how to see the course when autocrossing?

#1 - Seeing the course through the "Sea of Cones".... An autocross course is set up with orange traffic cones. Some cones are on their sides with the narrow ends pointing to one side of a standing cone.

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Is autocross hard to learn?

Remove all loose items from your car, floor mats, etc. Check your tire pressure, and wheel lug nuts to ensure none are loose. When you arrive at the Autocross, you’ll see a course set up on a large parking lot. Rubber traffic cones will be used to form the course, which consists of …

What is autocross and how does it work?

What is Autocross? “Solo®” is the brand name for SCCA® Autocross and on paper it seems very simple – use traffic cones to make a mini-roadcourse in a parking lot or airport and see who can get the lowest time without hitting any cones or going off course. Despite the low overall speeds attained during competition, it’s one of the most ...

What should I know before going to an autocross race?

Feb 02, 2008 · See all 17 photos Never underestimate the importance of the course walk. For your first few events, ask to tag along with an experienced competitor to get their help identifying critical course ...

What are the classes in autocross?

Mar 21, 2022 · Autocross is an organized sport where drivers navigate around tight, technical courses of traffic cones as fast as possible. An autocross course could be set up in a parking lot, on a race track, or on a closed road. Events are usually timed, and drivers are awarded points based on their class placement with respect to other drivers.

How do you drive an autocross course?

5:0410:48Rallycross and Autocross: Driving Fast Around Cones - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis same line holds true start wide of the corner. And then turn in nice and early and have most ofMoreThis same line holds true start wide of the corner. And then turn in nice and early and have most of your actual cornering accomplished. Before you go by the cone.

How do you read an autocross cone?

0:334:15Do You Know how to Navigate this Autocross Track? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThat's why it helps to do the track walk first this means the first time you're in this JunctionMoreThat's why it helps to do the track walk first this means the first time you're in this Junction follow the path to the right this cone combination tells you to go to your left around.

What is an autocross course?

Autocross courses are typically one to two kilometres long and tend to place demands on car handling and driver skill rather than on engine power and outright speed. Courses may be temporary and marked by traffic cones or be permanent tracks with approval by a motorsport body.

How do you start autocross racing?

3:096:57How to Start Autocrossing - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow on your first run you want to start off slow since you're still figuring out the course. AndMoreNow on your first run you want to start off slow since you're still figuring out the course. And then you can gradually add more speed as you get more comfortable.

What do the cones mean in autocross?

Traffic cones, often called "pylons" in autocross, are used to mark out the autocross course. In a slalom, a cone on its side indicates that you are expected to go past the standing cone on the opposite side. Each cone is outlined in chalk. You can touch a cone as long as you don't knock it completely out of its box.Sep 19, 2012

What is a Chicago box in autocross?

Chicago Box: A short slalom disguised as a box. Chief Steward: The Chief Steward serves as the head referee for an autocross at SCCA® National Solo® events. They can make final decisions on re-runs, changes, and accept any complaints or protest from competitors.

Is autocross hard on your car?

Autocross is far more hardcore than you can imagine, but at the same time it's not very rough on your vehicle. If it's in reasonably good shape it'll do fine. Don't worry if the tires are normal all-season models or if your car is bone stock.Mar 18, 2020

Can you have a passenger in autocross?

Absolutely. All that we ask is that you sign our waiver upon entry into the event. If you are curious about autocross, find an event near by and check it out. Feel free to ask questions, and don't be surprised if someone offers you a ride-along.

How many runs is an autocross?

In an autocross, you do not get a practice run, so the more familiar you are with the course, the better your initial run will be. You will get three runs, sometimes more. Generally the number of runs is announced at the driver's meeting before the event begins.

Can you win money in autocross?

Tire Rack SCCA ProSolo® is America's Premier Autocross Championship Series, both in format and competition. In 2020, prize payouts will match that well-earned reputation. SCCA ProSolo participants will see a significant boost in Challenge purses in 2020, both at individual events and in a year-end payout.Feb 19, 2020

Does autocross run in the rain?

Autocross in the rain is different; the car will transition from having (nearly) maximum grip to completely 'losing it' at the blink of an eye. It happens quickly without warning and it happens maybe 25 or more times each run of the course. Sometimes in different spots around the course from run-to-run.Oct 26, 2020

What is BMW autocross?

Autocross events are an all-forward motion-driving-skill contest. Each driver is individually timed to the thousandth of a second, over a short, miniature road-course clearly defined using traffic cones. Cars compete one at a time, in a class with similar cars.

What to bring to an autocross?

Helpful tip – Autocrosses tend to run in any weather. Bring appropriate clothing and weather gear, closed-toed shoes, and drinks/snacks for the day. Since no loose objects are allowed in your car while you’re competing, a plastic tote bin is a helpful item to bring and put your stuff in.

How to get better at running?

Have fun, look at your time, and try to go faster. Repeat until all your runs are done. Helpful tip – Look ahead and relax. Looking ahead helps you see where the course is better, and relaxing enables you to feel what the car is doing better so that you can ultimately get a better time.

