Frequently Asked Questions
What is Solo Racing?
An excerpt from "Secrets of Solo Racing" by Henry A. Watts:
What is Autocross?
"Autocross is the sport of trying to navigate your car through a defined course faster than your competition. It is a performance driving event. It is designed to accommodate cars ranging from sports sedans through dedicated race cars. Autocrossing is a safe way to learn how to drive your car at the limits of its potential. It is also a sport that is accessible to many people. It does not require a large amount of money nor a willingness to take undue risks.
Autocrossing is NOT wheel-to-wheel racing, where all the competitors are on the track at once, passing each other as they are able and vying for position, sometimes bumping each other. Most of the differences between autocross and wheel-to-wheel racing are due to a desire to make autocrossing a safe and affordable way to race. Autocross is more of a test of a driver's ability to learn a course quickly, since each course is different and a driver typically gets just a very few tries at it. A typical run usually lasts less than two minutes.
In autocrossing the course is defined by soft barriers, such as traffic pylons, so cars that drift or spin off course are not damaged.
Events are typically run at relatively low speeds (45-65 mph). On most courses cars will not be shifted beyond second gear. On the other hand, it is quite exciting. There are many interesting things a performance oriented car will do in second gear at 65 mph or so.
Depending on how the event is being run, either there will be only one car on the course at a time, or the cars on the course will be well separated. There is essentially no chance that two cars will run into each other. On a closed (complete lap) course there will be two cars on the course at once, but they will be on different portions of the course and one car will be just finishing while the other is just beginning.
There are many reasons people autocross. Drivers able to handle their cars at the limits of performance are much safer street drivers when confronted with surprises. Because of this, autocrossers gain confidence in their driving. The social aspect is also important. It is generally a friendly competition, a social and educational gathering of friendly enthusiasts. The people tend to be active, practical and intelligent. Mostly, though, people autocross because they find it fun."
What is Autocross?
"Autocross is the sport of trying to navigate your car through a defined course faster than your competition. It is a performance driving event. It is designed to accommodate cars ranging from sports sedans through dedicated race cars. Autocrossing is a safe way to learn how to drive your car at the limits of its potential. It is also a sport that is accessible to many people. It does not require a large amount of money nor a willingness to take undue risks.
Autocrossing is NOT wheel-to-wheel racing, where all the competitors are on the track at once, passing each other as they are able and vying for position, sometimes bumping each other. Most of the differences between autocross and wheel-to-wheel racing are due to a desire to make autocrossing a safe and affordable way to race. Autocross is more of a test of a driver's ability to learn a course quickly, since each course is different and a driver typically gets just a very few tries at it. A typical run usually lasts less than two minutes.
In autocrossing the course is defined by soft barriers, such as traffic pylons, so cars that drift or spin off course are not damaged.
Events are typically run at relatively low speeds (45-65 mph). On most courses cars will not be shifted beyond second gear. On the other hand, it is quite exciting. There are many interesting things a performance oriented car will do in second gear at 65 mph or so.
Depending on how the event is being run, either there will be only one car on the course at a time, or the cars on the course will be well separated. There is essentially no chance that two cars will run into each other. On a closed (complete lap) course there will be two cars on the course at once, but they will be on different portions of the course and one car will be just finishing while the other is just beginning.
There are many reasons people autocross. Drivers able to handle their cars at the limits of performance are much safer street drivers when confronted with surprises. Because of this, autocrossers gain confidence in their driving. The social aspect is also important. It is generally a friendly competition, a social and educational gathering of friendly enthusiasts. The people tend to be active, practical and intelligent. Mostly, though, people autocross because they find it fun."
+ Can I race my car?
Just about any car in good mechanical condition is eligible for SCCA® Solo® events.
Anything from a Chevrolet Corvette to a Toyota Camry is allowed to run in Solo. As
long as your car passes tech (safety) inspection and is not on the exclusion list
or prone to rollover (mostly SUVs) then your vehicle is probably available to run.
+ Will my car break down?
Most likely no. Honestly, if your car breaks while racing, then it was most likely
going to break down on the street. Consider this a good thing though! It's much
better to reveal your cars faults in a safe environment surrounded by a bunch of
car people who will help you out, as opposed to breaking down in the middle of the
night on the highway alone. This sport is not very hard on cars. As long as you've
kept up with usual maintenance, you should be fine. Unless it's old and Italian. If
that's the case, your car will most definitely explode.
+ I've never "raced" or done anything like this
before...
This is the number one reason people don't come out and drive. There is
no other form of motorsport more friendly to new drivers than Autocross. This
is the place to get your feet wet. We'll teach you the basics, give you tips on
your driving techniques, and even ride along with you and guide you first hand. If
you trust us, you can ask one of our more seasoned drivers to show you what your
car can really do, and provide feedback. We even have loaner helmets at no cost to you. You'll soon realize this sport was made
for everybody. You don't need to worry about things like "I'm going to drive too
slow" or "I'm going to make a fool of myself". The only thing that we care about is
that you do better every time you come out. We were all beginners at one point.
