Bedford Autodrome suitability question

[Rill]

Hi all

I'll be getting my track car back shortly after a long stint away being "fettled". It will have significantly more power than it did before it went away and I'd like to take it to a suitable venue (minimal armco, plenty of run-off etc. ) for a bit of a shakedown before I take it anywhere else.

Would Bedford Autodrome be a good choice? I've never seen the place or even know anyone who's been so any input would be welcome.

Any other suggestions would be welcome too. I'm based in Yorkshire but happy to travel to a suitable venue.

Normally I'd just go to Elvington but there are no more track days scheduled there until September.

Thanks.

[tertius]

Bedford would be fine it meets your requirements exactly. Its crushingly dull mind ... and it does have very strict noise regulations so if your car has any noise issues it might be awkward.

If you do need an alternative, you could look at Snetterton.

[Rill]

Thanks tertius, that's really helpful.

I believe it's 101db at Bedford, is that correct? I should be OK but I'll check and double check with my own sound meter before I book anyway. Noise isn't something I've ever had a problem with before, car was measured at 90db static last time but as we all know it's far from an exact science!

Snetterton isn't one I'd considered before now, I'll do some research.

[Blatter]

The noise level for Bedford is 100Db static and 87Db drive-by. There are several "noise-o-meters" around the circuit taking readings. For some cars, they'll pass the static noise test, but trip the noise meters on drive-by. It's usually the induction noise rather than the exhaust noise that trips it.

Don't know what car you're running, but it's worth checking it out before you go as Bedford are very strict (because of problems with local residents and the council) and if you exceed the limit you get black-flagged. End of day.

Other than that, Bedford is a great circuit with some testing corners. I'd recommend it.

[iguana]

Rill- is it the car on yr profile pic? thats some proper track badboy

[Rill]

Thanks for clearing that up Blatter.

iguana said:

Rill- is it the car on yr profile pic? thats some proper track badboy

(Actually it's a Subaru Impreza, but don't tell anyone....I'd prefer it if people thought it was an Invacar)

[Chris71]

Blatter said:

The noise level for Bedford is 100Db static and 87Db drive-by.

Depends on the event, I think it's been down to the nineties in the past for an evening session.

[drjhill]

My 2p worth

I was looking for a shakedown test earlier this year after 6m off track and some "issues" with the car. As my wet tyres were well past their best I was looking for a "safe" track.

Wasn't expecting much as the place is so flat and featureless (nearest to me is Oulton & Donington) but was pleasantly suprised. Long lap & lack of markers meant it took a while to get into the swing of it but a nice mix of corners and smooth tarmac. Rain stayed away and a good day all round.

Bit of a trek from Yorks but easy if M1 stays clear. Noise testing is VERY tight they say
Otherwise maybe one of Javelins cheapie airfield days? (on somebody elses tyres)

[Dab of oppo]

Try Bruntingthorpe for a shake down run, they are strict on noise and anything deemed to be messing about but theres plenty of run off and 4 miles of track, the lads who look after it are friendly to.
You need to pre book not just turn up as they have quiet days being enforced by the council these days :s



Edit for spelling.

Edited by Dab of oppo on Monday 21st June 19:48

[Rill]

Thanks guys, plenty for me to be going on with.

[Torksey]

Hi

We're heading down from Yorkshire to Bedford on Monday for the 5th Time.

Its a great track and very safe. It will take you half the day to learn as the GT circuit is 3.8 miles long. You will need good brakes, as it is a tough circuit on brakes.

We found the lunch there very good, but the breakfast rubbish. We're trying a good cafe in Bedford.

Cheers

[yanmar]

Have a look at Silverstone now it has been altered . it has good run off areas now, much better than before , but Bedford is still the best for run off areas