"PD Cup in the ZZS" - The Write-up
- Thread starter Der Alta
- 39 comments
- 2,765 views
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Testing Phase:
As Ive been prepping for this race, the testing has been intermittent. At this point Ive qualified for the Trial Mtn. Race. It took ten laps, but I managed to qualified on the pole. Im fairly certain that if I can make the pole, I can take the race.
Step Two: Qualifying for other races.
I decided to try to qualify for SSR5 and see how I managed. I committed the classic mistake, and hit enter instead of qualify. So Starting from the bottom of the grid, I began winding up the little ZZS. Much to my surprise, I slipped right by the pack with a minor bit of shouldering in the first corner. Thinking happy thoughts until I saw the taillights of the Camaro SS disappear around the far corner. This unsettled me a bit, and I began betting on the Camaros pit schedule. After rolling around to the start of lap 5 and the SS hadnt pitted I began to fret abit. I hadnt a moment to develop a pit schedule, and I was sitting atop T4s.
Much to my relief, the Camaro handed me the lead at the end of Lap 5 by taking his first pit stop, I began to slowly lengthen my lead over the 350Z. I formulated a two stop pit schedule planning on lap 7 and 14. The Z pitted right behind me on lap 7 and that secured my win. All I had to do after that was post up clean smooth laps. Much to my surprise, the Z pitted on lap 13 instead of lap 14. This gave me one extra lap to stretch out my lead.
At this point I wondered if the Z would pit on lap 19 or would he run the extra lap matching his first pit schedule.
Flash Forward to end of lap 19. Im just under 20 seconds lead on the Z and I turn in my fastest lap. 134.417. Clean and fast. So barring any catastrophic failures, Ive won this race. Now does the Z pit on lap 19 or does he run the final lap? You guessed it, he pitted. Handing me a leisurely final lap to run.
Results:
Nissan Z: +49.417
Camaro SS: +108.712
Mustang SVT: +116.427
Supra RZ: +122.492
Skyline R32: +1 lap
Total Time: 3253.593
Average lap: 138.680
Best lap: 134.417
I know from my previous runs that I barely eeked out a win at Rome. Ill take a run at it and see how I do. 20 lap Race, so Im going to run another 7 lap schedule or if Im not wearing on the tires too badly, Ill make it one stop. If that works, Ill move up to T5 tires, and determine if I can run a 2 stop schedule (laps 7 and 14).
Pit Schedule: 7 and 14.
Rome Results:
Nissan Z: +11.363
Corvette Z06: +55.304
Mustang SVT: +100.512
XKR Coupe: +107.623
Lancer Evo VI TME: +123.809
Total Time: 3402.889
Average lap: 1
Best lap: 138.397
Well, If I can win these two, and by a better margin than listed in my compendium, Noting that I managed to qualify on the pole at Trial Mtn. gives me thoughts of starting this soon.
Total testing mileage: 120.0 miles, and Im at 199hp.
Testing Phase Complete (would rather be racing...)
AO
As Ive been prepping for this race, the testing has been intermittent. At this point Ive qualified for the Trial Mtn. Race. It took ten laps, but I managed to qualified on the pole. Im fairly certain that if I can make the pole, I can take the race.
Step Two: Qualifying for other races.
I decided to try to qualify for SSR5 and see how I managed. I committed the classic mistake, and hit enter instead of qualify. So Starting from the bottom of the grid, I began winding up the little ZZS. Much to my surprise, I slipped right by the pack with a minor bit of shouldering in the first corner. Thinking happy thoughts until I saw the taillights of the Camaro SS disappear around the far corner. This unsettled me a bit, and I began betting on the Camaros pit schedule. After rolling around to the start of lap 5 and the SS hadnt pitted I began to fret abit. I hadnt a moment to develop a pit schedule, and I was sitting atop T4s.
Much to my relief, the Camaro handed me the lead at the end of Lap 5 by taking his first pit stop, I began to slowly lengthen my lead over the 350Z. I formulated a two stop pit schedule planning on lap 7 and 14. The Z pitted right behind me on lap 7 and that secured my win. All I had to do after that was post up clean smooth laps. Much to my surprise, the Z pitted on lap 13 instead of lap 14. This gave me one extra lap to stretch out my lead.
At this point I wondered if the Z would pit on lap 19 or would he run the extra lap matching his first pit schedule.
Flash Forward to end of lap 19. Im just under 20 seconds lead on the Z and I turn in my fastest lap. 134.417. Clean and fast. So barring any catastrophic failures, Ive won this race. Now does the Z pit on lap 19 or does he run the final lap? You guessed it, he pitted. Handing me a leisurely final lap to run.
Results:
Nissan Z: +49.417
Camaro SS: +108.712
Mustang SVT: +116.427
Supra RZ: +122.492
Skyline R32: +1 lap
Total Time: 3253.593
Average lap: 138.680
Best lap: 134.417
I know from my previous runs that I barely eeked out a win at Rome. Ill take a run at it and see how I do. 20 lap Race, so Im going to run another 7 lap schedule or if Im not wearing on the tires too badly, Ill make it one stop. If that works, Ill move up to T5 tires, and determine if I can run a 2 stop schedule (laps 7 and 14).
