug at people who've never actually used their cars. &nbsp;The packet with the secret handshake instructions will come in the mail after you have completed a full HPDE weekend <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=';)'>

Seriously, I'm glad you guys had a good time. &nbsp;It was great to see the pics too! &nbsp;I counted five 240s! &nbsp;Yours and chimpies, white s14 (Greaser's?), that other s14 (was it maroon w/ an s15 SR?), and Whozits (the ITA s13 that probably won the drifting contest). &nbsp;The most 240's I've seen before this was two (one always being mine <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':D'> &nbsp;).

I hope to see you guys at VIR. &nbsp;Yes - it is worth it! &nbsp;(note to self: register b/f it is full! &nbsp;)

bbp - too bad it's one day only. &nbsp;Well, that and that I have a HS reunion, GF's anniversary, and VIR in in the month b/n 9/20 and 10/15 <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':('> ... or is that <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'> &nbsp;? &nbsp;...

[tnord]

yeah..........racing is fun.......... <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/huh.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':huh:'>

Travis
who is wondering if that banked turn used concrete or asphault for it's surface.

[sykikchimp]

run down of Both days..

Day one..
-Arrive at track, a very confused newbie. &nbsp;wandering around trying to figure out where to go. &nbsp;Had to Tech my OWN car.

-Go to Class where instructer (Dan Funkefer or something) put the Fear in me.

-Line up on grid and wait for instructor to show up.. &nbsp;continue waiting for instructor to show up.. &nbsp;finally I find out that my scheduled instructor (Oscar..) was doing a Lead/Follow at the time. &nbsp;So, I get a stand in. &nbsp;He give the car a quick glance.. &nbsp;and we get in and Off the pack goes.

-HOLY SHIT those banks are bumpy!

-Slowly learn to stop turning in to early.

-Finish run with heart pounding, and hands sweating, and whole body shaking. &nbsp;TONS OF FUN!

-Back to Class. &nbsp;Talked more about what our first impressions where. &nbsp;1st Impression.. &nbsp;Lowes is not as Big as it looks from on the infield. &nbsp;And Banked turns have a High Pucker factor.

-Get out of class and do a quick once over of the tires, and car.. Find a NAIL in my Right rear. &nbsp;CRAP! &nbsp;Luckily for me, I bought the tires about 5 min. away. &nbsp;I drive down, and have them fix thinking I'mn gonna miss my next run. &nbsp;get back, and everything is delayed about 1.5 hours.. My run group JUST STARTEd.. &nbsp;so I get out there quick, and get in 3 laps on the newly patched tire. &nbsp;Short.. &nbsp;but fun none the less. &nbsp;Late Apex's getting better.

-Wait a couple hours and line up again. &nbsp;This time out I was fresh and ready to go, and it was Dark. &nbsp;they had the Track lights on. &nbsp;VERY COOL experience. &nbsp;Fuel Cut is really becomming bothersome at 115 around the Nascar Oval.

Day 2-
-Get up at 7<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':0'>0am and download instructions to remove fuel cut.
-Arrive 8<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':0'>0 am Sharp. Cut fuel cut wire on ECU hoping it's not going to affect the car negatively. &nbsp;probably a risk I shouldn't have taken.

-Go to Class, and talk about taking it easy for the first session to get back into the swing of things.

-Line up &nbsp;on grid, go out.. &nbsp;I do NOT take it easy. &nbsp;I am running much faster today, Car now hits 125 before hitting the 5th gear rev-limiter in banks, and the car is Pushing much worse than the day before. &nbsp;Finally, I and the instructor realize that I must brake harder, and turn in earlier to adjust for higher speeds. &nbsp;

-At class.. &nbsp;talk with some intermediate guys about things to help us improve. &nbsp;"Look Up" is emphasized Over, and OVER.

-Get back on track. &nbsp;Amazingly.. &nbsp;"look Up" Works! &nbsp;I am running corners almost 10mph faster than every other run out. &nbsp;And hitting my apex's much more consistantly. &nbsp;Beautiful! &nbsp;I try to adjust tire pressure a little to compensate for push by lowering front tire pressure. &nbsp;Helps slightly.

