GT-Roadster

Murakami Motors

2011-10-17T00:15:00.000+09:00

A little link to the new Super Taikyu Entry in Japan.

ST Class 4

http://www.mm-stai.jp/gallery.html

Odula NC

2011-05-22T22:10:00.000+09:00

Odula NC2 is looking awesome, makes me miss my car.

NC2 really is a good car. small tweaks make it much better.

I would definitely had one of these.

Rev Speed Super Battle - NOPRO

2010-12-12T23:08:00.000+09:00

NOPRO cracking 1.05 at tsukuba!

The 2.5L block is about 10mm higher creating the volume for the 2.0 head.

Hyper RE-30 are cool!

Nogami-San drives to the track, changing the exhaust before the trip home.

Even without over fenders, the car looks cool.

I think we all know I love NC, so this is a pinnacle car.

Sun Shine was bright on the cool winters day.

Rev Speed Super Lap - Brightening.

2010-12-12T23:03:00.000+09:00

Yo! What is that!

Thats new Aero for the NC roadster!

Its got a big duct that leads to the air filter. No need for eyelines here.

The SHIT Cosworth super charger is gone, but cosworth cams remain.

Brightning's car looks like a winner.

On the first track outing for the new setup, balance was jyaku oba- jyaku unda-

unbalanced

But thats what testing is for.

Not many cars in the class, but NC roadsters were about the only cars doing countless laps. The tubo boys only do a few before cooling down. The Roadsters Run all session.

Sema 2010 Mazdaspeed

2010-11-03T22:21:00.000+09:00

I needed to change this blog.

The mazdaspeed cup cars are pretty cool these days, this white one with Advan RS is great!

But I am not sure what to make of the grey super20.
Wide fenders and front end treatment make this car UGLY!
These are the same car. How can they make one look cool and the other look rediculously blah.
I like galaxy grey and flat black... but come on... this is woeful! and ... I chose the best pic.

Garage Vary Ugly

2010-09-01T23:18:00.000+09:00

This makes me happy I don't have a NC to be related to something like this.

Garage Vary's New bumper is..... NC From a distance... Hmmm.

Up close... Lets talk about ZERO IMAGINATION!!!!

give me 10 seconds to create something better.

Return of the GT

2010-06-29T09:58:00.000+09:00

My roadster went to auction as avbove.

The roadster returns 2 months later. It re-appeared minus a lot of the choice items but some more detailing.

CE28N were painted body colour (probably to hide some scratches.)
Front bumper was repainted and all the small holes from the number plate and the canards

No Ohlins, No Stereo.

Japanese Auctions are sometimes a chance for someone with money to pick up some parts for free.

Stock or tuned cars are the same cash.

So I guess it makes sense if you can afford to.

Buy a car, remove the parts or exchange for stock and re-sell.

No, I didn't re-buy it.

Russ.

Advan Success

2010-06-28T09:58:00.006+09:00

I swapped my Advan's with the CE28N from my friends race car.
They wanted to get some more grip on their prelude. The change has worked well for them.

They only run the Advans on the rear as they have wider rims up front now too.

Recently they won a 6 hour enduro... I think it was totally because of my wheels of course.

haha.

Check out TG-R

Greddy Stuff

2010-06-27T10:14:00.000+09:00

BIG Good News Boys and Girls.

Greddy have a bunch of new parts.http://www.trust-power.com/event/1005/nc.html

Including finally an exhaust manifold and full catalyser and 2 New Exhausts.

Cool intake for the Airinx system
Strut bars front and rear.
Street and Circuit suspension.
They have collaborated with Arbic's NC body kit
and also re-selling OS giken LSD, Clutch and more.
A complete car...

Latest Option Mag ALSO has a Turbo kit in the works running 0.6 Bar
and T716Z turbo. power is 60ps Up to 230ps easy.

Looks like some tuned NCEC coming.

There is a new magazine coming in Japan called Roadster Bros too with many features.

Like the finish on the advans.

Russ.

Roadster of the Week.

2010-06-09T02:31:00.001+09:00

The final entry for GT-Roadster blog.

I had fun in my car and I think it was a pretty good looking car for a budget vehicle. Sensible mods were the key for this car. However it did seem to inspire some as I received lots of feedback from the roadster community.

There are many others with a similar passion that are prepared to inspire also. Head over to roadster garage http://roadstergarage.wordpress.com/ for Adam's similar obsession with his NB.

He run's a segment called Roadster of the week, which means a cool car every week. Stick it in your RSS feed and check out the progress and cool inspiration.

Thanks for the feature.

No Pro Wide Fenders

2010-05-29T10:06:00.001+09:00

Nopro has a good customer that always tries his latest stuff.

Pina has added the over-fenders and merged them with his bodykit. the result is pretty smooth.

The new wide fenders didn't match his old wheels though, so I added some TE37-SL for added impact and dumper the car to the deck!

http://www.nopro.jp/nc_aero_fener.html

Gami san now has the 2.5L car with Hyper Bronze RE-30 but no wide fenders... Strange?

Realistically he doesn't need them. 18x8.5 +52 still fit under the normal guards.

Russ.

GT-Roadster Memories.

2010-04-11T21:38:00.000+09:00

The final incarnation of my NC was a long journey

One of the last mods I added was the Nopro rear under spoiler. Actually, I never really got an opportunity to try this mod. Too many other things were happening.

Open top driving is a pleasure. If you have never experienced it, please try.

The was the last clean image of the car without vinyl GT-Roadster and sponsor logos.

Tripping around Nagano is awesome. But I'd recommend the dry season.

The mountains around here are inspirational.

Just about anywhere you can take a postcard image.

My fascination with vinyl designs started way before this.

Touring with Route Sixteen club was excellent.

Sights like this were common. Some of the best times.

Always trying something.

M'z Lip and craft square and re-positioned number = cool!

Fuji Fuji Fuji.

Tsukuba Tsukuba Tsukuba. You can run flat all day if your game... was I?

Try something.

Try something Else

Back to Fuji

Hakkone!

Sakura

Simply Japan!.

Izu

April is always awesome

Supermarkets make great studios

So does a road.

Daikoku

Sharing your roadster is most enjoyable.

Chiba Boso is another direction.

Locations are everywhere.

Narita

Nopro Touring.

Mazda HQ with R16

This event required something special.

A car is a blank canvas.

Touring with R16 in Iro Hazzaka. I like Haipins.

Test pattern.

More Touring with R16. I covered about 5000 klms with these guys. 40 NC roadsters cruising past is amazing.

NR inspiration. This was not the initial intention.

Most testing was done at Tsukuba. DFV settings, Camber check... etc.

Then Chiba always was a close and reliable empty road.

And sometimes an empty warehouse too.

Daikoku is always a place to compare and refect.

Yamanashi... The car was meant to be a street car!!! What was I doing at the circuit...? Can't stop the urge.

First long long long drive! Yeah it got dark quicker than I thought.

Like driving in heaven. The NC is good for a daily car.

Nikko is a good place to test any new car. Fun Fun Fun.

So after about 12000klms and a couple of years, the journey has ended for me, but only just starting for someone else.

I hope they enjoy the experience.

Russ.

GT-Roaster Sold!

2010-04-02T00:15:00.007+09:00

It is GONE!

Here is the car at Auction. 16" CE28N Fitted. Still looks tough and purposeful. But not so flashy.

Shame I had to let it go, but priorities change. Maybe...

