To HPDE or to not HPDE....?

S54dan · 09-28-2010, 11:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hairy

NO!!! Don't do it!!!

I did one 25 years ago... and now I can't stop. It's like a drug, once you become a user, you're hooked for life.

If you just walk away now, you'll have tens of thousands more dollars during your lifetime to spend on whisky and hookers.

Get your priorities straight man!

This is true though. Once you do one event.. you're hooked.

There is track insurance, but your insurance company should cover one crash at an HPDE since it is NOT a timed event and because it is a "school."

DriveHard · 09-28-2010, 08:25 PM

cool..

Painters tape for car numbers on side of door. / tape over headlights, some tracks have rules

i dont know if they have loaner helmets??? you may want to check on that

ill have tools / compressor / gauges / zip ties etc etc ..

bring a quart of oil just in case.

gotta go.. well touch base before sunday.. p.s weather looks good no rain but a little cool..

N55_BBM · 09-29-2010, 06:42 PM

So I'm all set for my first HPDE on Sunday, pretty excited

!!

I'm going to take advantage of all the great people that have subscribed to this thread and ask: how much pressure should I apply to my tires? I'm riding on stock 264 wheels and stock RFTs (Dunlop).

Also, what's the stance on traction control? DTC on or everything turned off?

Lastly, can I get race fuel at the track or should I just fuel with the same old 93 octane crap that we get labeled as "super premium"?

S54dan · 09-30-2010, 09:31 AM

I'd run with traction control on for the first few DE's so you can get a feel of what the car can do with it on. Plus, once you get the track down and pick up speed, you'll see where DTC starts to actually slow you down.. once you reach this point, then try a run with it off. If you're comfortable with it, keep it off!

Most tracks have race fuel at the track. I just run with 93 octane as there's not much point into spending $9/gal on race fuel unless you're in a timed event.

N55_BBM · 09-30-2010, 01:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dan@UnitedBMW

Most tracks have race fuel at the track. I just run with 93 octane as there's not much point into spending $9/gal on race fuel unless you're in a timed event.

Holy mother of god is it THAT expensive

?

I just wanted to try it out for a little bit because I've never used race fuel before in my life. Can you notice the difference when driving? I'd guess so right?

Also, what's the octane rating on race fuel btw?

TheRedBaroness · 09-30-2010, 07:16 PM

I say, definitely go for it! There is NOTHING in the world like a good track day. When I put on my helmet it is akin to stepping on a yoga mat. Well, even you guys out there get the idea.

I have tracked NHMS, Monticello, and Mont Tremblant in a 2007 328xi. I just bought a 2011 135i and cannot wait to get her on the track next Spring!

The skills learned on the track do transfer to real life, in driving situations and in all other aspects. The instructors are amazing and the tracking community contains some of the finest folks I have met.

As far as insurance goes, my insurance company has a clause that excludes any activity at the track, so I purchase supplemental insurance for the events. Previous responders have provided links to a company or two that provide this insurance.

My local chapter (Boston) requires advanced driving skills prior to allowing you on the track. I found the course very worthwhile.

You will have the time of your life, and you WILL get hooked! You will be now be a member of an elite society of trackers, and have the stories and experience to share with others, but be warned, if they aren't trackers, they will have no idea of the joy your are speaking.

Oh, the blue painter's tape is to cover your headlights or sensitive body parts to avoid marble damage.

If ever you see a 2011 135i tooling around with a MA plate = TRACKN, flag me down to say hi and we can swap tracking stories!

pixelblue · 09-30-2010, 07:59 PM

^ that had to be the best first time post ever! I already like her

TheRedBaroness · 10-01-2010, 09:10 AM

Aw sucks, I like me too! I have a LOT to say about tracking. It is the best hobby a girl can have!

I agree with the poster that mentioned that you could always spend the money on whiskey and hookers, but in my case that would be pedicures and facials. They have been taking a back seat to tracking. Shows where my priorities are!

pixelblue · 10-01-2010, 09:54 AM

well there is just something about a girl with hot shoes. look me up if you are ever in the washington dc area.

N55_BBM · 10-01-2010, 12:16 PM

hahahaha it cracks me up how everyone here is probably fantasizing about you being something like those hot chicks in fast and the furious

N55_BBM · 10-01-2010, 12:19 PM

Edit: duplicate post

pixelblue · 10-01-2010, 12:48 PM

well since you posted twice that tells me you were describing yourself

N55_BBM · 10-01-2010, 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pixelblue

well since you posted twice that tells me you were describing yourself

woops browser gave me an error and i thought it hadn't gotten posted

TheRedBaroness · 10-01-2010, 04:11 PM

Hot shoes and knows just how to 'wear' them...I have heard (and lived) it all!

