Anaximander Posted October 17, 2014 Share Posted October 17, 2014 X, It was a beautiful slightly Fall afternoon in North Florida/South Georgia and I decided to put some seat time in with the M-Spec Stalker. What FUN!!! It certainly has enough horsepower to keep me happy for a while. Of course, now I am dreaming of putting a LS1 Vette engine in it as if I need more power? Getting power to the ground in 2nd and 3rd can be a bit challenging if you are a fool with the throttle. The approximate 70 -75miles I put on the car on the back roads of Florida/Georgia were sublime. I did not get the car out of fourth gear at any time but know that a gendarme would love to have encountered me along my journey for some local funding. I am practicing my car handling and transition from high-performance motorcycles to a high-performance car. Different concepts to a certain degree but some are the same. I have begun reading Henry Watts "Secrets of Solo Racing" and am learning a ton of new things as they relate to four-wheeled vehicles in search of better performance. Today's lesson was how to hold the steering wheel at the 9-3 position and not rest my arms on anything. Learning to become an active driver is certainly going to require acquisition of many new skills or honing of ones long forgotten. Bob Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xcarguy Posted October 17, 2014 Share Posted October 17, 2014 . . . . I am practicing my car handling and transition from high-performance motorcycles to a high-performance car. Different concepts to a certain degree but some are the same. I have begun reading Henry Watts "Secrets of Solo Racing" and am learning a ton of new things as they relate to four-wheeled vehicles in search of better performance. . . . . Bob Bob, Another good read is Ross Bentley's Speed Secrets. BTW, your M-spec was the first I ever saw up close and personal. Here's a link to a photo I took of your car back at the beginning of the year: http://www471.pair.com/stalkerv/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=24565 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anaximander Posted October 17, 2014 Share Posted October 17, 2014 X, That picture of yours looks just like my car!!! Funny about those things. I just ordered Ross Bentley's book at your suggestion. I know that reading alone will not make me a better driver per se but I need to understand all of the concepts necessary to put them into play. One of the things I am learning from the Watts' book is the very different chassis dynamics that come into play when going around a cone. I really had no idea how many different forces are at play and developing an understanding and then practicing the techniques I think will be invaluable. Scott Minehart's chassis development in the M-Spec Stalker and subsequent XL's I suspect are going in a very positive direction. I had looked at his videos numerous times about the changes he had made to both the front and rear suspensions. The car rode surprisingly well on the street yesterday. I must say that the world looks VERY different seated in a 7 car. Door handles of subcompacts are above your head. Large SUV's coming in the opposite direction and slightly wandering over the median line give one a bit of pause. With about 300-400K lifetime motorcycle seat miles, the Stalker feels surprisingly like I am back on a motorcycle in some ways. Much like my days of motorcycling with high-performance bikes, I plan to use most opportunities in the car to learn something about myself and the machine. The goal of more active involvement in my driving is something that I had been missing for a while. I now realize from a beginning standpoint why everyone that is posting here and owns 7's are so enthusiastic about their rides. The open cockpit feel cannot be beat. Bob Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sdfghjhrd Posted October 27, 2014 Share Posted October 27, 2014 (edited) Nice so good....; translation services uk Edited November 10, 2014 by sdfghjhrd Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
papak Posted December 7, 2014 Share Posted December 7, 2014 Well, I'm finally on board here. I am a recently retired commercial pilot and long time gearhead (just ask my long suffering wife). I have had a string of race cars over the years (FV, FF, 944, vintage FV to name a few). I've also restored few sports cars as well, in-between the track cars. I picked up a very nice '08 BMW Z4 coupe a couple of years ago but now that I have everything correct on it, all I can do is polish it. I really don't want to start modifying it, so it is up for sale. Looks like I will probably be picking up a Birkin kit in Vail in February. John was kind enough to pass on the secret logon info so that I can tap the collective braintrust here as I move forward with the project. I have also connected with the California Caterham Club (I am located in LA). They seem to be an interesting bunch as well. