2 answers
Robert
Student
5
Questions
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how much does it cost to enter a racing league?
I understand that auto racing can cost about 10,000 per race car but why though? I've been watching auto racing for about 4 years now but I understand that some of the race cars are fragile and some are not but I just don't understand why don't they make it afordable to race?
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2 answers
Nick Bartmon
Security Software Engineer
16
Answers
Redmond, Washington
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Nick’s Answer
There are many paths into professional racing, but the most successful is to start with GoKarts or Midget Car racing. I recommend starting at a local GoKart track. If possible, see if they have an amateur league using their rental karts that you can join. These are usually $30-100 per race, but depending on the track and karts, it can be more. Because you'll be using rental karts, that keeps costs down while you're learning, but eventually, you will need a kart of your own.
A shifter kart, as they're referred to, is relatively affordable at $4,000-10,000, plus maybe $2,000 per year in maintenance and parts. You will need a way to transport it to and from the track, but any van, pickup truck and many SUV's have enough space to fit one. You don't even need a trailer! Safety gear is also very important, and will cost another $1,000-2000 (helmet, boots, fireproof suit, gloves).
A shifter kart, as they're referred to, is relatively affordable at $4,000-10,000, plus maybe $2,000 per year in maintenance and parts. You will need a way to transport it to and from the track, but any van, pickup truck and many SUV's have enough space to fit one. You don't even need a trailer! Safety gear is also very important, and will cost another $1,000-2000 (helmet, boots, fireproof suit, gloves).
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Robert
Fred Rosenberger
Data Analyst
507
Answers
St. Louis, MO
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Fred’s Answer
Note: I am not an expert AT ALL when it comes to racing.
What kind of league are you talking about?
An F1 car can cost $10million or more. They are extremely high performance cars, with lots of technology. Also, they are not mass produced like a Toyota Camry, so each piece costs more.
I think stock cars cost less - they are pretty much off-the-shelf cars. People may buy parts to improve aspects, but again, you're looking at a large cost for the car alone. Factor in fuel, training, paying staff, travel, repairs...
Like everything, the cost is what the market will bear. If I'm spending $50k, and you are spending $75k, you'll probably have a better car. So, I look to improve my car by spending more - maybe $90k - which then incentivizes you to spend more.
If the cost is too high, teams drop out. If enough drop out, then someone new can enter with possibly less money...and the cycle starts again.
What kind of league are you talking about?
An F1 car can cost $10million or more. They are extremely high performance cars, with lots of technology. Also, they are not mass produced like a Toyota Camry, so each piece costs more.
I think stock cars cost less - they are pretty much off-the-shelf cars. People may buy parts to improve aspects, but again, you're looking at a large cost for the car alone. Factor in fuel, training, paying staff, travel, repairs...
Like everything, the cost is what the market will bear. If I'm spending $50k, and you are spending $75k, you'll probably have a better car. So, I look to improve my car by spending more - maybe $90k - which then incentivizes you to spend more.
If the cost is too high, teams drop out. If enough drop out, then someone new can enter with possibly less money...and the cycle starts again.
dear fred, thanks so much for your advice with your kinda insight on auto racing also incorrect on the stock cars part they actually kinda build the cars themselfs. best regards, Robert.
Robert