Stallion |
Stallion |
Editor's Notes "Nicely done feature article in the current issue. If I recall correctly, the track on which you ran the CG Height tests is a smooth, well cared-for track. This is probably important, since the major cost purports to be due to track roughness. ... a low or even-with-the-axles CG is insurance against unnecessarily lost energy on a rough track. So, comparison of the cases on a "rough track" would be a useful addition to your tests." (Randy: I agree that a low CG is important when racing on a rough track. In this test, the track was very smooth.) On the same article, we received the folloing comment from Eric Steindorf: "One other consideration that lends itself in favor of the LCG approach is roll (rocking side to side), especially with cars that have a wheel raised. I have no data to support the concern, but it seems that a HCG car would tend to be less stable with 3 wheel designs. Also, the typical car will not be as finely crafted as your test vehicle so it would be more variable in its performance, and thus may be more susceptible to increased friction and instability with HCG weighting." |
If you are planning a race and are not required to use a specific kit type, our MV Basic or Wedge Car Kit are just what you need. These attractively priced kits are equipped with:
Main Pinewood Derby Site - www.maximum-velocity.com Mobile Pinewood Derby Site - mobi.maximum-velocity.com |
Credible/fair event - The participants should perceive that the event is fair, and is not biased (intentionally or unintentionally).
Reasonable opportunity for cars to be competitive - Participants should feel that they have an opportunity to be competitive.
Well-planned and managed event - parents and racers should perceive that the event is not ad-hoc, but is well managed and thought out. This gives participants confidence.
Aesthetically pleasing/fun venue - The venue should appear fun and festive.
Exciting, well paced event - The race should generate continued excitement and be well-paced. You don't want a boring event.
One or more workshops where participants can shape and weight their car body, and work on the wheels and axles.
A tip sheet provided to every participant (along with the rules).
The contact phone number and e-mail address of the race leader so that participants can get some consultation.
Place the track on the ground, and have small children sit on the ground, with older folks behind them in chairs, or
Elevate the track and then have chairs for everyone.
If a car jumps the track less damage occurs,
Steps are not required to place the cars at the starting line,
Setting up the track is a little easier.
Hot wheels race,
Real race car in the parking lot for photo-ops,
Pre-race video,
Demonstration of unique cars - for an example of this see Volume 6, Issue 8,
Pre-race hot dog or pizza dinner.
Car Plans 7 $1.00 |