Funny thing is that the dudes I meet at the track look nothing like Vin Diesel. We all have our fantasies, don't we?

I have been known to take off to points unknown with no agenda, just me and my second true love (well, my 2007 328xi is still close at heart you know). Last trip was through VT 100 talk to tip -- an amazing sendoff for my 2007 328xi.

Oh, the track...now you've got me daydreaming...

GaryS · 10-01-2010, 05:05 PM

Even a 6MT.

pixelblue · 10-01-2010, 05:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LauraC

Oh, the track...now you've got me daydreaming...

no need to daydream just make a trip down here to my backyard for next spring and we'll go racing at the summit point raceway

TheRedBaroness · 10-01-2010, 05:50 PM

Well, it's not as if the M package doesn't have me drooling. Tell me more about the Summit Point Raceway event?

For next year, I am planning a repeat to Monticello and Mont Tremblant is a MUST. That event is outstanding and I give major kudos to the Boston Chapter (my home chapter) for organization.

pixelblue · 10-01-2010, 06:55 PM

was planning on coming up to monticello for next year. what a beautiful track! don't know much about Mont Tremblant. summit point has three tracks and there are monthly events there. you can check out some of my videos here http://www.youtube.com/user/koriblue. planning on any mods to your ride?

TheRedBaroness · 10-02-2010, 05:48 AM

You should go to Monticello, the track is spectacular, and the event is amazing. I went with my local chapter, but other chapters track there throughout the year. It is an awesome experience. Mont Tremblant is my favorite track of all, it flows effortlessly and has a lot of runoff.

The 135i is new to me, after driving a 328xi for > 3 years. The HP jump coupled with driving rear wheel vs. all wheel is going to take some driver modifications. This little car is amazing as she sits, so I am planning no mods. I never reached the full potential of the 328xi, so have some growing to do for the 135i. I think car naming is in order, my fingers prefer letter vs. number keys. I need to start a 'cool car names' post.

N55_BBM · 10-02-2010, 10:04 AM

So how does this work...

Do I need (or should I) affiliate myself to a specific club, like BMW CCA or EMRA and just to their track events? Do I need a license, and how do I get it?

Because each club/chapter only has like 2-4 events every year.. how many times do you guys go to the track per year?

DriveHard · 10-02-2010, 02:58 PM

with Emra, after your first istructor session ( which will be tomorrow) he will sign you off and then you can do time trials without instructor from then on. yes, hey give you a time trial lic. with the other clubs they may except EMRAS lic, but you have to check.

you can see all the time trial events and hpde's on the www.Motorsportreg.com web site. just search within 100 miles or so.

see you tomorrow..

TheRedBaroness · 10-04-2010, 10:05 AM

I generally track 4-5 weekends a year, Spring - Fall.

My chapter requires Advanced Driving Safety, then you are good to go and progress through the run groups as your skills progress. All of my tracking has been through chapters in the NE (three different ones) and I am a member of only one (Boston).

It all depends on what you want out of the experience. I prefer track driving over time trials. My focus is on improving my driving ability and pushing myself and my car to the next level. I will never get my car to 100% of her abilities, but I do constantly raise the bar for myself. Remember, it is about YOU, and what YOU want.

