Help a SoloII newbie!

[sandman777]

Hi,
I recently purchased my first car, and would like to try out a Solo event next year. (Im not used to the car enough yet to try anything this year).

I was "lurking" at an event 2 years ago, and it looked like a lot of fun, and the people seemed friendly.

I Was wondering:

1. Where to buy a new closed-face, new helmet in the GTA? Preferably someplace in Scarborough. Is a helmet with SOLOII spec's usually good for "lapping days" also? What is the usual cost range of such a helmet?

2. How long do the events usually last? I am thinking of attending one of the hershy center events next year.

3. Is there any risk associated with messing up? (I have read horror storys of rollovers.) Is it really shameful if you mess up the course? :(

4. How welcome are complete solo newbies? :P

thanks guys!

[Keith-02Accord]

Hey Sandman,

I can't answer all of your questions b/c I'm a newbie too! I competed in 2 events this year and I can't wait til next season starts.

I can assure you, based on my experiences, that newbies are always welcome. As a matter of fact, several people were more than willing to help me out and give me some pointers.

Hope to see you next year.

Keith

P.S. What kind of car did you get?

[rpr]

The PITL events (at the Hershey Centre) are pretty much all day events. The turnouts were quite large this year (avg. 95 people per). I usually get there around 8:30am, and leave around 5-5:30. That is with 5 runs.

And don't worry about messing up the course, that's what marshals are for. Last event I was feeling a bit cocky, so I tried to push it, and ended up taking out at least a half dozen cones, if not more.

This is my first year at auto-cross, and I wish someone had told me about it long ago. It's very fun... :)

PS I think he got a 2002 RSX, judging by his signature.

[Keith-02Accord]

rpr,

Yeah, I guess I should learn to read!

[sandman777]

yep, I got a 2002 rsx premium automatic. Thanks for the replys. Any idea of where to buy a helmet? I just want to browse right now, not in a rush since I wont be out there until next year.

[tanney]

You should be able to pick up a helmet at any race or motorcycle shop.

Buy a helmet that has a SNELL 2000 rating. A Snell 95 will be good for two more seasons of Solo 2, but if your buying one now get a Snell 2000.

You should be able to get one for $200. Make sure the salesman shows you the Snell 2000 sticker on the inside of the helmet. If it doesn't have a Snell 2000 sticker....don't buy it. Don't take ANYONE's word on it.....see the sticker for yourself.

A M2000 helmet will suffice, but if you have or are planning on a cage or rollover bar, buy a SA 2000 helmet instead (about $600)

[rpr]

As for where, Parker Bros. motorcycle shop has good prices, and I believe for PITL people there is a 5% discount. I paid $200 for my HJC helmet.

[Nissan Racer]

For helmets go to CSC Racing in Newmarket, they are Solo I/II supporters so we should show them our support, they are also pretty knowledgeable about fittment and I find them great to deal with.

[AndyC]

Come out and play-- we welcome new blood--as a newbie this year I can assure you you will have lots of fun -learn about your car and your driving and in no time you will be hooked.

[B18C5]

In Scarborough the best place is the motorcycle place on Sheppard between Brimley and McCowan on the south side. I think it's Cycle World or something like that.