If you believe that the "success" of STS is due to the
incredible foresight of SCCA to tap into this burgeoning
market of car enthusiasts who happen to drive the
cars we have classed, you might as well stop reading now.
If you believe that this "success" is primarily a result of
the restrictive tire rules imposed, then we might agree.
The proof is exceedingly clear: If we hit the market,
then STR would be far more popular than it has been.
IMO, there has been for some time a latent desire for
a class/classes that use real street tires. STS meets this
need far better than any other perceived benefit of the class.
However, the long-time hue & cry to do away with "R"
type tires (seen annually here on the net for the last 5-6
years) has always been answered with reference to the
impossibility of policing such things as treadwear.
IOW, if a manufacturer wants a National win badly enough,
they will build tires to get it. With the necessary treadwear
label of 140.
For years, this has been the stated reason for keeping "R"
tires, and suggesting 'street' tire classes at the regional level.
Has this reasoning disappeared with the inception of STS?
Hence, I feel that there can be no possible place at a National
event for street-tire classes.
Or else all Stock classes should have street-tire rules.
Take your pick - can't have it both ways!
Roger 2
[Sorry for the delay. RJ is having trouble with plain text messages. mjb.]
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