Back2Basic Rules 2026 - Scunthorpe

Back2Basic Bangers – Entry Level / Low Budget Class

The Back2Basic Bangers class is designed to be an entry-level, low-budget option for those new to banger racing or looking for a fun and affordable way to participate. The goal is to keep the racing accessible, fair, and focused on skill and strategy rather than on heavily modified or reinforced cars. We want to ensure that the class remains a level playing field, where the emphasis is on safe, competitive racing rather than spending excessive amounts of money on car modifications.

Drivers must stick to the rules of the formula, which is based on nudge and spin only racing. The goal is to spin cars inwards towards the infield, avoiding dangerous manoeuvres such as following in or T-boning, which can compromise safety and fairness. The racing should be clean and focused on the strategy of positioning, rather than excessive contact.

Armouring or excessively reinforcing cars is strictly prohibited in this class. Any driver found attempting to modify their vehicle in this way will face an automatic ban, with the length of the ban to be determined by the promotion. This rule is in place to preserve the integrity of the class and ensure that it remains fun and affordable for everyone.

If something is not specifically mentioned in the rules, it must not be done. Any modifications or changes that are not explicitly allowed in the rules are considered prohibited. This ensures that all vehicles stay within the spirit of the class and adhere to the same standards.

Drivers must always remain in their cars if they find themselves unable to continue due to the car stopping, even if they are on the infield. Drivers are required to stay in their vehicle, with all safety gear (such as helmets and harnesses) still attached, until the race has come to a complete end. This is crucial for ensuring safety during and after the race.

Diesel cars found to be excessively smoking will be black flagged. We advise against using diesel vehicles where possible, as excessive smoke can impact visibility and safety during racing.

By sticking to these guidelines, we aim to maintain the spirit of the Back2Basic Bangers as a place for entry-level competitors to enjoy racing without the need for extensive budgets or advanced car modifications.

Driver Conduct:

All drivers are expected to always adhere to the rules and regulations of the event. This includes following all flag signals, race instructions, and ensuring that safety protocols are respected. Drivers must demonstrate good sportsmanship both on and off the track.

Drivers are also responsible for the conduct of their family and friends attending the event. Everyone must behave responsibly and show respect for others, including staff and fellow competitors. Any lack of respect towards officials, staff, or fellow racers will not be tolerated and may result in a ban from the event, with the duration determined by the promotion.

At the heart of our events is a shared goal of enjoyment for all. We want every driver and spectator to have a fun and safe experience, whether you’re racing on the track or cheering from the sidelines. Let’s keep the atmosphere positive, competitive, and most importantly, enjoyable for everyone involved.

Eligible Vehicle Types for Back2Basic Bangers:

To maintain a fair and competitive environment in the Back2Basic Bangers formula, only certain vehicle types are allowed.

• Saloon-type cars are permitted with a maximum engine size of 1800cc.
• The Honda Civic is the only Honda-powered car allowed in this class.
• Vauxhall Zafira is the only MPV allowed in the class.

The following vehicles are not permitted:

• Ford Mondeos and other Honda-powered cars (except the Honda Civic).
• Vauxhall Vectra
• 4x4s, vans, pick-ups, limousines, and MPVs (except the Vauxhall Zafira).
• SUVs of any kind.

Be sure to ask via the Scunthorpe Bangers/Stockcars messenger on Facebook if you are unsure

These rules are designed to ensure the Back2Basic Bangers class remains accessible, fair, and budget-friendly for all competitors.

What you’ll need:

Helmets

The minimum acceptable standards are:

• FIA Standards: FIA8860-2004, FIA8860-2010
• Snell Standards: Snell SA2005, Snell SA2010, Snell SA2015
• SFI Foundation Standards: SFI Foundation 31.1A, SFI Foundation 31.2A
• European Standard: E2205 (only in fiberglass, carbon, or tri-composite form; (polycarbonate helmets are not permitted)

It is essential that the helmet fits the driver correctly and is equipped with shatterproof goggles or a visor. While tinted visors are not advisable, they are permitted.

Adhering to these helmet standards is crucial for driver safety during National Banger races.

Overalls:

• Flame-Resistant Overalls: Drivers must wear fire-resistant overalls that meet a certain standard, typically an FIA 8856-2000 or BS EN 11612:2008 These standards ensure the overalls are made from materials that offer protection against flames and heat.
• Covering All Body Parts: The overalls must cover the entire body from neck to wrists and ankles. No skin should be exposed during the race, so long sleeves, long trousers, and a full-body suit are essential.
• No Holes or Tears: The overalls must be in good condition, without any tears or holes, which could compromise their protective capabilities.

Gloves:

• Fire-Resistant Gloves: Like the overalls, gloves must also be flame-resistant and meet similar standards (FIA 8856-2000 or equivalent). These gloves help protect the hands in the event of a fire or collision.
• No Loose or Damaged Gloves: The gloves should fit securely, and any gloves showing significant wear, holes, or damage are not permitted.

