Formula 1200 racers Daniel Demaras recently had the opportunity to drive a powerful and modern race car; the Radical SR3, courtesy of GTA Exotics. The UK-built Radical looks like a miniature version of a Le Mans prototype, and was developed for FIA sanctioned races in C3 Class of sports cars.
The Radical has a carbon-steel chassis, and lightweight bodywork that tips the scales at just under 1,300 lbs. It is powered by a 225 HP four-cylinder engine from the Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle mated to a a six-speed paddle-shift gearbox. Additionally, the Radical has massive wings producing aerodynamic downforce allowing for 2 G’s of cornering force at high speeds.
Unfortunately, after only one lap in the RySped Radical, the transmission failed, stranding Daniel and his co-pilot out on track, requiring a tow back to the pits.
Fortunately, the man that runs GTA Exotics is very smart, and had a spare Radical on hand for just such a moment.
After waiting on the side of the track for what seemed like forever, the white and blue Radical was towed back to the pits. Transmission failure was confirmed, as it had already ‘aged out’ and was due for serice.
Daniel was then seated in the bright yellow Radical SR3 and sent back out on track, hoping to complete all his laps before the rain returned.
Having one whole lap of experience under his belt, Daniel was able to attack the track this time. Being more familiar with the car’s 10,000 RPM redline, and impressive handling, Demaras aimed for personal best laps every time .. but when it started raining, the biggest challenge was just keeping the car on track!
A brand new 2024 Radical SR3 XXR lists for USD $146,500 which is just shy of $200,000 real Canadian dollars. For a racer looking to rent, a season racing Radicals starts at $60,000 and can easily exceed $100,000 for a handful of races.
Racing is expensive. In sports like baseball or hockey, the best talents move up through the divisions. But in racing, only those who can afford the astronomical costs actually advance through junior ranks. As Daniel does not come from a rich family, driving a radical may have to remain a one-and-done bucket list item.
P.S. Businesses looking to sponsor a rising Canadian talent are encouraged to contact Demaras Racing.