Slot Car Racing
A Safe Way Of Racing Cars
Nothing beats the heart pumping adrenaline rush brought about by slot car
racing. Navigating through curves at high speed without going off track is a
skill every participant should master. But unlike Formula One races where
drivers stand the risk of getting killed, this type of racing is 100% safe. The
races are set on miniature race tracks with cars scaled down to 1/24, 1/32 and
HO size (which is from 1/87 to 1/64).
One of the most popular slot car racing involves HO slot cars. It is known as
such because of its size. HO scale is calculated as 1 foot is equal to 3.5
millimeters. The term HO came from the German word Halb-null which means half
zero because its size is about half of the O scale - a typical measurement used
for creating railway prototypes.
HO slot cars are classified as either Modern Magnet Cars or Vintage Style
Cars. Modern Magnet cars are faster and easier to maintain while Vintage Style
cars need more meticulous care and are often slower. The type of HO slot car
that one chooses will really depend on whether you want one for personal use or
for competitive slot car racing.
HO slot car racing is one hobby that bridges generations. HO scaled cars are
given to kids but need adult supervision when assembling the elaborate race
tracks. Although HO slot car racing is originally designed for kids, more adults
are into this hobby than youngsters. Start up kits are inexpensive and usually
cost around $50. Race track length varies depending on where one plans to set it
up. The larger the space, the longer the race tracks.
There are no definite rules when it comes to the design of HO slot cars used
for these races. Hobbyists buy from known manufacturers such as Tyco or Tomy.
Some would prefer to build HO slot cars from scratch thereby having more control
in terms of design and mechanical features of the finished HO slot cars.
HO slot cars race on tracks that are from 60 to 100 feet long and have either
4 or 6 lanes. Some hobbyists design tracks that are miniature versions of real
race tracks with scenic views and elaborate pit stops. Others even construct 8
lanes for HO slot car races. However, most enthusiasts prefer simple unobtrusive
structures that give emphasis or focus on the actual race and the competing HO
slot cars.
Serious HO slot car racers are often found participating in various HO slot
car racing competitions nationwide. Competition rules are often simple: Do the
most number of laps in a given time frame.
HO slot car racing not only fires up that competitive spirit but is also a
great way to bridge generations.
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