The Starting Line: What Is Cross Talk?

What is cross over / cross talk?

• 1.) Definition:

• Cross over or cross talk is a technique used with delay boxes in Pro bracket classes.

• 2.) Delay Boxes and Top Bulb:

• In Pro bracket classes, racers use delay boxes that allow them to adjust the time delay between the bike's launch and releasing the button.

• 3.) Execution of Cross Over / Cross Talk:

• Both riders are pre-staged and staged on the starting line.

• When the tree begins to fall for the slower dialed rider, the top bulb for the quicker dialed side will also light up simultaneously with the slower dialed rider's bulb.

• 4.) Quicker Dialed Rider's Advantage:

• The quicker dialed rider has the slower dialed rider's dial and their own dial programmed into their delay box.

• The quicker dialed rider can choose to leave off the top bulb, which remains lit for a duration equal to the difference between the two dials.

• 5.) Top Bulb Freeze and Reaction Time:

• The top bulb for the quicker dialed rider freezes for the time difference, allowing them to focus on their own side of the tree.

• This technique aims to equalize the reaction time for both racers and provides a fair start, particularly in classes where electronics are allowed.

• 6.) Cross Talk Activation:

• Cross talk is activated when both top yellow bulbs light up simultaneously for both riders.

• The tree will continue dropping for the slower dialed rider, while the quicker dialed rider's top bulb remains frozen for the specified time.

• 7.) Computational Assistance:

• The racer entering the cross over mode types the dial-in ET of their competitor and their own dial-in into the delay box.

• The delay box calculates the delay needed to react to their own lights, ensuring they release the button on the first yellow light.

• 8.) Benefits and Considerations:

• Cross talk is considered advantageous for racers using delay boxes, providing a more equal hit on the tree and making the start fair for both competitors.

• 9.) Adjustment for Non-Delay Box Racers:

• Non-delay box racers (bottom bulb) may not use cross talk, but understanding the concept is valuable for racing against delay box racers.

• In some cases, non-delay box racers may request to turn off cross talk if they are the quicker bike.

Understanding cross over / cross talk is crucial for racers using delay boxes, as it influences their reaction time strategy and ensures fair competition in Pro bracket classes.

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