As an avid reader of ApexSpeed and a Formula F1000 owner/driver I can understand the concerns of the cost of racing. I too face the same problem over expenses. I started racing my Formula Ford back in 2003, then advanced to a Formula Continental and then up to Formula F1000 with my Phoenix F1K.07.
During this time and when I first got started I bought new tires for my cars at a cost in excess of about $650.00 to $700 per set. Over the past 5 years I have been buying my racing tires from John Berget Racing Tires. John has been in the business for 35 years and sells 95%-100% what is called full rubber Goodyear Eagle, Hoosier, and Avon racing tires. I pay $50 per tire + shipping via UPS to my door in Las Cruces, NM for the best tires he has. The tires have usually been used for 1 round of practice or 1 round of qualifying by the racer. Usually from pro racers who can afford to buy tires and then shed them after one or two runs. Then they end up with John Berget Racing Tires in Wisconsin. I have always had quick service and the tires are virtually brand new. It is a great cost savings. If you looking to race, and save money, I highly suggest that you consider this or call John Berget or Mike at John Berget Tire. These guys are friendly and after you buy one set, I guarantee you will be back for more. Its a great way to save money, and I figure I have saved thousands over the years by going this route. Many racers have not heard of John or Mike, and they are missing out on good potential savings. I have just ordered a set of Hoosier 20 x 7 x 13 and 22 x 9 x 13 ...25A compound on the front and 35A compound on the rear for $200....+ UPS shipping which comes to about $50.00 to New Mexico. I will these tires for the full weekend at Phoenix International Raceway on March 21st and 22nd, and then on April 4th and 5th at Firebird International Raceway located south of Phoenix. I run with the Arizona Region SCCA in the winter months, and then in the RMD SCCA during the summer. I won the 2007-2008 Regional Championship in FB for the Arizona Region and won the 2008 Rocky Mountain SCCA Division Regional Championship in FB using the John Berget Racing Tires.
So if you want to save a few bucks, this may be a great way to go. As I stated once you get one set, you will be hooked and most likely never need to buy a new set of new sticker tires again. I thought I would make this post and provide this information, some racers have smaller budgets and are looking for ways to save money. If you decide to go this way let them know that Richard Dziak referred you to them. I told Mike today I would refer other F1000 owner drivers to them because of the superior service and great tire values. They are also a sponsor of ApexSpeed website and advertiser.
Here's the website for John Berget and his telephone number is on the website.
www.jbracingtires.net