Track day questions
 

First off, I bought my RX8 about a year ago and it has been amazing. Thanks to everyone on here for keeping the forums going and helping me to make my decision to buy.

I'm interested in doing an HPDE event at sebring Florida. How long can I expect a new set of tires to last on track? I will likely be driving to and from the track (about 3 hours away). Can I fit a set of 4 wheels and tires, plus a jack and some tools in the car? Is there anything else I need to consider before going out for my first track event?

I appreciate the help. Thanks again.

If you go with a more durable r-comp like the Toyo R888 (successor to the RA-1), a set should last you an entire year. Four wheels and tires, plus jack & tools can fit in the car (tires must be stood upright in the back seat - two per side).

Good luck and enjoy!

Like Chike said, a full set of wheels and tires will fit in the back seat. Stand them up, two to a seat, with the wheels facing forward or backward, not to the sides.

Street tires should last you just fine, although they do tend to wear faster on the track than R compounds like the RA-1 or R888.

Bring some extra oil, a funnel, and a roll of paper towels. Your car will use oil more quickly on the track, so I recommend checking it before each session and adding as necessary.

Thanks for the replies. I can't wait to get out on the track!!

i guess hydration? and maybe air compressor?

I've had the RA-1s for about a year now and 7 track days on them. 3 at Roebling and 4 at Sebring. I usually drive to the track on them, but put my stock street tires in the back just in case it rains. I check the weather report just in case. I wouldn't drive them on the street in the rain anymore since all the tread groves are gone, but they still have tread for dry conditions.

Are you running with Chin Motorsports? Don't forget to bring some oil and check it after each session. I like to keep it topped off at Full and my RX-8 uses about 1/4 quart every 20-30 minute session.

I would definitely make sure that you are well hydrated, nothing can screw up your day quicker than by running into something because of a mental lapse. Also make sure that you keep that oil filled up like everyone else has said, tire pressure, make sure that you aren't running on under inflated tires,

if it is your first track day.. water is your friend..

if you are in class 1 or 2. tires are really not an issue. learning is..

beers :beer:

remember not to turn your car off immediatly after the session, go around a bit with it at low rpms for 5-10mins and then wait again while in neutral for another 10mins.

Have fun, the first time is amazing :)

if we are on that topic. stay off the brakes on the cool down lap.. never set the e brake.

beers :beer:

eheh, you're right!
These things that somebody feels obvious should be remember to new trackers from time to time. Every time i go to the track i see guys going back to the box and turn off their cars. Horrible scene, pure engines and transmissions!

it is all covered in the info you get on your first day. you just have to read it..

beers :beer:

not here :(
the track day in italy is something like: go, pay, wait, drive and if you die is your business.
Wonderful!

Thanks. Sounds like the tires last alot longer than I was thinking. 7 track days is alot. I'm trying to decide between Chin Motorsports and Nasa's HPDE.

NASA will have a lot of instruction, so if this is your first it might not be a bad idea.

Both Chin and NASA offer similar instruction. Chin is slightly more expensive, but gives you a lot more track time.