As 4:00pm sunsets settle in and celsius temperatures dip into the one digits, the time assault season throughout Japan begins. Earlier within the month, I made my solution to Tsukuba Circuit for an occasion I wasn’t totally aware of.
The HKS Hiper Problem is certainly not new, although. Relationship again to the ’90s, it’s been an everyday fixture, with occasions held at numerous circuits all throughout Japan. Being an HKS occasion, phrase is predominantly unfold through the tuning large’s home Efficiency Vendor community, which advertises the Hiper Challenges to its loyal buyer base. That’s why you’ll discover most vehicles at these occasions operating HKS components.
My foremost motive for being at Tsukuba on this specific day was to seize Jacky Tse, a New Zealand-based tuner and part-time monitor driving teacher, as he took his model new HKS-built GR86 out for its inaugural shakedown – and doubtlessly just a few timed laps. I’ve obtained a full story on that coming quickly, so look out for it.
Whereas the HKS Hiper Problem isn’t as well-known as different time attack-based occasions like Assault and the Rev Pace Tremendous Battle, it nonetheless attracts its share of devoted drivers.
In comparison with these occasions, the typical participant right here was way more prone to have pushed their automobile to the circuit moderately than have despatched it on the again of a transporter. That stated, calling the HKS Hiper Problem an ‘beginner’ occasion could be an understatement – there have been nonetheless loads of purpose-built, sub-one-minute vehicles floating across the pits.
Take, for example, this kouki Nissan Silvia S14. Whereas it may appear a extra restrained strategy to time assault in comparison with the aero monsters you’d discover at different occasions, there’s no mistaking its goal.
Yashio Manufacturing facility’s Oka-chan was additionally in attendance along with his S15, including to the combination of Tsukuba-seasoned machines.
Among the finest elements of those extra accessible occasions is a greater variety of vehicles. This Revolfe-built Toyota Aristo – little question hiding a large single turbo and exterior wastegate – was a novel presence within the Tsukuba paddock.
The identical might be stated for this Toyota Chaser/Mark II. Whereas Toyota by no means had time assault in thoughts after they designed these JXZ land barges, if there’s one factor a Japanese monitor day will train you, it’s that something is feasible.
In a sea of JDM efficiency vehicles, it was exhausting to overlook this Porsche GT3 RS. Although the proprietor didn’t have a lot luck on the day, there’s little question this automobile would simply crack a sub-minute lap at Tsukuba with the proper circumstances.
This MkIV Toyota Supra stood out because of some unconventional downforce – trunk-mounted and chassis-mounted wings stacked on prime of each other.
There was just one lone AE86 in attendance, which was a bit shocking given the grassroots nature of the occasion. Underneath the hood, it had a 4A-GE 16-valve engine with its gasoline injection swapped for an open Keihin CR carburettor setup – simply successful my unofficial ‘Finest Noise of the Day’ award.
GT and GR86s have been all over the place, as anticipated. The Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ platform has lengthy been synonymous with HKS, and plenty of of those vehicles run both the HKS bolt-on turbocharger or supercharger package to inject some much-needed spice into the usual boxer engine.
Inventory bodywork was surprisingly well-liked at this occasion. I’ve to say; it was refreshing to see many contributors protecting their vehicles at manufacturing facility dimensions, serving as a strong baseline to measure what might be achieved mechanically earlier than diving into extra excessive modifications.
R35 Nissan GT-Rs have been out in numbers on the HKS Hiper Problem. With huge aftermarket assist and costs now sitting at a candy spot for a mid-level second-hand supercar, it’s no shock in any respect.
For a lot of, the HKS Hiper Problem serves as a stepping stone to the extra aggressive time assault occasions. As February’s Assault Tsukuba approaches, many entrants use this occasion to hone their vehicles, logging essential seat time.
In comparison with their well-liked and extremely profitable rival, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru Imprezas haven’t had a complete lot of pull within the time assault world. Nevertheless it’s at all times cool to see just a few out and about.
It’s straightforward to see why many select the Evo path – the 4G63 engine is tough to beat when it comes to energy potential and reliability.
What I beloved most concerning the HKS Hiper Problem Tsukuba was its relaxed, grassroots vibe. Many drivers attend with pals, utilizing the occasion as a possibility to check vehicles and occasions across the iconic TC2000 course. It’s a far much less aggressive ambiance than the likes of Assault and even an Idlers Membership occasion.
My private favorite of the day? This pair of yellow Nissan S14s. Not over-the-top, SR20-powered, with full interiors – simply the proper stability for vehicles which can be as enjoyable on the road as they’re on the monitor.
Earlier than attending the 2024 HKS Hiper Problem Tsukuba, I wasn’t aware of the occasion, having by no means seen it lined by Western media. This obtained me considering: I’m usually requested for recommendation on the best way to discover occasions just like the Hiper Problem when visiting Japan. Whereas there’s no definitive reply – some occasions are marketed in magazines, others on circuit calendars, and a few are simply tweeted about – there’s at all times one thing occurring on the tracks. So, should you’re on a JDM pilgrimage, I’d extremely advocate swinging by one among these circuits. You by no means know what you would possibly bump into.
Alec Pender
Instagram: noplansco
