Wednesday, March 9, 2016

F100 NorCal 2016 Information Reference

In order to help keep racers informed about what is going on with F100 NorCal in 2016, F100 has put together this post as a reference. 

Please do not get overwhelmed by the amount of information available on this page. As F100 has matured we have found it necessary to provide very thorough explanations to our racers to ensure that our racing is as fast, fun and competitive as possible. If you have been racing with F100 for some time there is a good chance you already know all of this information, but if you are new to F100 please have a look below to see if any of this information is useful for you.


Please see below for a list of highlights and links to important information for the 2016 season:



- RAIN - If there is a chance of rain, please keep an eye on the Blue Max Kart Club Facebook page for updates:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/116282075073957/

- F100 Class Name Explanation - Pick the F100 class that is right for you!

http://fast100karting.blogspot.com/2015/02/need-help-deciding-which-f100-class-is.html

- KT100 with HPV3 or RLV3 pipe is legal for use in the FK1 Masters class at 340 lbs

- Important Note About All Classes

All engine packages and exhaust pipes listed under a class are legal for use in that class regardless of whether or not you are the only one with that specific combination on race day. Do not feel the need to change your exhaust pipe or engine package on race day because you are the only one with that specific package. The rules are written in a way so that everything listed as legal under a class is equalized. Race what you have, especially in the FC1, FJ2 and FK2 classes. For example, please do not feel that you need to change from a 4 pipe to a 3 pipe if you can't make the 3 pipe minimum weight just because no one else in the class has a 4 pipe. Run what you have and what works best for you - so long as it's listed in the rules it is legal for you to use and performance is equal on track.

- F100 Store - Purchase Maxxis SLR tires, PRD and Leopard Exhaust Restrictors, F100 T-Shirts, F100 Visor Strips and F100 Custom Number Panels

https://squareup.com/market/f100store

- F100 NorCal tire rule clarification

Racers in level 2 classes are allowed to run any tire that appears on the approved tire list in the F100 NorCal Rule Supplement. Racers in Level 1 classes are allowed to run NEW OR USED Maxxis SLR or MG Red tires, as well as USED Bridgestone YLC, Evinco Blue ("H"), Vega FH ("Blue") or Hoosier R60 tires. All tire size rules are listed in the class structure.

Maxxis SLR tires are available from Goldspeed as well as select local F100 supporting shops. To order your tires directly from Goldspeed, please see the following link. Shipping charges and additional fees may apply:


- F100 Junior Tire Size Rule

For the FJ1 class, 7.10 rear tires are the only size allowed. For the FJ2 class, 7.10 AND 6.0 rear tires are allowed.

- F100 Custom Number Panels

http://pistonbones.com/product/f100-go-kart-plates/

- Racing in Multiple F100 Classes on Race Day

This is only allowed for some classes. A good rule of thumb is that if the two classes use the same engine then you can't race in both. This is done to maintain the integrity of the license ladder system. F100 does not want Level 1 racers winning everything in Level 2 classes or Level 2 racers getting discouraged in Level 1 classes. IF the two classes run different engines, such as FK125 and FK1, then you can race in those two classes. The fee for a second class entry is half the normal price. ALSO, racers cannot race in a Level 2 class and a Level 1 class on the same race day.

- F100 NorCal Class Structure
http://www.f100karters.com/rules-2


- Minor Racer Insurance
F100 would also like to remind parents to please bring proper documents for their minor racer, including proof of age to the first race of the season that the minor racer participates in.

- F100 NorCal Race Day Schedule and Pre-Entry

The complete race day schedule will be posted the morning of the race but in general for all F100 NorCal events gates open at 6am, drivers meeting is at 8:45am and practice begins at 9am. There is no pre-entry option available so racers are encouraged to show up early on race day in order to register for their F100 NorCal class of choice.

- Spec Pump Gas

For racers choosing to utilize the Spec Pump Gas option, please purchase your fuel the morning of the race from the appropriate spec gas station for the Blue Max track:

Blue Max – Chevron station at 1935 Anderson Road, Davis, CA 95616


- Meaning of racing flags:
http://fast100karting.blogspot.com/2016/03/lets-discuss-racing-flags.html


If you have any questions please email F100 at formula100kartingseries@gmail.com.

