Size Is Not Everything
(Big Brakes Are Not All The Same!)Big brake rotors don't necessarily mean more stopping power. In some cases aftermarket brakes that have huge rotors don't offer more performance than O.E. spec. If you want big rotors just for looks, then don't read on. but if it's true stopping power you're after, then go with companies that can prove you are buying more braking power than your original brakes. Courtesy of Stop Tech Brakes, a company that outfits works team and true race cars, here's what you should be paying attention to when upgrading brakes:
Shorter Stopping distances
Better Brake Modulation
Firmer Brake Pedal
Less Pedal Travel
Optimum Integration with ABS
Optimized for stock master cylinder
To find more detailed information and specs, visit www.stoptech.com
International Body Culture
Websites to check out:
www.x-5.jp
www.maxpowerlive.com
www.paristuning.com
Q & A
Brian Kono: Afterhours Automotive, Callifornia-Maker of all carbon street and racing body parts
Q: You have an underground rep. what are your cues for making aero and body kits for street cars?
A: for Race cars, all of our R&D is inspired by race technology, F1 cars, Rally cars, even Nascar cars. There's a reason that the designs are employed: they work! We use carbon and carbon fiber because of the obvious reasons, it's light weight, durability and workability. it's expensive but it's incredible material and worth every penny if it's done right, and a lot of times we build it so it's stealth and very lightweight, not like some of those carbon hoods that you can buy at your local mass merchant.
Ray Fong: Veilside U.S., California
Q: There is almost a worldwide mania over Veilside. what makes Veilside products so distinctive and desirable?Veilside kits have a unique and distinctive look. a signature that is very unusual. They look exotic but first and foremost, they are engineered to perform, to improve air flow, induction, redirection etc. Also our kits are made out of unique high grade flexible fiberglass. extremely high quality. Also Veilside has a racing history and we stay true to Motorsports standards. Mr. Yokomaku, the founder, actually started in the business as a tuner and has built several successful race cars. Veilside will always race cars and participate in Motorsports, so we're a true tuning outfit.
Donny Kie: Versus Motorsports, California
Q: Have body kit's always been so hot? And do you think it will continue?Well, in the years we have been doing this they have been getting more and more popular. we have been doing a lot more business lately than ever before. It could be the materials and construction is getting better or that our fill rate is one of the best in the business but also because the fits nowadays are great. It's fairly easy for a good shop or installer to make the body kit look great. Yes, I think it will continue, after someone tunes their cars, they start wanting to do more, or make the car as aerodynamically fit as possible. I think it's only going to get more popular.