How long does it take to walk a golf course?

You probably want to get there in time to walk the course at least 2-3 times and they usually take 5-10 minutes per walk depending on the location.

How to prepare for autocross?

You should prepare your car prior to arrival. Remove all loose items from your car, floor mats, etc. Check your tire pressure, and wheel lug nuts to ensure none are loose. When you arrive at the Autocross, you’ll see a course set up on a large parking lot.

What is an AX race?

An Autocross (AX) is a closed course driving event, held in a large open area such as a parking lot, or a closed dedicated track . The objective is to safely complete the course from start to finish in the shortest amount of time, and be faster than your competition. An autocross is not a race competing with other drivers on the course at the same time as you. Each driver is timed as they individually navigate the pre-defined course, marked with traffic cone pylons. Speeds are usually low, but skill is required as you learn the quickest way through the course. Autocrossing is a safe, fun, inexpensive way to learn more about driving your car, and the limits of its potential, with minimal risk to yourself or your car.

How old do you have to be to drive in the PCA?

Footwear must be enclosed, with a non-slip, relatively smooth sole recommended. The Minimum Age for any driving entrant is 18 years. PCA Regions, at their option, may allow for participation of 16 and 17 year old licensed drivers, who are relatives of participating adult PCA members also driving the event.

Can you drive an AX before?

If you haven’t driven an Autocross before, or if you’d like to become a better AX driver, you can request that an instructor ride with you to advise on driving the course. Your first run should be taken at a steady pace to learn the course, and not an attempt to have your fastest run.

Can you wear a helmet in PCA racing?

Helmets built to Snell Foundation standards or other such standards may be approved for use. Also , any helmet approved for PCA club racing is permitted. If the car does not have a windshield, the occupants must wear eye protection specifically meant to protect eyes from flying objects (shatterproof eye protection).

What is autocross class?

Autocross Classes. Cars and vehicles are classed in Solo according to modifications and potential. Each category has a set of allowed modifications and then the cars are divided into classes by ability. After all, it wouldn’t be fair to have an Italian exotic against an economy car.

What classes does SCCA have?

Karts, Classic American Muscle, etc. There are some classes which don’t fit the previous sets, but play an important part of automotive and racing enthusiasts lifestyle. SCCA has classes for karts, Classic American Muscle (CAM), Vintage cars, and College-engineering Formula SAE.

What is the largest auto competition in the world?

The TireRack SCCA Solo Nationals is the largest auto competition for sports cars in the world. More than 1,200 competitors descend on Lincoln, Nebraska each year for a competition which takes a week to complete and crowns a national champion in each class. Autocross Classes. Cars and vehicles are classed in Solo according to modifications ...

Is it fair to have an Italian exotic against an economy car?

After all, it wouldn’t be fair to have an Italian exotic against an economy car. Street Category (Super Street and A Street to H Street) Classes in the “Street” Category have the most restrictive rules which keep competitors from feeling the need to make extensive modifications to their cars.

Do you have to be a SCCA member to attend a regional event?

You do not need to be an SCCA member to participate in a Regional event (they will make you a temporary member for the weekend) but it does usually mean a discount if you are. Divisional. Divisional Events or series are a step up from Regional events and hosted by groups of SCCA® regions.

How many runs can you learn in autocross?

In autocross, experience is everything, and a good instructor will teach you more in one run than you could hope to learn in 30 runs on your own. If you possess even one competitive fiber in your being, you're bound to want to improve to the point of being competitive in your class.

Why is autocross so good?

Because of the fairly low speeds and lack of hard obstacles at most event sites, the odds of damaging an out-of-control car are remarkably low.

What is SCCA autocross?

Many autocross events are sanctioned by regional chapters of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA). Additionally, countless Corvette clubs and other sports car clubs put on their own events, most of which are open to any make of car.

What to look for when adding air to a tire?

While you're adding air, take a critical look at all four tires, inspecting them for bulged sidewalls and visible cords showing in the tread. The rest of tech inspection will consist of common-sense items such as verifying that the brake pedal is firm and that the car has no excessive fluid leaks.

How many attempts does the AX course have?

Most events allow each driver six attempts at the course, each one timed to a thousandth of a second. Though speeds are usually no greater than those encountered in highway driving, a run around the AX course makes for an exhilarating adrenaline rush, thanks to the combination of concentration and car feedback. See all 17 photos.

Do you get a gold star for your first run?

You'll be given a gold star for your efforts. Well, not really, but you will get a small adhesive dot or decal affixed to your windshield to let the start marshal know you're cleared to run. Unlike many other forms of motorsports, there are no practice runs in autocross, so your first run is for time.

Is SOLO drag racing popular?

This has made the sport very popular. In fact, SCCA says SOLO is second only to drag racing in terms of grassroots participation. One benefit of this popularity is that, on any given weekend, you can find an autocross within a few hours' drive of nearly anywhere.

What is autocross racing?