Footwear:

• Protective Footwear: Drivers must wear sturdy, protective footwear. Racing boots are the most commonly used and should ideally meet FIA 8856-2000 standards for fire resistance.
• Full Coverage: The footwear must cover the ankle and provide adequate protection. Shoes that expose the ankle or that do not have protective padding are not allowed.
• Non-slip and Secure: The boots must provide a secure fit and offer good grip for the driver, especially when handling the vehicle in potentially hazardous conditions.
• NO TRAINERS

Additional Requirements:

• Helmet and HANS (Head and Neck Support) Device: While the helmet must meet the required standards (as mentioned previously), many racers also wear a HANS device or similar neck support system, which helps protect the head and neck during collisions.
• No Jewellery or Loose Items: Jewellery, watches, or any loose items should be removed to prevent injury or damage during the race.

Racing Goggles/Visor Requirements:

1. Eye Protection: Drivers must wear goggles or a full-face helmet visor to protect their eyes from debris, dust, and impacts, especially during collisions where glass and other materials may shatter.
2. Shatterproof: Goggles and visors must be shatterproof to avoid any eye injuries in the event of an accident or impact. Standard, non-shatterproof eyewear is not permitted as it could break and cause harm.
3. Secure Fit: Goggles or visors should fit securely and comfortably, ensuring clear visibility throughout the race without any risk of them becoming loose or obstructing the driver’s view.
   • Visors vs. Goggles: Visor: Many drivers opt for a full-face helmet with a clear, shatterproof visor. This is often the preferred choice because it offers better overall protection for the face and eyes.
   • Goggles: If a driver uses goggles instead of a full-face helmet, they should be fitted securely and be made from durable, impact-resistant material.
   •  
   • Tinted Visors: Tinted visors are generally allowed, but the tint should not significantly impair the light conditions. Drivers are advised to ensure they maintain clear visibility in all conditions.

In short, goggles or visors are essential for protecting a driver’s eyes and face from debris and other hazards during a race. They must be shatterproof, securely fitted, and provide clear vision throughout the race.

These safety requirements are in place to minimize the risk of injury and to protect drivers in the dangerous and unpredictable environment of banger racing. It’s always essential to check with the specific event or league for any updates or additional requirements to ensure compliance.

Car Specifications:

All cars must remain as close to their original factory standard as possible, with only essential safety modifications allowed. This ensures a fair and cost-effective racing environment while maintaining the integrity of the formula.

• Engine and Starting Mechanism: The car must start using the original ignition key, with no modifications to bypass or alter the factory ignition system.
• Radiator Placement: The radiator must stay in its original factory location. No modifications, relocations, or non-standard setups are permitted.
• Fuel System: Cars can retain their original fuel tank, provided it is in a secure condition and contains a limited amount of fuel for the race. Mounted alternatives are still an option but must have a cut off tap within reach of the driver.
• For older vehicles where the fuel tank is located behind the rear wheels, the tank must be removed and replaced with a securely mounted alternative, positioned safely inside the car’s safety cell. These must have a cut off tap within reach of the driver.
• Tyres: Only standard road tyres are permitted.
• Rally tyres, mud tyres, or any other form of competition tyres are strictly prohibited. This includes any tyres designed for enhanced grip on shale or other racing surfaces. All tyres must be suitable for regular road use to ensure a level playing field.
• NO GATORS / FLAPS
• NO CAMBERING OF WHEELS
• Safety Modifications Only: Cars may only be modified to include the necessary safety features, which include: Roll cage for structural integrity.
• Door bars for side impact protection.
• Properly installed harnesses and secure seat mounts.
• No performance-enhancing modifications or additional durability reinforcements are permitted outside of these mandatory safety items.
• Door Securing: Any doors that are not fitted with door bars must be securely held using seatbelts
• Bolts or any other fastenings must not be used to hold the doors shut. This ensures consistency and safety, preventing doors from being overly reinforced.
• Glass and Mirror Removal: All glass must be completely removed from the vehicle, including windows, windscreens, and external mirrors.
• Internal mirrors are permitted, but only a single rearview mirror may be mounted inside the vehicle, and it must be positioned in the same location as the original factory-fitted rearview mirror.
• Care must be taken to remove any shards or fragments left around the edges of window frames. Simply covering sharp edges with tape is not acceptable – all glass must be cleared entirely to ensure safety.

Light Removal:

All lights, including headlamps, tail lamps, indicators, and any additional exterior lights, must be removed entirely from the vehicle. This prevents glass or plastic shards from becoming hazards during collisions.

Wheel Weights:

All wheel balancing weights must be removed from the vehicle before racing. These weights can become dangerous projectiles during a collision or impact, posing a risk to drivers and spectators.

