Well... 2007 is just around the corner and if we're going to get the Spec S2k series going, it's time!

Here's a listing of the proposed rules, but nothing is definite as yet. This is your series, so what do you want it to be???

Required modifications:

Suspension: The stock suspension is fine for street tires, but as we

 

Sounds good overall. Wish this spec series was around a few years ago.

Only changes I'd suggest we consider are:

- OEM 16" wheels only with spec 225 front / 245 rear RA1's (even for AP2's). These are the cheapest and readily available, and tires are the single most critical variable, so nice to have it standard for everyone. These tires are the cheapest also.

- No wing. Just to keep it even (and simple/cheapest) for everyone, and tests driver skill even more.

I think the goal of a spec series is to keep it safe, reliable, and simple/even for everyone (so the driver becomes the most critical variable). Any mods beyond that just complicates matters.

 

I'm curious as to how much(if any) interest develops on this coast. It would cost a small fortune to get my car back to stock, but I might be willing to do it if it looks like there might be some participants. Of course, having had the knowledge of something like this was in the works, it would have made my engine replacement/rebuild path MUCH simpler. That, and I might not have just committed to buying an NSX.

With this info/discussion taking place and bars possibly being available soon, how would one go about securing the "racer" discount in a timely manner?

 

i don't intend to participate because I'm not financially independent as yet, but I'm interested to see how they'll inspect each car and classify it as OK or not.

 

So if the cage is optional what is this? Time Trials?

My only thought is if this is supposed to be "spec" there are way too many options. If you want spec (i.e. driver vs driver) you need a spec, not a points formula. My 2 cents....

edit: if you stick with points, how many points for data acquisition?

 

Definitely sounds interesting, and I think Richard's points are both good. I'm curious what prompted the development of yet another S2K TT class. Isn't 8 enough? Don't get me wrong, if you do it, I'll participate, since my car is already prepped/being prepped along these lines.

 

I imagine this will probably be a left coast thing...so here are just some thoughts of an east coaster:

1) $1800-$2000 for the spec shocks is a pretty high bar for entry. They are certainly a great shock, but given the other restrictions (especially with the tires) I wonder if something less expensive, like $600 set of Konis should be spec and perhaps allow the KWs for max points. Choosing expensive shocks really seems strange when you consider the concern that a couple hundred dollars for a wing might discourage entry. I know the cost of the shocks alone will keep me from playing even if it were a hit in the east.

2) Not sure I understand why any dual cat-back exhaust is allowed, but a single suddenly costs a lot of points (twice what a flywheel costs and almost as much as a F22 in an ap1). If the issue is weight, then the spec should be about weight, ie any exhaust >=25lb = no points etc. If there is a challenge about a driver's exhaust weight, make them weigh it in the paddock. But personally...I'd say any cat-back should be free.

3) Any modified stock throttle body...not sure why this wouldn't take points or is legal at all.

4) Points assessed for a test pipe seem high...especially when compared to the points assessed for a flywheel and header.

5) Bump-steer kit is a good idea, but does seem to give the ap1 a slight unfair suspension advantage in that it allows toe and camber to independently be adjusted...good for a bit more negcamber at the rear depending on your desired toe. AP1s have been tracked for a long time without this mod...it's just a disadvantage you have to consider as a driver. So I'd say it should be a points mod.

6) Adjustable swaybars are as much as an F22 motor in an ap1...that seems steep.

7) Points for motor & tranny swap for the ap1 seems cheap compared to other mods.

 

I'm all for a race series and would be willing to build to the rule but I see too much loose ends in regards to the points system. In true spirit of a spec series, the points system must go. Standard issue coilovers, susp components, and wheels sounds good but after that it starts getting complicated. Instead, how about using minimum curbweight of 2600lbs. This should simplify any issue regarding what can or cannot removed in the name of weight reduction or safety. Airbox should be stock only and an air restrictor plate should be added to the AP2 that is dyno tested by a reputable shop like CAT with plenty of S2K experience. This restrictor plate should easily instal to the intake track right after the airfilter with an anti tamper proof seal.

As for the OEM wheels there are clear advantages with certain combinations. I propose the following penalty:
-AP1 fronts/rear = 0lbs
-AP1 rear/rear = +50lbs of minimum weight
-AP2 front/rear =+75lbs of minimum weight
-AP2 rear/rear =+100lbs of minimum weight
*255 x 4 is max*

In regards to a wing- the S2k needs one. It doesn't have to be big or expensive. Just enough to alter the flow behind the car to get rid of the rear end lift at high speeds. Perhaps a cheaper solution such as a spoiler can be used instead.

 

What makes the car faster shouldn't matter (like wing). What's important is that the cars are fairly equal (so no wing for anyone, even if it's harder to drive or slower), and are safe. So even leaving them totally stock except for spec wheels/tires, BSK to equalize with AP2, and something to compensate for the 2.2 vs. 2.0, is all that's required. The only difficulty with a spec series today is that just about every current tracker has already modified their cars out of any simple specs, so a huge barrier.

 

I would love to participate and I think that the idea is great. The S2000 is a great platform to run. I cant think of many cars from the factory that are more track ready. I do think that the series would need to decide what the purpose was in relation to cost. If it wants to provide a cost containing race series then I think that the option for mods needs to go (other than those that promote safety/dependability). I would hate for the series to develop into one where winning is not only dependent on the driver but how much you can spend on trying to find out which mod combinations give you the edge. The initial buy in on S2000's is still fairly high+mods would probably exclude some people from participating. Also, would it be wise to attach this series to a sanctioning body like NASA and go door to door? I think it would be great. Just my two cents, im interested to see what others think.