Author: SM

  • American Road Courses

    American Road Courses

    Racing fans can experience track racing or enjoy a road course adventure. Regardless of whether you’re present at the race, betting on the race at an online Vegas casino sportbook or just viewing the race’s progression online you’ll thrill to the races that take place at America’s most challenging and beautiful courses.

    Lime Rock Park Course in Connecticut

    The Lime Rock Park Course offers driving challenges for everyone. The 1.5 mile, tree-lined course opened in 1957 and hosts a number of exciting races and events.

    Beginning and Intermediate drivers can join the Lime Rock Park’s Summer Autocross program that will give them the basic skills for future participation in racing fun. The next step on the ladder is the 1.5-mile Road Course for more practice and assistance with racing strategies to introduced you to participation in High Performance Driving Events (HPDEs.)

    The course gives drivers the chance to drive their cars in a controlled environment at speed. The non-competitive track sessions are generally grouped by experience level so you can compete with other beginners, intermediate or advanced drivers, according to the group that you and your instructor feel are most suited to your ability.

    There are businesses that host events at Lime Rock Course in which anyone may purchase spots. Alternately, regional groups of enthusiasts get together for a day of racing fun.

    Some of the groups that organize racing courses and programs at Lime Rock include the

    Lime Rock Drivers Club (LRDC), the Sports Car Driving Association (SCDA), the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) Northeast Region, the Vintage Sports Car Club of America (VSCCA) and Survive the Drive which is a teen driver car control programs.

    There are also special racing programs for owners of Porches, Jaguars, Ferraris, BMWs, Audis and Aston Martins.

    Willow Springs Raceway in California

    Willow springs Raceway, located just north of Los Angeles, is one of the most complex tracks in America. It looks simple but it’s deceptive and demands technical skill and the ability to steer your car with your pedals. Willow Springs features  include:

    • The “Big Willow” is the main track. It was built for speed and consists of nine turns. The Big Willow offers drivers the chance to combine speed with turns and elevation changes, giving them  a unique challenge of fun and excitement.
    • The Balcony Autocross and Skid Pad us 400 by 350 feet and 60 feet high.
    • Horse Thief Mile is a one-mile road course. It includes 11 tight turns and major elevation changes amid canyon-like surroundings.
    • The 1.8-mile Streets of Willow Springs course has a skid pad and is used for testing purposes.
    • The 3/8 Wall Street Stadium is a 3/8-mile dirt oval track. There are no walls but there is a high banking. It’s used for turning and testing purposes.
    • Willow Springs Kart Track is a 9-turne paved apring track that measures .625 miles. It’s used for testing purposes.
    • The Willow Springs Speedway is an oval track that measures 1/4 mile. It has walls and is used for testing and turning purposes.
    • The Pit and Paddock area is open to all visitors who pay for general admission at the track.

    Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indiana

    Even non-racing fans have heard of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis Indiana, though most know of it more for its overall racing events than for its road course.

    Indianapolis Motor Speedway has one of the longest histories of any track in America. Most of that history took place on the legendary oval road course that cuts through the middle of the infield. The course passes through a golf course and a series of manmade lakes.

    The Indianapolis Speedway is considered fairly flat. It’s America’s oldest speedway, dating back to 1909 and is the highest-capacity sports venue in the world. It can seat up to 400,000 fans per event. The site hosts the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum which is open to visitors who want to learn more about racing history, cars and drivers.

    The Indianapolis Speedway hosts America’s biggest and most important car racing events including the Indianapolis 500,  Lilly Diabetes 250 and NASCAR’s Brantley-Gilbert Big machine Brickyard 400. It has also served as the host of the Moto GP and the Formula One United States Grand Prix.

    There are two long straightways at the course of .625 miles by 500 feet and two short straightways of .125 miles by 500 feet. There are 4 .250 mile turns of 60 feet.

    Daytona International Speedway n Florida

    Like Indianapolis, Daytona is known more for its oval racing than for its road course. Yet the 24 Hours of Daytona is one of the world’s most challenging and thrilling endurance races. The 3.81-mile road course was built in 1959 and was expanded to 1,200 miles in 1964.

    Over the years many changes have been made to the course which has turned into an Americana classic. Turns 1 and 2 have been re-profiled and turn 3 was moved close to adjacent turns to better define the race. There’s an entry leg that give a long, three-legged “bus stop” shape so that cars can how enter into the first leg and move to the second leg right from the first leg. This allows the cars to experience a cleaner entry into the third oval turn. The braking zone is approached from the high speed oval down into the first corner which presents a particular challenge for the drivers.