Bumper Removal:

Both the front and rear bumpers must be removed entirely. This eliminates the potential for dangerous debris or sharp edges and maintains consistency across vehicles.

Interior Components:

All seats—except the driver’s seat—must be removed. This includes passenger seats, rear seats, and any additional seating present in the vehicle.

All interior trim, including headliners, carpets, and door paneling, must also be stripped out. This reduces the risk of interior debris becoming a hazard during the race.

Driver’s Seat:

The driver’s seat must remain the original factory-fitted seat for that specific make and model of car.

• The use of racing seats or aftermarket alternatives is not permitted, ensuring the car remains as close to its standard condition as possible.

Tow Bars:

• Tow bars must be removed in their entirety and not just the ball.
• Airbag Removal: All airbags must be completely removed from the vehicle before racing.
• This includes any airbags in the steering wheel, dashboard, side panels, and any other locations within the car.

Original Exhaust System Cars must retain their original manufacturer’s exhaust system. Modifications to the exhaust, including performance upgrades or custom systems, are not allowed. It must also retain at least front the engine to the mid-section. Lack of an exhaust will fail scrutineering.

Standard Suspension

The suspension must remain in its original specification as per the manufacturer’s design. No modifications or alterations to the suspension system are allowed, ensuring the car remains as close to its factory setup as possible.

Roll Cage Rules:

• General Requirements: A single “hoop” roll bar must be fitted to support the door pillars.
• The hoop must be securely bolted to both the roof and floor using a minimum of M12 bolts with 100mm x 100mm washers as a minimum.
• Height and Adjustability: The roll cage uprights must extend above head height before any adjustments are made.
• The roll cage may be adjustable in height or width, but screw adjusters (e.g., acrow style) are not permitted.
• Adjustment holes must be spaced at least 25mm apart, and two bolts per side are required to secure adjustments.

Base Plates:

• Base plates must be securely bolted to the floor with a minimum of four bolts at the top and four at the bottom.
• A maximum of eight bolts per side is allowed for the bottom plate, with the same number required on both sides.
• The maximum size of the base plate is 385mm (15”) x 280mm (11”).
• Base plates must not be connected to each other over the transmission tunnel.
• Plates may extend up the sill or rear panel by up to 102mm (4”) high but must match the length and width of the floor/base plate.
• A maximum of two bolts are allowed through the side of the plate.

Construction:

The roll cage must be fitted upright or dog-legged but must not lean forward or backward.

• The hoop must be constructed from one continuous piece or made of two uprights with a welded top bar.
• A second crossbar is mandatory, with a third crossbar optional. These must be securely welded or bolted to the uprights.
• Rear supports are not allowed on the roll bar. However, extensions forward of the B-pillar are permitted and may be bolted through the B-pillar on both sides.
• It is mandatory to pad the following areas with high-density foam: ▪ Around the driver’s head.
• The B-pillar.
• The steering column.
• The roll bar must be constructed from steel with the following dimensions: ▪ Minimum size: 50mm x 50mm (2” x 2”) RHS or equivalent tubing.
• Maximum size: 100mm x 100mm (4” x 4”) RHS or equivalent tubing.
• Minimum wall thickness:
• Crossbars must have 125mm (5”) square end plates, which must be at least 6mm thick.
• The driver’s seat must be securely tied to the roll cage or the B-pillar at shoulder level.
• This must be done through the seat frame, not the headrest.
• A second crossbar may be installed just below the window aperture or a frame can be welded to the cage to provide support at the seat’s top.

Padding:

1. Material and Specifications:
2. Seat Securing:

Added Information: Vehicle Modifications and Construction Rules

• Welding: Welding is prohibited unless given specific authorization for a legitimate reason that does not involve armouring the car.
• Written permission must be obtained prior to the event if welding is required. This is rarely granted and must be for circumstances deemed absolutely necessary by the promoter.
• Engine Bay Standards: No solid mounts for the engine. The engine bay must remain as standard as possible, with no modifications that could alter its original setup or structure.
• Wiring and Looms: No cut-down looms are allowed. The wiring must remain intact and connected as per the factory design, ensuring that the ignition and electrical systems operate as intended.
• National Bangers Modifications: No built bangers—vehicles should not be modified for full contact racing classes. The racing is restricted to nudge and spin only, and cars should not be modified to enhance durability for full-contact collisions.

Bonnet Corners:

• Bonnet corners must not be used. Instead, the bonnet must be secured using seatbelt.
• The seatbelt should be threaded through the bonnet and tied tightly to secure it in place. This should prevent the bonnet from moving backward without the need for any added structural components.
• Bonnet bolts are NOT
• The bonnet must be secured using only seatbelts. The use of bonnet bolts to hold the bonnet down or contribute to the car’s structural integrity is strictly prohibited.