What is Auto Slalom?
Auto Slalom (Sometimes known as AutoCross) events are low to medium speed auto time trials events, often run on parking lots and airport runways. Street events and events at Go Kart tracks sometimes take place. Generally a miniature road course is defined using traffic cones. One driver at a time negotiates a course laid out with the cones, or pylons, testing their skill against the clock.
Time penalties are charged for disturbing cones. Typically the penalty is 2 seconds per cone. Each driver takes four runs at an event. Runs consist of one of more laps of the course. A driver is awarded the best time of all runs taken.
There is an upper speed guideline for autoslalom which is intended to keep speeds in a domain that most drivers have encountered on the streets and highways. The fastest cars at an autoslalom event can sometimes reach speeds over 100kph. Local events rarely exceed 80kph.
Is this the same as Solo 2?
Yes, same thing, different name. Solo 1 and 2 are owned trademarks of the Sports Car Club of America so we had to come up with our own names. Solo 2 became AutoSlalom, Solo 1 became Time Attack. AutoSlalom has also been called AutoCross and Gymkhana.
How much does it cost?
Auto Slalom is one of the most economical forms of performance driving. Atlantic Sports Car Club events typically cost $40 per driver. Regional level events may be slightly higher and events hosted at pay-for-use facilities such as Scotia Speed World may be slightly higher still. Consult the posted Supplemental Regulations for the event located on our Facebook page for specific costs.
All entrants must be a currently registered, paid member of an Atlantic Region Motor Sports (ARMS) club in order to compete. These clubs include The Bluenose Autosport Club, Moncton Motorsport Club, Fredericton Motorsport Club etc. ASCC club memberships are available at a cost of $30 per calendar year. If you are a new member your cost of membership is included in your first event
Do I need a race car?
Absolutely not. All vehicles entered are grouped into classes varying from completely stock to wildly modified. This ensures that you will only compete with similarly prepared vehicles. The only vehicles not permitted to compete are extremely short wheelbase vehicles like go-karts and those with a high centre of gravity such as SUVs, trucks and some cars.
Do I need any special training?
No, AutoSlalom is a form of driver education itself. Anyone is welcome no matter what your skill level. While the various courses available in the region both from ASCC and other organizations can certainly help any competitor there is no requirement. You’ll learn a lot just by doing. The club sometimes offers a school to become familiar with the sport.
How do I know what class I should be in?
Consult the ARMS AutoSlalom General Competition Rules for complete classification information. This can be pretty daunting. If you have any questions or need help the best way to figure out where you should be is to send us a message via messenger or email solo@ascc.ca asking for help. You’ll find lots of fellow competitors willing to help you find your proper home.
Okay, I want to give it a try! What do I do?
First check the Events Calendar to find out when and where the next Slalom event takes place and follow our Facebook page. Other than that drop by an event (Give yourself lots of time before the posted registration cut off time) and sign up!
Do I need to do anything special to my car before competing?
You don’t need to make any special modifications to your car in order to compete but some basic safety checks need to be observed. First make sure that your brakes are in good condition. When stopped with the engine running your brake pedal should be firm and not sink to the floor. Also make sure that your suspension (bushings, ball joints) are in good condition as well. Auto Slalom won’t damage these components but if they’re due for replacement they could pose safety hazards. You will need to fill out a self tech form verifying that your vehicle is safe. If you are unsure of anything send us a message or ask at an avent.
Next you should make sure your tires are in good condition, no cracks or belts showing. You should also increase the pressure in your tires to around 40psi temporarily for the event. This will improve your car’s responsiveness and prevent ‘roll over’ that can occur with softer street tires. Remember to return the pressures to normal when you’re done the event!
Clean out your car interior of loose objects that may move around during hard maneuvering. CDs, sunglasses, kleenex boxes, etc.. Also remove the floor mat from the drivers seat location to prevent it getting in the way.
Where can I find more information?
Besides the ARMS Forum and ASCC Facebook page where you can get tips from local competitors there are numerous AutoSlalom FAQ’s available online. One good one is the Tire Rack Solo 2 Handbook.
What about insurance?
Your club membership and entry fee give you full liability coverage during the event but does NOT cover your vehicle. Coverage for your vehicle depends entirely on your own insurance policy and you should ask your insurance provider if you have any questions. Generally insurance companies will NOT cover your car for damage while participating in a motorsports event.
Anything else?
All competitors require an appropriate rated helmet in order to compete. If you don’t already have one don’t worry, the club has loaner helmets available at all events for no cost. Regulations can be viewed at https://www.armsinc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/ARMS_Autoslalom_Regulations_20240305.pdf
A sample of ASCC Auto Slalom
Scott M, 1997 Eagle Talon Turbo