Bandimere Speedway has compiled a number of frequently asked questions and answers to help you better understand the rules, safety and technical guidelines of drag racing and increase your enjoyment at our facility. If the following still doesn't answer your questions please contact us at jeff@bandimere.com.

Does Bandimere Speedway make the safety rules?

The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) establishes rules for every type of vehicle that can run down the quarter-mile. All NHRA member tracks must follow these safety guidelines. Each year, a new NHRA Rulebook is published with revisions and updates. Rulebooks are available at the track for $10, and are highly recommended for anyone who is interested in participating more frequently or building a car.

I have a street car. What do I need to come out and test or race?

The basic items needed to pass tech inspection for the typical street car include good tires, a battery tie-down, radiator overflow catch-can, operable neutral-safety switch, seat belts, and a valid state driver's license or NHRA competition license is required for all participants. Don't forget to wear long pants, shoes, and a shirt!

What do I need to race my street bike?

Again, a valid state driver's license or NHRA competition license is required. NHRA approved helmet, denim or heavier pants, a leather jacket, leather gloves, and leather shoes that rise above the ankle. If the bike runs quicker than 10.99 or faster than 120 mph, additional requirements apply.

Do I need a helmet?

A helmet is one of the first safety items that you may need to purchase. Any vehicle that runs faster than 13.99 seconds, and all motorcycles and dune buggy-type cars, must have an approved helmet. Helmets must have a SNELL rating of K98, 2000 or 2005, as well as those with an SFI rating of 31.1, 31.2, 41.1, or 41.2. (SNELL 95 helmets are expired as of 1/1/2007).

Can I use nitrous oxide?

NHRA allows the use of nitrous oxide in bracket classes. Check the track's specific class rules to be certain, but in most cases you can use nitrous. Nitrous bottles must be vented to outside the driver compartment if it is mounted in the same compartment as the driver. All bottles must be stamped with a DOT - 1800 pound rating.

What are some of the major safety items I will need as I go quicker?

The following is a list of major items that are required as specific ET's and speeds. This list is a guideline, and we recommend consulting a current NHRA rulebook for specific details, specifications, and diagrams.

13.99 seconds

- Drive Line Loop with slicks (13.00 with street tires)

- Approved helmet

- Roll bar in convertibles

- SFI seat belts in convertibles

- SFI 3.2A/1 Jacket in vehicles equiped with non-OEM nitrous, turbos or
superchargers

11.99 seconds

- SFI Flywheel / Clutch / Bellhousing Steel Valve Stems / Arm Restraints (open cars)

11.49 seconds

- SFI 3.2A/1 approved jacket

- Roll bar

- SFI approved seat belts

10.99 seconds or Super Street

- SFI Transmission Shield, or at 135 mph - Aftermarket axles

- SFI Harmonic Balancer

- Roll Cage with altered floor pans, or 135 mph - Window net required

- Ignition cut-off on all bikes / snowmobiles that exceed 135 mph

9.99 seconds or Super Gas or 135 mph

- NHRA Chassis Certification

- NHRA Competition License

- SFI jacket & pants 3.2A/5

- SFI neck collar & gloves 3.3/1

- SFI flexplate / flexplate shield

150 mph

- Parachute

I bring my children to the track. Where are they able to go with me?

A minor release form is available at Tech Inspection for children from ages 14-18 years. This release will allow them to ride in vehicles 14.00 seconds and slower, or to be in a restricted access area. The restricted access area is defined to start at the back of the tower and extend through the track and return road to the ET Slip Booth. We ask that if your child is helping with your car, he or she is only in this area while your car runs. Anyone under the age of 14 or children without a Minor Release on file must remain INSIDE of a tow vehicle or not enter the restricted areas. Children under age 14 are not allowed on motorcycles or 4-wheelers. No one under 16 years of age is allowed to operate motorcycles or 4-wheelers.

For Additional tech questions, please call our Tech Information Line at 303-697-6013 ext. 317, and Jeff will return your messages, or contact us at jeff@bandimere.com.