Track & Autocross wheel sizing?

[Heeley]

Hi guys,

I just got my FD up and running last spring, and this year I want to start doing some autocrossing and lapping days. I'm looking for a little guidance:

Here's the questions:

1. Is it safe to use stock wheels for track and autocross for the first while? I have an early model R1, and i've read about associated wheel failure.

2. What is a good setup to go with in terms of wheel / tire size for best bang for the buck? 17's? 18's? staggered width? I'm just starting, but it would be nice to have room to upgrade to a BBK sometime down the road as well.

3. For lapping, are R compound tires really necessary? I want to get quicker safely, but I also don't want to throw money at the car when really i just need seat time to be faster.

4. Brake pads: What will be suitable for lapping with street tires and stock brakes, and be able to get me home at the end of the day?

As time goes by, i'll continue to add to the car and freshen things up with bushings, etc. I do have a mishimoto rad on the way to help with cooling issues.
Any other thoughts would be appreciated.

Matt