it’s a tribute to the maximum depth of the lake.
At the higher speeds of the 1-mile course Appa-
loosa developed a few unforeseen issues. The rough
ice caused both front and rear suspension to bottom,
damaging bodywork as the studs tore into it, an elec-
trical issue also developed at higher speeds in the top
gears.
“With just that one run, we learnt so much about
ice speed racing,” said Brice. The team were helped
by other teams and with their experience were able to
make some changes that allowed a better run on the
ice, despite the electrical issues remaining.
Brice explained that he thought the problems were
caused by the extremely low air temperatures, the
bike was running a race ECU and mapping not de-
signed to cope with -20 degrees. Adjustments were
made despite, having limited resources due to the
location.
Teams woke to the best conditions of the week for
the final day of competition. Blue skies and bright
sunshine greeted all.
Heading to the start line for their first run of the
day, Brice and Seb decided that this would be the
main pull and would use the Nitrous Oxide System
(NOS) for the first time with the hope that the changes
made had resolved the electrical issue.
Appaloosa accelerated cleanly down the mile, it
was looking well until the electrical issue returned
and limited the bikes top speed. Just short of the 200
kilometres per hour that Brice and Seb had had set as
the goal, Appaloosa had reached 180kph.
“Racing on ice is hard,” admitted Brice. “This is the
most incredible thing I’ve tried to do. I’ve learnt so
much and had a hell of a lot of fun doing it.
“We’re losing something like 30% of our speed to
the conditions and although we’ve had some issues, I
am so glad we came here to test Appaloosa. My mind
is racing with the possibilities and changes I’d like to
make.”
Brice continued that this was a huge adventure; the
challenges, new friends and fun, all made it worth-
while.
“Appaloosa is clearly capable of so much more,”
grinned Seb.
“I know that Brice will be using this experience to at-
tack the 2020 Sultans of Sprint as hard as possible,” he
continued, echoing Brice’s comments about adventure
and new friendships.
We’ve been welcomed with open arms by all the peo-
ple here who share our passion for adventure, fun and
machines that go fast or just make people smile.”
Appaloosa will next compete in Biarritz (Wheels &
Waves) for the first round of the 2020 Sultans of Sprint
series. The series is unique in that not only do compet-
itors get results based on performance but also creativ-
ity and craziness.
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