Prepared by Steve Brand

1. Team awareness - Ensure that all team members read the ISR rules and are aware that the improper conduct of any member could lead to their driver being disqualified. Ignorance of the rules is no excuse. If you have a question..... ask it! When in doubt about a rule on race day - ask an official before the fact. For example you could ask for a fuel check before racing gets under way. This could save you from a costly DQ.

 
2. Get organised - Your team should be organised- well before race day. Hold regular meetings to go over key information and to conduct your wrenching sessions. Remember - situations develop with little or no notice on race day. A well organised team can turn negatives into positives and increase your chance of success. Get your ring binder organized with all important team info.

3. General sled tips for Snow Cross

* Go over sled thoroughly and double check all parts and adjustments. Loctite & safety wire
* Your XC setup will probably have to be changed for Snow Cross racing.
* For SX a lower windshield will give you more ventilation but also more face roost.
* Ideal windshield should deflect majority of roost when crouching yet ventilate when head up
* For SX remove all tools, spare parts & spare belt to reduce weight.
* Practice all track side repair scenarios with hand tools.....outside in the elements.
* Be prepared to work well away from a warm trailer as they are often a long way from staging
* You should have a mini-tool box well forward in the pits. Use our handy checklist .
* While moving forward in staging have your mechanic close at hand with plugs and wrench.
* You can extend your tether cord to 3 ft, by ISR rules. This will be a big help if you get stuck and want to move to the rear bumper   to get yourself unstuck- without cutting engine
* Save weight and don’t run with a full tank of fuel. You probably only need 2 gals.
* Watch what fuel you use. Beware of pump gas as it may have ethanol. If in doubt have a race tech official check your gas before   racing.
* Improve your starts by using the drag race reaction trainers.

4. SX Clothing tips

* The number one mistake made by most SX drivers is to overdress.
* All factory "race" jackets are big time heat traps. They look great but don’t ventilate well.
* Our testing confirms that at 20 degree F any jacket will raise body core temps by as much as 30 degree F. Your body works best   at 98.6 degree F. Any increase in operating temperatures will reduce your race performance and increase fogging potential.
* Racing generates more heat than most drivers will ever experience trail riding.
* Remember upper body protection is mandatory and will provide some level of warmth.
* Wear a warm up jacket between heats and take it off just before going to the line.
* You should be slightly chilled at the start line.
* If you can wear your protective vest on the outside you will notice a big temperature drop.
* Best combo for 5/10 lap races in temps above 10 Degree F is a simple jersey under the vest.
* If you must wear a jacket then practice on-the-fly venting using the various zippers available.
* Consider rigging up quick pull tabs only on those zippers you plan to use for venting.
* MX gloves can be too cold for most racing ......a thin, insulated glove may be better.
* Frostbite strikes with no warning.....tape up facial area not covered by masks or goggles.
* Have spare goggles close at hand for last minute fog up situations while sitting in staging.
* Consider having an umbrella over driver in staging if snowing or misty.
* What ever your clothing package make sure you test it before race day!!

5. SX Driving strategy

* First you must finish the race before you can get into the winners circle
* Drive your own pace at first.....if you go over the line you’ll make a mistake.
* Many drivers try to "win" the race in the first few corners.....they over-drive and then crash.
* Drive smart.......keep upright and on the track........a steady and consistent ride will pay off!
* Treat every heat race as a final. Finish laps, finish heat races, pass the guy in front of you.
* Don’t pull off early if you’ve tumbled. You never know there might be a restart or a DQ.
* Always keep going. Score points. Season hi-point awards go to the most consistent drivers.
* Keep track of upcoming heats. Don’t miss a heat race. Have a spotter up at staging.
* Consider outfitting your team members with walkie talkies for instant communication.
* Always pay attention to the number of laps per race so you can pace accordingly.
* The flag man should always confirm number of laps before start - if not ask.
* Mechanic or team manager should always watch out for total laps and transfer spots.
* Know exactly how many drivers in your heat transfer to the next round.
* If top 3 transfer to the next round and you’re in 4th - focus on passing the guy in 3rd and don’t burn yourself out trying to get the   1st place driver.
* Consider having your mechanic or manager using a pit board to give you track side info.
* Most SX tracks are constructed with loose snow. Lines change frequently. Walk the track.
* Watch as many heats as possible to spot the hot lines.
* He who picks the best lines wins the most races!
* Every weekend keep track of your results and those of your closest competitors.
* Race promoters have been known to make mistakes. Keep your own records.

Good luck from everyone at Tekrider!
Remember it is ultimately the driver's responsibility to ensure that the sled and team conduct meets the applicable rules.