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Frequently Asked Questions
RallyX, also known as dirt trial or rallycross, is among the most accessible forms of dirt motorsports. It has its roots in stage rally racing, where cars tackle sections of dirt roads one at a time. Dirt trial evolved in Japan in the 1980s and continues to be a popular offroad motorsport there. RallyX brings the thrills of stage rallies into a controlled environment where "daily driver" cars can be used to safely compete. A RallyX event is typically held on an unpaved, flat dirt area with the course consisting of straights and turns. As in stage rallies, cars run the course individually, with the best cumulative run times winning. Speeds are limited by the course layout, and a street vehicle along with seatbelts and a helmet is all that is required. If you are familiar with Solo II / AutoCross, RallyX is basically "autocross on the dirt." This is a great way to learn to handle your car on lose terrain under controlled conditions, and to enjoy the thrill of competing off road.
Stage rallies in California and many parts of the country date back some 30 to 40 years, while dirt trial in Japan dates back to the 1980s. RallyX has been growing in popularity in the United States over the past 5 years as a race format with a significantly lower barrier of entry. FRX was formed to meet the needs of this growing sport. Initially, FRX will promote and hold events in CA and NV with plans to expand across North America in subsequent years. What is the difference between European RallyCross and RallyX? European RallyCross (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rallycross) is the term used for offroad circuit racing in Europe. Cars compete door to door with each other around race courses with up to 16 cars at the same time. RallyX and dirt trial, as discussed earlier in this FAQ, is based on rallies and only one car is on course at a time. European RallyCross is geared towards professional drivers, while American RallyX is approachable and geared towards the privateer. Do I need a special license to race? All you need is a valid state driver's license. Does my car require any special modifications or safety equipment? A RallyX event is open to any fixed-roof production based vehicle (including convertibles with a factory hardtop attached, targa-types with factory panel in place, t-tops with factory panels in place) that can pass safety inspection. However, if the Safety Steward determines at his/her discretion that a vehicle cannot readily negotiate the course, it may be excluded. Sport Utility Vehicles and trucks are not required to have full roll cages but are subject to the approval of the Safety Steward. Soft-top convertibles are not allowed. Most competiors' vehicles are 100% factory stock with no other additions. The track surface is generally flat with no large ruts, etc. However, some stock competitors choose to add skid plates and/or differential protectors to maximize their protection. Adding an additional ~5psi of air to stock tires is recommended as soft sidewalls may allow the tire to slip off the bead and deflate (see Car Prep for more details). RallyX events typically cost $45-$55, but may vary by venue. What's the difference between Charter and Associate events on the calendar? FRX Charter events are directly produced and managed by Formula RallyX while FRX Associate events are independently operated. All events score points in the FRX Championship equally and must meet safety and other standards. For more information on organizing an event in the FRX Championship under either the Charter or Associate structure, please contact FRX. What are the official FRX rules and regulations? See the Rules Page for details What classes are there, and what class is my car? See the Rules Page for details What kind of helmet do I need? Minimally, Snell 95 “SA” or “M” labeled helmets are approved for use. Other approved helmets are SFI Spec 31.1 and BS 6658-85 type A/FR. A limited number of loaner helmets may be available at no charge at the event. What is the schedule on race day? The run group schedule throughout the day is largely dependent on the number of drivers, but in general the day will start as described below. This is rough estimate of the day, do not plan on these times to be precise!
A parade lap will be given to each run group immediately before each group is to begin. A parade lap is a slow drive through the course with all cars at once. How should I prepare my car for a race? Keep up with oil/fluid changes, brake inspections, valve adjustments, etc. Check your fluid levels. Remove any extra items you won't need during race day and clear out any lose items before you race. As part of the safety/tech inspection, officials will make sure there won't be anything flying around your cabin while you're on the course. Some competitors choose to run higher pressure in their tires - typically 38-40 psi. It may sound like a lot, but the extra pressure will strengthen your sidewalls while cornering and can prevent you from (while an uncommon occurrence) "popping the bead". This is when external pressure on the sidewall, usually due to driving/drifting into a rut sideways against the wheel, can push the sidewall inward enough to instantly and completely deflate the tire. What is this I hear about fun runs? Time permitting, and at the discretion of the event organizers, fun runs may be available for $1 per run (subject to change). Fun runs are non-competition runs and, as named, just for fun. The only limit to the number of fun runs is the available time, the number of dollars in your wallet, and your stamina behind the wheel! |
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