Autocross is an organized sport where drivers navigate around tight, technical courses of traffic cones as fast as possible. An autocross course could be set up in a parking lot, on a race track, or on a closed road. Events are usually timed, and drivers are awarded points based on their class placement with respect to other drivers.

Why are cars broken into different classes?

Cars are broken into different performance classes to keep the focus on driver skill rather than vehicle type or aftermarket modifications . For instance, comparing a driver in a Toyota Corolla to someone piloting a Porsche 911 Turbo would be apples to oranges, so those drivers would race in separate classes.

What year does SCCA accept Snell M helmets?

Most clubs follow rules written by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), including which helmets are allowed. SCCA currently accepts Snell M or SA helmets, 2005 or later. If you’re not sure about your helmet, check with your local club for more information.

What is CAM class?

You’ll also get your cardio workout in for the day, especially when the Classic American Muscle (CAM) class is running; high powered rear wheel drive cars usually hit the most cones.

What are some examples of coursework duties?

Some examples of coursework duties are working the radio, picking up cones, recording times, or starting drivers. Working the course can actually be a lot of fun.

Why do drivers wear orange vests on courses?

Collisions are extremely rare and happen at low speeds, resulting in minimal damage. Course workers wear orange vests for visibility and stand well clear of the drivers’ paths.

Can you autocross a car?

You can autocross almost any vehicle; it doesn’t even have to be a car. Some people bring trucks, crossover SUVs, and even minivans to the event! Motorcycles are typically not allowed. Some club rules prohibit any vehicle that is taller than it is wide to reduce the risk of rollover accidents.

What is the best tire grade for autocross?

The stickiest autocross tires have a treadwear grade of 40. Racing tires (R-compound) are usually around 100. Some race governing bodies consider tires with wear ratings less than 140 not to be street tires. Normal tires have treadwear grades in the 300s. Performance street tires are around 200-220.

Why are stock tires and wheels easier to drive?

Stock Wheels and Tires: They are much easier to drive because the larger sidewalls provide more cushion for overly-aggressive inputs (starting, braking, and turning.) Stock rims are “friendlier” and make it easier to lay down consistent runs.

What is traction grade?

The traction grade is based on braking traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction. Temperature Grades . Temperature grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C. They represent the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat.

Can A6 tires be cold?

Likewise, many of us have experienced how cold tires can lead to decreased traction in those first few turns of an autocross. The result of the test was that although the A6 tires are optimized for lower temperatures (120 to 140), they remained fast even during high temperatures and extended lapping sessions.

Is a DOT rated tire legal in autocross?

Both tire set-ups came up even in the lateral g-force department, according to SportsCar testing. Slicks v. Street Tires. Most autocrossers know that DOT -rated slicks are legal in stock autocross classes.

How to autocross well?

First, remember that the main trick to autocrossing well is to turn series of straight lines into smooth curves. Don’t think of the chicane as a set of separate turns, but rather as a sort of slalom, where you want to take as straight a line as possible through the box.

What is competitive autocross?

Competitive autocrossing is a great alternative or supplement to track days. In autocross events, yours is the only car on the course while you’re running, so you don’t need to worry about anyone else getting in your way, or worse. Speeds are typically slower than on the track, so if something should go wrong, you are more likely to be able ...

What are the obstacles in autocross called?

These obstacles, a favorite of the fiends who lay out autocross courses, are called “chicanes.” (A good term, since the word is the root of the word chicanery, meaning trickery or deception.) Often the chicane is enclosed in a box of cones to make the problem a little more difficult.

What is a slalom segment?

For each of these, we can offer some tips to take them as fast as possible. Slalom Segments. Slaloms are an important part of every autocross course. This segment of the course will consist of a straight line of cones, typically placed at equal distances from one another.

What is a 360 turn in autocross?

Sometimes, the course may even require a 360 turn. This turn will be marked a single pylon sitting in the center of the path of travel with some large open space around it.

What happens if something goes wrong in autocross?

Speeds are typically slower than on the track, so if something should go wrong, you are more likely to be able to deal with it than you might on the track. Under the worse of circumstances much less damage is likely to be done should the car get out of control on the autocross course.

How many runs can you run in an autocross race?

Walking the course ahead of time can make a big difference. Since most autocross events only allow the drivers two or at most three runs, there really isn’t enough time to develop a strategy for the course and figure out the best line while driving it.

How to get started in autocrossing?

Here are 10 things to get you started in autocrossing: 1. Restrain yourself. Don’t modify anything on your car before you begin. You’re learning to drive all over again. Don’t enhance the car, enhance you. You’re relearning the car and its capabilities, tuning yourself to make you faster. 2.

What are the best ways to experiment for free?

Talk to people who know your car already; they’ll be able to guide you. Tire pressure and seating are the best ways to start experimenting for free, and every tweak here and there will make the car react differently.

Can anyone race in autocross?

Anyone can race, and anyone who's willing to practice can be good enough to win. There’s a huge population of autocrossers in the US and beyond, and some are very, very fast. Competition is fierce. Any car (and some trucks) can race, so if you brung it, you can run it.