    The Daytona endurance race is held in the winter, so much of the race is run at night due to the Florida heat. There is also a 24 Hours of Le Mans race that is held in the summer.

    Daytona also hosts an infield road course for motorcycles. The motorcycle course is 2.95 miles. The Daytona Daytona 200 Sportsbike course uses the main road course.

    Circuit of the Americas in Texas

    Circuit of the Americas in Texas was built primarily for Formula 1 racing. The COTA track is dominated by a very steep four story climb that brings drivers to the top of turn one and is followed by a long downhill winding section. The circuit is 3.4 miles long and is comprised of of twenty turns. There’s a total elevation change of 133 feet. The circuit’s design was inspired to sculpt the circuit to the contours of the land, a European tradition in race course design.

  • Tips To Consider When You Are Going Off-Road In Your Jeep

    Tips To Consider When You Are Going Off-Road In Your Jeep

    Going off-road is certainly one of the key pleasures of driving a tough and heavy vehicle like a jeep. However, even the most fearless driver will need to ensure that his car is ready before starting this journey not many get to make. Luckily, getting a Jeep prepared to go off-road is not as difficult or time-consuming as it may seem, especially if the right tips are followed. By following some of these simple yet highly important instructions, any off-road trip can become quite easy and fun. Here’s off-road travel, one of the toughest driving tests, made easy for you.

    Analyzing the surroundings

    A common mistake most people commit during off-road travel is not being able to hone their surroundings into their mind, ensuring that every little detail is taken care of. Before hitting the road in a Jeep, the driver is required to watch and analyze the terrain to ensure that the surroundings will not give them a terrible shock. Such a shock would be muddy lands. They may not seem to be a difficult challenge for a driver, but driving through mud lands requires a whole set of different preparations. The tires need to be slightly deflated to avoid getting either stuck in the mud or a flat tire.

    Before driving up a hill, the driver must know what is on the other side of the hill and have a general idea about the entire layout of the area to ensure that the crew gets to the bottom carefully. Suitable scouting before starting an off-road drive is crucial to having a good time and caring for the jeep.

    Even if you are driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee, you must know about its limitations like making sure that the fuel stays filled up to avoid any mishaps. While it is important to push yourself and your vehicle, it is even more essential to know when to turn around.

    Carry the Proper Equipments

    After analyzing the surroundings of the off-road tracks, the driver will have to ensure that he has the right off-road traveling equipment. By adding some of these essential features to a jeep, off-road travel can be made a lot easier.

    • Skid plates – Skid plates ensure the protection of the steering box, differential, important fragments of the drive-train positioned on the jeep’s underside, etc.
    • Replacement frames – Having a set of Jeep replacement frames in the Jeep as a part of the equipment is a great provisional way to ensure that no off-road travel session ends before expected time. Jeep replacement frames and its linked parts are some of the most important parts of the jeep, vital for it to move forward.
    • Lift kit – If the driver wishes to climb up a mountain, adding a lift kit to the vehicle will help in crawling over rocks without any damage being caused to the jeep.
    • Mechanics tool kit – Having a mechanic’s tool kit during these rides can come in very handy.

    Getting to know the jeep inside out is the most important task for any driver. Regardless of how experienced he is, the driver should read the manual of the vehicle to understand its dimensions. The driver must also have practical knowledge of the car, and be comfortable while driving in order to drive through tight areas without hesitance.

  • How to Improve Your Motorsport Skills

    How to Improve Your Motorsport Skills

    Whether you’re a budding racer or a seasonal driver with trophies to show for, there’s always room for improvement. In the world of motorsport, the competition is fierce, and the game is incredibly fast-paced meaning you have to be on your A-game when it comes to using the leading technologies and keeping yourself, as the driver, physically and mentally fit. Yet motorsport is a community, where the driver isn’t the sole star of the show. While they may be driving the car and getting it over the finishing line, it’s also the help of their pit crew and their sponsors who can provide them with guidance, which turns a motorsport team into winners.

    If you’re hoping to get into the motorsport industry, whether it be becoming a driver or part of the crew, here are ways to do so and some pointers on how to develop your skills.

    Research

    Everything starts with research, and when it comes to the motorsport industry, you need to ensure that you’re able to know what it is that interests you and how to start your career. For instance, if you want to become a driver, then you should look for courses. You should also try your hand at go-karting and look for a professional to give you a helping hand. However, if you want to be part of the crew, you’ll need to improve your knowledge on how cars work, etc. There are many different roles, and whether you’re part of the team that changes the tires or holds the lollipop sign, it’s imperative to know that all roles are just as important.

