Let's start with the GOAL: I want to be able to do HPDE (High Performance Driving Events) in my daily driver 818, so I'm trying to build to the general requirements.
The Problem:
In order to meet the requirement that my head be below the roll bar in a helmet (commonly referred to as the "broomstick" test), I apparently need a seat that places my butt NO HIGHER than 1" off the floor of the car.
Relevant Facts:
At less than 6'1", I am not that tall. I have a 33" inseam, so I don't think I am overly long in the torso either.
Even if a seat existed that would place my butt 1" off the vehicle floor, I'm not putting such a seat in my car. It doesn't meet my other requirements. Also, at least one of the HPDE organizers had a requirement that the roll bar had to be 2" above the top of the helmet. I can't meet that requirement even if I sit on the floor!
The Question:
So what can I do? Here's what I've come up with thus far, and I don't really like either, so this is what I need help with:
- Just forget about using the car on a track. I can probably get plenty of joy from the back roads around here. <sigh>
- Replace the roll bar with a taller one. But if I do, it might look dorky. Also, this might jeopardize my use of the soft top. Or being able to go coupe with it in the future (Would a removable roll bar meet requirements? If so, then I could use the taller one only on the track).
Based on what I'm seeing, I just can't believe anyone over 6' tall is going to be able to pass the broomstick test - with ANY seat. How are you all doing it?!?
HELP!