Pit Schedule: 7 and 14.
Rome Results:
Nissan Z: +11.363
Corvette Z06: +55.304
Mustang SVT: +100.512
XKR Coupe: +107.623
Lancer Evo VI TME: +123.809
Total Time: 3402.889
Average lap: 1
Best lap: 138.397
Well, If I can win these two, and by a better margin than listed in my compendium, Noting that I managed to qualify on the pole at Trial Mtn. gives me thoughts of starting this soon.
Total testing mileage: 120.0 miles, and Im at 199hp.
Testing Phase Complete (would rather be racing...)
AO
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Trial Mtn. 2
I tried in vain multiple times to start the series with the 350Z but it wouldnt come up. So on with the show. The ZZS was somewhat run-in and it topped out at 199hp. 120.0 miles.
It took a few laps to get back in sync with the track, and work up from the back of the pack. When I took my first pit on the end of lap 7 I had the lead by les than 4 seconds. My pit costs me two places as I dropped to 3rd place. My next pit would land on lap 14.
I was really starting to get nervous when as I approached lap 19 and the Elise who had been leading since I pitted the first time, hadnt pitted yet. I was about 15 seconds down when at the end of lap 18 he finally pitted.
Midway through lap 19, the Elise was 7.5 seconds down. As long as I dont screw anything to badly Ill win this race.
Results:
Elise 190: + 12.225
Skyline R 34: + 31.228
Supra RZ: + 46.071
Impreza 22B-STI: + 50.487
Skyline R32: + 130.000 (!!)
Total Time: 3332.181
Best Lap: 136.553
Average lap: 1'40.609
AO
I tried in vain multiple times to start the series with the 350Z but it wouldnt come up. So on with the show. The ZZS was somewhat run-in and it topped out at 199hp. 120.0 miles.
It took a few laps to get back in sync with the track, and work up from the back of the pack. When I took my first pit on the end of lap 7 I had the lead by les than 4 seconds. My pit costs me two places as I dropped to 3rd place. My next pit would land on lap 14.
I was really starting to get nervous when as I approached lap 19 and the Elise who had been leading since I pitted the first time, hadnt pitted yet. I was about 15 seconds down when at the end of lap 18 he finally pitted.
Midway through lap 19, the Elise was 7.5 seconds down. As long as I dont screw anything to badly Ill win this race.
Results:
Elise 190: + 12.225
Skyline R 34: + 31.228
Supra RZ: + 46.071
Impreza 22B-STI: + 50.487
Skyline R32: + 130.000 (!!)
Total Time: 3332.181
Best Lap: 136.553
Average lap: 1'40.609
AO
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Midfield 2
This one may be a it tougher. Ive not tested here, so I have no idea what my pit schedule may be, or if Ill even have a chance.
Ill judge tire wear as I run to see if I can make it ten laps or if I have to stick to my 7 lap strategy.
And theyre off!
I managed to move from last place to third place in the final corner. Seems everyone took it too fast, and slid off into the dirt, and those that didnt got caught in the havoc when the others reentered the course. I managed to bend a few fenders but escaped with 3rd place. The Subie was in front of me and the R34 was a glimmer in the distance. I passed the Subie in the same corner on the second lap. At this point the R34 was almost 5 seconds out in front of me.
Managing smooth driving skills, and patience, I didnt lose any ground, but I wasnt able to gain any ground. Then nearing the end of lap 5, I was suddenly within 1.8 seconds and closing fast. Yep, you guessed it, his tires had worn out. I saw him slip and slide around the last corner, and dive into the pit right after. This is where I claimed the lead. Also I was happy, as my tires were still green. This little amount of wear, and I might make it to ten laps before I pit.
The tires did hold out until I pitted on lap ten. At that point, there was only a hint of orange on them. Which means I could like have run T5s on a two lap schedule.
My main competition this race is the R34, and currently hes down over 14 seconds from me. This is his scheduled pit stop, so Ill gain a bit more on him next lap. Its now become a challenge to run perfect laps, as Im almost 5 seconds in front of third place as well. Which turned out to be my nemesis, the Elise 190.
I slowly lengthened my lead lap by lap. On lap 15 I saw that the R34 had taken over second place. That lasted all of 20 seconds as he pitted on that lap and handed the lead back to the Elise 190. So it was back to racing the clock and monitoring tire wear.
I eased into a win with no trouble at all.
Results:
Elise 190: + 32.107
Skyline R 34: 32.234
Impreza 22B-STI: + 101.434
Supra RZ: + 102.832
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 2837.641
Best Lap: 123.540
Average lap: 1'25.882
AO
This one may be a it tougher. Ive not tested here, so I have no idea what my pit schedule may be, or if Ill even have a chance.
