The stock one sticks way out, and I'd like to find something sturdy/functional that doesn't extend beyond the bumper. The are many good options for a miata, but unfortunately the rx8 aftermarket pales in comparison.

 

Try googling “RX8 racing tow hook” ...

 

All sellers that pop up seem questionable at best. If there was a quality piece I figure a reputable vendor would be carrying it.

 

Dude. Google, first result, Andy's autosport, hooks by OMP ,RaceQuip and others. Also are sure you can't use a Miata one?

 

I should have clarified...ideally I'd like to utilize the threaded crash bar/OE bumper hole. I did see that flyin miata has one for the NC, not sure if that would fit though.

 

Yes, and you will find fitting ones as I said. I'm pretty sure those hooks are all standard anyway. It would be an unnecessary expense for Mazda to make bespoke hooks for each model.

 

You get what you want when you do the search. Ultimately there’s a wide price range from china duplicates to brand name; you decide what it’s worth to you. If it’s a near straight pull then the an an aluminum one should be fine. If you want to put side loading on it like maybe also using for crossed trailer tie-down straps you can get a steel pair or swap back and forth between OE for towing and aluminum for race. Seems like a lot of hassle though.

The usual Miata ones bolt on and are going to require cutting and possibly some fabrication to get it through the bumper cover. Same for a strap.

Don’t be afraid to stand up and make a decision in your quest to learn and grow ...

 

I just used a generic Sparco tow strap with steel eye. ran a large bolt through the eye and through the stock bumper tow-hook hole. Tightened nut. See my build thread.

AC

 

My concern on a strap would have been any side turning/pulling impacting & damaging the grill where it passes through. I seem to recall there was some space between where the crash bar is and the pass-thru holes in the grill. Would rather have an extension protruding out to that point and then attach to there, but I haven’t done it and defer to your judgement.

 

You are correct, anything more than about 30 degrees off straight-ahead will put stress on the bumper hole. Being a race car that's not that critical to me - bumper takes a lot of abuse from other sources. I don't use it for cross-tying when trailering the car.

 

Thanks. I'm going to try the FM one for the NC, as the car gets driven to the track. I'll just keep the OE one in the trunk on the off chance it's needed.