I really don't have much free time to play LFS, but when I do I have fun.

I recently upgraded to patch Y and I keep blowing the clutch or something, what is the proper way to drive and what settings should I be using for the "Gear Shift Mode"? I have a Driving Force Pro wheel.

I am trying to plan my new PC that I will be building and am trying to decide on the processor, video card and OS. I would like this PC to last as long as possible without upgrading.

The only recent game that I will likely be playing is LFS and maybe the new ARCA sim(I know, strange combination). I also use the PC for photo & video editing and general office stuff.

Does LFS currently use more than one core? The Intel Q6600 with 4 2.4 GHz processors is about the same price as as a E6850 with 2 3.0GHz processors. Which one of these will be better supported in the next several years?

And what about the graphics card? I would like to get a 8800GTS 384, but I am thinking of a 8600GTS to save some cash. Any Thoughts?

And last what about the OS? I am thinking that Vista will be better in the long run and was thinking about the 64-bit version. How well does LFS support Vista 64?

I know that there is a good chance that no one knows the answer to the future requirements, but I thought that I would ask before spending the cash.

I have been playing with the demo and having a great time, but I have some questions. I have played racing sims off and on for years, but just now tried LFS. I am almost sure that I will buy S2 after I build a new PC.

1. After I buy the license what are the "Pick me up" races like? I really don't have time for a league and to set aside a specific time to play and it is random when I do get time to play. The races on the demo servers seem about useless with people leaving, having bad connections and wrecking you.

2. What is the maximum ping time that is OK?

3. Their was someone that was obviously cheating last night. He was at least twice as fast as everyone else. Is their less of this after I buy the license?