The Little RSX-S That Could
Posted by mike | Filed under automotive, news
Being such an avid road racing fan for several years, I’ve found it very difficult to figure out how I can participate and start to learn the principles of road racing.
The first and foremost thing I knew I needed was a car that would be capable of autocross and track events; one that would probably be able to outdrive me at first but something I could grow into and could upgrade if I wanted to. This past fall I found an ’06 Acura RSX Type-S for a good deal that was in nearly new condition. I flew out to Philadelphia to purchase the car and drove it back to MN. I was able to sell the old TL…family sedan, about the farthest away from a track car as you could get and now I was ready, at least I had the hammer…I just needed the nails and other required items.
I was able to find a Zamp RZ-5 race helmet that was on closeout for a steal; almost over $300 off retail. It’s painted in Ferrari colors and looks really sharp…yeah, I don’t have a Ferrari but I LOVE them and I can dream right?! It’s my intention to get the helmet signed by Jamie Melo and Mika Salo at the ALMS race out at Road America this summer. Both of those drivers race for Risi Competizione in the ALMS GT2 class. The helmet meets all standards needed for road racing including SA2005 and FIA approvals. It also has posts needed for a HANS device.
So, what’s left. Well, if you’ve ever driven a car capable of cornering well, you know that it’s difficult to stay planted in the seat. I’m usually either laying on the door or sitting in the console and have a stranglehold on the steering wheel for leverage. This is not an optimal situation. To alleviate this problem I needed a 4 point harness. I was able to find one at Soloracer.com that would bolt right into my car with a minimal amount of modification or effort. It’s made by a company called Schroth who also makes the HANS devices for all of the different race series, so they are a very reputable company.
What’s left? I need to get my race tires/rims fixed up and purchase some DOT4+ rated brake fluids so that my brakes won’t catch fire or smolder. 
I also need a set of rotors and brake pads that are geared for a more industrial/race setup. Drilled rotors and ceramic race pads are probably what I’ll have to get eventually. I don’t think I’ll need this for the first few days of instruction but if I decide to get more serious I’ll probably have to drop some dime on these items.
BIR has road racing class/track instruction for entry level drivers at a very reasonable rate. The catch is that it’s really only affordable if you bring your own vehicle. $250 with your vehicle or $800+ to rent a spec Ford racer from the race school. Either way it’s not that expensive considering most other full day programs around the US are $1500+ and do not include plane tickets, meals, or anything else that would be required.
With my brother living up in Brainerd, this summer is shaping up to be one of the best on record for the “fun factor”. Free golf and road racing, what could be better?
