Tbox56

Hi to All, I am working on putting together a 7 event in Colorado for this next spring. About a month ago my wife and I went down to the Colorado Springs area to investigate track days, routs and destinations for this event. The following is an outline of what I have discovered so far. This is in the traditional order that the Texas event has been done but this could be reversed. Day 1 and 2, Track days at Pikes Peak International Raceway ( http://www.ppir.com/ ) , this track is about 15 miles south of Colorado Springs. They have infield RV hook ups for those who would like to stay at the track and parking for tow vehicles during the tour. There are hotels in Fountain, about 3 miles away but it was recommended by the track manager to use the Crowne Plaza in Colorado Springs (http://www.cpcoloradosprings.com/ ). They work with car clubs on a regular basis and have much nicer facilities. The track rates on weekdays are half what they are on the weekend and they have two weekends open in May and June, June 1st and 2nd and June 22nd and 23rd, weekdays we have our choice. If we do weekdays the cost would be about $350 per person for both days with 18 people. Weekends would mean more people and or more money. There is a possibility we could share the track with a NASA event on July 5th, 6th and 7th, I would have to check with them about having our own run groups. Day 3, We would depart From Colorado Springs and drive to the top of Pikes Peak (http://pikespeak.us.com/Essentials/hours-and-fees.html ), the road that the Pikes Peak Hill Climb is held on each year. This is a 19 mile drive each way ending at an elevation of over 14,000 feet and is now paved the entire way. Next would be lunch at Wines of Colorado (http://www.winesofcolorado.com/ ). They would be happy to have us for lunch and reserve the patio for us. After lunch we would head to our overnight accommodations the historic Victor Hotel (http://www.victorhotelcolorado.com/ ). This is off the beaten path but only 6 miles to the historic gold rush town of Cripple Creek (http://www.visitcripplecreek.com/ ) where we would go for dinner. In Cripple Creek they have saved many of the old buildings from after the fire in 1896. There is low stakes gambling in Cripple Creek so anyone wishing to try their luck at the slot machines or blackjack tables could, if not a walk around town and back to the hotel at your leisure. There are many things to do in this area including narrow gage train rides, gold mine tours, hiking, historic tours, and of course scenic drives. Day 4, We would return to the Colorado Springs area with the option of a longer (through Garden of the Gods http://www.gardenofgods.com/home/index.cfm?flash=1 ) or more direct route. Please take a look at this and let me know your thoughts on dates and any items proposed. This is an event for all 7 type cars so please put this out to any other part of the 7 community at large and see what the response is. There is a lot to do in Colorado and this could be used as a start to or the end of a longer vacation including other family members. There are also a number of things for non driving family members to do during the track days if they wish. Thanks for your response, Tom Carlin Rocky Mountain Motor Works Eagle, Colorado 970-376-5188

My wife and I plan to be there for at least the Custer area part of the tour. 2009 Birkin Duratec Wide Track IRS Tom Carlin

You think over kill, my problem is any tracks are over 120 milea away and I would be driving there. I want a killer street car and a good track car.

Skip,I met you at Jeff's house, I think it was 2 summers ago, and went for a ride in your car. You were still getting it dialed in at that time, sounds like you are all set up now. Thanks to everyone for the feedback so far. Tom

My tame is Tom and I am new to this form, I owned a Europa twin cam in the mid 70’s and always admired the Sevens. Tomorrow I am headed to Texas to meet with Dick Brink and likely order a Birkin. My biggest dilemma at this point is what engine to go with 2.0 Zetec, 2.0 Duratec, 2.3 Duratec or Busa power. I know Birkin doesn’t offer a prep for the Busa engine and gearbox and I would have to do some modifications to make it work but that doesn’t scare me. I am concerned about the longevity of the Busa setup since it’s original design is for a motorcycle of what 600 lbs with rider and using it in a 1200 lb car. I lean toward the Duratec because it is a newer engine than the Zetec. I would like to see something in the 250 hp range if I use a car engine. I like the higher RPM of the Busa and know I wouldn’t get or need the same hp with the Busa. I think my use will be split 70/30 between street and track. Any thoughts or suggestions. Thanks