Russ

NR-Spec 16" CE28N

2010-03-29T12:19:00.003+09:00

Here is the complete NR-Spec look for the car. Final _GT_ emblem on the front.

Buffed and polished.

16" CE28N 16x7 + 48. The car looks very racey and its ready for it's final appearance.

My friend took these pics before it was loaded onto the transporter for it's final destination... Auction.

Advan Wheels have gone here... TG-Racing.

I must say, It was a hard decision to let this car go, but I know it was the right choice for me at the moment. The car was always a compomise from the beginning and fullfilled a need for a while. But it now joins the long list of cars that have previously lived in "my garage".

Russ

Setting Sun

2010-03-17T22:56:00.000+09:00

Ok, the sun is setting on the GT-Roadster. Spent today cleaning up the car and readying everthing for the next week.

It was kind of fitting I finished right on sundown.

The car is looking good right now. Although I still prefer it with some form of eyelids.

I think all the modifications I have done to the car are very mild with a slight performance edge.

Hues from race cars and nothing too over the top has been the focus of this car from the start.

But somehow, it's just not fitting my desires right now.

It's very close to how I invisaged it complete. Maye only the wheels and some small interior comforts would finish it off.

But as priorities change, so do cars. Mine change a little more often than some.

So we shall see what happens over the coming months.

Russ.

NR-A SPEC CE28N

2010-03-17T21:59:00.000+09:00

One last change for the NR-Spec GT-Roadster. 16" CE28N.

There is a reason... stay tuned.

Maintenance

2010-03-13T00:44:00.001+09:00

I had an outstanding issue from when I changed the Diff to LSD a long time ago. A small leak. It was just enough to spoil the driveway. Anyway. So I headed off to KTS to finally kick this issue in the guts.

KTS are great. quick, cheap and try to understand. You even have a lottery 1 in 10 shot of getting the alignment done for free. Not this time though. Anyway the car is back to perfect alignment and ready ....

FOR SALE!

I have a BIG DILEMMA though. Used prices have died.

This NC was at a mazda dealer for approx $8800. the NC RHT they had was $15,800

Is that really good value. In Australia these are still 35K+. Ship it??

But in Japan, unwanted sports cars are flooding the used car market. 100 rx8s at last weeks auction. over 50 FD3s. etc etc.

Look at these two NA roadsters at corns. $1500 for a car that has a cage, suspension, hardtop etc etc 2900 for a bspec with cage and watanabes. Up to 5K you will have a really nice NA.

AAAAGH!!!!! I HATE CARS!

Russ.

GT-Replica

2010-03-03T11:02:00.000+09:00

Recently I discovered these decals for models. Just print them out and stick them on.

My size for the side GT-Roadster decal was spot on, but the logo stickers are a bit small.

I'll try those again... maybe.

Russ.

MX5 Badge

2010-02-25T12:03:00.000+09:00

Thanks to friends around the world, this addition arrived the other day. In Japan, MX5 badging on the NC is not so common.

Russ.

Snowtime

2010-02-02T10:18:00.002+09:00

Snow Snow Snow. It's wierd stuff to me. It only snows a little in tokyo every year. Maybe one or two days.

But WHY WHY WHY WHY WHY do people feel compelled to run their hand down MY car BONNET to FEEL the snow.

There is snow everywhere. GO F4RK OFF!

It's little things like this that really SH1T me.

Russ.

Auto Salon NC Roadsters.

2010-01-21T22:23:00.001+09:00

Tokyo Auto Salon was a lonely place for NC lovers. Autoexe NCEC with a few tuning mods was a far cry from those that were missing.

Under the bonnet was a maxim header and their strut bar and new ait filter.

The only other NC was this Mazora painted version, but it only wore 16" rims. I dumped it an upped the rim size in photoshop.

Special thanks to Nogami-san for the ticket. I'm planning to get my car back to 100 percent next month.

So a trip to the workshop and the body shop is in order.

then we'll see what the roadster has in store for 2010.

Russ,.

TK Sport Lip

2010-01-06T10:32:00.001+09:00

I don't know anything about TK Style Japan Aero Workz because only on Yahoo. But this looks interesting.

A little rip off design wise from the M'z Lip but the 3 piece design is FRP and has a cool carbon centre. I think it would be better than the M'z for looks. Mine has the stupid holes in the side flanks and provides less downforce.

Another alternative... and cheap!

Russ

Back to it's roots.

2009-12-30T14:43:00.001+09:00

Merry Xmas and a view to the New Year

GT-Roadster + Advan RZ 19".

I've been thinking a lot about the future of my car recently and whether to return to an FD3s Rx7 or stick it out with the roadster.

I believe I've made a decision to keep the roadster. I have decided it will remain a 100% road car. No track days for the beauty! I'll leave that for another car in the future. With my friends in Japan, I'll be able to rent a ride in a race car anytime anyway. Probably for the same price as a weekend on the circuit myself. Oils tyres, pads etc.

I don't think many can really have a streetable race car. It ends up being a compromise. Too far and it stays in the garage because it's too much trouble to run around town. Too loud, too stiff, too fast. Not tuned enough and simply... too slow on the track.

So with a realistic decision made. I should keep the roadster for a little longer and save for a circuit based FD3s a way in the future. (maybe a long way)

So that leaves the roadster with it's true direction as it always had from the begining. I bought it because I wanted to emulate the KS-Auto KD-X Burnout NC in some ways. That car has a real presence and definately influenced my purchase over S2000 which I believed would have had me at the track spending money again just like an FD3s that this car replaced.

That was never the role for this car. This car's role was cheap daily transport and touring around.

As I owned the car for a while and hung out with others, this direction became blurred to performance and racing. So rather than lightweight parts like seats, exhaust and bonnet, that don't match the RHT anyway. I'll put them on the back burner in favour of street stance and impact. The result should be very special. Not unlike the impact of the Burnout car.

I've been contemplating 19"wheels for soooo long. So I think I'll do it. (I'll still need to save though)

Bronze Advan RZ in 19" 19x8.5 with the deep GT-R design with stretched 215 or 225 /35/19 rubber and make them fit. Total cost should be 200,000yen + the cheapest tyres I can find about 50,000. There's not too much required other than a fender roll and maybe some minor inner guard trimming. Lower my ohlins to the lowest setting. Ride height should be about the same, but stance will improve. Of course there is the sacrifice of power, handling and braking, but hey, it's all about image. Not performance.

90% fast is ok.

Russ.

Saclam Exhaust and Mnifold

2009-12-14T10:52:00.000+09:00

Saclam are Lotus specialists with many other parts.

They have just finished development of Exhust manifold and muffler, they are a work of art.

Tsukuba Super Lap

2009-12-14T10:44:00.000+09:00

Nopro has upped the spec of their car to MZR-L5 2.5Litre with high comp pistons.

clocked a 1'04"242 on the day. Very fast for an NC. S-tyres are now fitted also.

Once settings are perfected this will be even quicker.

Running on Rays CE28NF with Direzza O3g. It's all fun.

Nopro + Jet's

2009-12-14T10:15:00.000+09:00

Nopro's new lip spoiler is out!

I phoshopped my canards on to the combo and it looks perfect.

It is the best one I have seen. Already fitted to a couple of R16 member cars.

Decision... Can I sell my M'z lip and replace it.
Issue... Mounting holes already in my bumper. Maybe cover with a sticker.

Just dreaming.

Zero Fighter

2009-11-27T21:45:00.001+09:00

Zero Fighter!

