Falken drivers win at Goodguys Pleasanton autocross event
Falken Tires-backed drivers captured multiple class wins with the Falken RT660+ during the recent Goodguys autocross event at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, California, navigating low-grip conditions that tested both setup and tire performance.
Nick Relampagos led the way in Pro Class competition, earning a first-place finish after making significant adjustments to his car throughout the weekend.
Relampagos said early track conditions were “extremely slick,” prompting changes to both suspension setup and tire pressures. Lowering pressures to 24 psi in the front and 20 psi in the rear improved turn-in response and helped manage oversteer as conditions evolved.
“The Falken RT660+ responded incredibly well, delivering sharper turn-in and more manageable oversteer. By Sunday, with more rubber on track, we were able to push even harder and secure the win,” Relampagos said
Relampagos also noted the tire’s structural stability at lower pressures, highlighting minimal sidewall rollover despite aggressive setup changes — a key factor in maintaining consistency on the notoriously low-grip Pleasanton surface.
In Truck Class competition, David Carroll recorded a double victory, winning both class competition and the Shootout, showcasing the versatility of Falken performance tires on heavier platforms.
Carroll said drivers faced “greasy and oily” track conditions throughout the weekend, requiring continuous adjustments. Tire pressures were reduced from baseline levels to as low as 26 psi in the front and 20 psi in the rear to maintain grip.
Despite weighing more than 4,400 pounds, Carroll’s vehicle remained competitive across nearly 18 runs, allowing him to steadily improve lap times and secure both wins.
“The Pleasanton event is always a unique challenge due to its low-grip surface, and this weekend really highlighted the adaptability of our drivers and the performance of the Falken RT660+,” said Gerald Alvarado, supervisor of motorsports at Falken Tires. “Seeing both Nick and David make real-time adjustments and extract winning performance speaks to the confidence drivers have in Falken products under evolving conditions.”