+ Is this expensive?
Our events are cheap. Usually 20 dollars for SCCA members, and 30 dollars for non-
members. Other than that, the amount of differing car classes allow you to race
competitively no matter what your budget, including stock classes. This is only as
expensive as you want it to be. Incredibly competitive cars have been made for less
than $2000 dollars. On the other end of the spectrum there are cars who's costs
rival the US defense budget.
+ Is it safe? Will my car flip over?
Autocross events are some of the safest racing one can participate in. Events are
supervised by experienced and trained safety stewards, and courses are laid out far
from anything that could cause injury to spectators, course workers, or vehicles.
Cars with a rollover risk are not eligible for competition. These cars can be found
under the "Excluded" lists in the Rule Book.
+ Will cones hurt my car?
No. The cones are soft enough to not leave any cosmetic damage that can't be taken
off with a light rub.
+ Do I need to be an SCCA member to race?
You do not need to be an SCCA member to race with us. We offer weekend
memberships for non members (completed at the event) which can also be used as
credit towards a full SCCA membership. You can register to become an SCCA member here.
+ What if it rains?
We run rain or shine, unless there is excessive lightning, flooding, tornadoes,
earthquakes, etc. We will let drivers know before the event if the weather presents
a safety concern via the event page on Facebook. If we don't say anything, the
event is a go! Learning to control your car in less than ideal conditions is a
challenge in itself and should not be missed.
+ Can I just come to an event and watch? Is there a fee
to pay to watch?
Yes, you can come out and just watch an event. You will be required to sign a
waiver sheet for insurance policy as a guest. There is no fee however to come out
and be a spectator.
+ What do I need to bring with me to an event?
To run you need a valid driver’s license and an appropriate helmet. However, Red
River Region SCCA has a few loaner helmets at events so you don’t necessarily have
to go out and buy a new helmet. These are provided at no cost. Some other things
that are recommended are a tire pressure gauge, appropriate clothes, sun block,
plenty of water, etc. and your will to have fun. Also a good attitude and
willingness to learn and make friends is pretty good too.
+ What kind of helmet do I need?
You need a helmet that is Snell Foundation Standard, SFI Standard or British
Standard. The certification label may be found inside the helmet. For the year
2023, the Snell ratings that the SCCA deems acceptable for use are SA2010, SA2015,
and SA2020. If you don't have a helmet, we have loaner helmets available to you at
no cost. Motorcycle helmets with Snell M2010, M2015, and M2020 are also
acceptable.
+ What class is my car in?
Note, that this is not a definitive guide to your car class by
any means. This is just a general outline to the many classes the SCCA has created.
Please refer to the 2023 Rule Book for a definitive guide.
Page numbers are provided for your convenience.
SCCA® Solo® has many categories divided into classes for vehicles. Those categories
include:
Street (Stock) – This category includes mass-produced, common vehicles that may be “daily drivers” (cars used for normal, everyday driving). Street Category cars compete in their “factory” configuration with a minimal number of allowances (not requirements). Refer to page 73 and page 179 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Street Touring® – This class is a fairly new class and is geared towards cars with common bolt-on modifications. Things like cold-air intakes, headers, lowering springs, etc. This is the only category that does not allow DOT competition R-compound tires – only high performance tires with a UTQG treadwear rating of 200 or higher are allowed (found on the tire sidewall). Refer to page 85 and page 197 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Street Prepared – This is the original Solo® “street” class, sometimes called a “bolt-on” class. Any fuel and ignition system is allowed along with any suspension springs and shocks/struts as long as they are fitted into their original location. Things like turbo/superchargers must remain the same. There is no limit on wheel size or DOT tire sizes. Refer to page 98 and page 204 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Street Modified – This is the top tier of the “street” classes. This class allows engine swaps as long as the engine is made by the same manufacturer as the car. You may also add turbo/superchargers, camshaft upgrades, and any suspension upgrades as long as it uses the factory attachment points. Refer to page 119 and page 218 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Prepared – This class is generally for non-streetable cars. Things like gutted interiors and racing slicks are a big give away. Most things are allowed in this class and is relied on weight more than anything. Refer to page 125 and page 220 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Modified – They are usually special built competition vehicles and most of them resemble an open-wheel Indy car or a closed-wheel LeMans sports racer. DM and EM cars may have started life on the streets, but just about any engine, drivetrain, or suspension is permitted. Supercharged rotary engines and V-8 engines are seen in 1700-pound EM machines and powerful 4-cylinders are common in 1300-pound DM lightweights. Refer to page 149 and page 247 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Classic American Muscle and Xtreme Street - If you are just starting out and you have a highly modified car you drive daily on the street, these