The ultimate Japanese Roadster. JRF-Japan Road Force.

Neutral.

I like the Zero.

Here is a Mustang style chrome and the red and white tail. A lot of them had yellow and black checkers also.

P40 Warhawk, Fighting Tiger style with the blue and white tail.

This is the style I like most though. The F15 Eagle style. Japan also used these in the modern era.

Subtle two tone grey.

Russ.

NR-S-GT-RA-V-TypeX

2009-11-11T00:10:00.000+09:00

Yo! peep this! Dope, Sick, Sponsors?

I'll take ADVAN...RGII RAYS...V.R.G2 WORK...11R or others.

Just need wheels, lower side skirts would be cool too...

Yes... Nopro

2009-11-10T23:54:00.000+09:00

Nopro NC1 Development. Now this will be the best NC lip on the market. FRP and Carbon later in the year.

Note the outline for the wide fenders. (see above and fenders below.)

This would match my canards in Carbon!

Damn....Makes you want to remake things.

I didn't really want the M'z lip but the "Free" price was right for me.
Cant go back. there are big mounting holes in my bumper now.
I like my Unique Lip now anyway.

Anyway looks like a swag of new parts on the way.

Now all I need is a sponsor. 255/35/18 on 18x9.5 +18 RAYS G2 with wide fenders.

yum.

Traqmate Video

2009-11-06T11:32:00.003+09:00

TGRacing TRAQMATE from Vimeo.

For anyone who thinks they are a good driver, you NEED something like traqmate. Our friend Richard from http://www.traqmate.jp/ in Japan set up the Traqmate system for TG-Racing to use in their prelude. It has some cool features like G-Sensors, car information pickups and most importantly video.

This video shows a theoretical best lap of me at Japan's Ebisu Circuit in the TG-R Prelude.

First thing I have to work on is steering hand position and learn to be more confident and consistent. I had over 1.5hours of footage to check. It really opens your eyes.

Russ.

GT-Roadster

2009-10-29T13:28:00.000+09:00

Went to the DIY centre to get a few things for some stickers. And took a few shots.

Wasn't many people around. So it was easy to snap a few.

I'm liking the rear. It's a good match with the side stripe.

The rear overhand is nothing. hardly noticeable from most forward angles.

But get down low and you will see my horrendous fujitsubo exhaust. I don't know if they designed it to discolour like this but the interior weld marks are digusting. +2hp +2kg ??? Sounds quiet. Previous owners useless choice.

The sun was out.

So top is open or down. whichever you prefer to say.o

Still looking pretty good.

But say good bye to the gold wheels. because one of the things I bought was wheel paint... hehe.

NOPRO NC GT Update

2009-10-28T01:41:00.000+09:00

NOPRO NCEC 2.3 Aero is now under development. The large fenders will be able to accommodate huge rubber legally. New Lip spoiler with raised corners looks good too.

Monday RAIN FAIL

2009-10-26T11:17:00.000+09:00

I was planning a trip today. But driving on the touge with this weather in likely fog is not desirable.

To be re-scheduled.

Russ.

Crank it up~!

2009-10-15T12:55:00.000+09:00

Wash and a little shoot to see how the car is looking. Only major thing left to do in my stage 2 plan is to paint those wheels Black.

I must admit the car is looking pretty sweet. I'm liking my sticker design. The wheels look ok with the yellow trucks in the background. A little colour does look good sometimes.

With the canards attatched, intentions are seen, but the rear diffuser remains a subtle item from the front quarted view.

It's not until you get around the side that the car starts to show the full effect. Subtle changes don't change the overall image but just make you wonder about the details.

I wish I could say that there was a 250Hp renesis or 2.3L in there. But unfortunately stock will do for this car.

The Nopro rear under spoiler shortens the rear of the car and with the roof off, sets a pretty cool image.

The fuel gauge is on "E" and the orange light is ON. With and bills to be paid, I'll have to wait for a bit of driving as paying road tolls and gas is not a priority at the moment.

26th may see some dust come off.

Russ.

Do the Bolt

2009-10-04T19:20:00.000+09:00

Re-fitted the under spoiler with coated allen head bolts because I hate the cheap look of rivets. These are actually steering boss bolts but were fitted with 4mm aluminium threaded rivets in the actual bumper underneath.

Nopro Rear Under Spoiler.

2009-10-02T14:28:00.000+09:00

Ok. My Nopro diffuser is on. Almost.

The side profile has really changed. I am really glad that I painted it body colour also.

The car/colour glaxy grey is dark enough to carry the effect well. I think black would have been too noticable.

Here from the rear. The contrast is evident. the shadow almost makes it black anyway. It's only fitted with two bolts at the moment, so I stopped off at the car shops looking for better bolts. I got some 4mm steering wheel hub bolts that should complement it well at the rear.

Thanks to the guys at e-sugiyama for painting and stuffing around with some fitting prep. Arigatou.

I'll take some more pics next week. Clutch Ideas are also underway.

Russ.

MONSTER F A T TE37

2009-10-01T01:06:00.002+09:00

Ok. I found these monster 18x9.5+15 with stretched 215. Fake TE37s to photoshop on the car. Takes my mind off things. I'll be trying a friends monster 18x9.5+15 RE30's one day. Stay tuned.

The term FAT comes to mind.

Russ.

Nopro GT NC

2009-09-27T00:21:00.000+09:00

Check these wide fenders underway at Nopro.

Stay tuned

Plan

2009-09-24T14:35:00.000+09:00

I dropped off the rear diffuser for painting this afternoon. Maintaining the Galaxy Grey 32s should keep it all subtle and inconsistent...haha. It won't be long until the beast is ready now. Plans are in action. Wheel Paint next.

Don't Drive!

2009-09-24T10:49:00.001+09:00

This is Japan's answer to stimulating the economy.

Reduce the toll on the highway to $10 from 30 or more

Everyone is so happy they try to go somewhere.

But little do they know their journey will be among 50Klms (NOT JOKING) of traffic Jam in every direction.

Now the New Government wants to remove it completely so people can buy more cars and drive..... WHERE? It will create a blocked system. You'd better buy one with a bed in the back.

Images are from my digital TV of the Road Network on the long weekend. RED is traffic.

Russ.

Exeddy Ready.

2009-09-19T19:58:00.000+09:00

Picked up my car today. Drove home. Seems ok but a little different than before. Slight more difficult to engage but I guess i'll get used to it. Go for a drive tomorrow and evaluate.

Roadster Ultralight by RE-Xtreme

2009-09-13T23:02:00.006+09:00

Well, http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/mazda-mx-5-superlight-leaked-ahead-of-frankfurt/ and I must say it wasn't grabbing me.

The interior is mostly fantastic except the leather. So I did what I always do. Chopped it. My ULTRALIGHT version shuns the puny 1.8 in favour of a real 200-210hp 2.0L NA screamer. Eco Friendly light RAYS RE30 in Hyper Bronze. I moved the handle to right hand drive. The bonnet, fenders, doors and boot are all carbon. I lowered the passenger seat out of the wind and gave the bonnet hump a shove to one side and joined it to the dash and added a little screen. I think the result is something much more appealing to the tuning scene. My ultralight achieves 888kg kerb weight.

Come on show car guys. Who was the target audience for your slug? A performance car with no performance.... I am yet to see the Prius fuel economy series, so petrol engine is not dead yet.

Youtube Mazda release here.

