spec class

[dakh]

Hi,

There are talks here and there about starting a 250 or 500cc class for cheap newer "beginner" bikes, but I can't find anything concrete.

Why is this not happening? Spec classes are the most popular in 4-wheel road racing. Just look at the grids that Spec Miata class enjoys, and it started just a couple years ago.

Ideally, let's say the spec is: 250cc Ninja. Stock engine. Spec tire. A limited list of things that can be modified, most of them spec too (shocks, springs, etc.). Wouldn't that be awsome?


Now I'm just a novice and I probably won't even get a license this year, just do track days on an R6. And if there's no spec class I won't be competitive in SS for quite some time. But hey, I do want to compete based on riding skill, with the wallet size and mechanical skills out of the equasion!

[whtnxt?]

Yeah, there's talk about the 250 Cup. Bone stock EX250's, minimum track prep required. Looks like fun, and a decent way to enter without braking the bank, paycheck, VISA, etc.
If it wasn't for my work schedule, I'd be out there on one in addition to my old Hawk (which is just as cheap, not as reliable though).

Dave :eek:

[gsxr1216988]

I think this would be way more fun on harley's

[dakh]

Are there cheap harleys? I'll race anything as long as it's cheap, suitable for racing and can be spec'ed. Curarachas in a tin can would work too.

[dakh]

Yeah, there's talk about the 250 Cup. Bone stock EX250's, minimum track prep required. Looks like fun, and a decent way to enter without braking the bank, paycheck, VISA, etc.
If it wasn't for my work schedule, I'd be out there on one in addition to my old Hawk (which is just as cheap, not as reliable though).

Dave :eek:

You're talking about NT650, right?


So, is there anything that can be done to get the class going? What happened with Spec Miata is that there was a club that started racing them, came up with rules and a list of mods that make them safe and race-worthy. Then it started to spread like a fire, and I hear there are 50+ car grids at Laguna Seca these days.

Are there any clubs out there that already got the rules down and have experience?

[dred]

i'm trying to imagine the state of the poor chasis on an ex250 hard on the brakes, both ends sliding! you'd be compressing a spring that's gonna try to unwind and flip you in retaliation. sounds like fun now that i think about it.

[Blew-Smoke]

Hey Dave - I think I read in the meeting minutes that if 5 or more 250 Ninjas are spotted loitering around the pit on a race day they will work a race into the schedule.

[dakh]

i'm trying to imagine the state of the poor chasis on an ex250 hard on the brakes, both ends sliding! you'd be compressing a spring that's gonna try to unwind and flip you in retaliation. sounds like fun now that i think about it.


Right. Just running stock bikes doesn't cut it. Well-known and spec'ed modifications are needed to make them track-worthy. Spec shock, spec spring, etc. Gotta be cheap enough but working well.

I'm surprised no manufacturers stepped in yet - it's such a good business idea. You test and race-prep an ex250, figure out the sensible package and start a class plus sell the bits to convert bikes.

Same deal with tire manufacturers. Who wants to sell a spec tire for a class that promises big grids? Why the hell aren't they pushing for it?

[whtnxt?]

Yeah, it's the old NT650. Bought from some guy in Oregon, no title, etc. Bought another with a title and put the two together for one (plus a 100+mph crash in turn 1 at PIR in 2004 helped make this a reality). Also have a 43 tooth rear sprocket on it, will be trying 44, 45, 46, 47, etc. 250 cup is a decent idea, I just wish my work would have me around long enough to prep a bike for it. :(

[jeff191]

If you are serious about racing a 250 Ninja you should contact Joel Crabtree (2nd VP and race director) at race.director@wmrra.com to find out the current status.

There were a few of the 250 ninjas on track during the first race weekend. I believe a couple were used by novices and I think one was raced in 125GP. I think the Bellevue Kawasaki folks are pushing to get this class off the ground....

According to the rulebook they can be raced in 125GP. Be aware that they will not be able to compete against a 125 GP bike. In fact, there might be some safety concerns as you will be on track with 125GP bikes and SVs doing 130mph while a 250 ninja tops out much slower than that.

I think it could be a good class...

Jeff
WMRRA Secretary
RS125R #191