A race track is a purpose-built facility designed for auto racing, motorcycle racing, and other forms of motor sport. Race tracks are typically composed of a circuit, which is a closed loop of track and turns that cars, motorcycles, or other vehicles must navigate in order to complete the race. The track is usually made of either asphalt or concrete and is usually surrounded by grandstands and other facilities for spectators.
What Types of Racing Occur on Race Tracks?
Race tracks can host a variety of different types of racing, including:
- Formula One: Formula One is the highest class of single-seater motor racing, and is the most popular form of motor sport. Races are held on a track that is usually custom-built for the event, and typically consists of a combination of straights, turns, and chicanes.
- NASCAR: NASCAR stands for the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, and is the most popular form of auto racing in the United States. Races are held on oval-shaped tracks with a combination of turns and straights.
- IndyCar: IndyCar is the premier open-wheel racing series in the United States, and its races are held on a variety of circuits, including oval tracks, temporary street circuits, and permanent road courses.
- Drag Racing: Drag racing is a form of motor racing where two cars race down a quarter-mile straight track, with the winner determined by who can reach the finish line first.
- Motocross: Motocross is a form of off-road motorcycle racing that takes place on a specially designed dirt track, usually in an outdoor or natural setting.
What Are the Different Types of Race Track Designs?
Race tracks can be designed in a variety of different ways, depending on the type of racing taking place. Generally, race tracks are divided into two types: oval tracks and road courses.
Oval Tracks
Oval tracks are the most common type of race track design, and are typically used for stock car racing and other forms of oval racing. The track is shaped like an oval, with a combination of turns and straights. The track is usually banked, which allows for faster speeds and greater grip.
Road Courses
Road courses are designed for open-wheel racing and other forms of road racing. These tracks are characterized by a combination of turns, straights, and often elevation changes. Road courses are often located in more natural settings and are usually longer than oval tracks.
How Big Are Race Tracks?
The size of a race track can vary greatly, depending on the type of racing taking place. Generally, the size of a track can be measured in terms of length, width, and banking.
Length
The length of a race track can vary greatly, depending on the type of racing taking place. Generally, oval tracks tend to be shorter than road courses, with the longest oval track being the 2.5 mile-long Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which is used for the Indy 500. Road courses can range from as short as one mile to as long as 12 miles, such as the Nürburgring in Germany.
Width
Race tracks are typically anywhere from 30-50 feet wide, depending on the type of racing taking place. Generally, oval tracks tend to be wider, with most oval tracks being between 40-50 feet wide. Road courses are typically narrower, with most road courses being between 30-40 feet wide.
Banking
Banking refers to the degree to which the track is banked, or tilted, on the turns. This allows for increased speed and grip on the turns. Banking can range from as low as 6 degrees to as high as 33 degrees, depending on the type of racing taking place.
What Are the Safety Requirements for Race Tracks?
Race tracks must adhere to a variety of safety requirements, in order to ensure the safety of the drivers and spectators. These requirements can range from the construction of barriers and guard rails to the installation of catch fences and runoff areas.
Barriers and Guard Rails
Barriers and guard rails are designed to keep cars from leaving the track, and can be placed along the track perimeter or on the inside of the track. These barriers are usually made of concrete, metal, or plastic and are designed to absorb the impact of a car in the event of an accident.
Catch Fences
Catch fences are designed to keep cars from leaving the track and entering the spectator area. These fences are typically made of steel and are designed to absorb the impact of a car in the event of an accident.
Runoff Areas
Runoff areas are designed to provide a place for drivers to safely go in the event of an accident. These areas are usually composed of sand, gravel, or grass, and are designed to slow down a car in the event of an accident.
Conclusion
Race tracks come in a variety of sizes and designs, depending on the type of racing taking place. Generally, oval tracks are shorter and wider than road courses, and have greater banking. Safety requirements for race tracks include the construction of barriers and guard rails, the installation of catch fences, and the creation of runoff areas.