Frankfurt Shots here

Russ.

Superlight sees light

2009-09-07T11:38:00.006+09:00

Stripped of all weight and down to 990kg.

Looks pretty cool, touches of carbon.

I'm sure the leather trim could have been changed for a weight saving... It is a show car I guess.

But it does not meet the concept. Take out 1 more seat or use some of the Mazda Taiki's plastic interior.

I think it really needs a small acryllic windscreen too. I'll chop it soon.

Russ.

NB Coupe

2009-09-04T10:47:00.003+09:00

Speaking of rare NB coupes... This guy lives not 100 meter from me.

It's often tracked as he swaps these racing hart street tyres for smaller BLACK Rays

The wide front fenders are subtle and there's a vent on the left side that goes somewhere.

Hmmm.

Russ.

RX-8 Wheel Option

2009-09-03T20:03:00.005+09:00

I'm not sure about this... Before butchering my Advan RGII 17" rims. I was thinking some 18" RX8 wheels painted black maybe a good option and keep the Advan RGII for the odd whatever?

Or just trade them. I think the RGII will look better. Just a last minute brain melt.
I saw a new Z today and those are a similar design.

What to do?

I'm also unsure of painting the rear diffusser Black or Galaxy Grey. Maybe Galaxy grey is better. The Wheels will be black though.

Russ.

Do I have the race car bug?

2009-09-03T17:38:00.003+09:00

This race prepped NB Roadster is awesome! Low cost circuit special. Every time I go to Car Make Corn's recently there is something awesome. Last time was an Orange 850kg NA roadster.

Today it was this vented monster. Everything about these cars spell fun. Small chuckable and lightweight with a screaming 200hp B16 or B18 engine. cheap small diameter tyres and replacement everything is pretty cheap in japan for these things. Is it what I want?

Well the Corn's NB coupe democar is currently for sale and it has me very interested. Its a full tune beast with everything you need. Maybe the only thing missing is a cage.

Russ.

ps. I saw these new rays today... awesome! Finally something different. 57 Break

These Rays Gram Lights 57 vintage aint bad either.

GAT-STER Autobot

2009-09-03T01:11:00.004+09:00

Ok, well here is GAT-STER, The Mazda MX5 Roadster Autobot with a few extras.

Basically Bumble Bee, but I changed the Chest, Knees, Groin, Shoulder, Wings, Head/Helmet, Projector Eyes, Ohlins and a few other minors. Main weapon... GAT!

Russ.

Transformers

2009-09-01T10:38:00.003+09:00

This is my old NA MX5 Roadster I owned in Australia. The cheap 17" chrome wheels did big negatives for performance but it was still a nice cruiser.

Check out the front windscreen. I used to run a Transformers Deceptacon Logo on my car, Just because it was the better designed logo of the Transformers series and a little evil.

This time for the NC however I cut some Autobot stickers for my NC. Maybe a protector of sorts. As we all know the "Jazz" character was originally a cool RX8 until the movie company was given GM cars for the first movie. Solstice was chosen.

So I will call my car "GAT-STER" (Grand Autobot Touring RoadSTER). I think the primary weapon will be a GATLING GUN or maybe two!

"Transform and roll out!"

Russ.

Caution Hot!

2009-08-28T12:08:00.004+09:00

Ok, I guess the main inspiration for the addition of the diffuser to my car was from the RS-Stage car fitted with the Nopro Diffuser. If you CAN look past the girl in this picture. You will notice the diffuser fins have a little warning note and an arrow pointing to the exhaust.

I thought this was pretty cool, so I cut a similar one out of vinyl for my car.

I didn't add the heartful butchered japlish version though. It's a bit strange.

"my heart... hot what time..."

Russ.

Nopro Diffuser Trim

2009-08-27T17:55:00.003+09:00

Ok, I had a little time today. So it was out onto the main street sidewalk again to cut about 20mm from the diffuser so it would clear the exhaust. I discovered the exhaust is not exactly hung straight.

I'll try and rectify that later. but for now it's all go. I'll have to take off the rear bumper to properly fit it because there is no access to the mounting points and I don't want to use rivets. I hate them.

I bought some nice RC 4mm black anodised allen head bolts for mounting.

The Fujitsubo Legalis R may be legal but it is a waste of time. 2kg heavier for 2hp more. Why the previous owner chose it, I have no idea.

I'm also going to have to cut some thick vynyl sticker or something for the underside. It's going to get absolutely peppered by stones from the tyres.

Russ.

Quick cuts

2009-08-26T11:38:00.003+09:00

I was digging around in my old stuff and found a big ass Fidanza sticker from my flywheel. Way too big for the car, I guess its another for the suitcase.

I also cut a couple of corn's stickers for the side of my NC.

Russ.

Bernoulli's principle.

2009-08-20T17:46:00.005+09:00

Bernoulli's principle is related to the effects of pressure and speed or what I'm interested in the reduction of drag at speed and an increase in downforce.

Today was time to put the Nopro diffuser on my car. It's just a test installation until it's painted but its all ready to go bar a little trim near the exhaust. Just touching on the ends.

I like products where installation is simple. Cut, Cut Cut and Drill 4 holes. Cutting the rear inner splash guards were actually the most time consuming, but I think I have an elegant installation. Not as straight forward as Nopro's instructions, but worth the extra effort.

In this picture, you can see how much of the bar has been removed.

This one shows the exhaust fitting and below shows how much overhang there is.

I can't wait to get it painted and the wheels. I'm also going to drop the car the final 1cm so I can scrape my front spoiler. I know I want to. haha/

My clutch should be in next week. so the car will be back on the road and for now... FINISHED!

Russ.

Race Suit Updates

2009-08-19T21:41:00.000+09:00

Thanks to my friend, I got a couple of extra patches for my suit.

First Sunako Juku, they don't make these any more. Pro Super GT and Super Taikyu driver Sunako-san's race school patch.
Skip Barber. If you don't know Skip Barber's driving schools and you're a roadster fan, then you need to look into it. Best graduates in America go straight into the Mazda Roadster one make race, then mazda open wheel, then grandam etc. If you're good enough.

The other two have some meaning also.

Small Yokohama from Aki links well to the rear.
large Yokohama ADVAN patch I got from Sunako-san directly after last year's Ebisu Race.

These all match well with my current TG-R helmet design. Red and White is the theme.

BTW... I HATE SEWING!

Russ.

Ebisu 12Hr

2009-08-19T00:03:00.003+09:00

Well, what can I do while I wait for clutch repairs. Go RACING!

Last year, shortly after I got my roadster, I joined the last Sunako Juku race school with a bunch of friends and we learned some techniques from Sunako-san, who was a Super GT GT-R driver. Later that year I covered the Ebisu 12hr race that other members of Sunako Juku attended in a Civic with him.

This year, my friends invited me to join an 8 driver team attacking the Ebisu Super Endurance race series in their own car. This was a lot of preparation and hard work with fun thrown in for good measure. It takes a real team effort to get a car through 12hours.

Our N-spec BB6 prelude finished 4th in class. But more importantly finished it's first outing on the track and proved itself as a real race car, with great balance and some good speed.

It was a great experience. I hope I can get to the track a little more. but as cash has run dry, I will have to make some tough decisions soon.

You can see a lot more of my coverage on the TGRacing Datalog.

Russ.

NR-SPEC Phase 1, Stickers.

2009-08-06T16:26:00.004+09:00

I got impatient today because I had too many stickers all over the house. So i decided to apply them to my car.