    Get the Practice in

    If you’re a new driver, then you need years and years of practice before becoming a professional. Once you’ve got some experience under your belt, you can then start competing in races and continue moving towards the class you wish to drive in. Even if you’re a professional driver already, practice is essential if you wish to stay on top of your game. Like anything, continuing to improve your knowledge is needed, otherwise you’ll fall behind and be overtaken by the better drivers, hurting your credibility and overall position on the results table.

    Update Your Car

    You could be the most experienced and impressive driver in the world, but if your car fails to be up to code or lacks any power, you’re going to suffer and have a tough time keeping your number one spot. Look for ways to improve your car; try out new tires, use an innovative Cummins ECM, and look for more lightweight materials. Your car is your bread and butter to motorsports, and without it, you wouldn’t be able to drive in the first place. Keep it clean, change the oil, and always consider better ways of running it. This is true for both the driver and the pit crew.

    Improve Your Fitness

    Proper posture is important and is the building blocks of any training for any athlete. Not only can it stop any injuries from appearing, but it can also help your general performance. Without a good posture, your body can become unbalanced – weaker and stronger in certain places. Once your posture is correct, you can continue to build upon it with strength training, making yourself stronger and more resilient.

    Motorsports is an enduring sport, therefore, you need to continue to improve your endurance levels. Some sports are longer than others, so you need first to determine how long your races are going to be before you create a cardiovascular routine. For example, motocross drivers only need to go for 30 minutes, three times in one day, whereas rally drivers need to go for six hours over the course of six or seven days. The training for these two different sports requires different amounts of cardio.

    The term motorsports is broad – it can mean both car and bike. Therefore, you need to determine whether you want to ride the bike or drive a car. While some people may be interested in both, this isn’t wise. You need, instead, select one or the other. This is because a motocross’s body has different requirements, so training is vastly different. For those who ride bikes, they need to be more dynamic than those who drive a car. For instance, motocross riders need to have a greater body awareness, and they also need to have a great amount of balance and control. Rather than have too many fingers in the pie, select one and ace that, rather than have yourself be okay at two sports. In the long run, you’ll be thankful.

    Do Not Neglect Psychology

    Many people only consider the physical endurance of motorsports, or sports in general, however, you also need to understand that psychology also plays a massive role in your successes.

    You need to learn how to control nerves and pre-race tensions; you cannot worry too much, otherwise this can greatly impact your overall performance. While your nerves may lift as you race more, you need to learn how to get these under control.

    A greater focus is needed, and you need to stop yourself from getting distracted. Focus on the race, how you drive, and how you’re going to come out on top. You need to keep all excessive details and irrelevant factors out of mind.

    Learn to manage your emotions such as stress, frustrations and worries. Competition can make even the best of us nervous, but try not to act out. Doing so can greatly hinder your successes. You need to maintain confidence in your capabilities and how you’re going to achieve your goals. While you may experience setbacks, you shouldn’t let such worries plague your mind. If you do, then you’re only going to limit your racing capabilities.

    Most importantly, you need to manage your reactions to poor performances. You cannot win 100% of the time, so rather than implode, you need to learn how to evaluate your performance and improve yourself.

  • Top tips to consider if you are looking to buy a new car

    Top tips to consider if you are looking to buy a new car

    As much as you may love your current vehicle, if it is getting old and costing you more and more to repair every service, then it is time for you to consider investing in a new motor. Cars lose value as soon as you drive them off the garage forecourt, and this means that you instantly make a loss on any investment that you make. However, this should not impact your reasoning for investing in a new vehicle. Newer makes and models are designed to meet with today’s modern lifestyle choices, with improved parking sensors and safety features to keep your entire family secure while you are on the road. Therefore, if you are looking to buy a new car then make sure that you take the following into account before you invest in a new motor.

    If your car is rusty, damaged or there are ongoing problems with the motor, then this is a sure fire sign that you need to invest in a new car. Firstly decide if you are going to need to take out a car loan, or you can afford to buy without any extra financial aid. If you are looking to buy a car on credit, then you will also need to make sure that you can afford the monthly loan payouts on top of your insurance and tax costs. Check your credit score before you visit any dealer, so that you are ready to start shopping right away. Next, write up a checklist of what sort of car will best suit your needs. If you have a large family, then you may want to invest in a larger vehicle to accommodate your kids and pets. However, if you are looking for a city run around then you will want a small and snappy motor to help you get from A to B. Once you have decided exactly what you are looking for, then you can begin to start browsing and shopping around.

