I Need Advice for a First-Time Bonneville Build

[Abigail]

Hello there,

I am new to the world of land speed racing and have been diving deep into the amazing wealth of knowledge shared in this forum. I am currently planning my first build with the goal of running at Bonneville; and I would love some advice from the experienced racers here.

The vehicle I am working on is a 1970s vintage motorcycle; a Honda CB750; which I plan to modify extensively to fit into the Modified Production class. My primary focus is getting the aerodynamics and engine performance dialed in; but I am still wrapping my head around some key areas.

I have read a lot about the importance of fairings and proper body design to reduce drag. Are there any specific resources; templates; or designs you would recommend for a beginner? I want to strike a balance between performance and safety.

Bonnevilles altitude and salt surface seem to pose unique challenges for engine tuning. What modifications or tuning strategies would you suggest for optimizing performance in those conditions?

From what I have gathered; choosing the right tires is crucial. Are there specific brands or types of tires that work best on the salt flats?

Lastly, if there is any general advice you would give to someone tackling Bonneville for the first time; I would love to hear it. I am trying to approach this with as much preparation as possible; but I know there is no substitute for real world experience.

Thanks in advance for your help and assistance.

[aircap]

I don't race, but my guess is the first thing most would tell you is to buy a rulebook.

[SPARKY]

START with reading and studying the rule book!!!!  You must know it by HEART!!!!  OR you will waste a lot of time and money


Where do you live  find a mentor  on line or in person they can and will help a lot!!!! 

[sabat]

Hmm... Abigail, can you read this number for me?

[Stainless1]

Well I don't know where to start... Your choice of bikes will severely impact your ability to compete for a record.... do you plan to run the AMA sanctioned BMST or a SCTA sanctioned event? 
The AMA rules are online https://americanmotorcyclist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/24_AMA_Racing_Rulebook-FINAL-FOR-LINUX.pdf with LSR starting about page 296.  Your old Honda would fit in their Classic class for bikes made between 1956 and 1981 I think... haven't read their rules in a while so the dates may not be accurate.
SCTA rules are only available for purchase in print or online.
But let's start here... I always recommend attending an event before jumping in to start racing on the salt.
Hopefully you are aware of the paved events that are held around the country by the ECTA and Texas Mile organizations...
So the take away... get the rules for the organization you are planning to race with, read them for familiarization, then read them again for applicable content, and finally read them again so you know them by heart... don't read anything into them, don't leave anything out of them.   Attend an event..     
Previous advice was to find a mentor... Tell us where you are and maybe someone in the community is nearby.  If you attend an event, you will be able to talk to the competitors and see vehicles that are running in your class.
Good Luck with your quest 

[fissionspeed]

Hmm... Abigail, can you read this number for me?

This. This one's better than the last one though.

[Stainless1]

I guess we will see if any questions are answered or if Abigail will wind up gone with the wind...

[MRK]

When you receive your rule book you will be tempted to go right to the class/category you intend to race in.
After you've devoured that section, take the time to read sections 1 through 4 thoroughly. There is a ton of information in these sections that is invaluable.
Get acquainted with section 16 as well. There you will find the committee heads that can guide you on your build and will ultimately give you the final okay on your design. Also, keep records of your correspondence with the SCTA in case of an issue. It may be your only defense in case there is a dust up.
Good luck!!

[7707]

Never, ever underestimate the salt. ?I would really recommend you attend an event prior to racing. Decide which sanctioning body you want to run under. Talk to the tech guys so you understand what they look for and like everyone else?get to know the rules. Have fun,