I totally stuffed up the bonnet decal, but managed to save most of it. Just don't look close on this one.

So I got serious and laid on the tattoo manufacturer stickers ... Sweet! I was more careful with these and they are perfect.

Left side also went on very well. I was learning as I went there is a small issue in the rear door cut, but it's neither here nor there. It still looks great. I like them because in certain light you hardly see them, and in high contrast, they show up very well indeed. best of both worlds.

Left side, lined up well... then huh??? WTF the rear T was way off. I don't know what I did here, i think it's actually a mistake in the cutting of this one. I think the length was bowed. But 0.05 of a degree can make a big difference over a meter or so. Anyway. No drama. It's not a show car.

So thats it. Finished the sticker application. Now on to diffusser fitment then paint and wheel paint. Probably after the 24th. No time.

I'm really happy with the result and I learned a lot about sticker application. The main one is don't rush and it's probably best to have help. Just someone to do small cuts and hold things would make a big difference.

ps. Do it inside too. I'm a bit sunburned.

Can't wait to finish it off.

Russ.

Mazda Mx5 SuperLight

2009-08-06T16:09:00.005+09:00

Due for the Frankfurt show is this new speedster from mazda to celebrate the 20th anniversary. Exterior gets (doesn't get) a windscreen, Rear gets integrated roll bars doors are flowing into the cabin. Interior is inspired by the Mazda flowing designs of late.

Report is here.

I'm sure it will never make production, but perhaps something will come of it.

Russ

20th Anniversary Edition

2009-08-01T23:02:00.002+09:00

White. Red and Black leather seats, special stickers. Not too much different, but it's still special.

Mazda Japan special anniversary site.

Russ.

Cosworth Supercharger - Unadvertising.

2009-07-30T01:26:00.004+09:00

This is the funniest product. I thought advertising was to sell and promote a product, not put people off. Install it for over $6000 by the time you include other required products. But don't use it on the road, use it only on the track, But don't drive hard. It will cause engine damage.

http://www.cosworthusa.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=51&idproduct=363

All these disclaimers have come about due to a series of engine failures.

System requirements:

-Installation time 12-14 hours depending on skill
level.
-A lap top (PC) along with basic computer skills is required for ECU
re-flash.
-Must use at least premium 91 octane (R+M)/2 fuel.

Precautions:
The Cosworth MX5 Supercharger system is currently
available for vehicles sold only in North America. Using
this product on vehicles sold in other regions is not recommended.
-Not for use on vehicles with automatic
transmissions
-For off-road racing use only.
-Do not drive at sustained high speeds. Engine damage may occur.
-Not for
sale or use on pollution controlled motor vehicles sold in the state of
California.
-Excessive boost
pressure will cause engine failure.
-Repeated activation of the RPM limited will cause engine
damage.
"I thought RPM limiter was to prevent
engine damage."Russ
The car should be
driven by shifting the transmission below 6500 RPMs.
"Ok So thats why the RPM limit of 7000 will damage
the engine."Russ
-Your car must be
equipped with an oil cooler.
Do not install the supercharger kit unless your
car has an oil cooler. Engine damage will occur.
-Cosworth Supercharger kits are designed for engines in good mechanical
condition only. Installation on high mileage or damaged
engines is not recommended and may result in engine
failure, in which we are not responsible.
Cosworth is not responsible for the engine or consequential
damages.

-Superchargers add tremendous stress
and wear to your engine and may cause engine failure or damage. Cosworth is not responsible for engine, vehicle or any other
subsequent damage.

-If you are considering purchasing this system
and have questions, please contact Cosworth at sales@cosworth.com

So OK... I don't think I will. I would talk to http://thebluemeany.blogspot.com/

Russ.

Bonnet Graphic

2009-07-24T01:09:00.003+09:00

Ok, Graphics are all finished. I must say they are probably not professional level, But to me they are pretty damn good.

Total time for the total set.... 10~12 hrs I guess. Basically because I don't have the correct area to do this stuff. Compromise for work enviroment is a low back breaking coffee table and some floor area.

But compared to something you would buy for around $500 its pretty good. I just hope I don't stuff up the application...

Weather depending... this weekend looks GO for application. I may go to a carpark somewhere out of the wind.... hmmm. Super autobacs...? Everyone else does.

Russ.

Graphics

2009-07-23T11:02:00.003+09:00

Just when I thought I was finished cutting stickers.
I thought, the bonnet would look cool if i highlight the hump.
I don't know if the NR-Spec AND GT-ROADSTER will go on. or Just the NR-SPEC
I guess I shouldn't be lazy and put the same NR-Spec AND GT-ROADSTER on it.
Any votes?
Russ.

Helmet and Suit and Stickers

2009-07-21T17:43:00.004+09:00

More stickers. Getting near the end...should finish them today. Application will start soon.
I am debating where to paint the rear diffuser. My balcony is not really cut out for it.
But a drop sheet may work well.

I ordered my suit and helmet before I needed cash. I am entering an endurance race, but these will also help me get back on tracks again without borrowing gear. Arai GP5W-Peak and my OMP trend 2 FIA suit. Now... whats my design for the helmet going to be.... I have many designs in my brain (now they will be protected).

Russ.

Final Design & Stuff

2009-07-21T10:49:00.004+09:00

Final design. I can't wait to get my diffuser and stickers on. I'll re-attach the canards also.
It's going to look so tough.

I'm slowly cutting out my sticker designs. Some of them are too small. I should buy a machine.

I have also been thinking about other cheap mods, but I think venting the hood will be one that falls into the NOWHERE to work on my car category.

I saw these awesome louvres on Miata.net. Hmmm.

Russ.

Sticker Design & Cut

2009-07-14T19:34:00.004+09:00

Today's plan was just to get the design ready for the stickers. My printer wasn't playing ball, so I had to splice a number of a4 sheets together. Not Fun.

These are a rough layout of what I thought might look good. Practically though some of the designs are too intricate. See what happens later.

Anyway, the reverse side came along quickly with a bit of photocopy action and swap the NR-SPEC logo to the other end.

I finished quickly so I sat down and cut out the first one. One more to go then a lot of small stickers... Grrr.

Maybe the sticker cutter is worth it. But hey. I can say "I made em."

Russ.

NR-SPEC Parts Arrived

2009-07-13T10:49:00.005+09:00

My NOPRO Rear Under Spoiler arrived today.
I didn't get the instructions with my diffuser so I'm just waiting a copy.

This is all I need + some semi gloss black paint and I'm good to go.
Russ.

NR-SPEC

2009-07-09T14:58:00.000+09:00

GT-Roadster NR-SPEC is here. The plan has come together. I picked up a Nopro rear diffusser very cheaply that should arrive on Sunday. I spent a couple of hours working out the final design for the side graphics and got the vinyl waiting ready to go. All I need is a few cans of matt / semi gloss black. and its all ready.

Check progress over the next few weeks.

Russ.

Advan F15

2009-07-07T20:10:00.005+09:00

Now this really is dreaming. These things are expensive. Forged Advan F15s are nowhere near as cheap as Rays. But the matt black on these looks insane. Recently I looking for sponsors. HAHA.

This BMW had similar 15 spoke wheels although not nearly as sexily curved. Probably OZ made. I'm dreaming in semi gloss black at the moment.

Russ.

Tsukuba 7's Day

2009-07-07T18:57:00.003+09:00

Today I headed up to Tsukuba to check out the RX Wars at Tsukuba.