Ill judge tire wear as I run to see if I can make it ten laps or if I have to stick to my 7 lap strategy.
And theyre off!
I managed to move from last place to third place in the final corner. Seems everyone took it too fast, and slid off into the dirt, and those that didnt got caught in the havoc when the others reentered the course. I managed to bend a few fenders but escaped with 3rd place. The Subie was in front of me and the R34 was a glimmer in the distance. I passed the Subie in the same corner on the second lap. At this point the R34 was almost 5 seconds out in front of me.
Managing smooth driving skills, and patience, I didnt lose any ground, but I wasnt able to gain any ground. Then nearing the end of lap 5, I was suddenly within 1.8 seconds and closing fast. Yep, you guessed it, his tires had worn out. I saw him slip and slide around the last corner, and dive into the pit right after. This is where I claimed the lead. Also I was happy, as my tires were still green. This little amount of wear, and I might make it to ten laps before I pit.
The tires did hold out until I pitted on lap ten. At that point, there was only a hint of orange on them. Which means I could like have run T5s on a two lap schedule.
My main competition this race is the R34, and currently hes down over 14 seconds from me. This is his scheduled pit stop, so Ill gain a bit more on him next lap. Its now become a challenge to run perfect laps, as Im almost 5 seconds in front of third place as well. Which turned out to be my nemesis, the Elise 190.
I slowly lengthened my lead lap by lap. On lap 15 I saw that the R34 had taken over second place. That lasted all of 20 seconds as he pitted on that lap and handed the lead back to the Elise 190. So it was back to racing the clock and monitoring tire wear.
I eased into a win with no trouble at all.
Results:
Elise 190: + 32.107
Skyline R 34: 32.234
Impreza 22B-STI: + 101.434
Supra RZ: + 102.832
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 2837.641
Best Lap: 123.540
Average lap: 1'25.882
AO
- 9,209
- DerAlta
- 6,977
- old-guy64
Great story AO. I also have several "throw pillows with attitudes."
I never realized what wonderful, delightful, annoying creatures cats were.
I have one that will only sleep on my wife's head. Another that is most comfortable on what I am actively reading. And yet another that lets you know the water dish is empty by sticking her face in your drink. And that's their "lovable" habits.
Hope Hobbs gets the birds sorted out, and vice-versa.
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Rome Circuit 2
Showdown at the Coliseum. Ive already run this so Im certain that I can win this. My only thought is can I improve on the testing phase run?
From the back of the pack...
My launch was not the best that Ive ever done so by the first quadrant, I was nearly 4 seconds out of first place. Smooth cornering and very early braking, combined to make up a considerable amount and in the city section of the track, I slipped past the Elise and took over 5th place in the first lap. The following three laps pitted me against the Skyline R32. Apparently, he was hoping to save his brake pads by using mine. Twice he rode me into the final corner, slamming me into the wall and leaving me in the dust. Till finally on the fourth lap, I let of the gas, allowing him to skip ahead. This gave him room to slam into the wall and I skirted easily by on the inside.
Through lap 4 the Impreza suffered from the same issues that the R32 did. Except that I recognized it ahead of time that he was sliding most corner exits and clipping the armaco. I eased off at the back 90 degree leading up to the hairpin corner. He washed out into the wall, and I danced by with ease. Approaching the left hander at the coliseum (2 corners later) I scrubbed off speed early, and waited for the Supra to wash wide into the wall, opening the door to an easy left hander with plenty of track for me to take over second place.
Neck and Neck with the R34, as we approached the front straight and anticipating another AI to toboggan the corner into the outside wall, I held back off challenging him looking for the inside shot. It didnt appear as on lap 5 the R34 pitted. Leaving open road for me to challenge the clock, and attempt to stretch to a 10 lap schedule.
Paying critical attention to tire squeal allowed me to conserve the tires to lap 10. I was leading the Elise by 13 seconds when I took my pit stop. The less tire squeal = longer tire life. No big revelation there, but something that I think many people dont acknowledge.
The Elise continued on his merry way skipping the pit once again. He has the ability to stay very light on his toes, and virtually no tire wear. This puts me in second place, with 5.707 seconds at the first quadrant to make up in 10 laps.
It took me until the 15th lap to catch the Elise. The same technique as previously mentioned was applied. When approaching a corner that you are certain the AI will blow wide, let off the gas and slip neatly by on the inside. This method was utilized on the second corner of lap 15 and handed me the lead. At the first quadrant, I was 0.040 seconds in the lead. By lap 17 this lead was stretched to 4.938 seconds.
In the laps leading up to the end, I had been worrying about tires conservation. By lap 18 I knew I had enough tire to really open the car up through a few more corners. My best leading up to lap 18 had been in the 1'39.LOW range. Lap 18 turned a 1'38.534, Lap 19 turned a 1'38.338. Both which made me quite happy. My final lap, I noted that I had plenty of tire left, so I really worked every corner for all it was worth. This gave me a final lap for a best lap.
