It's one of the best ways to get into racing for the first time.
Radical is finally giving its entry-level SR1 the XXR treatment. The first meaningful update to the race car in six years, the new model has experienced design and engineering improvements to help durability and ease of use. A new LMP-inspired central fin is now standard on the rear of the car, but more importantly, the vehicle now features a new generation 5, 1.3-liter engine produced by Radical Performance Engines.
This news follows on the heels of the SR1’s two bigger brothers receiving XXR updates over the past few months. Although those vehicles boast more power and greater ability, the SR1 has existed as an approachable entry-level model helping newer drivers get into motorsport ever since it launched back in 2012. Today, 12 international race series exist for the SR1 to compete in giving owners the chance to experience racing in a purpose-built racecar.
Visually, it looks like the SR1 is enjoying upgrades similar to what the SR3 and SR10 have enjoyed, meaning increased downforce and more aggressive looks.
The company has taken a look at the engine and reworked it to focus on reliability and longevity. Radical Performance Engines (RPE) has increased the recommended engine refresh intervals by 25% thanks to the new liquid-cooled, four-cylinder 1.3-liter engine. This Suzuki Hayabusa-derived engine in the old SR1 produces 182 hp, while the updated unit is rated at 199 hp and 120 lb-ft of torque; more than enough when the car weighs about a thousand pounds less than a Mazda Miata.
Oil change intervals have been cut down too, decreased from six to ten hours thanks to a new drive-by-wire induction system. Many of the other engine updates consist of more durability upgrades like a new scavenge pump design and external gear position sensors for the gearbox.
There are so many changes it feels like the entire drivetrain is brand new with reduced mass in the connecting rods, crankshaft pins, and ignition system. There's also a revised dry sump and cooling system and improved coil-on-plug ignition systems as well.
Everything was done to help the drivetrains push harder for longer which is important, as the people who buy these vehicles are doing so because they want to get into racing without breaking the bank, and increasing the durability of the cars is a crucial part of keeping costs down.
“Although the entry-level racer, the SR1 XXR offers an outstanding package with unparalleled performance for the money, that will get you on the grid in a professionally administered race series,” says James Pinkerton, Radical Motorsport’s Head of Research and Development and double Radical SR1 Cup Champion.
“SR1 and SR3 models currently make up the majority of grids in the 12 Radical Cup championships around the world, with over 200 SR1s sold to date. Racers with the SR1 XXR will still be eligible to race in the PRO SR1 classes of Radical Cup championships around the world, too.”
The updated model is available to order through Radical Motorsport's global dealer network, with production to begin this summer.
Pricing has yet to be announced, but the previous model sold for a little under $70,000, but we imagine this one will cost a good amount more than that.
Keyword: Meet The Radical SR1 XXR: Entry-Level Model Gets Huge Upgrade