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xcarguy Posted December 7, 2014 Share Posted December 7, 2014 Well, I'm finally on board here. I am a recently retired commercial pilot and long time gearhead (just ask my long suffering wife). I have had a string of race cars over the years (FV, FF, 944, vintage FV to name a few). I've also restored few sports cars as well, in-between the track cars. I picked up a very nice '08 BMW Z4 coupe a couple of years ago but now that I have everything correct on it, all I can do is polish it. I really don't want to start modifying it, so it is up for sale. Looks like I will probably be picking up a Birkin kit in Vail in February. John was kind enough to pass on the secret logon info so that I can tap the collective braintrust here as I move forward with the project. I have also connected with the California Caterham Club (I am located in LA). They seem to be an interesting bunch as well. papak, Welcome aboard from a non-retired corporate pilot. Great bunch of guys here, and a fun, knowledgeable group at that. I've built/owned a few cars over the years and currently have a Stalker that I enjoy tracking. It doesn't have anything shiny on it because I hate the thought of having to polish anything that doesn't add getty up and go. . . . . . :cheers: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cockerpunk Posted February 20, 2015 Share Posted February 20, 2015 new member, thought i'd introduce myself. names Gordon, 28, mechanical engineer, from the Twin Cities MN. most of my car experience has been autocrossing. current garage is: 86 944 turbo: http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y161/gerglmuff/cars/128.jpg its an ongoing restoration/maintain/upgrade car. 02 mr2 spyder with 2zz swap: http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y161/gerglmuff/cars/10668968_10152351670671080_1157304286130984556_o_zps0cdec2bd.jpg This car is my main autocross weapon. 2zz-ge engine, full suspension, etc etc. just a killer cone crosser. and my "winter" car, is an NA miata. bought it for $500 bucks, excellent power sliding wintermobile! bought it looking like this: MN is a great place to drive RWD sports cars: http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y161/gerglmuff/cars/10922476_10203974066814551_6584069686294398705_n_zpszp4ifnqq.jpg before i get the question, my name, comes from a long story really. when you are 15, and messageboards are new, and you like punk music, and you are into paintball, you pick a name like cockerpunk. a paintball gun i love, is called an autococker. often just shorted to cocker. and punk should then be self explanatory. its stuck with me ever since haha. http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y161/gerglmuff/Paintball/1188740042_img_6833.jpg Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fandaor Posted April 22, 2015 Share Posted April 22, 2015 Hello, I just stopped by searching for information about the R300 electrical diagram. I'm french and member of a Seven's owner club there (about 360 members). We organize events like Le Mans Classic or our own events. I'm the proud owner of a 1997 Caterham 1600K (pictures below) :drool: I have redone the dashboard and as I intend to change job for upholstery I am practicing on my Cathy (so far bootcover and sparewheel cover). I soon will change the tunnel. If anyone comes to Paris, feel free to contact me, having a ride in a seven in Paris is quite fun. Be seing you ! :seeya: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xcarguy Posted April 22, 2015 Share Posted April 22, 2015 fandaor, Welcome to the group! Great bunch of guys and gals here; knowledge and humor abound. :cheers: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FE07 Posted April 23, 2015 Share Posted April 23, 2015 Fandaor, Well since you asked..........my wife and I are coming to Paris end of May and I'd love a ride in your Seven!! Was trying to arrange a day at Spa but just didn't work out. Have been looking for something auto related to do while away and maybe now I've found it. PM me and lets see if we can make it work. Jim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FE07 Posted June 20, 2015 Share Posted June 20, 2015 Well a little late but thought I'd report on my meeting with Nohmenn in Paris. Wife and I went recently for our 25th anniversary. Emailed Nohmenn (Fanador) prior to leaving and we decided we'd try to get together one afternoon when I had some down time. Nohmenn came by the hotel and picked me up in his lovely white 7. It's his daily driver. Brought my wife and I caps and a patch from his 7 club in France (you guys are gonna be VERY jealous when you see the cap at NJMP) Drove me around Paris for about an hour. Got to see some parts I never would have seen without the ride. Unfortuneately, pretty heavy traffic. He and his group had recreated the Rendevous video route the Sunday before. Had to be on the road by 4:30 AM!! So I passed on that one. Asked him if he'd like to come out to dinner with us that night and he came back after putting the car away. He then proceeded to take US out to dinner. Found a great restaurant not far from the hotel where he knew some of the staff and helped us have a real French meal. Apertif's at the end. I thought I'd have to carry my wife home! Would'nt let us pay either. Isn't it amazing how cars can bring us all together?? That's my short synopsis. Nohmenn if you read this, thanks again for your hospitality and generosity. They were both greatly appreciated. Merci beaucoup! Jim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Croc Posted June 21, 2015 Share Posted June 21, 2015 Isn't it amazing how cars can bring us all together?? I so agree with this statement. I have met some wonderful people through this forum and my sevens over the years. May it long continue! :cheers: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fandaor Posted June 23, 2015 Share Posted June 23, 2015 :cheers: always a pleasure,James. Sorry we haven't enough time to ride outside Paris. Next time we'll scheddule something more :driving: Take care ! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FE07 Posted June 23, 2015 Share Posted June 23, 2015 Thanks Nohmenn. I'll get you some pics from NJMP. I'm sure they'll be lots posted on this site. Jim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ultraslow Posted July 12, 2015 Share Posted July 12, 2015 I spent a long time in college and ended up working as a research technician at Los Alamos National Lab for 32 years. Retired to Jemez Springs,NM in 2012 and three months before retirement started looking and found my '85 S3, live axle/4psd 1.6l Kent in Seattle. I took delivery in July '12. I deal a lot with Ken Grey at Dave Bean Eng in Andreas,CA. Good parts source and advice. Encyclopedic knowledge of all things Lotus/Caterham. I have rejetted the carbs. replaced starter. distributor (Pertronix), new sump, (fabbed a sump guard), new tires, Corner weighted, insulated the footbox, new radiator and electric fan, new hardened valve seats. Bought a tonneau and boot cover from Leslie Storr, new carpet bits. Needs a new top. All this took place over three years. I wanted one since I first saw one in 1968 and finally realized my dream. Runs like it was scalded. I would like to travel in it but it just beats me to mush. American roads, the interesting back routes, are v-rough. The others are boring. Looking forward to a long relationship with this car. I have not seen another seven anywhere in NM. One Burton but no Sevens. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
retrorider Posted July 12, 2015 Share Posted July 12, 2015 I also started wanting a seven in 1968. I just started looking to buy one. I live in Lubbock Tx and I do not think there has ever been a seven here. If you know of any for sale please let me know. Nelson Cain retrorider@Hotmail.com Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vstryker Posted August 6, 2015 Share Posted August 6, 2015 (edited) Hi All, I've been lurking on the forums for a while now and thought it's time I introduce myself. I've been lusting after a 7 since I was a teenager and was lucky enough to recently pick one up about a year ago. It's a black S3 Superlight R with the SVT Zetec 2L, 6 speed, wide track, bare bones with some cf bits. Motor is bone stock but has some nice Nitron 3 ways from Meteor Motorsports in the UK that I've been playing around with. I'm located in SoCal and look forward to meeting and learning from you guys. Van Edited August 6, 2015 by vstryker Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DStew Posted August 20, 2015 Share Posted August 20, 2015 I'm Darren, British, and a car nut for as many of my 47 years I can remember - fell in love with my American wife at a Maserati Driving School in Parma a decade ago -came to Callfornia in 2008. Live in Marin County, Ca. I purvey natural and organic meats and poultry - the good stuff, raised the right way. Always wanted a Caterham - back in the 70s as a kid, was always intrigued how the little Sevens had faster 0-60 times than the flamboyant Italian poster Exotica! Drove a K-Series Roadsport 160 SV in 2005 and was smitten. In 2011 whilst on an annual Mancation in London with two friends - flew to Inverness (on a whim!) and spent 2 days with two 1.6supersport S3 and a CSR 260 from a bespoke rental company in the Scottish highlands. Epic time driving the Lochs - tinkering with, then discarding completely the weather gear, driving with ear to ear grin through frequent heavy showers and managing slides and oversteer on sodden Tarmac. I couldn't believe how the engine in the CSR pulled, with real fireworks above 5,000rpm. To me, the "no electric gimmick experience" was ultimate sports car road driving - in terms of connectivity to a vehicle, it's so analogue and visceral, there's little that comes close. Chris Harris summed it up perfectly, driving a Supersport R in his YouTube video: "Ferrari or Porrsche do not have a car that can give me the experience I'm currently having." Well said Chris! Knew on my return I would have to save and bite the bullet - I owned a Honda S2000, Subaru STI and an M3, in succession, all and managed to sell all of them at a good price- and along with my incredibly understanding-over-finances other half, purchased my dream Caterham- a titanium silver CSR 260. The previous owner self-built it, quite unusual for a CSR given the extra complexity and (so I've heard) terrible instruction manual! It was already well specc'd but I knew I would be doing the occasional HPDE track day, so I added: Tillet carbon fiber race seats 5-point harnesses stronger SCCA rear roll bar CSR 200 limited slip diff with Reinforcement Fire suppression system Reinforced floor pan under seats Carbon Fibre Aeroscreen Pagid race Pads all round Quick Release Wheel DMV made a mess of naming vehicle but I successfully had the vehicle SB 100'd for eternity after jumping through all those bureaucratic hoops! Inevitable, incurable upgradeitis may lead to race springs/dampers, fuel cell. Thanks to Croc for being so informative and welcoming as I joined the community - I met a Trio of Caterham CSR owners from Oregon at a track day in Willows, Ca a few weeks ago. Look forward to meeting more of you Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pennypie Posted January 9, 2016 Share Posted January 9, 2016 Just joined. Thanks for having me. Chris Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xcarguy Posted January 9, 2016 Share Posted January 9, 2016 Just joined. Thanks for having me. Chris Chris, Let me be the first to welcome you to the group. Tell us a little about yourself? Shane :cheers: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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