    Time of year

    Believe it or not, the time of year that you decide to start shopping for a new motor could have an effect on the price of your car. If you are looking to shop in the winter months, then dealerships may increase their prices in the run-up to the holiday season, while the summer also sees a spike in new car owners, desperate to bag a bargain. This makes the autumn and spring months the best times to begin your search in earnest. If you are looking to get a serious deal, then consider doing your car shopping early at the weekends and towards the end of the month, just before payday. You will also have a much better chance of finding a salesperson that is desperate to make a sale to meet with their end of month targets. It pays to go shopping when the weather is colder, or it is a rainy day, as dealerships will be more likely to want to drop costs to make a sale to compensate for reduced footfall on the sales floor.  Choose your time of year wisely, and you are bound to find a bargain.

    Do your homework

    It pays to take your time and do your homework before you look to invest in a brand new set of wheels. Make sure that you research and do not limit your search to just one brand or make of motor. You could rush into a bad deal and feel pressurized to part with your cash when holding out could result in you buying a better vehicle. Be sure to prioritize your everyday needs and use and remain realistic. Remain practical and make sure that you visit as many dealerships or car salesrooms as you need. You may soon be pleasantly surprised and end up buying a make or model that you have previously discounted. Include all overall car running costs in your initial homework calculations also, as you will need to include more than just the purchase price and financing costs. You should also include your insurance and estimated running and gasoline costs in your pricing too. Remember that you may need to include a buffer for hidden wear and tear costs, and always keep some money aside in case you need to perform additional maintenance. Do your homework, and you are less likely to be stung later on in the year after you drive your new wheels home.

    Your old vehicle

    When you are buying a new car, you also need to include your previous motor in any costs or budget that you set aside, in particular, if you feel that you need to scrap or get rid of your vehicle in the most environmentally friendly way possible. If you want to make the best economic choice possible, then you could consider the value that is left in any parts of your previous vehicle, but this will be impacted by the amount of wear and tear that it has undergone. You may be able to make some sort of profit by selling your old car through a private sale, read more here. Do not discount your old car in your equations, as you may also be able to make some money from it that will help towards your next purchase.

    If you are looking to buy a new car, then it is vital that you remain realistic as to what sort of make and model of vehicle that you can afford.  Consider the time of year that you begin car shopping, and choose your hours and times carefully so that you can bag a bargain. Make sure that you do your homework so that you have a realistic idea of how much you will need to spend in total, including road tax, gasoline and any costs incurred from wear and tear. Finally, do not forget your old vehicle either, as you may also be able to make some money from it. You will soon be ready to enjoy your new wheels.

  • How To Stay Safe Whilst Out And About This Summer

    How To Stay Safe Whilst Out And About This Summer

    The summer break is a time to enjoy yourself and have fun doing the activities you love. The sun is shining, and you’ll want to get out and about on the road and playing sports with friends and family. This is all very well and good, however, you must remember that the great outdoors is not without its dangers. So, always ensure that you stay as safe as possible and limit the chances you take when driving, motorcycling, enjoying the sun, engaging in sports, and swimming, for example. The summer is bound to encourage you to want to live a little more carefree than usual, but safety is paramount throughout the year so don’t make careless mistakes.

    Motorcycling

    Hopping onto a motorcycle in summer is great fun, and it makes a change from biking in the cold winter rain and headwinds. Granted, the roads aren’t as slippery and wet during the summer months, but they still hold very real danger. Motorcycles are capable of driving at phenomenal speeds, however, you shouldn’t be exceeding the speed limit whatsoever. Motorcyclists should learn about the biggest dangers they face so that accidents can be avoided. Unfortunately, traffic collisions are common and at speed, a motorcycle can often be very serious and even fatal. Make sure you’re well covered and know who to turn to in the event of an accident while driving a motorcycle. This website can provide you with the answers you need after getting involved in a crash and subsequently being injured.

    Refresher Driving Lessons

    If you’ve got a road trip or a cross-country adventure on the cards, then think about having some refresher lessons before you set off. If you haven’t been driving for long, then this is advisable and you’ll feel confident before you begin your journey. If you can’t quite remember the last time you drove for such long distances, then these are for you too. You simply cannot be too safe when behind the wheel of a vehicle, so think seriously about booking yourself, or a loved one, a set of refresher driving lessons. The rules of the road do stay relatively the same however small changes do occur over the years, so make sure you’re up to date on your knowledge of the road.

    Cycling Proficiency

    Stay safe this summer when pedaling with your family. Cycling can be fun for all the family, and setting out on bikes with a picnic is a perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon with friends or family. Staying safe on the roads is something that needs to be in the forefront of your mind at all times when cycling as roads can get busy, and bikes can be missed if you’re not wearing the correct reflective gear and bright front and backlights. Make sure your kids are confident and proficient enough before you take them on the roads. Having said this, try and stick to country routes while they’re still finding their feet, so to speak. Be sure to carry tire repair kits when you’re headed out on a long journey, as you don’t want to find yourself far from home with a puncture and in the heat of the midday sun, for example.

