Originally Posted by
Steve Weiss
Amazing what happens when an industry stands behind something instead of tucking tail and running at the first sign of weakness... maybe we can learn a lesson from that over here?
Not quite, Steve, but a good point...
The European Federation (EFRA) changed the class from 6-cell to 5-cell in order to prevent the problems with tyre wear and improve motor reliability. It worked, in spades! Mod is now enjoying a huge renaissance in Europe, because the cars are driveable, and the reliability is high. Because of the 5-cell limit, LiPo plays no role, and because of the 5-cell limit, weight is down and that helps tyre wear and reliability. It's a virtuous circle...
Manufacturers want a healthy class to sell into, so they've done their bit to provide cars that work with the new Rules. That hasn't made things any less competitive, but because anyone can get a Mod car to go, it's done wonders for participation - everyone wins!
The impression we get over here is that the US is set against 5-cell, and that reflects in the IFMAR decision to run 6-cell at this year's Worlds. In Italy 2006, there were serious problems with speedos and motors, and that will be worse in the heat of Thailand. Japan run 4-cell, Europe runs 5-cell and both have high participation. US runs 6-cell...
For Stock classes (very popular in US compared to Europe) 6-cell seems OK, but it is very interesting to see the 12th and World GT entries at the IIC - large entry and using 4-cell!