New 250 Spec class for 2009?

[Holeshot]

Ah, the 250 guys will love me for this..Jim, go ahead and post the link to the 250 list already...

Looking at the WSMC Ninjette 250 class, Kawasaki is paying contingency for their bikes in a class that's gained some decent popularity at Willow Springs. For the 2009 season, the 250 class would be an interesting choice for a "spec" class with highly limited rules and modifications. My thought is rules on par with WSMC, or rules more restrictive than current production rules even. In practice, our spec rules could mirror some of the T1 stuff for SCCA, etc, where points are applied to different modifications and each bike is allowed a certain number of points. Kind of hard to police, but it allows different riders to construct their bike to their liking without all bikes being exactly the same (so not true "Spec" class). The rule would give say, 20 points to be allotted. An exhaust would be worth 10 points, front suspension 8, rear suspension 5, etc...certain things would be permitted with no point penalties: brake lines, etc.

That's one concept. The other is a static, fixed package for the bikes of suspension/modifications with a cost level of no more than $2000 over the cost of the bike (bodywork, etc...everything). I'd toyed with the idea of not allowing front runners to enter the class and take the contingency money, but it's hard to stop that.

I also figured, now was the time to start the dialogue on this subject, instead of waiting until later. That gives over 9 months to come up with something.

Thoughts?

[Tazman]

Keep it a spec class only please. I have enough to do without having to figure out who's running what and award or deduct points for said mod's. Talk about a logistical nightmare.

Just my $0.02

[Dan071]

I think a spec class would be a great idea. No mods at all except for jetting, pipe, suspension work, brake lines. Have a special "tech line" with tech inspectors know what to look for. Leave it up to the rider ability, not the size of their wallet.

Are 400 singles still going to be allowed?

And grandfather the current crop of 250p racers in. Obviously they won't be eligible for contingency. But if they have been racing 250p for x amount of years and have x amount of starts/finishes. Let them race, realistically probably talking less than 5 bikes.

[Jello_Biafra]

I'd be down for a straight spec class. I was gonna buy one to commute on anyway. I'd just need a set of wheels and I'd be ready to race. :)

[Kameron808]

I'd be down for a straight spec class. I was gonna buy one to commute on anyway. I'd just need a set of wheels and I'd be ready to race. :)
Using wheels that cost more than 50% of the value of the bike doesn't sound like a spec class to me.

[FZ1Craig]

I think he means a spare set of rims for race rubber, and another for commuting... If not, then carry on
;).

[Jello_Biafra]

I think he means a spare set of rims for race rubber, and another for commuting... If not, then carry on
;).

:)

[Kameron808]

I think he means a spare set of rims for race rubber, and another for commuting... If not, then carry on
;).

GT501s are commuter tires! Ha.

[FZ1Craig]

The new 250's will actually fit race rubber! Happy day, oh happy day.

Craig

[Jello_Biafra]

Front Tire Size 110/70-17

Rear Tire Size 130/70-17

:o

[noahG06R6]

Nice!! hmmmmm

:thumbup

[Tazman]

I think a spec class would be a great idea. No mods at all except for jetting, pipe, suspension work, brake lines. Have a special "tech line" with tech inspectors know what to look for.

So how many tech lines are we gonna have now?? One for 600 prod? How about 650 prod they're gonna need one also. Oh wait Open Prod needs a special inspection that only those inspectors know about. Let me see now counting the new "250 spec" class thats at least 8 inspectors for just 4 classes. So who's going to inspect the rest of the bikes in the other classes? This year I have 8 volunteer inspectors and 3 volunteer sticker ladies.

[afmotorsports]

It's highly unlikely that we will have more than ONE set of rules for ALL production classes starting with 2009 (sorry Birdo, Taz makes valid points about the insanity of trying to enforce different rules for different prod classes). We (the AFM board) should be talking to Kawasaki about a contingency plan for 250P in 2009 and I expect the class to take off and grow again.

