Was at Blyton Park last weekend for mine and my 2008 NCs first track day.
Spotted a bulge on the rear left tyre sidewall the day before so very quickly had to get 2 replacements for the rears, only real choice without breaking the bank at such short notice were Avon ZV7s which held up very well to the track day. The Falken FK520s on the front were a little melted by the end of the day but there’s some life in them yet.
Overall really pleased with the car. It’s essentially stock but with some fresh Mintex pads and RBF600 brake fluid.
I was thrown into the deep end with rain and standing water on the track. So I kept things cautious, but I was far to eager to shift down too early which kicked the back end out a couple times. Lesson learned!
I’d go out for 15-20 minute sessions on track, any more and the braking performance was noticeably worse - probably from overheating, given the stench of brake pads. But 15 minutes at a time is more than enough!
By afternoon the track was drying out although there was always a bit of water lurking off line. As I was able to push more I noticed the aspects of the car that I’d like to change if I want to do more track days, e.g. the amount of roll into the corners is significant and maybe I should consider some bracing or coilovers in the future.
It was great being able to really push the car on track in a way which you simply can’t on the road. It made me realise that before now I really had no idea what I’d want to change on the car because all my information was second-hand, but now I’ve felt for myself I can see how track days could become a new and very expensive hobby for me
It would be interesting to follow your car development if you think about it.
Hearing first hand how modifications improve (or not) the car is very useful for anyone considering similar bits and bobs.
How much of that was down to it being your first track day and the twisty nature of Blyton?
A novice track day with tuition at a longer, faster track like Oulton Park or Donington might alter your thinking before you spend. Having said that, it’s generally considered that earlier NC’s will rock and roll a bit more than later ones.
Probably a lot was down to the track as there’s a couple medium speed 90 degree corners that really make the car roll. That said, I’m definitely not at the car’s limit, so as you say it might be better to get a better feel for the car at more tracks.
Oulton Park was one of my favourite tracks back when I used to be on iRacing so it’d be great to try that one out in real life.
Save your money on upgrades - spend it on doing more trackdays and possibly get some tuition. You wouldn’t believe how fast an experienced racing driver can punt even a very humble car around.
I’d also echo those thoughts around holding out on any upgrades. Certainly experience a few different tracks first.
You also think about it in terms of continuing to experience the car as-is ‘for free’ without putting any more spend in. Coupled with the fact that if/when you do make changes, you can really savour the differences and pick up on those nuances
Rev matching will sort that out. These cars don’t make much power below 4k, so really if you’re shifting down at the right time you’re always going to be skipping the tire without rev matching. So your shifts were prob good and just need to practice footwork.
Donington is still BY CONCENT
Over taking either side works very well and it’s police’d to maintain driving standards.
Trust me it is NOT a free for all