    Stock Up On Sun Cream

    The sun is a force to be reckoned with, so avoid playing around when it comes to the sun. Always, always apply sun cream and even sunscreen when you’re out and about in the sun. Sun cream needs to be applied liberally and at regular intervals throughout the day; you shouldn’t be spending more than fifteen minutes in the direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. Limit your skin’s exposure to the sun, and wear a hat or cap, cover your arms and chest and be sure to sit in the shade wherever possible. Your kids shouldn’t leave your house without you having spread sun cream on their skin. You can find hypoallergenic creams on the market if you’re worried about allergic reactions, so there’s no excuse not to prepare your young children before the hot day begins.

    Protective Sportswear

    Summer welcomes with it the season for sports. Sports are a big part of how people enjoy summer whether they’re engaging or watching, so safety plays a significant role also. Some sports can result in nasty injuries, and so protective gear is worn throughout the game. Protective sportswear should be considered in whatever sport you’re thinking of taking part in this summer, even if it’s rollerblading in the park, or swimming at your local pool or in the sea. If you’re running at dusk or at night, then you should be kitted out in the correct reflective gear and supportive sneakers to ensure that you limit the damage to the arches of your feet, your connective tissue, and bones. If you’re taking part in martial arts or in hockey, rugby, or soccer, then it’ll be very wise to get a hold of shin pads and a mouthguard so as to limit the risk of having your teeth smashed inside your mouth.

    Safe Swimming

    Safe swimming involves making sure young children wear armbands when in water and are supervised by an appropriate adult at all times. Safe swimming involves swimming where the waters are not rough nor treacherous. Swimming in the outdoors comes with the risk of fast currents and very deep waters. You should be avoiding these places, and only crossing fast waters if you have to and are part of a team when out white water rafting, for example. You should not be approaching such activity without a professional and if you’re not a strong swimmer.

    Warn Kids Of Dangers

    Be pragmatic in your approach to educating your kids, or young people close to you.  Teach them how to drive safely in all circumstances.  Make sure you’re warned of the dangers involved in popular summer and remind them that the open outdoors poses risks around each corner. Warn kids of the dangers of drinking and driving, and make sure they understand that you, as an adult, will pick them up from parties if they feel unsafe or unsure about getting into a car with a young, or newly qualified driver. Ensure that your kids know never to take risks where their safety, and lives could be at stake. Explain the dangers of taking illegal substances, and be frank and transparent in your approach. If you suspect kids to be taking drugs, then ask them outright and explain to them why you think it’s a bad idea.

    Emergency preparation

    Emergency prepping is a self-sufficient insurance policy against expected and unexpected emergencies that might come up.  Here are some tips on your safety and what to do in an emergency.  Follow the beginner’s guide to prepping and you should be ready for any disaster that comes your way.

  • Tips For Finding A Good Mechanic

    Tips For Finding A Good Mechanic

    It’s inevitable that your car is going to need to be serviced once in a while and you’ll want a talented mechanic to take care of the work for you. It’s not a good idea to panic in this situation and bring your car to a random shop in the neighborhood.

    You’ll feel much better putting your car in the hands of someone you trust and know will do a solid job. You also don’t want to get ripped off and be overcharged for the repairs you’re in need of completing. What you need to do is take the time to understand what it takes to find a good mechanic and follow through and complete your due diligence before hiring someone.

    Do your Homework

    Do your research well in advance of anything happening to your car, so you’re prepared when disaster strikes. You don’t want to put yourself in a bind and be caught off guard frantically looking for a mechanic. Have a list of options ready to go for when your vehicle needs repairs or someone to diagnose the situation. Before you even take it somewhere do your homework and come up with possibilities for what you think is wrong with it. Also, have dealers in mind for where you can buy a car should yours cost too much to fix or require a replacement altogether. One idea is to head to the Car Corner where they’ll take care of you and get you financed and out the door in a vehicle of your choosing in no time.

    Ask for Recommendations

    A great idea for finding a trusted mechanic is to ask around to your friends and family members and see who they use. Enquire about how much they cost, why they like working with them and if they’ve had any issues in the past dealing with their services. Call up people who live near you so you can choose a mechanic in your neighborhood who’s easy to access at all times. Ask more than one person you know for their opinion, so you can take an overall vote and get a good idea of who you might want to go with when you’re all done collecting information. You’ll know you’ve found a winner if the same business comes up in conversation several times.

