Are you ready to experience the thrill of motorsports in a compact, affordable, and undeniably exciting package? Then, welcome to the world of 600cc micro sprints where speed meets accessibility, and every race is a heart-pounding spectacle.
The allure of motorsports has always been undeniable, drawing crowds with the promise of high-octane action and the roar of powerful engines. But for many, the barrier to entry in terms of cost, complexity, and sheer scale can seem insurmountable. Micro sprints, however, offer a compelling alternative, a gateway to the world of racing that's both exhilarating and attainable. These pint-sized powerhouses, powered by 600cc motorcycle engines, deliver a potent dose of adrenaline on dirt tracks across the nation. Capable of speeds exceeding 100 mph, they offer a dynamic and visually stunning racing experience, showcasing the skill of the drivers and the agility of the machines.
Micro sprints, often referred to as mini sprints or lightning sprints, are essentially downsized sprint cars. They're a cross between full-size sprint cars and midget race cars, providing a unique racing experience. The way the driver sits, with legs extended out beside the firewall and the engine nearby, sets them apart from other racing forms. This design contributes to the car's compact size and nimble handling, making for exciting and competitive races. The choice between running with or without a wing further adds to the strategic depth, allowing for different racing styles and more exciting on-track action.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overview | Compact racing cars powered by 600cc motorcycle engines. Capable of reaching 100 mph on dirt tracks. |
| Classes | Various classes exist, including micro sprints, mini sprints, and lightning sprints. The National Open Wheel 600 Series (NOW600) is a major sanctioning body. |
| Features | Small size, high power-to-weight ratio, affordable entry point, and exciting racing action. |
| Chassis | D1 chassis, Joe's Micro Sprint Chassis, Hyper Racing X7, and others. Designed for speed, handling, and aesthetics. |
| Engines | Primarily 600cc motorcycle engines. Companies like FTZ build high-performance race motors. |
| Parts & Accessories | Steering wheels, wings, body components, wheels, beadlocks, and more are available from various suppliers. |
| Key Events | Tulsa Shootout (Tulsa, OK) is the largest micro sprint racing event. |
| Major Sanctioning Body | National Open Wheel 600 Series (NOW600) |
| Notable Manufacturers/Suppliers | Concept Chassis, FTZ, D1 Chassis, Joe's Racing Products, Hyper Racing, Driven, Day Motor Sports, Speedmart Inc. |
| Where to Race | Tracks across Oklahoma, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Nebraska, Kansas, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Missouri, among others. |
| Engineers | Scott's Racing Engines and others provide race-ready engines. |
The landscape of micro sprint racing is constantly evolving, with new innovations and improvements emerging regularly. For instance, the d1 chassis has been a growing player in the market since its creation in 2012, and the unveiling of the gen4 look for 2025 suggests even further development in car design and aesthetics. Similarly, companies like FTZ have been building top-shelf race motors and other products since 1987, constantly refining their offerings to meet the demands of this competitive sport. The availability of parts, accessories, and technical support from various suppliers further fuels this growth, enabling racers to fine-tune their machines and gain a competitive edge.
This dynamic sport is supported by a strong network of dedicated businesses and organizations. Concept Chassis, for instance, offers a wide selection of race-winning cars, parts, accessories, and technical support. Joe's Micro Sprint Chassis are built with decades of experience in fabricating and machining fast and durable race car parts, and are made with American labor and ingenuity at their Everett, WA facility. Hyper Racing offers their own X7 chassis kit configurator, allowing racers to specify a fully customizable chassis. Driven not only offers its own 600 micro sprint chassis but also has its own line of components and parts for use on all major micro sprint chassis brands. Day Motor Sports provides a wide range of micro sprint parts, including wheels, beadlocks, wings, and body components. The comprehensive offerings from these companies ensure racers have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.
One of the defining characteristics of micro sprint racing is its affordability and accessibility. Compared to other forms of motorsports, the initial investment and ongoing expenses associated with micro sprints are considerably lower, making it an attractive option for aspiring racers. Furthermore, the relatively simple mechanics of these cars, compared to more complex racing machines, allows for a quicker learning curve and easier maintenance. This combination of affordability and ease of entry has fueled the sport's popularity, leading to the establishment of various classes and racing circuits across the country.
The National Open Wheel 600 Series (NOW600) stands as the largest 600cc micro sprint sanctioning body in the United States, underscoring the widespread appeal of the sport. The series sanctions four classes of 600cc micro sprints, providing ample opportunities for racers of varying skill levels to compete. Beyond NOW600, a multitude of tracks across states like Oklahoma, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Nebraska, Kansas, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Missouri offer racing events, ensuring that micro sprint enthusiasts have no shortage of venues to showcase their talents.
Beyond the cars themselves, the broader ecosystem of micro sprint racing is a vibrant mix of specialized businesses. From engine builders like FTZ, who have been providing top-tier race motors since 1987, to chassis manufacturers such as D1, Joe's Racing Products, and Hyper Racing, the industry is filled with dedicated professionals committed to helping racers succeed. Suppliers like Day Motor Sports provide a wide array of parts and accessories, allowing teams to fine-tune their machines. Even the smallest details are catered to, with companies like MPI offering micro sprint steering wheels, and Outlaw providing 14 square foot internal micro top wings.
The excitement around micro sprint racing is continually building. The Tulsa Shootout in Tulsa, Oklahoma, stands out as the largest event in the micro sprint world, drawing thousands of entries each year and becoming a pilgrimage for many drivers. The event's prestige and growing popularity highlight the sport's vibrant and expanding community. As the 2025 event approaches, with entries continually breaking records (1,855 entries were received for the 2025 event!), the excitement is palpable.
For those new to the sport, or considering a foray into the world of micro sprint racing, there are numerous resources available to help you get started. Organizations such as Hyper Racing offer introductory information, while websites and online forums provide opportunities to connect with experienced racers and learn from their expertise. The availability of chassis kits, parts, and technical support from various suppliers further eases the transition into the sport. The "hyper racing story" is a perfect starting point for individuals new to this fast-paced sport.
Whether you're a seasoned racing veteran or a newcomer eager to experience the thrill of motorsports, micro sprint racing offers a compelling opportunity. The combination of speed, affordability, and accessibility makes it a perfect entry point. The vibrant community, and the constant evolution of technology and competition, ensures that the world of micro sprints will continue to be an exciting and engaging area of motorsports for years to come. So, gear up, get ready, and prepare to feel the rush!
For finding all the tracks in the USA that race 600cc micro sprints, you can view an interactive map that provides this information. If you have any suggestions or corrections for the map, you are encouraged to email mike@hyperracing.com.