- Last run of the event. &nbsp;I finally found some Air, and raised pressure to 40psi front 42 rear. &nbsp;Push is lowed greatly. &nbsp;Car is handling fantastic. &nbsp;I FINALLY figure out how to get the thing to turn in hard by increasing speed and braking harder/later in the 2nd right hander. &nbsp;almost 10mph faster through the corner. &nbsp;(almost 20mph fast than the day before when I ran into a little dirt because I hit the apex too early). &nbsp; I do it 2 more times, and my laps are FLYING by. &nbsp;Simply the Fastest I have run yet. &nbsp;The grin is stretched Ear-to-ear.

Overall.. &nbsp;The best experience ever with my car. &nbsp;I have discovered I need Sway bars, buying my brake upgrades was a MOST intelligent purchase.

My shopping list has alos changed.. &nbsp;Now includes:
Sway bars, JWT ECU (gotta get rid of that Rev-limiter), and shoks/struts. &nbsp;Body roll is the DEVIL.

Cars that waved me past: &nbsp;E30 BMW, 02' 1.8t golf, Corvette, WRX, older Camaro, 2 Mustangs, an ACR Viper (ooh yeah.. he was a wus.)2 80's RX-7's, honda Accord, Dodge Stealth RT. (He forgot to brake going into the infield from the straightaway and went spinning past my car about 10 ft away at over 80mph.. &nbsp;somewhat nerve racking <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'> &nbsp;)

I can NOT WAIT to do it again. &nbsp;I REALLY want to go to VIR.

[hurleyboi514]

man, i reeeeally wish i would have gone...

[SR20Fastback]

Fuck beans I wish I would have been able to go. I checked out their site and they're doing some events in northern california I would like to attend, but I dont know which ones are open to bastards like me?

[KiDyNomiTe]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (HippoSleek @ Sep. 09 2002,09:18)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Seriously, I'm glad you guys had a good time. It was great to see the pics too! I counted five 240s! Yours and chimpies, white s14 (Greaser's?), that other s14 (was it maroon w/ an s15 SR?), and Whozits (the ITA s13 that probably won the drifting contest). The most 240's I've seen before this was two (one always being mine <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':D'> ).</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
Aren't there 8 240s.
1. Blue S14b
2. Black Fastback
3. Black Fastback #2 ?, looks different becuase the back looks messed up unlike sykikchimps
4. Maroon Fastback
5. Red S14
6. White S14b
7. Black S14b Turbo
8. Silver Coupe

BTW anyone got vids

[sykikchimp]

btw.. &nbsp;I found a "Battle Scar" from where I hit the change up to the Bank into turn 2:

http://charles.sykikchimp.org/images/scrape-001.jpg

[SR20Fastback]

damn you guys are killing me, I cant get enough of this track reading done. Well, to start off Im planning a trip to CA soon with a friend of mine (with his dads Z31 Turbo) and my car of course. Well I want to buy a helmet before I go, I figure its a good investment. However, I dont know what the minimum snell rating is, and does anyone know how often it changes... I dont feel like buying one every 6 months.

[HippoSleek]

Hey Charles - excellent review! &nbsp;Sounds like you got the full experience. &nbsp;Was your instructor the Oscar that drives the ITA CRX? &nbsp;I know a few people who've had him and he is supposed to be "tough but fair." &nbsp;He really knows his chit too. &nbsp;Did you get a chance to ride along with him? &nbsp;I find that to be an enlightening experience. &nbsp;Oh yeah - Dan Unkefor - he's amazing... like most cheif instructors at NASA.