It was a great morning. Here is Suenaga laying down the first set of lines on the tracks surface.
For more head over to RE-Xtreme.

Russ.

Small Plan

2009-07-06T11:18:00.006+09:00

Small plans are all I can afford these days. I still haven't got around to painting the wheels semi-gloss black. But it's on the cards very soon. I am going to sticker the side with a line similar to the RS Factory STAGE car in black and continue this hopefully to a Nopro diffusser. This is the cheapest way I can completely change the look of the car, without spending much cash.

The end result should be pretty cool. Then the roadster is almost finished. Realistically Seats and Harness is all thats left. As much as I'd love 18" wheels. That ain't gonna happen anytime soon. Financial crisis you know.

Russ.

RHT Checkup

2009-06-26T12:29:00.004+09:00

I have been putting up with my RHT rattling away for a while now. So I finally got frustrated and had time to go down to the dealer. I don't have a warranty on my car, so i thought it would be a hassle. But in Japan the RHT gets special treatment. They just know it's not perfect so they do everything to keep you happy.

I had the Mazda USA Service Bulletin, and the mechanic said he tightened the centre latch 1 turn. It's much harder to close now with the extra force. It doesn't seem to rattle anymore, but I'll have to wait for a colder day or an evening to see for sure. But, for now it's fixed.

Another problem though. My clutch pedal is getting low. Seems the Fidanza light flywheel may be having issues with the standard clutch after a while. It's never been great but I just thought it was how it was. It's pretty difficult to get a non jerky change unless you are going quickly. Pedal travel with bite is very small, I'll take it to corn's next week. I just hope it's not a complete money spender.

Russ.

Graphics Test

2009-06-25T18:53:00.003+09:00

Make your own stickers. It's a little time consuming but the result is cheaper than anything you'd buy.

First I printed a design on paper and stuck it to my cutting board with the cutting sheet taped underneath so it doesn't move around.

Then I cut it out with enough pressure to cut the sheet but leave the backing in place.

You need to purchase some application sheet thats bigger than the design you have.

I repeated this for the logos but of course they take much more time.

Lining them up is the hardest part. I think the result is pretty good. This lot probably cost me about $1 but my initial test sample was about $10 I have enough to make a lot so It's definately worth it. 1 sticker from a manufacturer is about $5

I can see a vinyl cutting machine coming my way... hehe. Easy to get addicted to this stuff.

Russ.

Parking

2009-06-19T02:38:00.004+09:00

I love these big parking lots.
Mechanical... but cool. Practicality wise, it's a little inconvenient though.

Russ.

Wheels Wheels Wheels.

2009-06-17T10:21:00.000+09:00

I thought I'd have a crack at some different things.
OZ superleggra are very expensive in Japan. But quite aggressive.

Takata green TE37 in 18" do not suit the car at all!

Russ.

Tokyo Night View

2009-06-13T22:51:00.005+09:00

Tokyo hasa special attraction. It's not open yet, but this full size Gundam Mobile Suit is in Odaiba at the moment.

It's a pretty impressive image. Gundam Project

My car looks ok under the Fuji Television Building's Bubble.

It was a nice night.

Russ

Clean and Shiny

2009-06-09T11:48:00.004+09:00

After my trip, I cleaned the car. But this does something to me every time. I hate the colour mismatch of the Galaxy Grey in good lighting conditions.

A thread on miata.net also made me look more closely today. I would never recommend this colour. Especially on the RHT.

I really don't like it. To fix the bump in the fender and then guess a colour... I am holding off.
To correct this properly, I'd have to paint the Bumper, Lip, Fenders, roof, read bumper and RHT Cover. So I may as well paint the whole car. WHITE.

Or Sell it and buy a soft top NR-A. Anyone in Japan want to swap. Not some parts though. I love my ohlins mirrors and some other goodies. Wheels can go though.

Russ.

Japan Tour

2009-06-07T23:23:00.007+09:00

What do you do when the weather is bad and you have already booked your holiday.

You go anyway and enjoy the adventure.

The Venus Line is one of Japan's best driving roads. It still was but you can't get the most enjoyment from it in these conditions.

As the fog rolled in.... the speed came down.

And stopped. This is one of the best view spots in Japan. (get the idea)

Changable... Not really... one cloud after the other.

On the way down the 66 tight corner road. this was the view at corner 33. I was stopped from my pace of 20kph with hazzards flashing. Visibility was 20m at best.

As I got below the cloud line into some parts. the sight returned. But only briefly.

Was enough to enjoy some light.

At the bottom it was "just" raining. mostly intermittent making me wish for the RX8 indicator swap for adjustable intermittent wipers.

But eventually I made it to the first destination. Matsumoto Castle.

Awesome stuff inside too. Samurai suits and old firearms. Tough guys.

Then the afternoon was a slow drive to Hakuba. Home of the Nagano winter olympics.

I stayed in the old village. nice place. If yu'r a skiier would be a great destination in winter.

I saw a guy jump this in training. Awesome. must hurt though if you fail... without snow.

After that I headed to the next destination but the way there was awesome. I know know where some video game inspiration came from. "Deep forest..." GT4 anyone.

Yeah baby!

Dig the scenery. From all directions. this is Alpine Japan.

Parked up at the entrance to Kurobe Dam.

Take the electric bus through here for 15 minutes.... T U N N E L

To this!!!! Awesome!!!

Then another Cable car and a Ropeway later to this.... YODEL-E-I-OOOO! Stayed here for a while and took 500 odd pics.

Return journey took some nice images.

I could drive this road 100000 times.

As an afterthought, I looked on the map and went to check out was a mystery location. Kamikochi....

The place is way up in the mountains and actually inaccessible by your own car. So I just went for a drive. Next time I'll make proper tour. but there were about 50 tunnels on the way (not joking!!)

In between scenes like this.

In and among Dams and bridges.

So I'll finish with this amazing image after a day of recovery.

Russ.

Small Projects

2009-06-04T18:40:00.003+09:00

Today, I whacked some tape on the car again to see how some ideas might pan out.

First was the black roof and windscreen surround. The way the light was bouncing off the car, it wasn't much different at all. I think there is no benefit. You can hardly even see where I did the RHT cover.

Front was a bit different though. I am thinking about the Garage Vary trim to open up the front of the car to the radiator. Here it looks kind of cool.

You can see the hack job close up. I also tried masking a complementary line around the brake ducts but it was unsuccessful. Didn't look good.

After that I ripped it all off and tried a few settings on my Ohlins. They are quite soft now. YUK!

But I'm off on a long highway drive tomorrow. Softly is good.

Then I really wanted to get rid of those ugly holes up front. I had some carbon look sticker, so on it went. The effect was a little dull.

So I tweeked it with an old RC sticker. Calsonic. It was the only one big enough that I had.

Here is a close up of the carbonish .

Finally I was thinking about filling the holes in the lip spoiler with some LED. What do you think???

Russ.

Wheels again

2009-06-03T10:28:00.005+09:00

OK, I've been braining again. The reality of buying Rays RE-30 is painful price and 14 spoke cleaning, that I hardly ever do, and the fact that the design with the offset I want is less inspiring. I remembered that This image of the Garage Vary NC Roadster (along with the 19" KS Burnout car) was one of the ones that swayed me to NC purchase and away from S2000.

