The Classic at Buttonwillow
- ~3.1 miLength
- BidirectionalClockwise & counter-clockwise
- 36–55 ftWidth
- Up to 10%Banking, big elevation
- 13CWThe benchmark layout
The Classic is the original Buttonwillow road course and one of California's true benchmark circuits: roughly 3.1 miles of low-, mid-, and high-speed corners with real elevation, camber, and character. It's bumpy, technical, and unforgiving in the best way. It doesn't flatter you, it teaches you, and a clean 13CW lap becomes part of a driver's identity. It's where most of our race-license and high-performance coaching happens.
Read the full story: The Classic at Buttonwillow →13CW: the configuration that defines the Classic
13CW (Track 13, clockwise) is the most-run configuration of the Classic and the one drivers measure themselves against. It's where lap records are set and where a clean, fast lap really means something. Race #25 and Race #26 are the popular wheel-to-wheel racing layouts, with long straights and plenty of passing; your coach picks the right one for your goals.
View all official track maps →
The famous corners
- SunriseOpens the lap and rewards precision right away.
- Off Ramp & Cotton CornersTiming and placement set up the whole sequence.
- The Bus StopAwkward until it clicks, then a great satisfaction point.
- RiversideFast, flowing, easy to under-respect until the car moves under you.
- Phil HillSignature moment: speed, elevation, braking, and confidence converge.
- Sweeper & EssesAsk the car to stay balanced and the driver to stay honest.
- SunsetBrings you back to the straight, where one small mistake costs the lap.
The Classic is the original Buttonwillow road course, built by a group of California racers after the loss of Riverside, with the California Sports Car Club (Cal Club) as majority owner. It was completed in December 1995 under founding President and CEO Les Phillips, and has been a benchmark of West Coast road racing ever since.
The Classic, up close
Learn The Classic 1:1 with a pro
Every FastLane day is 100% private, one-on-one at Buttonwillow. Talk to an instructor and we'll plan yours.