Monday, March 7, 2016

The 2016 F100 SoCal Season is HERE! F100 SoCal Round #1 is SUNDAY, MARCH 20th at Grange Motor Circuit

The 2016 F100 season is upon us! On SUNDAY, MARCH 20th at Grange Motor Circuit in Apple Valley, CA, F100 takes to the track for the 1st round of the 2016 season! F100 is incredibly excited to start the 2016 season and we look forward to another great day and a great season of racing! 

Camping is allowed and the track will be open on Saturday, March 19th for open practice. Please contact Grange directly for more information, (760) 963-1360. Please see the link below for directions:



Pre-entry is NOW OPEN. Pre-entry closes THURSDAY, MARCH 17th at 11:59pm. PLEASE NOTE that in order to take advantage of the special entry and tire package available through pre-entry member racers will need to pre-enter and select this package prior to SUNDAY, MARCH 13th at 11:59pm. This special tire and entry package will not be available after this date, and this package is only available to 2016 F100 Members. Please see the following link to pre-enter:



F100 2016 Memberships are now available! If you wish to become an F100 member and take advantage of all the benefits that membership provides, including number priority, inclusion in the season points championship, and race day entry fee discounts, please purchase your membership by visiting the following link:



F100 SoCal 2016 Round #1 will be the first race for the new F100 spec tire for Level 1 classes, the Maxxis SLR. Racers in the FC1, FJ1, FK1, FK1 Masters, FJ125, FK125 and FK125 Masters classes will be required to use the Maxxis SLR at this event and all F100 SoCal events during the 2016 season. Racers in Level 2 classes may continue to utilize a large variety of approved tires. Please see section 5a of the F100 SoCal 2016 Rule Supplement for a list of Approved Tires for Level 2 Classes.

Along with the availability of a discounted entry fee and tire package available only to pre-registered racers at all F100 SoCal events in 2016, Maxxis SLR tires are also available from F100 directly, Goldspeed as well as select local F100 supporting shops. To order your tires directly from Goldspeed, please see the following link. Shipping charges and additional fees may apply:




Please see the Fast 100 Karting Blog for an important tech update and reminder. This tech update includes information about new insurance requirements regarding helmets (Snell 2005 helmets are allowed through 2017; DOT are helmets no longer allowed):
F100 has released a class name explanation to help alleviate possible confusion. Please see the following link:



Also, please see the Fast 100 Karting Blog for a reference page for all the recent F100 SoCal 2016 announcements:



The race day schedule is now available. Please see the following link:



A reminder that the only way to contact F100 is via email. If you have questions, comments or concerns please send us an email, formula100kartingseries@gmail.com.

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Let's Discuss: Racing Flags

With the first race of the F100, F206 and SKC season approaching, we thought it would be a good idea to have a quick refresher on the meaning of the most commonly used racing flags at kart racing events. Please see below for flag meanings:
Meaning of Each Flag*
flag-greenA. GREEN FLAG (Solid Green)
A race is under way the instant the green flag is displayed. This flag shall normally be in possession of the Starter only, and shall not ordinarily be displayed at the flag stations around the course. When displayed, the green flag indicates that the course is clear.
flag-yellowB. YELLOW FLAG (Solid Yellow)
WAVED — Take care, Danger, Slow Down, NO PASSING FROM THE FLAG until past emergency area.
WAVED OR STANDING AT ALL STATIONS — Great Danger, Slow Down, be prepared to stop — NO PASSING. Re-grid single file in current order for restart.
NOTE: A driver may encounter several flags before reaching the emergency area. The requirements are still the same “SLOW DOWN, NO PASSING.”
flag-blue-stripedC. BLUE FLAG (Blue with Diagonal Yellow Stripe)
Another competitor is following you very closely or is trying to overtake you. This flag may be displayed standing or waving, depending upon the speed with which you are being overtaken.
flag-whiteD. WHITE FLAG (Solid White)
Caution – you are approaching a slow moving race car (e.g., with mechanical trouble), ambulance, or other emergency vehicle on the racing surface. Take care. This flag shall be shown standing for two (2) flag stations prior to the vehicle. A standing white flag shall also be displayed during the first lap of a practice or qualifying session to indicate the location of the flagging stations.
flag-blackE. BLACK FLAG (Solid Black)
CLOSED BLACK FLAG (Furled) Pointed or shaken at an individual car from the Starter’s stand (optionally, accompanied by a number board indicating the car number): WARNING! You have been observed driving in an unsafe and/or improper manner. If the action continues, you shall be given an OPEN BLACK FLAG.
OPEN BLACK FLAG – Displayed from the Starter’s stand: Proceed directly to the pits and the location designated by the Chief Steward or event Supplementary Regulations for consultation with Officials. DO NOT TAKE ANOTHER LAP.
NOTE: THE BLACK FLAG CAN ONLY BE DISPLAYED BY ORDER OF THE CHIEF STEWARD AS RELAYED THROUGH RACE CONTROL.
flag-checkeredF. CHECKERED FLAG (Black and White Checks)
You have finished the race (or practice/qualifying session). Continue cautiously to the pits.
flag-redG. RED (Solid Red)
Displayed at each station and on the Starter’s stand – EXTREME DANGER – THE SESSION HAS BEEN STOPPED. Come to an immediate, controlled stop at the side of the race track (indicated by an official at that location or as specified in the event Supplementary Regulations). When released by an Official, proceed cautiously to the pits.

