Another AutoX Question...

[cjstringer]

Of those of you that run autocrosses, what class do you all run in? I was cheking out some things and noticed that the G Stock class that I run in gets a worse multiplier (.785) than the STS Class (.784) for PAX. Do you guys run stock or STS? I'm thinking I could start modding and also get a better PAX to help out the extra power. Let me know what you think! I was somewhat baffled by this.

 

[ZoomZoomH]

If I read the SCCA classification rules correctly, all the stock classes (HS, GS, DS, etc.) are allowed to use racing tires (ie R-compound DOT legal racing slicks), while STS is restricted to normal street tires only. If you use racing tires on STS cars you'll be bumped into STX class I believe...

 

[70]

Something I was told...

From what I've been told and read, keep the car stock and running in G-stock, find some really nice sticky tires, keep those on the stock rims.

Buy some new rims for the street and run what ever you want.

Don't screw with the power, get used to how the car runs and get better with it stock...

The MP3 is alright in G-stock. There are some other cars that can out do the MP3 in handling and power in G-stock, but just hope you don't have to deal with those to often.

Basically, get used the car as is...Then move up, maybe.

 

[MP3_4ME]

I am having the same dilema. I will probably run in sts this weekend. Last sunday the sts times were slower than most gs.

Let me know what happens

Later

 

[dolphin]

cjstringer,
I have been debating that question as well. The only "R" tires that will fit that I know of, are 205/40-17. I am lucky that we have a class for street tires that is based on the car's PAX. So I run Street tire class as GS. I don't really want to mess with the car just now so STS is out. I am about a second off their first place times. A Subaru of some sort. Perhaps later I'll want to mod the car, but not now.

 

[cjstringer]

Just wanted everyones opinion. I agree the stock setup is sweet, and our car really does kick some ass. As for getting sticky tires, I'm still running the stock dunlops. I might want something better for the dry, but in the wet, they sure kicked everyones ass!
I forgot about the street tire requirement in STS. That's a good point I forgot about.
Can anyone recommend a wheel for racing if I decide to get some new ones? I'm looking for something inexpensive, but still in a 17x7. It would be nice to save some weight also. Just wondering. Also, does anyone use the Kuhmo 712 or Victoracers? The Vs seem a little spendy, but it they really do help, I'd like to know.
I was thinking of using the stock tires and wheels for racing only as suggested. Not sure if I want to get another set of 17s or some softer riding 16s for the street. I plan to travel quite a bit this summer, so I haven't decided yet. It's hard to find a good deal on wheels and tires. Just don't feel like spending a ton for daily driver tires and wheels, but I want them to look nice.
Thanks again for the input!

 

[70]

Call Tirerack...

I remember reading somewhere Tirerack thought the Michelin Pilots MXXX3's or what ever they are called were stickier than the Dunlops...I'm not sure, I'll look for that again.

But, call Tirerack and ask them what they feel is a good sticky sreet tire. They test the tires and stuff.

 

[dolphin]

cjstringer,
Last year I ran one event with a set of old 15" R tires left over from another car. They were 7x15 wheels with 225/50-15 Yoko A008 RS II tires. They did not rub but I can't tell you the offset of the wheels. The car was a blast. I decided that I did not have the $$$ to run FSP, so it was back to the 17" Dunlop's. The point being that the car will probably tolerate what ever you what to do with in reason. You might try to find a set of P5 or ES 16" wheels that someone has replaced. Most of the stock alloy wheels that Mazda uses are made by Enkei. They are also usually a good blend of strength and weight.

I have been running the V700's on my Miata. They hold up well on it. I usually run 12-15 events a year and last year we had two drivers and they still made it through the year. This is better than my street tires normally last.

I think that Kumho is releasing a new tire this spring called the MX. It may be a good street tire alternative.

If you want some tips on autocross driving, I found a list of hints on the Miata by Andy Hollis. He was one of my instructors at the Evolution School. They can be found at:
http://www.miataforum.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=4;t=001692


CUL

 

[cjstringer]

StuttersC,
I'll call tirerack and see what they have to say about the michelins. I would like a little more grip in the dry and that might work. I do love the Dunlops in the wet though. They're awesome.
Dolphin,
Thanks for the miata link. That is a really good set of tips. I'll see if anyone has any P5 wheels for sale. Good call.
Thanks again guys!

 

[dolphin]

cjstringer
If you are looking for a set of P5 wheels here is your chance.

http://forum.protegemp3.com/vbb222/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2873

Enjoy.

 

[cjstringer]

Thanks for the post link. Now the only question is shipping prices for mounted tires and wheels from washington to Indiana. (OUCH)