Results
Elise 190: + 17.694
Skyline R 34: + 47.444
Impreza 22B-STI: + 50.612
Supra RZ: + 55.914
Skyline R32: + 1'42.061
Total Time: 33'44.159
Best Lap: 1'37.082
Average lap: 1'41.208
And yes, almost 19 seconds faster than the testing runs.
AO
Showdown at the Coliseum. Ive already run this so Im certain that I can win this. My only thought is can I improve on the testing phase run?
From the back of the pack...
My launch was not the best that Ive ever done so by the first quadrant, I was nearly 4 seconds out of first place. Smooth cornering and very early braking, combined to make up a considerable amount and in the city section of the track, I slipped past the Elise and took over 5th place in the first lap. The following three laps pitted me against the Skyline R32. Apparently, he was hoping to save his brake pads by using mine. Twice he rode me into the final corner, slamming me into the wall and leaving me in the dust. Till finally on the fourth lap, I let of the gas, allowing him to skip ahead. This gave him room to slam into the wall and I skirted easily by on the inside.
Through lap 4 the Impreza suffered from the same issues that the R32 did. Except that I recognized it ahead of time that he was sliding most corner exits and clipping the armaco. I eased off at the back 90 degree leading up to the hairpin corner. He washed out into the wall, and I danced by with ease. Approaching the left hander at the coliseum (2 corners later) I scrubbed off speed early, and waited for the Supra to wash wide into the wall, opening the door to an easy left hander with plenty of track for me to take over second place.
Neck and Neck with the R34, as we approached the front straight and anticipating another AI to toboggan the corner into the outside wall, I held back off challenging him looking for the inside shot. It didnt appear as on lap 5 the R34 pitted. Leaving open road for me to challenge the clock, and attempt to stretch to a 10 lap schedule.
Paying critical attention to tire squeal allowed me to conserve the tires to lap 10. I was leading the Elise by 13 seconds when I took my pit stop. The less tire squeal = longer tire life. No big revelation there, but something that I think many people dont acknowledge.
The Elise continued on his merry way skipping the pit once again. He has the ability to stay very light on his toes, and virtually no tire wear. This puts me in second place, with 5.707 seconds at the first quadrant to make up in 10 laps.
It took me until the 15th lap to catch the Elise. The same technique as previously mentioned was applied. When approaching a corner that you are certain the AI will blow wide, let off the gas and slip neatly by on the inside. This method was utilized on the second corner of lap 15 and handed me the lead. At the first quadrant, I was 0.040 seconds in the lead. By lap 17 this lead was stretched to 4.938 seconds.
In the laps leading up to the end, I had been worrying about tires conservation. By lap 18 I knew I had enough tire to really open the car up through a few more corners. My best leading up to lap 18 had been in the 1'39.LOW range. Lap 18 turned a 1'38.534, Lap 19 turned a 1'38.338. Both which made me quite happy. My final lap, I noted that I had plenty of tire left, so I really worked every corner for all it was worth. This gave me a final lap for a best lap.
Results
Elise 190: + 17.694
Skyline R 34: + 47.444
Impreza 22B-STI: + 50.612
Supra RZ: + 55.914
Skyline R32: + 1'42.061
Total Time: 33'44.159
Best Lap: 1'37.082
Average lap: 1'41.208
And yes, almost 19 seconds faster than the testing runs.
AO
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Special Stage Route 5 - 2
I can win this race as I did it in the testing phase. The difference being, Im facing the Elise which wont pit against my 2 scheduled pits. Also, when I faced the Z here, he pitted 3 times. Granted I had a 20 second lead when he pitted his final time. The other unknown in this running is my oil. Im expecting the light to pop on any second. Trial Mtn was 48.7 miles, Mid-field was 44.6, and Rome was 49.2 for a total of 142.5miles. Ive dropped 1 hp from 199 to 198. So this means Ill begin to lose power through out this race. The good news is that at the end of this race, my HP will have bottomed out and that eliminates one worry from my driving.
Launch was ok, nothing spectacular, but it worked. I took lap 1 and 2 as familiarization laps, and worked my way closer to the pack. Lap 3 I slipped by 5th place in the first corner, and 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place at the hairpin. At the end of lap five in the final left hander (after tunnel exit) I took the inside line, as the AI washed wide. It was then a foot race across the front stretch to the first corner on lap 6. I won, barely. It was then that I noticed my lead expanding. My guess the R34s tires had worn out. Which was confirmed when he pitted at the end of lap 6.
This is what irritates me, the AI pits on lap 6 blowing 7 seconds on one lap. He still has to take 3 pits, and will blow another 7 seconds on lap 13. had he pitted on lap 5, he would have saved 14 seconds and not have changed his schedule.
When I pitted on lap 10, I chopped my lead over the Elise from 30 seconds to 8.5 seconds. After that I began placing nice smooth laps down and stretching the lead waaay out. By lap 18 when my oil light came on I was nearly 36 seconds in the lead.