I heard it was pretty chaotic down there. &nbsp;EMT's not arriving on time, PA breaking down, cars getting bent up all over, all hell breaking loose in the parking lot by some ricers, etc. &nbsp;sheesh! &nbsp;I can assure you VIR would not be that way at all. &nbsp;I gotta tell the GF about VIR so I can register... &nbsp;Your post is making me realize how bad I need a track weekend. &nbsp;

BTW: ouch! &nbsp;It could have been worse... I saw some pics of the white ITR from the ECHC race <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':('>

sr20 - you can go. &nbsp;Check the national website (linked from the VA site above) and check out the dates. &nbsp;All you need is a helmet and a car that will pass tech and you are ready to learn! &nbsp;The point is to learn - so no expereince is required. &nbsp;As for helmets - Snell ratings are updated every 5 years and all groups will take a helmet up to 10 years old. &nbsp;You MUST, however, get an SA rated helment not an M. &nbsp;Now, you can use an SA95 or SA2000 - but would need an SA2000 or 2005 after 2005. &nbsp;So no more excuses - get out there!

[SR20Fastback]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (HippoSleek @ Sep. 09 2002,5:38)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">sr20 - you can go. Check the national website (linked from the VA site above) and check out the dates. All you need is a helmet and a car that will pass tech and you are ready to learn! The point is to learn - so no expereince is required. As for helmets - Snell ratings are updated every 5 years and all groups will take a helmet up to 10 years old. You MUST, however, get an SA rated helment not an M. Now, you can use an SA95 or SA2000 - but would need an SA2000 or 2005 after 2005. So no more excuses - get out there!</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
Thanks Mark, I really didnt want to spend 400-900 dollars on a helmet and not have it work <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=';)'> Anyone know of a good helmet, something thats comfy and wont get me too hot during the day?

[sykikchimp]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (HippoSleek @ Sep. 09 2002,8:38)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Hey Charles - excellent review! Sounds like you got the full experience. Was your instructor the Oscar that drives the ITA CRX? I know a few people who've had him and he is supposed to be "tough but fair." He really knows his chit too. Did you get a chance to ride along with him? I find that to be an enlightening experience. Oh yeah - Dan Unkefor - he's amazing... like most cheif instructors at NASA.

I heard it was pretty chaotic down there. EMT's not arriving on time, PA breaking down, cars getting bent up all over, all hell breaking loose in the parking lot by some ricers, etc. sheesh! I can assure you VIR would not be that way at all. I gotta tell the GF about VIR so I can register... Your post is making me realize how bad I need a track weekend.

BTW: ouch! It could have been worse... I saw some pics of the white ITR from the ECHC race <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':('></td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
Yeah, it was Oscar with the CRX, and Good GOD that thing was fast.. &nbsp;I saw him pass multipe porches, bmw's, and mustangs. &nbsp;I never got to ride with him though. &nbsp;My instructor was a guy named Wade Witmer. &nbsp;Good Guy.. &nbsp;helped me a lot. &nbsp;He had a siver spec miata.

I was quite Chaotic. &nbsp;kinda hard to keep track of what was going on b/c the scheduled times were never right. &nbsp;I REALLY want to go to VIR, but my GF is moving that weekend.. Soo.. &nbsp;I might have to do some smooth talking to get her to let me go. &nbsp;<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':)'> &nbsp;Hopefully I can see you there.

[fodive]

hey mark, do you know if motorcycle helmets are approved, because im getting a bike soon, and it would be nice to use it as dual purpose...

[HippoSleek]

sr20 - my advice is to find a racer's shop around you and go try them on. &nbsp;I had my heart set on a Simpson that I'd only heard good things about. &nbsp;I wound up w/ a Bell b/c the Simpson didn't fit me right. &nbsp;The standard when trying it on: &nbsp;it should be snug (i.e., when you move the helmet, your scalp moves w/ it) but not too tight; wear it for 10 minutes and make sure it doesn't bother you. &nbsp;If so - buy it! &nbsp;You can pay anywhere from $230 for an entry level GForce, Bell, or Simpson to $$$$.

chimpie - Yeah - Oscar's damb fast! &nbsp;The scary thing is that that is a horrible track for ITA cars like the CRX. &nbsp;You should see it at VIR or Summit. &nbsp; <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/nervous.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':nervous:'> &nbsp; And yeah - you better start sweet talking. &nbsp;check out www.virclub.com. &nbsp;VIR is the sheezy. &nbsp;Some say among the top 5 tracks in the nation.

fo - Generally: &nbsp;No. &nbsp;Motorcycle helmets carry and M rating. &nbsp;They lack the fire-resistant lining (since you are unlikely to be trapped inside a burning motorcycle) and they lack an extra test for multiple severe impacts (like you'd get in a roll over). &nbsp;Most organizations force you to use an SA (Special Application) rated helment. &nbsp;There are, however, some groups that will let you run w/ an M rating. &nbsp;Personally - I wouldn't go out w/ them b/c if they don't take safety seriously for something like this you DON'T want to be involved.

