What exactly is a Bandolero?
A bandolero is a turn-key spec-series race car designed for drivers as young as 8 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 & Stratton engine with approximately 30 horse power.
How fast are Bandoleros?
The cars can go over 50 mph depending on the race track and gearing selection.
Who makes the Bandoleros?
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 must have a VIN and Title to be considered legal to race in competition.
What does a Bandolero cost?
A new bandolero is around $7,000 before shipping and taxes. There are also used bandoleros for sale at about half the cost of new. A used Bando will hold its value pretty well.
My child doesn’t have any racing experience but would like to try racing a Bando. How do we start?
Contact Kris & Tiffany at (919) 370-2131 or by email at Kris@redheadracingnc.com. We can help you determine your best option for getting a bandolero 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, chain. The engine is the responsibility of Read Head Rentals as outlined in the rental/purchase agreement.
How much for Red Head 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 parts?
You can buy parts directly from Red Head 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.
Can I work on my leased car?
Starting at 4 on race Fridays and 12 on race Saturdays if not rained out, you can work on your car. You will need to bring your own tools, jacks, etc. Your car will be set in a pit stall for you to work on it. We will provide technical help and direction if you choose to work on your car yourself.
What safety items are required?
Your child will need the following items:
1. SA rated helmet or a K rated helmet with the use of a fire sock.
2. Fire Suit
3. Fire Rated Driving Shoes
4. Fire Rated Gloves
I have more questions but can’t think of them right now. Where can I get answers?
You can call or email Red Head Racing with any questions or concerns you may have.
What are the age groups?
The Bando Program is 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.
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 Bando be parked on race night?
Each track has a section for Bandos. You will need to bring your tools with you as there is 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.
Who does repairs for collisions?
Red Head Rentals performs all collision repairs. We usually have a general idea how much each repair will cost (+ or -). In the event the repairs are extensive, you will be required to pay for them before the car races again. Your crash deposit will remain.
When will I receive my crash deposit back?
All rental/purchase agreements expire after the last points race of the season, at which time you will decide if you want to purchase your car and use ½ (one half) of your lease money towards the purchase. Damage to your Bando including any body and crash damage to mechanical items will be deducted from your deposit. In the event you have body damage, painted your car or decals are not removed completely, a percentage of the replacement panel will be deducted from your crash deposit. Normal mechanical wear and tear items are not deducted.