Now that I've finally done what the Type R was built to do, I have a couple of thoughts to share for those that care.

1.) I know nothing about how to properly apply ideal driving techniques.
I've always known this but my first autocross just confirmed it. I believe my times were respectable for a beginner but my lines and technique needs major improvement. Everything is coming so fast at you that it's so hard to process how to go through the course correctly. I think my instincts took over but its instincts that have not had previous training. I guess it's like with all things, you only get better the more times you're exposed to it. I want to accelerate my learning by taking driving school but I have no idea where to begin with pursuing that. Anybody care to help?

2.) The Integra Type R has more than enough power in its stock form.
The only "power" mods I have in my car are the Icebox and timing is set to 18BTDC and it’s more than enough power to scurry my rookie *** around the course. The sound and the fury of the R near redline is so addictive that sometimes, I neglected the brakes. This is when I would get into "trouble" and hear my tires cry. ***Note to self - Learn to use the middle pedal and have mercy on the tires.

3.) It really is all about the driver.
There was a stock late 80s or early 90s crx's, and I mean STOCK, that was probably posting better times than me. Enough said. Ok maybe one more side note. There were two ladies, one with an S2K and the other with a fully decked out Saturn, in the mix. I didn't expect to see any women there as well as M versions of the E46/Z3/ and coupe roadster, a couple Ferraris, and Porsches.

4.) The balance of the Type R is amazing.
I think if I were in a non-track ready car, I would have made an embarrassment out of myself with spinouts and busted cones stuck under the car. The phrase that comes to mind when thinking about how the car handles is that it has a "point and shoot" attitude. The car never argued with me and where I wanted to go. It REALLY is on rails. Body roll? What body roll? Is it possible to make this animal handle any better?

Sorry for the outpouring of thoughts but it needs to be said. The Type R is a beast. It may not be the fastest down the 1320, and it may not handle the best, and it may not be much of a head-turner, but damn, for around $24,000, you can't find a more complete package. Now I understand why every review I've read about this car is positive.

 

In an AutoX, the best line will always be the shortest line...

 

I take that as I always have to strive to hug the cones on the inside part of every turn. Is that correct?



[Modified by CPR, 10:16 PM 12/9/2001]

 

Congrats on using the ITR for what it was meant. After my first season of autocross this is what I learned:
1. Go slower to go faster. If you try too hard, you over drive the car. This may create understeer situations, hitting cones, and other mistakes.
2. Be smooth and carry speed. Brake early and carry speed through turns.
3. Learn how to left foot brake for sweepers, where rotation might be hard to do without transfering weight of car to front wheels.
4. Tire pressure is very important. Ask pro's and those who know.
5. Fast car + inexperienced driver = slow times ! Modify driving technique before modifying the car.

Anyway, congrats on getting into autocross. Check my website in my sig for pics and other stuff.

 

Go slower to go faster is some good advice.

On my first autocrosses I used to try to attack the course with reckless abandon in an effort to get good times. I later realized more skilled driving is all thats needed. I dropped by 3 seconds after I took it easy and kept the R in check! Also tire pressures are so important. I use to push and go towards cones. Now with 35/41 the back end is finally cooperating with me. Good Luck!

 

All good advice being posted.

As with anything, PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE

 

A few tips I have learned in my first season of autocrossing:

-The quickest way to become a better driver is to get instructions from experienced drivers and follow them. At your next autocross ask a veteran to ride with you and give you tips.
-Before autocrosses walk the course several times so you don't get confused and lose time while you're driving.
-While you're doing your course walk plan your lines, with a veteran if possible.
-Look ahead, way ahead. When entering one turn I'm looking at the entry of the next turn. When you have someone ride with you they'll tell you where to look.
-Smooth continuous inputs. Don't slam on the brakes. They'll just lock up. Progressively get on the brakes as fast as possible for maximum braking power. Same with the throttle. Mash on the throttle and you'll unsettle the car. Get on it fast but get on it smooth. This is harder than it sounds.

The aforementioned tips about tire pressure, go slow to go fast, and cutting close to the cones are also very good pointers. I'm sure you'll get a million more so you might want to get an autocrossing notebook to write down all of your thoughts.

-Gerald

 

Not always

 

When your tires break loose and *scream* at you...that means you've pushed the car a bit TOO hard. Try to listen to your tires. They'll tell you if you're pushing your car too hard.

 

My tires didn't say a word when they swung out and smacked into a barrier.

 

That's because it was wet out...wasn't it?