| Author | Message | ||
     Wolfridgerider |
My first race is coming up this weekend at Mid Ohio. I am running a 8 lap sprint and I am as nervous as a pregnant nun.... My question is, Will a new set of the stock Diablo tires get me around the track safely? Its been suggested that I buy a set of the Superbike tires for the race and put them on after my last practice session. The problem with that idea is the lack of $$$ in my pocket. I have the set of Diablos setting on the shelf ready to go. I want to be able to drop the hammer and not worry about loosing traction which wasn't a concern until..... "You should but some Superbike tires" talk started. | ||
| M1combat |
Well... I'm not a racer yet but I have been on the track (AKA Slept in a holiday inn last night...). If you've used the stock Pirelli's up to this point with trackdays and such then at least you know what they're capable of. The trouble with that is when someone baits you into braking later than you should have or running a sweeper as fast as they're going on stickier tires... I guess the main point I'm trying to make is that if you don't have the money ATM to buy the better tires then you really have no choice. Just don't get baited into something your tires can't handle. Buy them by the time your next race comes up. | ||
| Schmitty |
I used a set of Bridgestone BT-002RS for my first race. These are considered a street/trackday hybrid tire. They are however a dual compound tire. I then switched to the BT-002 Pro model which is a DOT race tire. There is a huge difference. You will be fine with the Diablos, they will have a less aggressive profile so they will be a bit more stable and predictable at turn in. Just make sure they are up to temperature before the green flag drops! I went my first two practice sessions without tire warmers. I learned quickly that in sprint racing warmers are an absolute must. I was able to borrow a spare set from a fellow Bueller and the difference was incredible. I could charge hard right from the get go. So add that to your list if you don't have them already! It is money well spent. Aside from that GOOD LUCK and have fun!! Schmitty | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
 Thats what the inside of my head looks like right now. Its all about this race, my next race on Oct. 6Th and a Inside Pass Track day in between the 2.... I think I am going to pony up and get a set of Super bike tires so my confidence level will be higher. Take it VERY easy at the Inside Pass track day and then let it all hang out at the last race of the season at Nelson Ledges. The Pirelli guys are at Mid Ohio and I will let them know what I need out of the tires and see if they have something to fit the bill..... | ||
| Diablobrian |
The Diablos should do just fine. As a new racer you won't be carrying the speed, or generating the heat in the tires to warrant the race spec super sticky tires. They will just wear out really quickly for no real gain. Do you have tire warmers and race stands to get the tires warm before hitting the track? If not you should try to borrow a set so that you don't over-cook the first corner trying to keep up with the guys that do have them. (It happens a lot) | ||
| Donutclub |
Tires do make a difference, especially when racing. Since this is your first race you'll do fine on the OEM Diablo tires. Take it easy the first lap to bring the tires up to temperature unless your running tire warmers. Tire warmers are expensive, but they will preserve the longevity of your tires, give you confidence, and allow you to run with the pack. You'll enjoy Mid-O, it's one of the best (IMHO) technical tracks around. The back section is perfect...........for the XB! See you at the Inside Pass day in October! | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
I made a copy of the track and have it hanging on my computer screen at work. I keep going over it in my head, over and over and over..... I hope this tactic helps me find my way around in a quick timely fashion..... Tires...I know me... I will get a new set at the track...... | ||
| Rfischer |
Stay away from race tires. You will not have the corner speed to get them up to their operating temp range which is very narrow for race-spec tires. Because of that, you will have less, not more, traction than the Diablos. Tire warmers are a "must". Both for speed and tire-life as well as safety. If you go charging into that first turn with the pack - as you surely will - on cold tires you WILL fall down, I guarantee it! Just chill, go with wut ya' got, and have fun. | ||
| Wolfridgerider |
go with wut ya' got Funny you should say that! I just got a call from one of my racing buds. He talked to the Pirelli dudes and they said the Diablos will be fine!! I can't wait!!  |
