I had my first go at SCCA Solo this past weekend in my 330i and am hooked!
The car has a few upgrades which put it into ST, and the 275mm rears (Goodyear F1 Asyms on 19" Morr VS8.1's) bumped it into STU.
What I'd like to do is switch to the stock 18" wheels (style 162's which currently have Blizzaks on them) for now, with stickier tires, and reconsider the rims when whatever tires I choose are due for replacement.
If I use something at 265mm or less I will drop to STX and I think I'll actually be faster on 18's with stickier tires than the 240 treadwear F1's. I can go as low as 140 in STX.
My question is, does this sound like a reasonable budget-minded approach to get me into a lower class where I'd be more competitive? What is the anticipated performance impact of going from the current wheel / tire setup to what I've proposed? I really don't know how rim size / weight & tire width / compound interact on the track at this level.
Assuming this is a reasonable approach, any tire recommendations?
Thanks in advance for any feedback!
Edit: list of major mods...
- BMW Performance Exhaust & Intake
- BMW Performance Strut Brace
- Koni FSD/Eibach pro kit
- RPI Scoops
- Rogue SSK
- Goodyear F1 Asym. 245F/275R
- 19" Morr VS8 forged wheels
- M-tech aero kit
- Carbon fiber splitters/diffuser/spoiler
- Clutch Delay Valve delete
- BMW Performance electronic steering wheel