Blog moved

I have moved blog. Something a bit more formal and also will write in Japanese.

Alex Magnum is born!

Home page (when the server works) is here
alexmagnum.com
And blog is still on blogger despite the custom domain here

ブログを改善したよ～ん。ここ！
ホームページも！

The road to Suzuka part 2, 125cc Superkart

I've made another video - hurrah! It's a bit more motion sickness though. I mounted the camera on my helmet in an effort to smooth out the action but as you can see, it hasn't worked well! But it really does give you a good idea of how brutal these machines are:

0 - 100kph in around 3.5s
6 Speed sequential gearbox
140 kph top speed (and 180kph on a full sized circuit)
Disc brakes front and rear.

Thanks to Kart Service Hata (link on the left).

Hill climb

I know I haven't posted in ages but I have to share this:

World drift championship Part2: Quick video

Just before I leave for Europe for 5 weeks, here is a quick video I knocked up of my mini-Z drifting - more motion sickness!

RC Drift World Championship: Part 1

See video here!!

Y'know, there's lots of things I like about Japan (and a few things I don't - i.e. cash machines usually close by 7pm...) but currently my most favourite thing is the uninhabited Mini-Z track a short bicycle ride away that happens to be available 24 hours a day. Which is lucky, else I wouldn't be able at all with my salary man hours.

Circuit even has a compressor for cleaning!

Well, since I haven't touched any of my models since last October, I suppose I'm in need of the practice. I've also updated my trusty Mini-Z AWD to a more drift friendly spec: Front one way, locked rear diff (using the 'balloon' method, which works on the Mini-Z gear diff), and replacement of a few worn out parts with strengthened components or just straight replacements. Come to think of it, what is left on my Mini-Z that is original?? The electrics and the drive shaft is about it!

So small, and so cool

On-board karting video

Finally finished editing yesterday. You might get sick if you watch too closely though!

Engine change

I've bought a new engine. It's not as quick as the old one but is nearly there. "But why?," I hear you ask, "why get a slower engine??" The answer is very simple. I've changed class and require this specific engine to compete. I could hire one but the cost of doing so over a year would probably be the same as buying one, and I wouldn't be able to practice on it either. Ah well, it wasn't 'too' expensive (these things are all relative after all) - 600 odd quid for a new engine is pretty good - and it's an old school, direct drive, air cooled 100cc too. The way club level karting should be... [insert argument here]

Mmmm...Engine.... (I had to post at least one picture didn't I??)

I broke the engine in today which was totally painless. It was kinda nice to pootle around the circuit and not go at it like a juvenile dog humping the armchair. I did break one of the seat stays though. Apparently it's pretty common, especially on the engine side due to the vibration. A quick bit of welding sorted it out.

The second round is in two weeks (^___________^) [that's a really big smile by the way]