FYI: JTUNE’s Jacky TSE Turns Tsukuba Time Attack Dream Into Reality
The Tsukuba Circuit has long been a sanctified arena for time attack enthusiasts. Yet, for most fans outside Japan, it’s akin to fantasy. Jacky TSE, an ardent tuner from JTUNE, made that fantasy a reality, breaking through the screen barriers and physically stepping onto the iconic track.
A Tuner’s Tale: Jacky TSE’s Journey
Unlike many, Jackie considers himself a regular driver. With a penchant for time attack over professional racing, his ambition was clear: for an amateur to clock an astounding lap time on Tsukuba, typically reserved for seasoned racers. His vehicle was the linchpin in this complex endeavor, and it was anything but ordinary.
Bringing a Dream to Life: A Costly Quest
Logistics were a hurdle. Shipping a car from New Zealand to Japan wasn’t financially viable for Jacky. Instead, he drew inspiration from the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024. Here, HKS, a titan in automotive tuning, unveiled the GR86 program, creating bespoke street cars from mild to wild modifications. The allure of a proven GR86 time attack prototype turned Jacky’s aspirations into action.
The GR86 Build: From Prototype to Time Attack Beast
Initially, purchasing the showcased HKS GR86 seemed straightforward. However, fate had other plans; the prototype was sold. Undeterred, Jackie waited for HKS to fabricate a new customer model, the first of its kind, precisely for the Tsukuba Time Attack.
The car, crafted with meticulous detail, boasted a full HKS Type R body kit, expanding its width significantly. Aerodynamics were enhanced with carbon fiber elements, ensuring stability at high speeds. Beneath the surface, enhancements like 18×11 Yokohama wheels and HKS HiperMax R coil-overs geared the GR86 for precision handling.
Championing Engine Innovation: Power Meets Performance
The engine bay showcased HKS’s prowess with a 2.5L upgrade featuring forged pistons. Complemented by a turbo kit, high-performance exhaust, and a conservative 350HP output, the GR86 was ready to roar. Despite this mechanical marvel, shipping constraints from New Zealand dictated that Jackie lean on HKS’s standalone setup and logistical expertise.
Tsukuba Time Challenge: Trials and Triumphs
Jackie’s firsthand experience on Tsukuba manifested a six-month anticipation, nuanced by mechanical hiccups. The first session witnessed a stall from a loose crank angle sensor. Yet, his persistent spirit fueled an impressive 1:03 lap in the subsequent session, even as aerodynamics stole speed.
Refinement led to the final session, where overheating curtailed another promising lap. Despite technical gremlins and missing his sub-minute target, the performance was a testament to the GR86’s capability and Jacky’s unyielding zeal.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Race
As dusk enveloped Tsukuba, Jackie’s reflections were clear—this endeavor was more than metrics. It symbolized a collage of dreams, camaraderie, and celebrating car culture on the world’s most venerated time attack track. Although his 2024/2025 time attack season race concluded without a fairy tale lap, the groundwork for future triumphs was irrevocably laid.
For further updates and insights, explore Jacky’s odyssey in gripping detail on his YouTube channel. The "Road to Tsukuba" series encapsulates his narrative, craft, and car culture passion.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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