Top features of the Radical SR1 XXR race car
What's the story
UK-based Radical Motorsport has taken the wraps off the updated SR1 XXR race car. The track-focused vehicle is primarily designed as an entry point to professional race series such as the Radical Cup championship. This happens to be the first major improvement to its four-wheeler in a span of six years. It now boasts redesigned body panels and an upgraded 1.34-liter engine.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Since its inception in 1997, Radical Motorsport has been focused on creating a new niche in the world of motorsport with its lightweight track-focused race cars. The SR1 is the first step for enthusiasts looking to take their circuit driving experience to a professional level. Now, after a span of six years, the carmaker has updated its entry-level model for better overall performance.
Design
The race car sports LED headlamps and a large wing
The Radical SR1 XXR retains the overall design of the outgoing model. It features a sculpted hood that closely resembles the nose of a Formula 1 race car, an aggressive front air splitter, swept-back LED headlights with integrated DRLs, squared-out fender-mounted ORVMs, flowing side panels, and 13-inch cast aluminum wheels wrapped in slick-type Hankook tires. It gets a large wing at the rear.
Information
It is backed by a hand-built 1.34-liter engine
Powering the Radical SR1 XXR is RPE's (Radical Precision Engineering) hand-built fifth-generation, 1.34-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out a maximum power of 198.8hp and a peak torque of 163Nm. The mill is linked to a 6-speed sequential gearbox with a paddle shifter.
Interiors
It has a roll cage and a yoke-style steering wheel
The cockpit of the new Radical SR1 XXR remains largely identical to the previous-generation model. The car can be had in either a single-seat or a two-seat configuration, with molded racing-style bucket seats, four-point seatbelts, dashboard-mounted brake bias adjuster switch, a wind deflector, a quick-release yoke-style steering wheel, and a fire extinguisher system. Passengers' safety is ensured by an FIA-approved tubular roll cage.
Quote
'The SR1 XXR offers unparalleled performance'
James Pinkerton, head of research and development of Radical Motorsport said, "Although the entry-level racer, the SR1 XXR offers an outstanding package with unparalleled performance for the money, that will get you on the grid in a professionally administered race series."