    Read Reviews Online

    Online reviews are going to give you some of the most honest feedback you can get for which mechanic is worth your time. Research the various locations and people and see what real customers are saying about them. Take your time and read through all of the comments until you’re able to get an overall idea of what it’d be like to work with this person. Make sure to take into account how many reviews have been left and what issues matter most to you as you’re paging through the remarks. If you have any concerns, then take the matter to the shop and ask about it to their face before agreeing to use them if it makes you feel more comfortable.

    Meet them in Person & Come Ready with Questions

    It’s always a smart idea to go and meet each mechanic who’s in the running for your business in person. This way you can see how they interact with you, take notice of any awards or certificates they have hanging on their wall and get a feel for the overall ambiance of the shop. Tune in to what your gut is telling you at the various locations and as you meet each worker in person. Approach your meeting like an interview and come ready with a list of questions to ask them about their experience and how long they’ve been in business. You never know what you two may have in common or what kind of connection you’ll spark until you have this conversation. Fixing your car is expensive, and you don’t want to give it to just anyone to repair.

    Look at your options

    While you may fall in love with someone’s repair shop and a particular mechanic right away, don’t let that fool you into giving them your car immediately. A lot of people are sweet talkers and can get you to take action on the spot if you’re not careful. Stand your ground and say you’re in the process of doing your research and will make an appointment and come back if it’s the way you choose to go. Stick to your list of possible mechanics and getting to know each person and shop before you commit to a particular location. You’ll thank yourself for taking your time and doing your due diligence when your car comes out right the first time at a good price.

    Start Small

    Start early and start small when looking to find a mechanic who you like. Do your homework and then take your car to your chosen person for a few repairs initially. See how they do, what it costs and if it’s a place you think you’d like to try again. This way you won’t be fully committing to a mechanic right off the bat with a large and costly repair while you hope for the best. You won’t feel as bad if you spend a little money on a mechanic you thought was good but turned out to be the wrong answer for you. Use your next scheduled maintenance chore as a chance to try out someone new. See how they do and if they’re attentive and professional before selecting them for bigger projects.

    Conclusion

    Cars and repairs are expensive, and you don’t want to hand over your vehicle to just anyone when it requires fixing. Make sure you do your homework and find someone who you trust and know will do an excellent job. Don’t be afraid to switch mechanics or shops if you have a poor experience. Keep looking and doing your research until you’re satisfied and feel happy with the outcome. It’s worth your time and energy upfront if you want to walk away feeling good about your decision.

  • Seven Ways To Make Racing A Bigger Part Of Your Life

    Seven Ways To Make Racing A Bigger Part Of Your Life

    It’s possible you’ve dabbled in racing in the past as a hobby, but now you’re more interested than ever to learn more about the sport. It’s a good goal to have and one that will take up a lot of your free time if you’re looking for a productive way to fill your schedule.

    There are many strategies for making racing a bigger part of your life, but you have to be willing to invest time your time and energy to do so. It’s healthy to have interests and hobbies, so be proud of yourself for wanting to learn more about this activity. You never know where your curiosity will lead you, so stay open-minded as you embark on this new journey.

    Get into Gaming

    One helpful way to understand racing better and make it a bigger part of your life is to start gaming more often. Find the right system, games and best racing wheel out there that will allow you to engross yourself in action and better know what it feels like to race. It’s a fun activity and one you can do with friends if you’re feeling up for a friendly competition. Work on improving your skills and learning more about the sport all at the same time through gaming.

    Wear the Gear

    Go out and purchase some attractive gear and jerseys to help you feel more engaged in the sport. Pick out clothing that allows you to represent your favorite drivers and feel like a part of the racing community. Sport it on the weekends and when lounging around the house to get the most use out of it. It can be expensive to collect all of the gear and clothing you desire, so start saving up your money now. It’s also a good conversation starter when you’re out and about in public, and you may learn more about the sport by talking to others who are also passionate about the topic.

    Watch on Television & Attend Live Events

    Set your television to the right channel and spend your afternoon or evening soaking up all the action in the comfort of your own home. Cheer as loud as you want, get out your favorite snacks and make a day of watching and better understanding the rules and who everyone is. Another idea is to attend live events in your area or travel around to some of the races that NASCAR puts on, which are a bigger deal. These are both excellent ways to make racing a larger part of your life and allow yourself to experience more of the sport and what it all entails.