[Dan071]

So how many tech lines are we gonna have now?? One for 600 prod? How about 650 prod they're gonna need one also. Oh wait Open Prod needs a special inspection that only those inspectors know about. Let me see now counting the new "250 spec" class thats at least 8 inspectors for just 4 classes. So who's going to inspect the rest of the bikes in the other classes? This year I have 8 volunteer inspectors and 3 volunteer sticker ladies.

Same we've always had, just tell everyone to go to the one farthest to the left or right and tech regular classes also. Like the bridges do "Fast track and cash ok". And why for all the other classes, only for the people running the special "spec class".

How do you become a volunteer tech inspector? I've never seen offers on the AFM website asking for tech inspectors....

[gilligan]

Hey Alex, just to bust your chops some...If 250 Prod takes off and they get a full grid, will the Board add another class like they did for the 650's?

Tom
36

[Holeshot]

Tom, It's F4 class, effectively, that was "added".

[monstermonster]

A spec 250 class is great idea. That thing with the points is too hard to police and is too confusing. Have it be a cheap racing package offered by one or two or three of the AFM vendrors that you can buy for a fixed amount. Include bodywork, brake lines, maybe *some* suspension upgrades (not super costly ones like pimped-out shocks (if they even exist), but things like springs and emulators and some fork oil) and a jet kit. *maybe* include clip-ons and/or rigid rearsets for easy crash replacement/protection. Prolly don't need a pipe -- too much $. Don't allow choices between different manufacturers. I bet you could talk manufacturers into giving discounts for the race package if they use their stuff. Cuz would people racing 250spec really care which manufacturer makes their brake lines as long as the bike stops better?

Dan, there doesn't need to be a special Tech section for it. It will police itself (unless Merckel races, of course :rolleyes). If you don't have something from the "race kit" or the stock stuff, then you're not complying with the rules.

[HOTRODHAIRY]

I'd definately be down to race a 250 spec class as long as there aren't too many mods allowed How about a true stock maybe just brake lines and required belly pan.It would be cheap and a fun challenge.I just saw th new bike in person today and it's pretty cool.Commuter during the week,racer on weekends.

[gilligan]

Tom, It's F4 class, effectively, that was "added".


Your thinking endurance...I'm thinking 650 Twins Production.

If the 2006 and newer production rules are applied to the class, it'll essentially be a spec class. I know at least 2 ex-AFM'ers coming back this year to race these things, one's a former class champion.

Too bad I sold the DR...

Tom
36

[Jello_Biafra]

I'd definately be down to race a 250 spec class as long as there aren't too many mods allowed How about a true stock maybe just brake lines and required belly pan.It would be cheap and a fun challenge.I just saw th new bike in person today and it's pretty cool.Commuter during the week,racer on weekends.

Yes. Nothing that would send prices too high and make it a dedicated track bike. Bellypan is a must, as is safety wire.. but otherwise I say take off the mirrors, pull some fuses and race.

[Holeshot]

Me too Tom...AND the guy's got awesome pervert stories!

[afmotorsports]

Hey Alex, just to bust your chops some...If 250 Prod takes off and they get a full grid, will the Board add another class like they did for the 650's?

Tom
36

Ballbuster! :twofinger

650 twins essentially had a "superbike" and a "formula class" (650 Twins and F4), but no "supersport" class. We already have 250 Production and 250 Superbike, I guess 500 Twins is the "formula class". Even if you wanted to add another 250 class, what would you call it and what rules would it follow?? Maybe a 250 Twins class, using formula rules?

I have a feeling the new Ninja 250 will get a lot more riders excited about the little bike and if at some point we have over 50 riders on the 250P grid, the AFM board will need to consider options for making more room for Ninja 250s.

[Ace of Hearts]

I'm for more restrictions. I already sold my old inventory with a high degree of modifications. I'd rather minimize the damage coming back in the class at a later date.

[Dan071]

Dan, there doesn't need to be a special Tech section for it. It will police itself (unless Merckel races, of course :rolleyes).


:laughing that was the inspiration for the special tech line