just curious if there are any open snow driving fields/courses. I want to get a feel for this car but don’t want to put anyone in danger. Thanks in advance!
I've yet to actually make it to one, but have wanted to go to these guys' for years. http://audiclubglacierlakes.org
This! My buddy Mike organizes these events. Always a mix of cars and nice big course, as well as some smaller “obstacle avoidance” sections. Alot of fun and great guys! I highly recommend!! Usually one event in January and one or two after that.(weather permitting)
I went to one of their events last winter...tons of fun, tons of seat time. I highly recommend. I've been to RS Motors' track days in the past, and they are normally run by the CWSCC (Central Wisconsin Sport Car Club). They are a great group that is laid back, yet runs a great event. Always a lot of seat time and timed runs.
I found a big empty parking lot to spin around and slide in. Caveat: Sliding sideways caused snow to become packed into the wheels. They became unbalanced and when I left and got up to freeway speeds, the vibration was terrible. I had to get off the freeway, stop and clear the snow out of the wheels.
Side effects to having fun. I've "had to" bring my car inside at work a few times to thaw out after a night of fun.
How important are studded tires? My winters aren't great. Also, any special gear required or is it just show up in your daily for fun?
Definitely don't need studs. In fact, the vast majority are running non-studded tires. I think there were only 2-3 cars running studs when I went the last time. No special gear required, except dress warm. You do spend the majority if your time in your car, but there are times when you'll be out of your car on the ice...and it is cold. I haven't decided officially if I'm going, but if the wife lets me take her Outback, I'll most likely attend. (She has a 2011 and the traction control actually fully disables on that car...unlike the newer Subarus )
