The birth of the bites occurred in the streets with the Hot Rods. They caused numerous accidents that resulted in general repudiation by the citizens. In the 1940s the idea of bringing these runners together, so that they could compete in a legal area and with a fair regulation. So the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) was born.
Currently, the NHRA has 4 main categories: + Top Fuel + Funny Cars + Pro Stock + Pro Stock Motorcycle The Top Fuel category boasts vehicles that exceed 540 km/h of maximum speed. They have engines of more than 2,000 horsepower and reach 540 km/h in 4.3 seconds, during which time they travel the quarter mile. These are more than impressive figures!
The Pro Stock category is somewhat more modest, although they travel a quarter mile in just under 7 seconds and exceed 330 km/h of top speed. The most emblematic driver in this category is Warren Johnson (photo), with 94 wins in finals and multiple champion (6 times) at advanced age. Also highlighted was the talented Bob Glidden, 10-time champion.
The Funny Cars category presents large vehicles with bodywork depicting street car designs, but they look like their cartoons. Hence the name Funny Cars (“nice cars”). The top champion in this category is the relentless and reigning John Force, with 119 wins in the finals and 13 championships obtained.
Street bites are nothing more than an act of unjustified irresponsibility. There is no excuse for them, not only for obvious safety reasons, but because in many cities autodromes organize racing competitions for anyone who wants to show up with their car, whether it is standard or modified.
Different categories are usually set up, so that competitors can be grouped appropriately according to the characteristics of their vehicles. The minimum requirements are usually the possession of the driver's register and the use of helmet for protection.
© Adrián Blanco 2006 — Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —