Book Review: "Secrets of Solo Racing" by H. Watts

[erok]

I've been reading this book and thought I'd share that for $12 I've learned quite a bit that will help in future events. The author covers everything from basic terminology to car prep in a very clear, easy to read style. I found the chapters on course analysis and choosing a driving line most interesting because the author discusses ideas as to WHY to choose one line over another whereas the discussion during most novice course walks usually directs people to do things without any explanation. Maybe it's too much for a true beginner to take in, but I think anyone who's done a couple events will get a lot from Secrets of Solo Racing.

[pitcrew]

That book belongs on every Axer's book shelf, along with "Going Faster".

[scapamouche]

I bought it years ago, and didn't even know what I was getting....

Speaking of..... It's time I read it again.

[GTS LAID]

wow.. time to buy it... whats that other one that pitcrew mentioned?

[pitcrew]

GTS:
go here: http://www.ioportracing.com/books.htm

They have the Watt book as well as "Going Faster" by the Skip Barber racing school staff, and another I'd recommend for serious AXers: "How to Make Your Car Handle" by Fred Puhn.
Not available from IO Port but also excellent if you want to get more technical about setup is: "Tune to Win" by Carroll Smith. The last two will help you to understand why your car handles like it does, and what effect changes will have on it. High school Physics will help make them even more understandable and useful.

[GTS LAID]

i've read all of brian beckman's chapters over the years... i love how physics oriented that guy is...

[GTS LAID]

P.S. Thanks guys for the titles.

[pr0file]

Did anyone read/purchase Winning Autocross Solo II Competition
by Richard Turner and J. B. Miles? Just curious...I'd like to pick up some books to improve on my lack of skills!! :)

[pitcrew]

Originally posted by pr0file
Did anyone read/purchase Winning Autocross Solo II Competition
by Richard Turner and J. B. Miles? Just curious...I'd like to pick up some books to improve on my lack of skills!! :)

I have. It's a bit more dated than Watts book, but still has some useful information. The BEST money you can spend is to attend an Evolution Ax school! You can learn more in one day than in a year or more trial and error time. You'll be noticably quicker at the very next event. MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

I own and have read a number of other titles as well, primarily chassis setup.

[pr0file]

Thanks, pitcrew!! :) And everyone else, also! :)

[Al2ktoy]

Originally posted by pr0file
Did anyone read/purchase Winning Autocross Solo II Competition
by Richard Turner and J. B. Miles? Just curious...I'd like to pick up some books to improve on my lack of skills!! :)

I have this book sitting in my garage. 'Secret of Solo Racing' is a better book, I think.

I will bring this to you on Sunday.

[pr0file]

Thanks, Alan! See you soon! :)

[pitcrew]

Out of all of them, "Going Faster" is the one to buy if you are buying only one.