SimonS & MJC, thanks for the clarity. Our issue is if it is not clear to all then some may gain an advantage and /or if it is subjective some may fall foul of a penalty without knowing what they were doing was wrong.
I think generally at most tracks if two wheels are still on the track or even one i.e not all then that is generally MSA legal, the rules state you must not leave the track in normal racing, leaving the track is all 4 wheels off of the track.
We had an issue where the entry kerb to a chicane which was quite high had been ridden over all year to get a fast line through the chicane as when required to make up time. Most Junior and senior classes were doing this. All were riding the kerb whilst keeping at least one wheel over the track. Most of the lighter classes (Mini / Junior) were 'flying' over the grass area behind the kerb (which is not deep from the edge of the track) on that side of the kart. But the senior were tending to catch the grass / mud and a hole developed which the senior class complained about. As there was no time to fill the hole for practice / race day the track officials placed a plastic barrier at 90 degrees to the back apex of the back of the kerb. This prevented riding the kerb at all as to get a smooth / stable line through the chicane you must collect all of the kerb rather than just clip it. It changed the speed through the chicane and could affect lap time by 2 - 3 tenths. Which for those that had learnt that line through the year it was a disadvantage. Also for us Josef - got out of shape under braking and collected the kerb and also the end of the barrier and bent the axle - managed to limp for a very wobbly 6 laps and get finishing points.
The officials did the safest thing at the time - as a hole would be more dangerous (note the note about a kart flipping hitting the hole beyond a kerb) than a barrier close to the edge of the circuit where most drove over before. Hopefully they will fill the rear of the kerb level with concrete to a point where if you beyond that it would mean all 4 wheels were off the circuit and it would be an offence.
If they don't and keep the barrier close to the edge, it would be a shame as it totally changes the dynamics of the chicane and the approach and also the next two bends in terms of overtaking oppertunities.
But what you both said is clear and common sense.
Cheers Paul
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Riding Kerbs that old chestnut!! by 'TeamPoor' (29 Nov 2012 @ 17:15)
