" To me TKM seems a bit cheaper and a bit simpler to get right technically (please correct me if I am wrong)."
You also have the opportunity to do Formula Blue at Wigan.
the engine is just as simple as the TKM and has the benefit of TAG and a Tillotson carb but particularly the system of restrictors means that performance is not weight sensitive.
I have been racing the class for many years and have never seen a markedly 'better' engine. I have seen good drivers win against good opposition on an engine fresh out of the box though on more than one occasion.
As for tyres, it depends where you come in the pack. If your skill is such that the equipment can make the difference, then you have to fit new rubber, but if you are the sort of driver who is likely to lose that advantage on one corner on every lap, like me, then the tyres can last two meetings.
The same goes for maintenance etc. I know one team who were producing good results on an engine that was 1700 laps since its last service (and someone who threw a con rod trying to emulate them) but in general it seems a top end at 450-500 laps, a bottom end at 2000 laps.
Weaknesses? The starter (same as on Rotax) has a reputation for failing, but the rules have been amended to allow an external starter to be used one time on the grid, so I haven't seen a 'failed to start' for some time. The old power boxes failed from time to time, but the digital one seems strong. On the other hand, the digital loom has had a few problems, mostly broken wires under the insulation.
There's one failure mode you don't get on a TKM. It's possible to freeze the coolant if one doesn't use antifreeze and it is particularly cold. Solution though is simple, use antifreeze.
Worth considering unless you are determined on TKM.
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Rotax to TKM advice by 'blobslosak' (23 Apr 2012 @ 17:37)
