The Auto-X And SOLO II Events!

One of most involving and fun ways to push and enjoy the performance envelope of your own car, is to enter one of these events. Depending on the type of the event course range from low to intermediate speeds, and driver's skill can count for more than raw power or handling ability of the car.

Prior to participation in such events, the driver should take the responsibility to prepare him/herself and the vehicle. The driver should research these events, local motorclubs can be a helpful outlet. Entering a less demanding event could build up confidence and vehicle control knowledge required to compete in more challenging events. Driving schools, books, videos and seminars can prove helpful, as well as practice in a controlled environment.

The vehicle should be in a good working condition, all events have marshaling body that will perform a technical inspection prior to the event. The driver should also fulfill the safety requirements, helmet being one of the most obvious essentials. Depending on the type of event, tires should be corresponding to the requirements. Higher level of events may allow race slick tires or D.O.T. approved race tires, lower events maybe open. Those events may have rougher surface and since the vehicle will be pushing limits of adhesion and handling, tires used in the event shouldn't also be the same tires you depend on for the daily duties.

Adrenaline--Niagara's Driving Enthusiast Club, and St. Catharines Motor Club have organized auto-x events in the summer of 2001. I had the honour of participating in these events and I consider the auto-x events to be very entertaining in level. The relative low cost and safe aspect of this competition makes it attainable for everyone. Depending on number and field of entries, the vehicles are split up into few categories and classes. I have participated this year, in my 1990 Honda Accord. Since I was able to use it in only two of the three events I have entered, my third entry was performed in a "borrowed" Ford Focus Station Wagon. Check out the gallery for some of the photos. The Accord has undergone further chassis modifications, so I will have to wait until next year to report the benefits of the upgrades.

If you enjoy Auto-X events, roadcourse can provide similar thrills!!!

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