Posted my fastest lap on lap 20.
Results:
Elise 190: + 46.102
Skyline R 34: + 128.318
Impreza 22B-STI: + 1 lap
Supra RZ: + 1 lap
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 3230.796
Best Lap: 133.841
Average lap: 137.540
A 23 second improvement over the testing phase. Nice! And at less power to boot.
AO
I can win this race as I did it in the testing phase. The difference being, Im facing the Elise which wont pit against my 2 scheduled pits. Also, when I faced the Z here, he pitted 3 times. Granted I had a 20 second lead when he pitted his final time. The other unknown in this running is my oil. Im expecting the light to pop on any second. Trial Mtn was 48.7 miles, Mid-field was 44.6, and Rome was 49.2 for a total of 142.5miles. Ive dropped 1 hp from 199 to 198. So this means Ill begin to lose power through out this race. The good news is that at the end of this race, my HP will have bottomed out and that eliminates one worry from my driving.
Launch was ok, nothing spectacular, but it worked. I took lap 1 and 2 as familiarization laps, and worked my way closer to the pack. Lap 3 I slipped by 5th place in the first corner, and 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place at the hairpin. At the end of lap five in the final left hander (after tunnel exit) I took the inside line, as the AI washed wide. It was then a foot race across the front stretch to the first corner on lap 6. I won, barely. It was then that I noticed my lead expanding. My guess the R34s tires had worn out. Which was confirmed when he pitted at the end of lap 6.
This is what irritates me, the AI pits on lap 6 blowing 7 seconds on one lap. He still has to take 3 pits, and will blow another 7 seconds on lap 13. had he pitted on lap 5, he would have saved 14 seconds and not have changed his schedule.
When I pitted on lap 10, I chopped my lead over the Elise from 30 seconds to 8.5 seconds. After that I began placing nice smooth laps down and stretching the lead waaay out. By lap 18 when my oil light came on I was nearly 36 seconds in the lead.
Posted my fastest lap on lap 20.
Results:
Elise 190: + 46.102
Skyline R 34: + 128.318
Impreza 22B-STI: + 1 lap
Supra RZ: + 1 lap
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 3230.796
Best Lap: 133.841
Average lap: 137.540
A 23 second improvement over the testing phase. Nice! And at less power to boot.
AO
- 24,344
- Midlantic Area
- GTP_Duke
Well done and well written as usual, AO. This sounds like a good run so far.
The AI pitting in this series does seem a bit odd. I noted several occasions when the 350Z pitted on, say, laps 7 and 13rather than 6 and 12, which would have evened out the tire wear substantially. And that's without even noting the stupidity of pitting on lap 18 of a 20-lap race.
The AI pitting in this series does seem a bit odd. I noted several occasions when the 350Z pitted on, say, laps 7 and 13rather than 6 and 12, which would have evened out the tire wear substantially. And that's without even noting the stupidity of pitting on lap 18 of a 20-lap race.
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Seattle Circuit 2
My Hp has dropped to 192 hp. And as the last race shows, it hasnt affected my time to a major degree. This however is my most hated track.
Which secured its record with me as beating me senseless in no time. At the end of Lap 4, I was 18 seconds out of the lead and still in last place. Moments later, I was in 5th place as the R33 in front of me shouldered the Elise190 into the corner of the pit wall chicane. I didnt even have to react as I stayed my line through the chicane, shooting by the grounded Elise. The R33 is about matched even with me at this moment, if the AI could operate the brakes properly. I utilized the "brake early, dive inside" method for over taking him at the Hairpin. It seems he decided to brake late, and slam sideways into the barrier.
At the end of the 5th lap, I was 21.487 seconds off the R34 and steadily losing ground. Tires seem to be only slightly worn, so I should be able to make a 10 lap single pit strategy. This, being my only advantage. It appears the R34 is leaning towards a 3 stop strategy.
The Supra and the Subie both took a two stop strategy. Which is where I first passed them to slip into 2nd place. This doesnt aid me as well as thought, because Im still 14+ seconds out of first place. And both of us are due for one more pit. So unless I can reel in the Skyline, Ill take a second place here. The only high point I can see is that the Elise is still near the back of the pack.
In a heated three lap battle from lap 7 to lap 10, between the Supra, the Subie and I, the 2nd/3rd/4th positions changed hands multiple times. It all ended when I pitted at the end of lap 10. At this point, for some reason, the R34 has pitted again. I wont gain much time, but a few seconds cant hurt. While in the pit, the Elise slips by me to gain 4th place. I drop 2 positions while in the pit.
I have nothing nice to say about this track that is printable. Burning hatred does not come strong enough to properly state how I feel.
As it was, I never gained back more than 4th place until the bottom of the hill jumps. I knew that at that moment, I would have to risk a do or die gamble. Instead of braking, and seeing how close to the tail end of the Supra I was, I elected to aim inside, stove in his passenger doorway, and slam him into the wall. Ripping 3rd place from his grasp. Perhaps the most dastardly deed Ive committed in a long time.