    Study Online

    Go online and read blogs and publications that experts are posting about racing. You can vastly increase your knowledge a lot by simply taking in more information and statistics from those who spend their entire lives dedicated to racing. Educate yourself on the various terms, drivers, and events, so you know what to expect going forward. Use your free time to study the sport and get more familiar with what’s going on in the space and any recent news updates. There are a lot of excellent and informative websites out there that will quickly fill you in on the latest headlines and who is going to be appearing at which events.

    Follow Updates & Drivers on Social Media

    In addition to reading articles, you should familiarize yourself with racing by getting more involved on social media. Follow your favorite drivers and related companies who are posting about racing and sharing their passion for the sport with the world. You can pull up social media on your phone or computer anytime you want and quickly be bombarded with a wide array of hot topics and information regarding the sport and who to be watching out for. Join communities, like related pages and connect with others who are into racing and have valuable knowledge to share.

    Hang out with People who Enjoy NASCAR

    It may be time to think about making some new friends who share our enthusiasm for the sport if you want to get into a new hobby and take it seriously. The idea is to find people like you who are either already into NASCAR or want to learn more about it and engage with them when you have time. Socializing with those who find the sport as interesting as you do will allow you to not hold back your questions or passion for racing and you’ll feel more in your element. You never know what someone else will teach you or the events they’ll introduce you to when you’re hanging out with the right crowd.

    Learn more about Cars

    Racing is all about cars, and if you don’t know much about them, then this is a good time to better understand more. Do your own research, take a class on cars or talk to those who work with cars for a living to educate yourself on automobiles and what the professionals are driving on the track. You may find you truly like the topic of cars and start to spend more of your time involving yourself in the purchasing and fixing process. This way you yourself can start to possess the facts and knowledge, and won’t have to rely on others when it comes to buying a new car or repairing the vehicle you have.

    Conclusion

    Be glad you found a positive hobby that has sparked your interest and is stirring up some passion in you. Embrace this new adventure you’re embarking on and allow it to open your mind to new people, places, and subject matters. Who knows, maybe one day you’ll be the expert sharing your knowledge with the world. Remain patient with yourself as you learn and grow because it can be frustrating to be the new kid on the block. Enjoy this shift in your interests and have fun exploring all there is to know about racing.

  • Tips For Anyone Looking To Learn More About Cars

    Tips For Anyone Looking To Learn More About Cars

    Don’t feel bad if you don’t know much about cars because you’re not the only one. There are a lot of people out there who wish they knew more, especially when they find themselves stranded somewhere or have a problem with their current vehicle.

    What you shouldn’t do is give up hope on yourself and assume that you can’t educate yourself and learn more. All it takes is you being proactive and having a positive attitude as you embark on this journey to becoming more of a car enthusiast. Take it slow and don’t beat yourself up if there are areas you don’t understand as well as others.

    Educate yourself

    Your first order of business is to learn and educate yourself on all there is to know. Start by getting curious and actively seeking out information that’s new to you. Visit your public library or search online for various blogs and topics that cover all you need to understand about cars. Watch television shows related to cars and read books and publications that will quickly inform you on the major areas you should know about first.

    Buy your own Car & Review the Manual

    One way to truly dive into learning more about cars is to buy one yourself. This is an entire process that you’ll want to take seriously and understand more in depth before you go out and purchase one on a whim. You’ll want to approach a dealership having a good idea of what make, model and color you’re interested in buying. Be patient and don’t jump at the first deal or car that comes your way. Once you do land your dream vehicle, it’s a smart idea to read the entire manual and better understand what you need to do to maintain it properly.

    Take Care of Finding A Repair Shop yourself

    If your car does become problematic or you get in an accident and need repairs then take it upon yourself to lookup car frame shops in your area who can fix the issue. In the past maybe you’d had your spouse or father take care of this problem for you, but it’s a good idea to step up and learn the process for taking your car in and getting it evaluated and repaired yourself. It’s a good idea to get several estimates before you commit to going through with the repairs at the first shop you stop in.

    Follow Racing

    Another great idea for learning more about cars is to take up a new hobby like following racing. Check out NASCAR events on television or go see the races live if possible. Learn more about the sport by reading online publications and searching for new events that pop up. Start to follow some of the big-name drivers and learn more about them and why they’re so passionate about cars and driving. If you’re feeling super ambitious, you can go to a local go-kart facility and see for yourself how much fun it is to speed around the track.

    Talk to an Expert

    The only way to learn any new subject matter is to talk to an expert who is experienced in their trade or industry. Either you can find a mechanic who wouldn’t mind chatting with you or take the initiative to search for car experts in your area. It’s likely you’ll quickly find someone who’s passionate about cars and racing if you simply look and ask around. Maybe you have a family member or friend who is an expert, and you didn’t even know it until you opened up and started asking questions. See if they’ll meet with you to discuss cars further and brainstorm a list of questions ahead of time you can ask during your conversation.

