SPB Build - Test and Tune
Vali Motorsports finished the build and met me at Willow Springs in SoCal for me to do a test and tune day. Vali was there for an upcoming POC race weekend at Willows so he brought out a bunch of cars and a full crew to support the drivers. This was an ideal setup for me to do a test and tune as we could address any issues we might find before I take delivery of the SPB. I have to admit I was a bit intimidated because not only am I new to this SPB, but its been years since I drove a manual on a track, and if that wasn’t enough reason to be nervous I have never been to Willow Springs.
Within minutes of arriving it was time to jump into the car and hit the track. Luckily one of Vali’s clients was there that owns a SPB and who also is familiar with the racing line of Willow. I asked him to drive my car with me in the passenger seat so I could see the line and get comfortable with the track. This is a large leap of faith as I didn’t know the driver but I quickly found out two things. The first is that he was a good driver. The second was that Willow is an incredibly fast track.
After a few laps we came in to get gas, add coolant, and let the car settle. It was then time for me to drive but since I barely new the track still we decided I would do a lead follow with the same driver so that I could get comfortable with my car while following his line. He was kind enough to slow down for a handful of laps so that I could ease into the speed. Here are my observations of the SPB. The car is very balanced, planted, brakes well, and the shifting is rather smooth. I had no problems downshifting using the heel tow method and while I didn’t set any lap records I was able to slowly bring up my speed. The visibility is a bit limited due to the small rear window, the roll cage, and the side net but I felt comfortable enough letting others pass me (which was often). There was only a couple times where it got a bit spicy which was my fault as I found turn 4a and 4b difficult to read.
After my session I had to run off to get back to the airport but the day was a huge success. The SPB was fantastic and it will certainly accomplish what I am looking for which is a car that will help me develop as a driver. It has enough power with a focus on balance, braking, and cornering. I was happy to see that heel toe shifting was a breeze and once I get more seat time I am sure I can pick up the speed. Willow Springs is an iconic track (oldest continued use road course in the US) and extremely fast…..living up to its name “The Fastest Road in the West”. I look forward to coming back and spending more time to figure out the track and get up to full speed.