This did indeed grant me 3rd place behind the Subi, and the R34.
Results:
Skyline R34: 3642.706
Impreza 22B-STI: + 18.906
Me: + 21.609
Supra RZ: + 23.045
Elise 190: + 101.635
Skyline R32: + 149.700
Total Time: 3704.315
Best Lap: 147.014 (incidentally, my last lap.)
Average lap: 1 51.216
Thoughts
I am 18 points in the series lead. So if I can take first place in the next three races, I can still manage to win.
In my previous running of this Series, I lost at Seattle as well. A theory that Ill entertain is that it suit an FR car considerably more. Especially throttle steering.
AO
My Hp has dropped to 192 hp. And as the last race shows, it hasnt affected my time to a major degree. This however is my most hated track.
Which secured its record with me as beating me senseless in no time. At the end of Lap 4, I was 18 seconds out of the lead and still in last place. Moments later, I was in 5th place as the R33 in front of me shouldered the Elise190 into the corner of the pit wall chicane. I didnt even have to react as I stayed my line through the chicane, shooting by the grounded Elise. The R33 is about matched even with me at this moment, if the AI could operate the brakes properly. I utilized the "brake early, dive inside" method for over taking him at the Hairpin. It seems he decided to brake late, and slam sideways into the barrier.
At the end of the 5th lap, I was 21.487 seconds off the R34 and steadily losing ground. Tires seem to be only slightly worn, so I should be able to make a 10 lap single pit strategy. This, being my only advantage. It appears the R34 is leaning towards a 3 stop strategy.
The Supra and the Subie both took a two stop strategy. Which is where I first passed them to slip into 2nd place. This doesnt aid me as well as thought, because Im still 14+ seconds out of first place. And both of us are due for one more pit. So unless I can reel in the Skyline, Ill take a second place here. The only high point I can see is that the Elise is still near the back of the pack.
In a heated three lap battle from lap 7 to lap 10, between the Supra, the Subie and I, the 2nd/3rd/4th positions changed hands multiple times. It all ended when I pitted at the end of lap 10. At this point, for some reason, the R34 has pitted again. I wont gain much time, but a few seconds cant hurt. While in the pit, the Elise slips by me to gain 4th place. I drop 2 positions while in the pit.
I have nothing nice to say about this track that is printable. Burning hatred does not come strong enough to properly state how I feel.
As it was, I never gained back more than 4th place until the bottom of the hill jumps. I knew that at that moment, I would have to risk a do or die gamble. Instead of braking, and seeing how close to the tail end of the Supra I was, I elected to aim inside, stove in his passenger doorway, and slam him into the wall. Ripping 3rd place from his grasp. Perhaps the most dastardly deed Ive committed in a long time.
This did indeed grant me 3rd place behind the Subi, and the R34.
Results:
Skyline R34: 3642.706
Impreza 22B-STI: + 18.906
Me: + 21.609
Supra RZ: + 23.045
Elise 190: + 101.635
Skyline R32: + 149.700
Total Time: 3704.315
Best Lap: 147.014 (incidentally, my last lap.)
Average lap: 1 51.216
Thoughts
I am 18 points in the series lead. So if I can take first place in the next three races, I can still manage to win.
In my previous running of this Series, I lost at Seattle as well. A theory that Ill entertain is that it suit an FR car considerably more. Especially throttle steering.
AO
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Apricot Hill
This race I felt much more comfortable in. After battling my way through traffic, and up to 3rd place, I saw an opening to claim first place, as both the R34 and the Supra ricocheted off a wall, leaving the inside hole open for me. This was right at the final quadrant time marker. I slipped right by and into 1st place. For about 3 seconds. When my glee at landing the lead by only the 3rd lap, caused me to forget a braking point, and I slid off into the sand. Thus losing the lead and landing nearly 5 seconds down from my previous position. It took me until the end of the 6th lap to resecure the lead.
I suspect that Ill hand it over to the Elise when I pit in 2 laps, but that will give me plenty of time to regain it after wards.
I pitted on lap 10 leading the Elise by 15+ seconds. I exit the pit and Im trailing by 6.5 seconds.
As I crossed the start/finish line onto lap 17, I thought about how I had to conserve my tires for the next 4 laps. Knowing that I was sporting an 8.5 second lead, and when conserving, I could manage to gain about a ½ second per lap. So barring any disastrous mistakes, I was due for a first place finish. When from out of the blue, the Elise ducks into the pits handing me a subsantial lead. Looks like Im smooth sailing 4 lonely laps to the finish line.
Somewhat of a change from the previous race.
Results:
Elise 190: + 32.367
Supra RZ: + 50.642
Skyline R 34: + 100.802
Impreza 22B-STI: + 112.069
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 3230.840
Best Lap: 133.946
Average lap: 137.542
I feel much better now. And I lead by 22 points.
