DanielZan

Hello all,

I will be running my first track event ever at Thunderhill Raceway. Car is AP1 03 stock, but I will be getting rims and plan to run a 245/255 setup. From what I read, RS4 tires are a good tire and consistent. I also have recently swapped brake pads and rotors (stock). Any other recommendations that you have for a novice guy?

114_ap2

Brake fluid and have fun.

s2000ellier

Bring lots of water and sunblock

Chibo

If you find yourself blowing consecutive corners you're driving over your head, dial it back to then point that you can think about what you're doing. Don't be concerned about braking late and hard, think about making minimal, smooth steering input and being consistent.

If you make a mistake don't try to make the time up on the same lap, concentrate on hitting your marks again.

Have fun, find a good guy in a lower powered car like a Spec Miata or something to follow and watch his lines.

DanielZan

Im pretty good with theoretical lines (Gran turismo vet) but not with real application on track. Do you guys think 245/255 or 255/255 would make a big diff? Mostly concerned about not spinning.

114_ap2

Stick with a staggered setup if your scared to spin. Maybe a 235/255

freq

Grab an instructor for a couple of sessions. Preferably an instructor who owns an S2000 if you can find one.

lookstoomuch

RS4's are very good and last a while. I'd probably forego getting rims and run in a stock stagger...especially if spinning is a concern. Make sure your alignment is in a good spot as well.

As others have said, find an instructor, water, and don't overdrive.

bdo

Answer without even reading past the thread title: Yes.
After reading your post: There is no need to go beyond stock tire sizes for your first track day. If you must, go with 235/255. Do not go to a square setup until you are more experienced. Maybe get some better brake pads that won't fade as much. You really, seriously, don't need to do much to the car for your first few track days. All the other advice in this thread is spot on also. Have fun!!!

DanielB

Bring a good quality tire pressure gauge and aim for mid to upper 30s pressure hot. If you want a specific target, aim for 36 psi. I wouldn't obsess over pressures - just make sure they are not too low or too high as that would begin to affect handling.

The AP1 stock suspension will be more forgiving with a staggered setup. If you can, find a used set of wheels from an AP2 and go with 225/255. If you later decide to change front width, you can sell the wheels for about what you paid for them.

As others said, focus on your driving, not the car, and have fun!