Participated in my first Autox, And it was fun! Options

[Hym3n]

So I've spectated the local autocross several times in the past (they run events once a month), and it seems to be pretty fun. Just today I decided that I'd participate. So I wake up super early, get out there to register around 7:45am, crank up the psi, and I'm off. Well, not quite, I ran the 5th heat, and with 274 competitors, I didn't go until around 4pm, but it was well worth the wait.

I won't get into the details of my runs, but basically I realized that tires WITHOUT A BRAND NAME are not autocross tires. My next investment is going to likely be in another set of stock wheels of which I'll equip with Falken Azenis

Had a blast, met some cool people (as usual), and was a $25 well spent.

On a side note, if you ever want MUCHO attention from people, keep your numbers on after the event. I was feeling "better than everyone" since I'd just finished racing (although I didn't do all that well due to crap tires), so I decided to keep mine on as I went for a drive from 5pm-9pm (I love to drive, btw). I've never gotten so many confused "wtf?"-style looks from people in my life. I scared the crap out of a ZX3 that tried to race me. He sat at the light and revved and revved, but never looked at my car, I take off (super hard start) and we're even through first, but I pull ahead just barely.. just enough for him to see the tape/number. He hits the brakes immediately, and stays within a carlength of me for the remaining drive, even when I slowed down.



-Brian

[ConeTrouble]

Glad you had a good time at the aut0cross. It is heavily addicting.

Looking at your profile, it didn't seem as though you had any mods to your car. If that is still the case, and you want to get a dedicated set of tires, you might want to consider race rubber and a stock class.

The ST is actually a VERY good car for G-Stock. Depending on who you talk to, it is even better that the GT on an autocross course. In stock trim, it is lighter than the GT by a couple hundred pounds. Also, it has different gearing that is better suited for the type of driving you typically find at an event. The ST has several national championships under its belt (as does the GT).

If you are planning to stay stock, I would recommend that you get a set of GT shocks for the front, and a set of GT convertible shocks for the rear. That combination right there is what has won at nationals in the past. The GT doesn't quite have the same option... they are a bit heavier and could do with the stiffer valving from a Koni. I don't think the ST needs it though.

If you want to take a look at a really great writeup on what you can do to a ST, take a look at Per's ST

There are a few things that you can do for not much money at all that will hugely improve your car for autocross. PM me or post up if you are interested, and I will be glad to help.