MICRO/MINI/LIGHTNING sprints are all a smaller version of the traditional full size sprint car as we know it. Terms are given for these cars such as micro and mini both meaning "small". So let's take a look at these term and the way they are affixed to small car racing.
"MICRO" sprints are cars that look similar to a full size sprinter other then the engine is off set to the left and the driver sets down in the cockpit with his or her legs stretched out like a go kart. These cars are powered by 250cc to 600cc with a couple of clubs using the 750cc all motorcycle engines and chain driven. The cars are built usually with a 60" wheel base and run 10" wheels and tires.
"MINI" sprints are more known to be your traditional "up right" style of car with larger engines (750cc to 1200cc), chassis's (72" WB), wheels and tires (13"). The term upright comes from how a driver sets in a full size sprinter. His entire body and legs are in the confined area of the cockpit and you set up right just as you would in a chair. The motor is in the center of the car between the frame rails and these cars use motorcycle engines and are chain driven also.
"LIGHTNING" has become the word to replace mini because of public preciption. Whenever the average "Joe Fan" hear's the word "MINI" it's automatic to think small. Well we all know that these cars are small but the sure as hell race big and are as fast as "LIGHTNING". Several organizations are going to the name "LIGHTNING" and phasing out mini just because of this and as a promoter Lightning Sprints are an easier sell then Mini Sprints. There is 1 organization out in Az. that uses "MODIFIED MIDGETS" instead of mini but we do not want to take any thing away from the mighty midgets even though they have raced against each other before.
I know it is HARD to change after so many years but sometimes change is good. So tell me your ideas or thoughts on the subject and also visit my website at
http://sssprints.com