AO
This race I felt much more comfortable in. After battling my way through traffic, and up to 3rd place, I saw an opening to claim first place, as both the R34 and the Supra ricocheted off a wall, leaving the inside hole open for me. This was right at the final quadrant time marker. I slipped right by and into 1st place. For about 3 seconds. When my glee at landing the lead by only the 3rd lap, caused me to forget a braking point, and I slid off into the sand. Thus losing the lead and landing nearly 5 seconds down from my previous position. It took me until the end of the 6th lap to resecure the lead.
I suspect that Ill hand it over to the Elise when I pit in 2 laps, but that will give me plenty of time to regain it after wards.
I pitted on lap 10 leading the Elise by 15+ seconds. I exit the pit and Im trailing by 6.5 seconds.
As I crossed the start/finish line onto lap 17, I thought about how I had to conserve my tires for the next 4 laps. Knowing that I was sporting an 8.5 second lead, and when conserving, I could manage to gain about a ½ second per lap. So barring any disastrous mistakes, I was due for a first place finish. When from out of the blue, the Elise ducks into the pits handing me a subsantial lead. Looks like Im smooth sailing 4 lonely laps to the finish line.
Somewhat of a change from the previous race.
Results:
Elise 190: + 32.367
Supra RZ: + 50.642
Skyline R 34: + 100.802
Impreza 22B-STI: + 112.069
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 3230.840
Best Lap: 133.946
Average lap: 137.542
I feel much better now. And I lead by 22 points.
AO
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Deep Forest 2
I took me the first three laps to battle through traffic and up to 2nd place. During the fourth lap, I began the process of reeling in the R34. Little by little, I was gaining on every corner. Until he pitted at the end of lap 4. This oughta drop him right out of the running if he is planning a 4 pit schedule.
Carrying on ly a 3.9 seconds lead, I hit my pit stop at lap #10, and watched the Elise sail on by. Im worried that I wont be able to catch him in the next ten laps unless he pits. So its all relegated to one pit stop deciding the race. Time to lay down the clean smooth runs.
It took me until the bus stop on lap 18 to catch the Elise. I trailed him and the R32 (1 lap down) up through the tunnels, and twisties to the final hairpin, where I pulled a bold move cutting to the inside as those two battled for the best line. Exiting the corner, we had completely swapped positions. Entering it went: R32, Elise, Me. Exiting, it went: Me, Elise, R32.
Noting how much tire I had left, I breathed a sigh of relief as it there was only a slight tinge of orange on my left front. This gave me running room to open up my lead.
Results:
Elise 190: + 7.301
Skyline R 34: + 33.066
Supra RZ: + 45.754
Impreza 22B-STI: + 101.870
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 2913.914
Best Lap: 123.836
Average lap: 127.696
AO
I took me the first three laps to battle through traffic and up to 2nd place. During the fourth lap, I began the process of reeling in the R34. Little by little, I was gaining on every corner. Until he pitted at the end of lap 4. This oughta drop him right out of the running if he is planning a 4 pit schedule.
Carrying on ly a 3.9 seconds lead, I hit my pit stop at lap #10, and watched the Elise sail on by. Im worried that I wont be able to catch him in the next ten laps unless he pits. So its all relegated to one pit stop deciding the race. Time to lay down the clean smooth runs.
It took me until the bus stop on lap 18 to catch the Elise. I trailed him and the R32 (1 lap down) up through the tunnels, and twisties to the final hairpin, where I pulled a bold move cutting to the inside as those two battled for the best line. Exiting the corner, we had completely swapped positions. Entering it went: R32, Elise, Me. Exiting, it went: Me, Elise, R32.
Noting how much tire I had left, I breathed a sigh of relief as it there was only a slight tinge of orange on my left front. This gave me running room to open up my lead.
Results:
Elise 190: + 7.301
Skyline R 34: + 33.066
Supra RZ: + 45.754
Impreza 22B-STI: + 101.870
Skyline R32: + 1 lap
Total Time: 2913.914
Best Lap: 123.836
Average lap: 127.696
AO
- 8,128
- 2 smacks past uranus
- Somebodyshootme
Excellent write up Der Alta. . . I am most intrigued by it and wanting to run this myself again. I am unsure what I should run it in. I tried out a S4 seeing how a 4wd would handle on this series. . . word of advice, don't use one 707. I think I might use your nemisis here the Elise to run it. Any suggestions on any cars will be taken in an examined to run this.
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Thanks guys. I'm quite Surprised that the S4 couldn't do it. Did they other cars out run, out corner, or out drive it?
I've been mulling over what to do next, after I finish this series. I think I'm headed back to document an attempt at the R390 in the F1 championship.
We'll see.
AO
I've been mulling over what to do next, after I finish this series. I think I'm headed back to document an attempt at the R390 in the F1 championship.
We'll see.
