·         Weight is very important – if you are heavier then you may go faster (especially if you put the weight close to the ground (as then your centre of gravity is low too).

·         Now you may not believe it but colour can have an effect on the speed of your soap box too!  Dark colours absorb the heat and this means the surface is warmer and creates less drag. Wheels and axles run faster when they are hot.

·         The look/design of your soap box can have psychological effects.  Colours  create the feeling of power – giving you confidence on the day and your opponents will quake in their boots.   Remember if the crowd thinks you look good then they’ll be behind you all the way.  Please note that the colour schemes and designs also affect the inspectors and officials in much the same way!!