-mark, who forgot to talk to his GF last night <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':('>

[240 2NR]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (SR20Fastback @ Sep. 09 2002,8:09)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE"></span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (HippoSleek @ Sep. 09 2002,5:38)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">sr20 - you can go. Check the national website (linked from the VA site above) and check out the dates. All you need is a helmet and a car that will pass tech and you are ready to learn! The point is to learn - so no expereince is required. As for helmets - Snell ratings are updated every 5 years and all groups will take a helmet up to 10 years old. You MUST, however, get an SA rated helment not an M. Now, you can use an SA95 or SA2000 - but would need an SA2000 or 2005 after 2005. So no more excuses - get out there!</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
Thanks Mark, I really didnt want to spend 400-900 dollars on a helmet and not have it work <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=';)'> Anyone know of a good helmet, something thats comfy and wont get me too hot during the day?</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
I've got a bell sport II (iirc). &nbsp;Like Mark said, the best advice to to go try them on. &nbsp;What looks good in on a website may not fit your head the best. &nbsp;Brands to looks at are Bell, Beiffe, Simpson, Gforce, among others. &nbsp;I don't think the price difference between an SA95 and SA2000 is that great, so the extra years of compliance should more than make up for the few extra bucks you would have saved by getting an SA95 approved helmet. &nbsp;Prices are generally between $200 ad $300 depending on open or closed face, and what brand you purchase. &nbsp;I'd also consider picking up a set of driving gloves before you go.

[uiuc240]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (240 2NR @ Sep. 10 2002,10:30)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Prices are generally between $200 ad $300 depending on open or closed face, and what brand you purchase. I'd also consider picking up a set of driving gloves before you go.</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
...and a balaclava if you think you might lend it out to other people....no stink head for me. <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=';)'>

Eric

[240 2NR]

Do you think I'm going to let you wear my helmet next year? <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sly.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':sly:'>

[uiuc240]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (240 2NR @ Sep. 10 2002,4:15)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Do you think I'm going to let you wear my helmet next year? <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sly.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':sly:'></td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
NO. &nbsp;I don't want yours anyway. &nbsp;I'm going to get an open face. &nbsp;I was referring to the other guy. &nbsp;So there &nbsp;<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/lookaround.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':look:'> &nbsp;<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':cool:'>

Eric

[DSC]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (sykikchimp @ Sep. 08 2002,9:27)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">btw.. I found a "Battle Scar" from where I hit the change up to the Bank into turn 2:

http://charles.sykikchimp.org/images/scrape-001.jpg</td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
Ouch, Dan Unkefor tell you how he shattered his windshield from hitting that bank too steep? After that I was soo scared to go up that thing...it was annoying my instructor cauz I'd lose speed turning more than needed to go up the bank at a lower angle but man, you can't tell untill you drive it but it's scarry steep!

Chimp, how fast was your turnin on turn 1 by the end? I didn't look at my speedo but once on that turn the entire day but I think I went in hot and late every time, had to throw heal-toe out the window too, just couldn't get the hang of holding the brake with that much pressure while bliping the throttle, just way too much for a 1st timer to think about <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/nervous.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':nervous:'>

Man, I've been running that damn track in my head since I left...I can recall specific brake, turnin and apex points on most of the turns.

