Support for quarter-midget racers will be offered through Honda Performance Development (HPD), Honda’s racing company within North America, and its Honda Racing Line program.
Although the Quarter Midgets of America (QMA) recently announced a plan to phase Honda engines out of competition, both HPD and Honda Power Equipment will continue to support QMA racers and provide engines, parts and product support to quarter-midget racers competing in events sanctioned by other organizations, such as the United States Auto Club (USAC).
“It’s unfortunate that Quarter Midgets of America has elected to phase out Honda engines, based on an erroneous belief we have plans to discontinue production of the popular GX120 engine,” said HPD General Manager Marc Sours. “We have no such plans, and QMA’s decision brings no interruption to our ongoing support for quarter-midget racers, in either QMA or in other racing series.
“Honda has a 15-year history of active participation in quarter-midget racing, and we remain committed to continuing our efforts to grow participation in this entry-level racing category.”
The Honda Racing Line, the racers’ direct connection to HPD, will join and supplement Honda Power Equipment in expanding sales and product support to quarter-midget racers. HPD will provide a variety of engines and parts utilized by quarter-midget competitors, including complete GX120 and GX160 engines; individual engine parts, such as cylinder heads and pistons; and technical support via email and phone. In addition, Honda Power Equipment and HPD say they will continue work initiated last summer aimed at developing an engine specifically for use in quarter-midget racing, at a price point which compares favorably in the marketplace.
Through the Honda Racing Line, quarter-midget and other racers will be able to arrange direct, door-to-door delivery of parts and engines. The HPD sales staff also can provide technical support. In tandem with this new sales channel, independent race shops and engine builders will remain able to purchase their parts through traditional Honda Power Equipment channels, and also purchase parts from HPD through the Honda Racing Line.
“Historically, quarter-midget racing has been one of the earliest forms of motorsport available to youth with an interest in racing,” said Sours. “Our first CART Champion, Jimmy Vasser, got his start in quarter midgets while still in grade school.
“One of the goals of the Honda Racing Line is to support these novice racers. Through our quarter-midget program, we hope to make it easier for these young racers and their families to discover and enjoy our sport.”
For more information about Honda Racing Line, visit www.HondaRacingLine.com.
