Nurburgring Visit I would like to visit the Ring in the new X3 I will pick up in September, but am hesitant to drive it over the course. With so many cars going much faster, my 73-year-old reflexes may not be up to it to avoid an accident! I understand I could opt for the bus or a "taxi." Am I being overly cautious? What do you suggest?
I would kill to be in your position. A chance to drive the Nurb... If you're not familiar with the track, then I'd suggest taking a lap or two in the Ring Taxi so you can see what its like to have everyone out there. If you feel it isn't too crowded, then you should give it a whirl, with caution. If there are a lot of people, then I would say your safety is more important. Or if you know the track well, then your reflexes should be automatic as to what to do in a given situation.
Knightwill: I just returned from taking Euro-delivery and the first place I headed was the Ring! (My post is in the 3-series room). As I was limited to 110mph and 5500rpm for the first 2000 miles, I too, was a little nervous about driving with all of these "pros." (Anyone who is not a little nervous in their first visit to the Ring has a screw loose.) However, what I found exceeded my expectations in every way. First, you need to be sure you understand the rules and the expectations of the other drivers. For instance, carefully watching your mirrors and using your turn signals to indicate to faster drivers that you are aware of their presence and letting them know that it is okay for them to pass you. There are several Sites on the Web that offer important tips. Some rules are listed on the Ring's official Website: http://www.nuerburgring.de/Nordschleife.361.0.html. The key is to remember that this is indeed a race track (only without many modern safety features) and requires 100% of your attention at all times. It is not a place to take in the scenery. Having said that, if you have been on a race track at some point in your experience, and you did not cause a crash and were not scared out of your wits, you should not have a problem on the Nordschleife. The vast majority of drivers on the Ring (and of course in Germany in general) as very alert and very courteous. They are likely to give you the benefit of the doubt, as long as you behave. The Nordschleife is so historic, and so important in the broader automotive world that it would be a shame to pass up an opportunity to drive it if this is your passion -- as it is for all of us! If you do decide to drive, be sure to check the photographer Websites when you get home. It's likely that an enterprising shooter captured you in the heat of battle -- and you can usually download a hi-res digital photo for a few bucks. You can see an example in my original post in the 3-series room. A good clearinghouse of shooters can be found at: http://www.maxrs.it/maxrs_ev/Fotografi.html One last word: The Ring Taxi drivers are marvelous professionals. I did not ride in one, but I encountered many while I lapped the Ring. They did not blow my doors off. In fact, they are the gentlest passers on the track. I hardly noticed they were going around me, for the lack of drama. If you prefer, they are a good alternative to driving. But sheesh, it's an expensive 14.5 miles! I hope that's helpful! Have fun and drive safely!
Knightwill: I just returned from taking Euro-delivery and the first place I headed was the Ring! (My post is in the M-series room). As I was limited to 110mph and 5500rpm for the first 2000 miles, I too, was a little nervous about driving with all of these "pros." (Anyone who is not a little nervous in their first visit to the Ring has a screw loose.) However, what I found exceeded my expectations in every way. First, you need to be sure you understand the rules and the expectations of the other drivers. For instance, carefully watching your mirrors and using your turn signals to indicate to faster drivers that you are aware of their presence and letting them know that it is okay for them to pass you. There are several Sites on the Web that offer important tips. Some rules are listed on the Ring's official Website: http://www.nuerburgring.de/Nordschleife.361.0.html. The key is to remember that this is indeed a race track (only without many modern safety features) and requires 100% of your attention at all times. It is not a place to take in the scenery. Having said that, if you have been on a race track at some point in your experience, and you did not cause a crash and were not scared out of your wits, you should not have a problem on the Nordschleife. The vast majority of drivers on the Ring (and of course in Germany in general) as very alert and very courteous. They are likely to give you the benefit of the doubt, as long as you behave. The Nordschleife is so historic, and so important in the broader automotive world that it would be a shame to pass up an opportunity to drive it if this is your passion -- as it is for all of us! If you do decide to drive, be sure to check the photographer Websites when you get home. It's likely that an enterprising shooter captured you in the heat of battle -- and you can usually download a hi-res digital photo for a few bucks. You can see an example in my original post in the 3-series room. A good clearinghouse of shooters can be found at: http://www.maxrs.it/maxrs_ev/Fotografi.html One last word: The Ring Taxi drivers are marvelous professionals. I did not ride in one, but I encountered many while I lapped the Ring. They did not blow my doors off. In fact, they are the gentlest passers on the track. I hardly noticed they were going around me, for the lack of drama. If you prefer, they are a good alternative to driving. But sheesh, it's an expensive 14.5 miles! I hope that's helpful! Have fun and drive safely!