    Join Communities on Social Media

    Social media is the perfect spot for you to learn about a new topic or hobby that intrigues you. There are online groups for just about any kind of activity or interest. Start reading and chatting with those who are into cars and know what they’re talking about. Follow people on social media who have a passion for cars and consistently share related content. It’s easy to check your accounts wherever you are so you can always keep on top of your new hobby. This is a great place to ask questions and not feel silly about how little knowledge you have.

    Watch YouTube Videos

    You can learn anything you want on YouTube and some people find it easier to watch videos than to read information. Go nuts learning and experimenting as you explore and take in valuable tidbits you can use in your own life. These visuals will allow you to even fix your own car by yourself if you get comfortable enough to do go through with them on your own. The only roadblock is that if you have questions, you’ll have to find someone you know or post a question to an online forum.

    Take A Class at your Local Community College

    Go out and truly learn more about cars by getting your hands dirty and receiving education from a pro. Take a local class and better understand how cars work and the process for making common repairs. You may even feel like going out to buy an old beater and bringing it back to life after completing your car classes. You’ll also likely meet new people who are also interested in learning more about cars, and you can exchange knowledge and questions with each other.

    Conclusion

    It’s not as difficult as you may think to learn more about cars. These are all excellent starting points for you in your journey to educate yourself on the subject matter. Go slow and be patient with yourself as you discover, search and experiment in your downtime. You may realize it’s not a hobby you care for, or become truly passionate about cars and want to make them a bigger part of your life.

  • Top Tips For Buying Used Car From A Dealer

    Top Tips For Buying Used Car From A Dealer

    No doubt it is complicated to buy a used car rather buy a new one. People are mostly concerned about the condition like what is fixed and what can broke. Another important concern people have is the warranty of the car or its parts. Most of the cars today are sold in the as is condition which can seem to be quite risky and so once you sign the paper, you will be left with a car and yes, lots of problems!

    This does not mean that buying a used car is a bad idea on the contrary, it can be wisest decision you will be making. In case you are living on a limited budget you will be better off with a used car. In case you are not planning to finance the car you will have to get the liability insurance. Again, unlike the new car there will not be any added fees for you to pay.

    We all know that buying a new car gives us peace and the used one comes at a risk. You are sure that the former one has not hit the road and so is safe. In case anything goes wrong, everything will be covered under warranty. In case of a used car these assurances are not present. Knowing the right place to buy a used car and which car to buy can relieve your stress and tension to a great extent. There are a few things you should consider when buying the wheel of dreams.

    Simply answer these questions…

    How much can you afford?

    Before buying the car and getting a good deal you need to be sure about a few things. How you plan to use the car? What is the purpose? What is your budget? What facilities you want?

    What car to buy?

    Based on your needs and lifestyle you need to decide the car that well-suits you. As you will be using the car for the coming years you need to anticipate your future a bit and gauze the lifestyle changes. You can easily buy mid-size cars today as you will easily find a good deal on them. It can sometimes be difficult to zero down on the car model as there are good numbers of options available for used cars. You can talk to your friend or check for Dealerreviews.co.uk online. In case you are looking for Ford models, you will easily get answers here.

    How old the car is?

    In case you are considering the budget and looking for one which will last long with less expenses then you should look for a smaller car which is not much old rather than going for an older, bigger car. This is because the former one will be expensive due to the fuel and maintenance costs. You should look for a car which is just couple of years old. You will easily find a model as many people have the habit to buy a new one frequently.

    How much you should spend on the car?

    Chances are more that people end up overspending the saved budget and here are the tips to avoid it.

    • Do some research

    You may be ready with the money and set a budget but do you know you are having realistic numbers? You can provide the details of the car and get valuation. You will get approximate value of the car. You should give yourself some time and test drive it. You should also ask a mechanic to go through the engine and other important parts. Make sure you check the car and avoid doing it at night or when it is raining.

    • Take a test drive

    This is definitely an important process and you should carry it out on different types of road. You should check for unwanted noises or vibrations from the car and ensure it starts right away. You should check each and every feature of the car right from the brakes, wiper and what not!

    • Examine the exterior and interior

    You should check for dent or rust in any body part. You should also check for leaks and any kind of damage to the external parts. When checking the interior you should check the seatbelts, oil level and see if it is dirty, check for the doors and locks.

    Buying a used car is not a small thing and so you need to be sure that you are getting what you are spending. Checking out these tips and tricks will help you make the right deal.