Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly is a Bandolero?
A Bandolero is a turn-key spec-series race car designed for drivers as young as 7 years old. The car operates similar to a kart with left foot braking with coil over shocks on the rear and a centrifugal clutch so the driver does not have to shift gears. The car is powered by a 570CC Briggs and Stratton engine with approximately 30 horsepower.
How fast are Bandoleros?
The cars can go over 50 mph depending on the racetrack and gearing selection.
What does a Bandolero cost?
A new Bandolero is around $8,995 before shipping and taxes. There are also used Bandoleros for sale at about half the cost of new. A used Bandolero will hold its value pretty well.
What exactly is a Legend Car?
Legend Cars are 5/8-scale full-fendered, fiberglass versions of the legendary NASCAR modifieds driven by the sport’s early stars. These cars have Yamaha engines and run on Hoosier racing tires and have multiple coupe and sedan-style body options.
How fast are Legend Cars?
The cars can go over 120mph depending on the racetrack and gearing selection, but most often average between 90 and 100mph.
What does a Legend Car cost?
A new Legend Car is around $21,500 before shipping and taxes. There are also used Legend Cars for sale at roughly half the cost of new. A used Legend Car also holds its value well.
Who makes the Bandolero and Legend Cars?
US Legend Cars located in Charlotte, NC produce the cars. Each car has a VIN and title much like a passenger car. As part of the INEX rules the Bandolero and Legend Cars must have a VIN and Title to be considered legal to race in competition.
My child doesn’t have any racing experience but would like to try racing a Bando. How do we start?
Contact the team at 704.258.0980, by email at Info@redheadracingnc.com, or fill out the form on the Contact Us page. We can help you determine your best option for getting a Bandolero or Legend Car and complete the seat install, pedal adjustments, weight adjustments, and setup. If you decide to rent a Bando you will complete a “Minor Release” form, a Bando Registration form, and attend a safety and procedures class. We can arrange track rental if you would like to put your child behind the wheel of a car without the added pressure of racing at the cost of track rental to you.
What are our responsibilities as a parent?
The parents are responsible for all routine maintenance cost, such as fuel, wear-items, oil, cleaning the car, clutch, brakes, and chain (if applicable). The engine is the responsibility of Redhead Rentals as outlined in the rental/purchase agreement.
How much for Redhead Rentals to perform all of the maintenance?
Frequent maintenance items are listed on page 2 of the rental/purchase agreement. This is not an all inclusive list but does cover what we have experienced as the most common routine maintenance items.
Where do I get products and/or parts?
You can buy products and/or parts directly from Redhead Racing or US Legends cars in Charlotte, NC.
Can I get sponsors for leased cars?
Yes and you may display their decals. However, the decals must be removed when the lease term expires.
What if my child doesn’t enjoy racing and wants to withdraw?
You can terminate your lease at any time as outlined in the Rental/Purchase Agreement
What safety items are required?
Your child will need the following items with the current safety rating, if applicable, for each:
1. SA-rated helmet or a K-rated helmet with the use of a fire sock
2. HANS Device or equivalent head and neck restraint
3. Fire suit that fits the driver appropriately
4. Driving shoes
5. Gloves
I have more questions but can’t think of them right now. Where can I get answers?
You can call or email Redhead Racing with any questions or concerns you may have.
What are the age groups?
The Bandolero and Legend Car programs are perfect for introducing young people to racing. If you wish to compete for national points in the INEX series, you must apply and pay for a license via US Legends. Based on your child’s age they will be placed in the Bandits or Outlaws division, or they have the choice to start in the Beginner Bandolero division depending on the track/event. For Legend Cars, those just starting out can begin in the Chargers division depending on the track/event. Beyond that division choice, the main divisions are determined by age and/or experience, with drivers ages 10-15 as of January 1 of that year racing in the Young Lions division, drivers over the age of 15 can move to the Semi-Pro division, or if they have enough experience, can advance to the Pro Division. Drivers over the age of 40 may choose to race in the Masters Division.
I have more than one child, can I rotate the children’s nights?
Yes, as long as they both safely fit in the car and maintain the minimum weight 750 lbs at all times. If either of these need to be changed or adjusted, there will be a small fee and we must know two days prior to race day to get the changes made.
Where will the car be parked on race night?
Each track has a section for cars and trailers. You will need to bring your tools with you as there is typically no room for personal vehicles inside the tracks. If you are new to racing, you will make friends in this area and for the most part, parents help one another on the cars or with information.
What happens if my child wrecks a rental Bandolero or Legend Car?
All rental contracts have a ‘crash clause’ holding you liable for all part costs and repair labor. You will be required to pay for them before the car races again. Your crash deposit will remain.
Who does repairs for collisions?
Redhead Rentals performs all collision repairs. We usually have a general idea how much each repair will cost (+ or -). You will be required to pay for them before the car races again. Your crash deposit will remain.