At the end of the day you will be able to find out who won the various classes, and possibly even win a trophy yourself. The main goal is to have fun and hopefully learn a thing or two about car control. No matter what the event’s result sheet states, don’t be disappointed. It can take a lot of experience to become a fast driver. Again, just concentrate on learning as much as you can.
Many people who attend autocross events don’t understand how much work, preparation, and equipment is needed to host a successful autocross event.
A few basic things to bring to the autocross event:
- Your driver’s license
- Money for the entrance fee and fun runs
- A helmet that meets the clubs requirements
- Water, and lots of it
- Lunch
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat / cap
- Folding chair
- Tire pressure gauge
- White shoe polish
- Paper and a pen
- Bug spray
As you will learn, autocrosses can range from simply a day and a time to hang out with friends to running national events that are very, very competitive. The amounts of money people spend preparing their cars also ranges significantly. At most events, you will see some very well-prepared cars that use special autocross tires (the tires have a softer rubber compound that heats up very quickly, and really sticks to the pavement) to people simply using their ordinary daily commuter street tires.
I know first-hand that it can be extremely tempting to go out and buy some of these go-fast parts, but don’t spend money your money now! Do a few more autocross events with your car as-is and get as much seat time as possible.
If you really want to do something to upgrade your car, go out and buy some better street tires after the ones you currently have on your car are worn out. If you intend to participate in high performance driving events in the near future, consider buying an inexpensive extra set of rims for these tires. The best thing you can do to decrease your lap times is to focus on learning as much as you possibly can about race driving techniques.
Summary of Primary Costs:
Autocrossing is a great way for the beginner or experienced driver to learn how to make more speed, develop car control, and learn many of the mental aspects of racing. Best of all, it is pretty darn cheap.
- Entry fee: The average entry fee is between $20 and $30. Typically after the timed runs, clubs have fun runs that cost an additional $1 to $2 per run.
- Tire wear: It is a bit difficult to provide you a figure for tire wear. A lot depends on how you drive the car, the tires you have on the vehicle, etc. Of course you will see a decrease in tire life, but overall autocrossing is not very hard on tires.
- Helmet: If possible, borrow one from the club or someone you know. If you decide to purchase a helmet, a motorcycle helmet can be purchased for about $180.
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