are going to be the classes for you. They allow for engine swaps, alternate suspension, and aerodynamics (to a point), but require a partial interior, 200tw minimum tires, and a minimum weight depending where you fit in. Refer to page 260 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Karts - Refer to page 165 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Street (Stock) – This category includes mass-produced, common vehicles that may be “daily drivers” (cars used for normal, everyday driving). Street Category cars compete in their “factory” configuration with a minimal number of allowances (not requirements). Refer to page 73 and page 179 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Street Touring® – This class is a fairly new class and is geared towards cars with common bolt-on modifications. Things like cold-air intakes, headers, lowering springs, etc. This is the only category that does not allow DOT competition R-compound tires – only high performance tires with a UTQG treadwear rating of 200 or higher are allowed (found on the tire sidewall). Refer to page 85 and page 197 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Street Prepared – This is the original Solo® “street” class, sometimes called a “bolt-on” class. Any fuel and ignition system is allowed along with any suspension springs and shocks/struts as long as they are fitted into their original location. Things like turbo/superchargers must remain the same. There is no limit on wheel size or DOT tire sizes. Refer to page 98 and page 204 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Street Modified – This is the top tier of the “street” classes. This class allows engine swaps as long as the engine is made by the same manufacturer as the car. You may also add turbo/superchargers, camshaft upgrades, and any suspension upgrades as long as it uses the factory attachment points. Refer to page 119 and page 218 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Prepared – This class is generally for non-streetable cars. Things like gutted interiors and racing slicks are a big give away. Most things are allowed in this class and is relied on weight more than anything. Refer to page 125 and page 220 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Modified – They are usually special built competition vehicles and most of them resemble an open-wheel Indy car or a closed-wheel LeMans sports racer. DM and EM cars may have started life on the streets, but just about any engine, drivetrain, or suspension is permitted. Supercharged rotary engines and V-8 engines are seen in 1700-pound EM machines and powerful 4-cylinders are common in 1300-pound DM lightweights. Refer to page 149 and page 247 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Classic American Muscle and Xtreme Street - If you are just starting out and you have a highly modified car you drive daily on the street, these are going to be the classes for you. They allow for engine swaps, alternate suspension, and aerodynamics (to a point), but require a partial interior, 200tw minimum tires, and a minimum weight depending where you fit in. Refer to page 260 in the 2023 Rule Book.
Karts - Refer to page 165 in the 2023 Rule Book.
+ What is PAX?
The PAX system (sometimes referred to as "Racers Theoretical Performance") is designed to be a great equalizer of sorts for multiple car classes. It's purpose is to remove the car from the equation to more accurately measure driver skill. Think of it as a handicap system for cars. The PAX value is a multiplier used on the driver's time, and then compared directly with other class competitors and their PAX multiplied time.
The Official PAX values are determined each year and can be accessed here.
If you are still confused take a look at our event PAX results PDFs for examples.
The Official PAX values are determined each year and can be accessed here.
If you are still confused take a look at our event PAX results PDFs for examples.
+ Do I need 5 lb wheels, Hoosiers (bro), carbon fiber
body paneling, 24-way adjustable shocks, piloti shoes, 4 turbos + 1 supercharger,
nitrous, straight cut gears, etc?
No. Learning how to drive at the limit and learning more about how your car behaves
is infinitely more important than any amount of money you could ever dump into your
car. After you gain a fair amount of seat time, you can more accurately identify
your cars strengths and weaknesses, and modify it as you see fit. There's a legend
that a humble tofu delivery driver in an old Corolla routinely stomped GT-R's,
RX7's, S2000's, Evo's... you name it... all because of seat time and understanding
of his (or her?) vehicle. Dramatization
+ I have a GT-R, Z06, 911, M3, Elise, etc. and have
never raced before. Will this be unfair to the other drivers in "lesser" cars?
No. Prepare to be humbled if this is your mindset. No matter how fast your car is
said to go around the Nurburgerking, if you have never driven at the limit before
you will most likely be destroyed in raw time by a 20 year old in a beat up Miata
with 90 horsepower. This is a sport for drivers. It teaches you how to -really-
drive your car. If you stick with it, you will no doubt be able to exploit that
GT-R/Z06/911/M3/Elise's true abilities, while making you a better driver both on
the track and on the street.
Useful Files / Links
Every question you could possibly have can be answered in the 2019 SCCA Solo Rule book below. It's a good idea to review this document no matter how much experience you might have. If you have any questions, need clarification on the rules, or don't know what class your car might be in, feel free to ask any of us on our Facebook page. A club member will definitely help you out.
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