09-28-2010, 08:25 PM	#24
DriveHard Colonel 115 Rep 1,998 Posts Drives: X1 and R58 JCW Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Long Island iTrader: (0)	cool.. Painters tape for car numbers on side of door. / tape over headlights, some tracks have rules i dont know if they have loaner helmets??? you may want to check on that ill have tools / compressor / gauges / zip ties etc etc .. bring a quart of oil just in case. gotta go.. well touch base before sunday.. p.s weather looks good no rain but a little cool.. __________________ X1, R58 JCW, M2 in my future if planets align
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09-29-2010, 06:42 PM	#25
N55_BBM Major 96 Rep 1,038 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Coupe Join Date: May 2010 Location: PA iTrader: (1)	So I'm all set for my first HPDE on Sunday, pretty excited !! I'm going to take advantage of all the great people that have subscribed to this thread and ask: how much pressure should I apply to my tires? I'm riding on stock 264 wheels and stock RFTs (Dunlop). Also, what's the stance on traction control? DTC on or everything turned off? Lastly, can I get race fuel at the track or should I just fuel with the same old 93 octane crap that we get labeled as "super premium"? Last edited by N55_BBM; 09-30-2010 at 08:10 AM..
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09-30-2010, 09:31 AM	#26
S54dan I no longer work for United BMW! 308 Rep 3,330 Posts Drives: E46 M3, E46 330i ZHP, E36 325i Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (36) Garage List 1994 BMW 325i [8.50] 2005 M3 [9.66] 2005 325i [8.00] 2003 330i ZHP [9.00]	I'd run with traction control on for the first few DE's so you can get a feel of what the car can do with it on. Plus, once you get the track down and pick up speed, you'll see where DTC starts to actually slow you down.. once you reach this point, then try a run with it off. If you're comfortable with it, keep it off! Most tracks have race fuel at the track. I just run with 93 octane as there's not much point into spending $9/gal on race fuel unless you're in a timed event. __________________ BMW CCA, PCA, & CHIN Motorsports Instructor.
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09-30-2010, 07:16 PM	#28
TheRedBaroness Private 2 Rep 52 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: MA iTrader: (0)	I say, definitely go for it! There is NOTHING in the world like a good track day. When I put on my helmet it is akin to stepping on a yoga mat. Well, even you guys out there get the idea. I have tracked NHMS, Monticello, and Mont Tremblant in a 2007 328xi. I just bought a 2011 135i and cannot wait to get her on the track next Spring! The skills learned on the track do transfer to real life, in driving situations and in all other aspects. The instructors are amazing and the tracking community contains some of the finest folks I have met. As far as insurance goes, my insurance company has a clause that excludes any activity at the track, so I purchase supplemental insurance for the events. Previous responders have provided links to a company or two that provide this insurance. My local chapter (Boston) requires advanced driving skills prior to allowing you on the track. I found the course very worthwhile. You will have the time of your life, and you WILL get hooked! You will be now be a member of an elite society of trackers, and have the stories and experience to share with others, but be warned, if they aren't trackers, they will have no idea of the joy your are speaking. Oh, the blue painter's tape is to cover your headlights or sensitive body parts to avoid marble damage. If ever you see a 2011 135i tooling around with a MA plate = TRACKN, flag me down to say hi and we can swap tracking stories!
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09-30-2010, 07:59 PM	#29
pixelblue Colonel 140 Rep 2,234 Posts Drives: the silver bullet Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: northern virginia iTrader: (2) Garage List 2010 135i [8.90]	^ that had to be the best first time post ever! I already like her __________________ "I would quote everything pixelblue said, but you've already read it. Take it from someone who's put the 1 through its paces"
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10-01-2010, 09:10 AM	#30
TheRedBaroness Private 2 Rep 52 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: MA iTrader: (0)	Aw sucks, I like me too! I have a LOT to say about tracking. It is the best hobby a girl can have! I agree with the poster that mentioned that you could always spend the money on whiskey and hookers, but in my case that would be pedicures and facials. They have been taking a back seat to tracking. Shows where my priorities are! __________________ Laura 2011 135i, 6-Speed 2007 328xi, 6-Speed (Retired)
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10-01-2010, 09:54 AM	#31
pixelblue Colonel 140 Rep 2,234 Posts Drives: the silver bullet Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: northern virginia iTrader: (2) Garage List 2010 135i [8.90]	well there is just something about a girl with hot shoes. look me up if you are ever in the washington dc area. __________________ "I would quote everything pixelblue said, but you've already read it. Take it from someone who's put the 1 through its paces"
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-01-2010, 12:16 PM	#32
N55_BBM Major 96 Rep 1,038 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Coupe Join Date: May 2010 Location: PA iTrader: (1)	hahahaha it cracks me up how everyone here is probably fantasizing about you being something like those hot chicks in fast and the furious
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10-01-2010, 12:19 PM	#33