AO
- 8,128
- 2 smacks past uranus
- Somebodyshootme
Well, the S4 got out cornered, I might add it was not the greatest on tires either.. It got out cornered and had no pickup on the uphill at trail mountain. I am also horrible in 4wd cars though. BTW, I heard RER was trying to run a prototype car in the F1 series, I think they finally figured out how to do it through MKs program. I actually beleive he was using the road car.
- 9,209
- DerAlta
Special Stage R11 2
I quit out of this race, as I only need to win one more race to win the series. I figure Ive got a better chance at GV2 since there are less tight corners and it makes it easier for me to carry momentum.
Grand Valley Raceway - 2
At the launch, I watched the AI take off from me. I thin kit was due to my slow start. Because once I had my braking points established, I was able to chip time of pretty quickly. Again the Brake Early, Dive Inside method worked out very well. This enabled me to move from 6th to 4th without much trouble in the first two laps. From there I reeled in the leaders. At the exit from the last tunnel on lap 4, I dove inside of the Subie, and stole 3rd place. Then a short distance later, I dove inside the Supra as he blew the tight hairpin wide.
It was exactly a lap later that I pulled the same move on the same corner to take over the lead. At that point, the cars began their pit stops. Both Skylines on lap 5, and the rest on lap 6, with the exception of the Elise who likely wont pit at all.
From lap 7 on, I worked at minimizing tire squeal and conserved my tires until I pitted on lap 10. This with a 35.140 second lead. Its not likely Ill lose my lead on this pit, so Ill be managing tire wear and watching the clock for ten more laps.
Results:
Supra RZ: + 104.268
Skyline R 34: + 111.468
Impreza 22B-STI: + 1.14.705
Elise 190: + 121.806
Skyline R32: + 211.584
Total Time: 4426.173
Best Lap: 208.232 (My last lap)
Average lap:
Tokyo R246 - 2
And I exit out of this one early and pick up the TVR Speed 12 in Reflex Purple. On my first try no less. Such a magnificent car.
Thoughts:
I total up 520.4 miles on the ZZS, and 120.0 of that were in testing. Ive run in the car to 191 HP before the oil change, and 200 hp after.
I was really quite amazed at how this car managed to do. Very smooth and easy on the tires. Like my run in the EVO, it was up to pit schedule, tire conservation and patience. I really would like have seen how this car ran against the 350Z. But, thats for another time. Next on the list (along with some OLR) is running an R390 race car through the F1 championship.
Thanks for watching the show.
A Beetle RSi...Now that's a thought...
AO
I quit out of this race, as I only need to win one more race to win the series. I figure Ive got a better chance at GV2 since there are less tight corners and it makes it easier for me to carry momentum.
Grand Valley Raceway - 2
At the launch, I watched the AI take off from me. I thin kit was due to my slow start. Because once I had my braking points established, I was able to chip time of pretty quickly. Again the Brake Early, Dive Inside method worked out very well. This enabled me to move from 6th to 4th without much trouble in the first two laps. From there I reeled in the leaders. At the exit from the last tunnel on lap 4, I dove inside of the Subie, and stole 3rd place. Then a short distance later, I dove inside the Supra as he blew the tight hairpin wide.
It was exactly a lap later that I pulled the same move on the same corner to take over the lead. At that point, the cars began their pit stops. Both Skylines on lap 5, and the rest on lap 6, with the exception of the Elise who likely wont pit at all.
From lap 7 on, I worked at minimizing tire squeal and conserved my tires until I pitted on lap 10. This with a 35.140 second lead. Its not likely Ill lose my lead on this pit, so Ill be managing tire wear and watching the clock for ten more laps.
Results:
Supra RZ: + 104.268
Skyline R 34: + 111.468
Impreza 22B-STI: + 1.14.705
Elise 190: + 121.806
Skyline R32: + 211.584
Total Time: 4426.173
Best Lap: 208.232 (My last lap)
Average lap:
Tokyo R246 - 2
And I exit out of this one early and pick up the TVR Speed 12 in Reflex Purple. On my first try no less. Such a magnificent car.
Thoughts:
I total up 520.4 miles on the ZZS, and 120.0 of that were in testing. Ive run in the car to 191 HP before the oil change, and 200 hp after.
I was really quite amazed at how this car managed to do. Very smooth and easy on the tires. Like my run in the EVO, it was up to pit schedule, tire conservation and patience. I really would like have seen how this car ran against the 350Z. But, thats for another time. Next on the list (along with some OLR) is running an R390 race car through the F1 championship.
Thanks for watching the show.
A Beetle RSi...Now that's a thought...
AO
- 24,344
- Midlantic Area
- GTP_Duke
Ving, sometimes you do have flashes of genius. The RSi sounds like a fabulous idea!
Der Alta, way to go! I don't blame you for skipping the races you've already won. Though R246-R would likely have been an enjoyable run, the results would wind up indisputably in your favor.
Der Alta, way to go! I don't blame you for skipping the races you've already won. Though R246-R would likely have been an enjoyable run, the results would wind up indisputably in your favor.
