Spec Boxster Build

[thstone]

In my continuing quest to become a better driver, I have decided to start a karting program and spent yesterday at the kart track.

Yes, that means that I was at the race track Friday and kart track Saturday. All I can say is: My name is Tom Stone and yes, I have an addiction problem.

The karts are gas-powered Honda 270cc sport karts with about 9hp. I'll be honest and say that I used to joke about karting being "all of the racing you want at 37 mph!". And yes, I was being sarcastic.

So, why will I be spending time in a kart?

1. Car control
Its a relatively safe way to learn to find the cornering limit and drive there consistently without going over the limit. I believe that I will need to be able to keep the car at the friction limit continuously to get faster.

2. Momentum
Karts are relatively low powered to teach momentum driving which seems like it could translate well to Boxster Spec racing. Less brake, more throttle, maintain maximum momentum.

3. Racecraft
Passing is an art and karting provides nearly continuous opportunities to practice the skill of planning ahead and setting up a competitor for a pass along with defending your own position. This is an area where I definitely need more skill.

As you might have figured out by now, I am pressing hard to improve my racing performance and will do whatever it takes to get there.

Even karting.

[Topless]

Agree with Karting as it hones your race craft. My brother and I did that for several years but haven't been lately. Even Louis Hamilton can be found on a kart track in the off season keeping his reflexes sharp.

Nice save in turn 2. I have been backwards once in that one and it can be hairy. Tires and track get a little greasy mid day, maybe a slight lift just after turn in with tires side loaded and... See ya!

Turn one looked awesome so you carried a lot of speed into 2. Good driving Tom!

[thstone]

Originally Posted by Topless

Agree with Karting as it hones your race craft. My brother and I did that for several years but haven't been lately. Even Louis Hamilton can be found on a kart track in the off season keeping his reflexes sharp.

Nice save in turn 2. I have been backwards once in that one and it can be hairy. Tires and track get a little greasy mid day, maybe a slight lift just after turn in with tires side loaded and... See ya!

Turn one looked awesome so you carried a lot of speed into 2. Good driving Tom!

Thanks Dave. Come on out and join me at at the kart track sometime. It'll be fun.