I wana go again! <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cry.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':cry:'>
I will (or should) be at VIR oct 12-13 for the 2 day HPDE. For those who plan on comming, we should all try to meet at 1 spot in the paddock, mini nissan meet at a HPDE <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/thumbs-up.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':thumbsup:'>

[sykikchimp]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (DSC @ Sep. 10 2002,8:28)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Chimp, how fast was your turnin on turn 1 by the end? I didn't look at my speedo but once on that turn the entire day but I think I went in hot and late every time, had to throw heal-toe out the window too, just couldn't get the hang of holding the brake with that much pressure while bliping the throttle, just way too much for a 1st timer to think about <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/nervous.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':nervous:'>

Man, I've been running that damn track in my head since I left...I can recall specific brake, turnin and apex points on most of the turns.

I wana go again! <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cry.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':cry:'>
I will (or should) be at VIR oct 12-13 for the 2 day HPDE. For those who plan on comming, we should all try to meet at 1 spot in the paddock, mini nissan meet at a HPDE <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/thumbs-up.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':thumbsup:'></td></tr></table><span id='postcolor'>
I was running b/w 60-65 by the end of the thing.. &nbsp;turn in hard, unwind early.. &nbsp;come out about 2 feet from the tire/wall. &nbsp;Kinda scary at first completely natural after 3-4 times. Turn 2 was cool as shit, cause once you got the car pointed you give it everything she had, and the camber in the corner just gave you more, and more traction (LOVE RWD!!)Never let up till I hit tun 3a.. &nbsp;slight braking.. run wide, brake hard and late for turn 3b, then cut it hard and unwind early again.. &nbsp;haul ass to turn 4.. &nbsp;ugg.. &nbsp;I dream about this crap every night. &nbsp;Fastest I hit turn 3b was about 4600rpm in 3rd. &nbsp;(not sure about actual speed)

I am doing everything I can to go to VIR. &nbsp;It would be cool for us to all park together.. thats kinda how it happened at Lowes anyways.

[DSC]

If your gona go, sign up asap. I dono how many ppl they allow but the list is already 1 1/2 pages (@ 1280x1024 on 19").

I will be registering monday night (monday is payday) if all goes well. It's $300 for the weekend (2+ hrs tracktime) for whoever is interested.

Dave-
who has been trying to get on the track since oct 01.

Edit: an update on the tires. &nbsp;It wasn't my rubber built up, they were bits of (race) rubber picked up off the track that just built up. &nbsp;Called "marbles"



*sometimes, you just gota post whore* <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sly.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':sly:'>

[SR20Fastback]

But your tires still sucked correct Dave?





-Allan whos going to drive over 900 miles at the end of Nov. for a Track weekend at the new Sears Point &nbsp;<img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':cool:'>

[DSC]

NO, the tires were great. &nbsp;I was just thinking my driving, as a newbie, heated them soo much they wore like that (since they are so soft to being with), so I wasn't going to get them again till I was better. &nbsp;But I was incorrect. &nbsp;It was just hot rubber picking up peices of rubber of the track.

[SR20Fastback]

Oh ok, so any tire will do this. Anyone have reccomendations for harder tires though? Or should I just get the Falkens like planned before (plan before was for street use).

[HippoSleek]

I'm in at VIR! &nbsp;I'll be in a dirty, Concorde Grey s14. &nbsp;So far, the sign up sheet looks like a lot of intermediates and racers. &nbsp;Still plenty of room for novice drivers. &nbsp;Dave- MONDAY - b/c Novice will be the first to close (even though there aren't many now).

I put up a post w/ some of the VIR details in the hopes of seeing some interest:
VIR Thread (http://www.zilvia.net/f/cgi-bin/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=1;t=16143)

Dave - yeah, we call those worms (b/c that's what they look like) some of it is yours some is other peoples. &nbsp;It just happens - especially on soft, grippy tires. &nbsp;Heck - even my RE71s get them. &nbsp;I'm sure you were heating up the Azenis - but you'll see totally different wear if you are really hurting them.

SR20 - stick w/ the Azenis if you want real performance. &nbsp;For the money, you can't beat them. &nbsp;Only go harder if you are looking for longer life. &nbsp;I've just accepted that tires won't last 10K mi <img src="http://www.zilvia.net/f/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif" border="0" valign="absmiddle" alt=':('> &nbsp;

Mark, who hates the that a month will be so long!