So I got back to thinking again about Prodrive GC-05F in 18x8.5. They are available in +47 ( I have to check the Hub size though) with the shallow taper centre M disk. The BB British Black is almost a perfect match for the Galaxy Grey. AWESOME. They are forged and made by RAYS, so they are super light and the 5 Spoke design is easy to clean. Sounds perfect? Well, maybe not, the price is a little more than others, so that may be a deciding factor. If the Hub size checks out, they will have knocked the RE-30 way down the order.

So I found these Bridgestone made, cast wheels for almost exactly 1/2 the price. Avangrade Sports Type 071. "Advanced" Grade wheels are spun cast like most good cast wheels. Same offset +47 is available and the colour is actually the same Gun Metal Grey as the prodrive rims, The spokes are long and leave a thin edge and although the centre is not as elegant, I like the rim edge a little more.

So now I am back to simplicity based on initial inspiration. 5 or 6??

I think I have chopped almost everything onto my car now so the only ones left that I like are not available in the size I want. So thats about it for wheel posts... Maybe
Russ.

Karuizawa Meeting 2009

2009-06-02T11:49:00.006+09:00

Karuizawa Meeting is held in the centre of Japan. Most tuners go there. Joyfast brought their Awesome white car equipped with a mix of most makers parts. Odula Front, Charge speed sides and it used to wear a NoPro Rear.

NOPRO took three cars. Soft and Hard top Yellow NC2 and their 2.3L race car.

New bumper is very Mazdaspeed.

Auto exe also had their NC2.

The side holes in the bumper are just way too big. If you saw this bumper in white. It would look terrible.

Jets were selling their usual kit.

Barchetta had their funky short tail NC with center pipe.

This Autobacs c@rs show MH1 looked pretty nice with chrome work wheels.

But this NC2 with Enkei TC-4 wheels looked very smooth. I loke this picture. The water beads look slightly patriotic for the Japanese.

Vary was at the event but no pics online yet. This is their new NC2 lip and eyeline set.

Arbic rear with IPF lights.

Some private cars.

Some with Rays.

Kin-san and friend.

I'll leave you with the Hundred-one NA Roadster with Voltex splitter.

If you haven't seen this car before... its awesome.

Russ.

Wheels and height.

2009-06-01T00:09:00.003+09:00

Today's image looked good. So I chopped it up with Chrome silver 18" +50 RE-30

Then I changed the colour.

And lowered it.

But is it worth $2500 more than just buying a spray can and painting the 17" Advans I have.

I don't think so. So as soon as I can find somewhere to spray them, they will get the black effect.

About the only other option is Weds SA-67F. They are CHEAP!

Russ.

Rainy Day

2009-05-31T20:32:00.004+09:00

Parts of the day were rainy. Rain soaked photography is always cool.

Stripe is back in black this time. I'll probably play around whith the design over the next few days.

But it breaks up the car and highlights other areas. Always just something different.

Russ.

Can you see....?

2009-05-31T12:07:00.004+09:00

If your sight is a little like the above pic. Not quite clear... You're porobably old and it's time for some glasses. Stay safe.

New Oakley RX frames and some new lenses for me. I can see clearly again.

Russ.

RE30 & DAMD

2009-05-28T20:18:00.005+09:00

RE-30 + DAMD skirts. Pretty sweet. Not sure about the skirts though. Too much chrome? But the wheels are awesome. Bonnet too. When will it happen....? who knows.

And some other stupidity.

Black variations

Russ.

MX5 Cup Update

2009-05-28T19:12:00.006+09:00

Playboy MX5 Cup is the US based series.

2008 USA MX5 Cup is available on Youtube. Its a good way to get up to speed with teams and drivers. There is a playlist made so Check it out. dont forget HD

As for 2009. All cars are updated to the new shell. Looks good.

Top pic was winner of Race 1 - Miller. Check MER team

Below pic is winner of race 2- Lamb.

Check out the forums too.

Russ.

GT-Xtreme Design

2009-05-27T01:11:00.002+09:00

I have an old bumper in the house. I cant bear to throw it out. Maybe a new front will come of it.
I designed this GT-Xtreme Monster Roadster. With the STI wing and hood scoop I think it looks pretty good. Below the GT-Xtreme Type I is less agressive but none the less better than stock. I hate the ridge that runs around the bottom of the stock bar.

Russ.

RE-30 Formula Silver.

2009-05-25T11:24:00.005+09:00

I remembered I found RE-30 in Formula Silver without the chrome lip. I chopped them onto my friend Aki's GTR. I think we'll be ordering almost the same wheels. Mine will be a bit skinnier. haha.

This looks awesome.

Wheels Full Circle

2009-05-24T23:15:00.004+09:00

I've eliminated almost all possibilities of running 19" rims without much trouble, so the answer is 18x8.5 +50ish and 225 rubber. This will allow me to dump the car and still remain perfectly ok with ride quality and performance. So I am back to the true JDM, (Almost... That would me 16" rims.) lightweight performance models.

I went and looked at some SSR Type F today at "Crystal" and they looked pretty good.
+50 face 1 still has sufficient centre depth to look cool and the Flat black is also cool.

But I am also considering the ultimate Rays RE-30 also.

The problems with Rays RE-30 is choosing a colour and 2 keeping them clean. I must say I am not a great fan of the Formula Limited with Diamond cut rim. But it's probably the best match. The normal silver is a bit bland. Bronze or Hyper Bronze and Grey don't match at all and new Black Machined lip are a bit wierd.

The last option is Advan RGII, RZ or RS-D, but I feel they will be almost the same as what I have now. So the reason for updating is almost zero.

So I think the Type F will probably get the nod.

Russ

Improadster

2009-05-22T23:07:00.003+09:00

I saw this STI GRB on another blog and the front fender lines got me thinking strange things again. Something has to make the NC grunt worthy.

Russ.

19" Goocars... 19x7.5 +40?

2009-05-21T20:43:00.006+09:00

Well today I went to a few wheel shops to get an idea of what 19" wheels will be like. "Someone must have some?" After an afternoon of not much success. Late in the day, I found these Work Goocars in Up Garage. Shops in Japan are open until 9 or 10pm so these were fittet as the sun set.

Goocars kind of have that Watanabe style to them but with a chrome 5 spoke they loose all JDM intentions. However, inital impressions were OMG! AWESOME! AMAZING! The guys in the shop are all "Kakko ii!" (cool as), but as you stand back and think about it in detail the reality is far from ideal.

Tyre size was 215/35/19 exactly as I desired, so it was good to see how big they were. And they were, but turn radius was OK!

This was good to find out. The Nankang NSII tyres were still sitting high on 7.5Inch rims so stretching them over a wider rim would also be beneficial and help the "look" of the car.

The extra height was not really an issue although it did look a bit SUV like. To have the desired low down drop on the guts stance, I would have to drop the car to its limit. I only have about -15mm left on my Ohlins. It may not be enough.

Fitment wise 19x7.5 +40 is spot on. For anyone with 7.5Inch wheels I'd recommend +40 for perfect fit. The rear fenders would need trimming no matter what wheel, But you could potentially drive these with little scrape as it is. Jumping on the door rail showed a hint of touch.

I photoshopped the above pic to show how it would look with the ohlins further down.

I actually considered these wheels a year ago before I bought the car. It was one of the concepts of how I wanted the car to look, when I was looking to buy.

So the result of Today's little test has me pretty firm in the 18" market... or maybe... the 19" concept will come to fruition. I am also thinking to stick to the JDM tuning look for the car. Even with hints of chrome on the car, they are that, just hints, so being would accent rather than dominate any choice I make.