N55_BBM Major 96 Rep 1,038 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Coupe Join Date: May 2010 Location: PA iTrader: (1)	Edit: duplicate post Last edited by N55_BBM; 10-01-2010 at 12:52 PM..
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10-01-2010, 12:48 PM	#34
pixelblue Colonel 140 Rep 2,234 Posts Drives: the silver bullet Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: northern virginia iTrader: (2) Garage List 2010 135i [8.90]	well since you posted twice that tells me you were describing yourself
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10-01-2010, 04:11 PM	#36
TheRedBaroness Private 2 Rep 52 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: MA iTrader: (0)	Hot shoes and knows just how to 'wear' them...I have heard (and lived) it all! Funny thing is that the dudes I meet at the track look nothing like Vin Diesel. We all have our fantasies, don't we? I have been known to take off to points unknown with no agenda, just me and my second true love (well, my 2007 328xi is still close at heart you know). Last trip was through VT 100 talk to tip -- an amazing sendoff for my 2007 328xi. Oh, the track...now you've got me daydreaming... __________________ Laura 2011 135i, 6-Speed 2007 328xi, 6-Speed (Retired)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-01-2010, 05:05 PM	#37
GaryS Colonel 37 Rep 2,084 Posts Drives: 2009 135i 6MT Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Maryland iTrader: (0) Garage List 2009 135i [6.50]	Even a 6MT.
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10-01-2010, 05:50 PM	#39
TheRedBaroness Private 2 Rep 52 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: MA iTrader: (0)	Well, it's not as if the M package doesn't have me drooling. Tell me more about the Summit Point Raceway event? For next year, I am planning a repeat to Monticello and Mont Tremblant is a MUST. That event is outstanding and I give major kudos to the Boston Chapter (my home chapter) for organization. __________________ Laura 2011 135i, 6-Speed 2007 328xi, 6-Speed (Retired)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-01-2010, 06:55 PM	#40
pixelblue Colonel 140 Rep 2,234 Posts Drives: the silver bullet Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: northern virginia iTrader: (2) Garage List 2010 135i [8.90]	was planning on coming up to monticello for next year. what a beautiful track! don't know much about Mont Tremblant. summit point has three tracks and there are monthly events there. you can check out some of my videos here http://www.youtube.com/user/koriblue. planning on any mods to your ride? __________________ "I would quote everything pixelblue said, but you've already read it. Take it from someone who's put the 1 through its paces"
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-02-2010, 05:48 AM	#41
TheRedBaroness Private 2 Rep 52 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: MA iTrader: (0)	You should go to Monticello, the track is spectacular, and the event is amazing. I went with my local chapter, but other chapters track there throughout the year. It is an awesome experience. Mont Tremblant is my favorite track of all, it flows effortlessly and has a lot of runoff. The 135i is new to me, after driving a 328xi for > 3 years. The HP jump coupled with driving rear wheel vs. all wheel is going to take some driver modifications. This little car is amazing as she sits, so I am planning no mods. I never reached the full potential of the 328xi, so have some growing to do for the 135i. I think car naming is in order, my fingers prefer letter vs. number keys. I need to start a 'cool car names' post. __________________ Laura 2011 135i, 6-Speed 2007 328xi, 6-Speed (Retired)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-02-2010, 10:04 AM	#42
N55_BBM Major 96 Rep 1,038 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Coupe Join Date: May 2010 Location: PA iTrader: (1)	So how does this work... Do I need (or should I) affiliate myself to a specific club, like BMW CCA or EMRA and just to their track events? Do I need a license, and how do I get it? Because each club/chapter only has like 2-4 events every year.. how many times do you guys go to the track per year?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-02-2010, 02:58 PM	#43
DriveHard Colonel 115 Rep 1,998 Posts Drives: X1 and R58 JCW Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Long Island iTrader: (0)	with Emra, after your first istructor session ( which will be tomorrow) he will sign you off and then you can do time trials without instructor from then on. yes, hey give you a time trial lic. with the other clubs they may except EMRAS lic, but you have to check. you can see all the time trial events and hpde's on the www.Motorsportreg.com web site. just search within 100 miles or so. see you tomorrow.. __________________ X1, R58 JCW, M2 in my future if planets align
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10-04-2010, 10:05 AM	#44
TheRedBaroness Private 2 Rep 52 Posts Drives: 2011 135i Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: MA iTrader: (0)	I generally track 4-5 weekends a year, Spring - Fall. My chapter requires Advanced Driving Safety, then you are good to go and progress through the run groups as your skills progress. All of my tracking has been through chapters in the NE (three different ones) and I am a member of only one (Boston). It all depends on what you want out of the experience. I prefer track driving over time trials. My focus is on improving my driving ability and pushing myself and my car to the next level. I will never get my car to 100% of her abilities, but I do constantly raise the bar for myself. Remember, it is about YOU, and what YOU want. __________________ Laura 2011 135i, 6-Speed 2007 328xi, 6-Speed (Retired)
	Appreciate 0 Quote