* Almost everything listed here is taken directly from the SCCA Rulebook, specifically SCCA Rule 6.11.2. The SCCA Rulebook, while not utilized for kart racing, provides excellent definitions for these flags applicable to all forms of motorsports.

Let's Discuss: Onboard Cameras

With F100 implementing video review for the 2016 F100 SoCal season, Level 1 racers are encouraged to utilize onboard cameras during all heats and main events. For some, the wide range of action sports cameras by Go Pro will be used to capture on board footage, but for those looking to save some money or who just want something different there are alternatives.

DISCLAIMER: F100 does not profit in any way from the cameras listed. F100 does not sell the cameras listed. F100 does not mandate or even encourage the use of the cameras listed. The cameras listed are examples of cameras on the market that may be useful for F100 racers. There are many other cameras as well that are not listed in this discussion and racers should take care to thoroughly research their options before making a purchase. The cameras listed are used by an F100 racer on his personal kart.

Now that the disclaimer is out of the way we can discuss two cameras that may be useful for F100 racers. For the front of the kart the SJCam SJ4000 is a great Go Pro like camera. It will attach to front of the kart, either on the fairing or otherwise, using mounts similar to a Go Pro. On board video quality is good, but maybe not as crisp as a top-of-the-line Go Pro. Still, at only around $80 on Amazon for the camera and a ton of mounts, the SJCam SJ4000 is a good option. At only around $80 if you happen to lose your SJ4000 at the track it won't hurt as much as if you lost your Go Pro. Check out the on-board video below shot with the SJCam SJ4000:

Thursday, February 25, 2016

F100 SoCal 2016 Information Reference

In order to help keep racers informed about what is going on with F100 in 2016, F100 has put together this post as a reference. 

Please do not get overwhelmed by the amount of information available on this page. As F100 has matured we have found it necessary to provide very thorough explanations to our racers to ensure that our racing is as fast, fun and competitive as possible. If you have been racing with F100 for some time there is a good chance you already know all of this information, but if you are new to F100 please have a look below to see if any of this information is useful for you.


Please see below for a list of highlights and links to important information for the 2016 season:


- Important Tech and Safety Announcements


http://fast100karting.blogspot.com/2016/02/f100-2016-important-tech-and-safety.html


- New spec tire for Level 1 classes; Maxxis SLR

http://fast100karting.blogspot.com/2016/02/f100-socal-announces-maxxis-slr-as-new.html

- F100 Class Name Explanation - Pick the F100 class that is right for you!

http://fast100karting.blogspot.com/2015/02/need-help-deciding-which-f100-class-is.html

- Important Note About All Classes

All engine packages and exhaust pipes listed under a class are legal for use in that class regardless of whether or not you are the only one with that specific combination on race day. Do not feel the need to change your exhaust pipe or engine package on race day because you are the only one with that specific package. The rules are written in a way so that everything listed as legal under a class is equalized. Race what you have, especially in the FC1, FJ2 and FK2 classes. For example, please do not feel that you need to change from a 4 pipe to a 3 pipe if you can't make the 3 pipe minimum weight just because no one else in the class has a 4 pipe. Run what you have and what works best for you - so long as it's listed in the rules it is legal for you to use and performance is equal on track.

- F100 Junior Tire Size Rule

For the FJ1 class, 7.10 rear tires are the only size allowed. For the FJ2 class, 7.10 AND 6.0 rear tires are allowed.