I also spent time in Super Autobacs and Fuji wheel corporation looking at all the Weds choices in 19" and this dumper kei car in the parking lot.

But the SSR Type F in matt black still stood out and caught my eye.

Thats available in 19" you know.... arrrrrgggggghhhh. I hate Choice.

Russ.

G-Games 77SOG

2009-05-16T00:34:00.003+09:00

If anything is going to sway me from 19" its going to be these RAYS G-Games 77SOG. Due in June, they have a deep concave design in 8.5" and a wide offset that may "just" fit. Benefit... Cheap!

Russ.

Garage Vary Front Garnish

2009-05-14T16:55:00.004+09:00

One of the guys on Carview added the GT-R style garnish to their M'z lipped Roadster.

His silver car looked pretty good. So I tried a quick chop, its a high impact design, that means controversial. I'm not so sure I could live with it full time, but the front of the NC needs something. It would solve my hole dilemma but still leave me with an unused number stay.

Will I ever stop dreaming... hahaha

Russ.

Tape Tune Revisited.

2009-05-14T16:10:00.006+09:00

I had the tape in my hand. ok lets wrap the car once.

It really accentuates the shape of the fenders.

Even the rear looks pumped.

The front looks pretty good and the best thing was that it covered the stupid holes I have from my old number plate.

In this pic I could almost contrast the body to be black as I intended.

I have a thing for two tone cars.

So, Bring on the pace car project... Chech this chop... Very cool but it will never happen.

Just a bit of fun.

Russ.

Clean Again!

2009-05-14T16:06:00.002+09:00

I don't wash my car too often. But when I do, I am always satisfied with the car as is...

But it only lasts for a while until some crazy theme comes to mind.

Russ.

Ohlins Project

2009-05-14T16:02:00.001+09:00

I got around to cutting the rear panels today for the Ohlins adjustments.

Once I attatch the doors they will be good to go...

Russ.

Nopro NC2

2009-05-14T15:55:00.004+09:00

Nopro's new NC2 nose is very Mazdaspeed looking. The only difference is the light fittings allow for NC2 Lights, therefore the bumper is a little longer. You can notice this most near the side ducts as they are recessed further. The centre section has the happy curve and the bottom lip has a centre support in the lower opening. Only purists would pick it. I was very surprised when I saw the design... or lack of design.

The very popular Mazdaspeed front is a winner, but why not a new design. I'm not a fan of copies, so everyone is going to say its a Mazdaspeed front and there is a loss of brand image. I also think the NC2 design is a little smoother and deserved better. Just observations.

NC MS front vs NC2 Nopro Front

You can see Nopro creativity below though. Their old kit is awesome.

Russ.

R16 TRG Pics from Friends

2009-05-14T01:23:00.005+09:00

When I am driving around, I always take a lot of pictures, but I rarely get any of me driving around.

Heading Off.
Behind on the Tomei Highway

Returning the favour.

Heading up to Fuji.

Carbon shining in the sun. I would recommend Craft Square mirrors to anyone. Aestetically pleasing and functional. I do not have a blind spot anymore.

Heading off again.

Down to the "Ranch"

Away we go again...

Heading down the mountain. I'd had enough sun.

Top up and aircon on. Us bald guys have to watch it you know.

Thanks to Koji, Pina, J-Ma, Saigo and a few more. I should get some frontals from Decade too soon.

Russ.

Decade's of Rock

2009-05-13T23:04:00.002+09:00

Decade-san and I cruising around fuji.

Just a short Video this time I made with the left over footage. All 2 minutes of rubbish.

Came out ok considering what i had to work with.. hand held rubbish mostly.

Russ

Photoshop Alert!

2009-05-13T00:13:00.003+09:00

Weds Maverick 005s... I discovered they do make 19" reverse rim.

But the TS-V are just angry looking. Rear dish would not be like this though.

Advan RGII is a great shape. The curved spokes are soo groovy. But alas 18" only.

I remembered back to the old Corvette Indy Pace Car days. Do they still do this paint scheme?

Even a line might be nice. Something Different!!!

Russ.

Someday Drive.

2009-05-12T01:35:00.005+09:00

A little video I made from the back of the car on the weekend Drive with R16. The car is "Rodopina-san's" Highland Green NCEC. It's equipped with Rays RE30 and Nopro/Mazdaspeed gear.

Came out rather nice. I would have liked some exhaust note, but hey, I didn't actually plan on making it. Spare of the moment, whacked on the suction mount while I was driving (not recommended) and see what it's like.

It's actually only the second time I've stuck the mount on the car.

Russ.

R16 Touring #7 2009

2009-05-11T22:33:00.015+09:00

How did I get to this event...?

10th of may was also a ferrari event in Japan. 355 Open.

This 355 Race car was awesome in the tunnels on the way to fuji circuit.

The odd Modena, F50, Tuned F40, etc etc passed me at various speeds

This beautiful 928 was in the right place at the right time. Fuji was draped in clouds.

But that wasn't the reason. I went to meet some friends for a drive. 40 roadsters is always a cool site.

We split into two groups. A group is here.

Decade I would follow for the first runs.

And Rodopina I would be in front of. Makes a nice green sandwich.

Mya's NC runs 18's with 8J and 9J combo.

Hiro runs at tsukuba a bit recently. Enkeis wear grippy rubby rubber.

Badd-San's NC is elegant and aggressive. Ready Yet? no.

Saigodon's NC wears a New NOPRO rear spoiler.

Blaze edition interior with extras.

Badd's NC in aggressive mode. Ready... Let's go.

D-Technique TCR2000. NR-A with extra tuning.

Highway is always ho ho Hummer. Sorry for the puns, there will be more..

Rodopina's NOPRO NC was chasing me all day.

Along with others.

No Hands...

First peek of the peak!

Smooth roads on the evergreen line.

Made for some nice quick Touge runs.

Saigo and others backing up.

Beautiful weather... 28degrees.

How's this for a Fuji backdrop.

Decade and I chillin'

R16 Route Sixteen.

Hiro and Mya. Anyone for some trii-angle?

Badd and Blansh. 17" RS and 18" Advan connesoir

SS2K runs Autoexe.

I showed saigodon how to take some snaps.

Then he took some on his own.

back on the road. Slow pace..

I got bored so I took lot's of snaps. and some video.

It's all good.

Eventually we met up with the other 20 cars.

Ramble.

"Under the Stars" with Budy Club. FD Rx7 BBS rims

Koji-m runs this "Vary" striped machine.

PCM is all BBs and MS.

SU SU SU SU SUPER CHARGER. "Su"chan

SS2k Interior

Green Green, Yes... I did some "circle work." Aussies will know what I mean.

members.

Member and Fuji.

You can only get a pic like this in an open car.!!

Jais is the R16 head honcho.

We headed off back the same way. A little congestion stopped our real destination.

After a stop for a while we headed home.

Koji-m in tow.

Blansh in front.

Very nice parts combination on blansh's car. note the Zoom oval rear view mirror.

Koji-m Up close.

Back on the highway, the guys took off... See ya.

one by one they headed home.

As did kentaro and I in 17klm traffic jam on the tomei... Nice...

But the C1 was empty. I nice fast finish to the day.

Route 16 TRG 7 Preview

2009-05-10T21:53:00.001+09:00

Hot. Pics. Wait.

Russ.