Baja 1000 - PART 4 - Interview with Alan Kohl - Vehicle Types

Again, I am continuing my interview with Alan Kohl of MotorMexico.com about the Baja 1000 off-road race in Baja Mexico. This week we will learn about the different classes of vehicles that participate in the race.

Alan, what types of vehicles participate in the Baja 1000, they must be tough?

"I am not sure of the exact number of categories or classes of race vehicles, it's probably close to 40. Engine size and suspension ultimately determine how fast a vehicle can go under the off-road conditions, so those are the key factors in determining a class.

Below is a brief description of the classes:

• Four-wheel vehicles, not including ATVs — buggy and truck classes.
• Class 1 and Trophy Truck classes have no limitation on engine size or suspension.
• Class 10 has no limitation on suspension, but the engine is limited to 1650 cc.

All other classes are limited in both engine size and suspension. The smaller the engine and / or less amount of suspension, the slower the racecar.

• As a tribute to the heritage of the race, when all four-wheel vehicles used a Volkswagen engine, Class 11 is for "stock" VW bugs. Class 11 cars can have slightly larger tires and a skid plate to protect the engine from rock damage. It is amazing that these guys can even traverse the roughest parts of the course. The drivers who finish in this class are probably among the best drivers in the world, even if they are not among the wealthiest--which is why they are in Class 11 instead of Class 1, 10 or Trophy Truck.
• Motorcycles — there are several pro classes, which are usually sponsored by the major motorcycle manufacturers. The fastest pro class is not limited to engine size. There are also pro classes for engines sizes 250 and 125 cc. A Sports class also exists.
• ATV — similar to motorcycles.
• Amateur and rent-a-race are becoming popular in some of the slower classifications.

Other classes are determined by rider age groupings and engine size."