- Racing in Multiple Classes on Race Day

This is only allowed for some classes. A good rule of thumb is that if the two classes use the same engine then you can't race in both. This is done to maintain the integrity of the license ladder system. F100 does not want Level 1 racers winning everything in Level 2 classes or Level 2 racers getting discouraged in Level 1 classes. IF the two classes run different engines, such as FK125 and FK1, then you can race in those two classes. The fee for a second class entry is half the normal price. ALSO, racers cannot race in a Level 2 class and a Level 1 class on the same race day.

- F100 SoCal Rule Supplement changes for 2016

http://fast100karting.blogspot.com/2016/01/f100-releases-2016-f100-socal-rule.html


- F100 SoCal Class Structure Changes for 2016


- Exhaust Restrictors for Leopard and PRD Engines (FJ2, FK2, FJ125 classes)
Exhaust restrictors for the Leopard and PRD engines are required for use in the FJ2, FK2 and FJ125 classes. Exhaust restrictors are not required in the FK125 and FK125 Masters classes. Restrictors are available for sale on race day as well as through the F100 store: https://squareup.com/market/f100store


- Leopard and PRD Gearing for FK2, FJ2 and FJ125 Class

F100 SoCal 2016 Important Tech and Safety Reminders

Here are a few important reminders for the 2016 season:

1) Driver's age ranges for classes are now as follows; Cadet is 8 to 12, Junior is 12 to 15, Senior is 15+, and Masters is 30+ or drivers over 200 lbs.*(PLEASE SEE NOTE BELOW)
2) 
Driver's age is determined by the driver's actual age on December 31st, 2016.*
3) Double nutting weight/ballast bolts is legal. Safety wire and one single locknut is also allowed. PLEASE SEE BELOW for more information on ballast.
4) Helmet mounted cameras are NOT ALLOWED in 2016 for safety reasons (our insurance does not allow it). Please mount your on-board camera somewhere on your kart, such as the front fairing.

5) PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION REGARDING RACING HELMETS: https://nkaonline.com/2016-nka-approved-helmet-update-and-new-certification-process/

NOTE* This age rule means that if the driver turns 13 in 2016 they are too old to race in any FC class. If a driver turns 16 in 2016 they are too old to race in any FJ class. If a driver turns 30 in 2016 they are eligible to race in the Masters class. Please note, that F100 has some flexibility depending on the circumstances and situation, but these are general rules that will apply in most situations. For those wishing to move up or stay in a class waivers are possible but not guaranteed. Please contact F100 for more information.



F100 would like to remind racers of the requirements for mounting weight/ballast onto your kart:

All weights must be white (painted, coated or white tape). They must be securely fastened to the kart with at least one lock nut and lock-wire/cotter or they can be secured using two lock nuts. All weight ballast over 7 lbs. must be secured to the kart with 2 (two) bolts.  The bolts must be 5/16" or larger. (8mm bolts are legal.)  All bolts must have either cotter pins, safety wire or use two locknuts to secure the weight to the chassis.



F100 would also like to remind parents to please bring proper documents for their minor racer, including proof of age to the first race of the season that the minor racer participates in.


For racers choosing to utilize the Spec Pump Gas option, please purchase your fuel the morning of the race from the appropriate spec gas station for the track:

http://www.f100karters.com/F100%20Spec%20Pump%20Gas%20Stations%202014-1.pdf

If you have any questions please email F100 at formula100kartingseries@gmail.com.

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Let's Discuss: Leopard, PRD and Rotax Gearing for FK2 and Clubman Classes

With the addition of restricted 125cc Leopard, PRD, and Rotax engines to the certain F100 classes, F100 has opened the door for many racers who are new to the sport to enjoy F100 competition without the need to buy new equipment. Many racers have purchased restrictors for their Leopard, PRD and Rotax engines in order to race in one of these classes and F100 is excited to welcome these racers to F100 competition in 2017. 

Some of these racers have wondered about the gearing they should run with this restrictor. There is no maximum gear size in the FK2 and Clubman classes for the Restricted 125cc engines.

