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EchoPark Speedway: Pit Road's Treacherous Dual Speed Zones
10 Jul
Summary
- Pit road features NASCAR's longest entry with two distinct speed zones.
- Drivers navigate 90 mph then 45 mph zones to avoid penalties.
- Short pit stalls and unique entry demand precision from drivers and crews.
This weekend, as the NASCAR Cup Series returns to EchoPark Speedway, fans will focus on a unique aspect of the track: its pit road. Previously known as Atlanta Motor Speedway, EchoPark Speedway's pit lane is nearly 3,900 feet long and includes NASCAR's longest pit entry. This distinctive layout requires drivers to manage two different speed limits before reaching their pit stalls.
Upon exiting the racing surface, drivers enter a high-speed section where speeds up to 90 mph are permitted. This allows them to cover the extended distance to pit lane. As they approach the area where crews are stationed, they must reduce speed to the standard 45 mph pit road limit. Successfully navigating this transition is vital, as braking too early costs time, while braking too late risks penalties.
Further complicating matters, EchoPark Speedway features some of the shortest pit stalls in NASCAR, measuring just 27 feet, 6 inches. This confined space leaves minimal room for error during pit stops. Because EchoPark Speedway often creates large drafting packs similar to Daytona and Talladega, clean pit stops are crucial for maintaining track position and staying with the lead group. A single mistake on pit road can result in a significant loss of time and track position.