FOR FK2 - A good rule of thumb for the FK2 and Clubman classes is to add 4 or 5 teeth to the maximum gear sizes that were used in the former FK125 Masters class, listed below:


§  Adams – 82
§  Apex – 80
§  Bluemax Kart Track - 82
§  Buttonwillow – 82
§  Calspeed – 82
§  Grange CW – 80
§  Grange CCW – 82

§  Willow Springs – 84

Adding 4 or 5 teeth to these maximum gear sizes should get you in the ballpark. This means that for Grange CW you should start with an 11/84 or 11/85 gearing; for Adams you should start with an 11/86 or 11/87; etc.

Please note, this gearing rule of thumb may not apply for the Restricted Spec PRD engine package.

A quick note about carburetors - you may need to run the carburetor a little leaner with the restrictor. You're best bet is to check your spark plug to see how the engine is running and/or to speak with an engine builder to ensure that your carb and engine are running right and are properly tuned. For FK2 class racing running your engine rich is not the worst thing but you may be able to achieve a bit more performance with some attention to your carburetor tuning.

Monday, February 22, 2016

F100 2016 Season Memberships NOW AVAILABLE

F100 2016 Season Memberships are now available! Enjoy all the benefits of F100 Membership for the 2016 season, including savings on your F100 SoCal race entry fees, number priority and the ability to take part in the 2016 F100 SoCal season points championship! Please see the following link:



F100 is working to have membership cards made for the 2016 season. Racers would be able to show these cards at F100 events to ensure they receive appropriate race entry fee discounts and are placed in the proper class. We are still working on the details and we hope to have more information soon.

Please note that memberships may only be purchased by individuals over 18 years of age. All racers under the age of 18 who wish to become F100 members must be added as additional members to the account of a parent or legal guardian who is purchasing or has purchased an F100 2016 Season Membership. 

If you have any questions please send us an email, formula100kartingseries@gmail.com.

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

F100 SoCal Announces the Maxxis SLR as the New Spec Tire for Level 1 Classes for 2016




The Formula 100 Karting Series and F100 SoCal are excited to announce the Maxxis SLR tire as the new spec tire for F100 Level 1 classes in 2016! Tires represent a major expense for racers and for many years F100 has been searching for a spec tire that can provide the performance that racers desire but at a lower price. F100 is thrilled to announce that we have finally found such a tire, the Maxxis SLR!

For 2016 F100 SoCal racers will be able to take advantage of the high quality, high performance and low cost Maxxis SLR tire compound in the FC1, FJ1, FK1, FK1 Masters, FJ125, FK125 and FK125 Masters classes!

With a cost of only around $170, the Maxxis SLR tire is the perfect fit for F100 as it provides top-notch performance on par with the previous spec tire, as well as long life! Racers will not only save money on each set of new tires they purchase, the long life of the Maxxis SLR will ensure that racers are able to get many great days of karting out of each set they purchase! The Maxxis SLR has shown to provide its fastest laps after almost 100 laps of use and they continue to turn fast times after nearly 250 laps!

Maxxis SLR tires will be available from Goldspeed (see link below), F100 supporting shops as well as through F100 directly (see link below). F100 will offer a special entry fee and tire package deal available only to pre-registered racers at all F100 SoCal events in 2016. F100 SoCal racers are encouraged to purchase a set of Maxxis SLR tires to use for testing in the offseason. Please see the following link to order a set of Maxxis SLR tires from Goldspeed directly. When ordering from Goldspeed shipping charges and additional fees may apply:




The Maxxis SLR tire is the spec tire for F100 Level 1 classes only. The tire rule for Level 2 classes will remain unchanged for 2016 and racers will be allowed to utilize a wide variety of tires. Legal tires for F100 Level 2 classes, including FC2, FJ2 and FK2, are listed in the F100 SoCal 2016 Rule Supplement Section 5a under “Approved Tires for Level 2 Classes.” The list includes many tire brands and compounds (please note that the MG White is no longer legal in Level 2 classes). Level 1 racers that have YLC tires left over from last season are encouraged to make them available for sale to Level 2 racers at the F100 2015 Year-End Trophy Ceremony (date TBA) as well as Round #1 of the 2016 F100 SoCal Season.

For F100 NorCal, both the Maxxis SLR tire and the MG Red tire will be legal for use in the F100 Level 1 classes. Along with these tires, racers will be able to race with certain other used tires as well. Please see the F100 NorCal 2016 Rule Supplement and Class Structure for more detailed information.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please send us an email, formula100kartingseries@gmail.comEMAIL IS THE ONLY WAY TO GET IN TOUCH WITH F100.