First, DO NOT SKIP The cycles as it can trigger a bug in the game that will keep you from progressing.

Once you get Ma3a into the old system you MUST complete all 3 cycle grids.

Here's a tip.

1. on the first grid, once all foes are defeated, do NOT leave right away, instead, cruise around a LOW THROTTLE and pick up a shield break. Then activate it and keep cruising at low throttle until you pick up another one this way you have one on standby while the other is ready to use.

Now leave the grid by using one of the green areas to get a speed boost. This will help you clear most of the tanks.

Immediately on the second grid there is a foe on your right, however you should be fast enough to be past him as he finishes rezzing up his cycle. Cut to the right, head close to the wall, then right turn, go forward a bit then right again, and you shold be heading towards yoru own wall with him boxed in, either cut left to avoid the wall or plow thru it with the shield break. Now you have only 2 foes left and at least one shield break.

After the others are done, cruise around at low s[eed and attempt to gain shield breaks then again use a green area to turbo past some of the tanks and race into grid 3.

Good luck and remember, speed isnt always the key to winning the light cycles.

The tip of gathering shield breaks before switching grids also applies when you are fleeing the Progress Bar after Ma3a is recompiled..........trust me on this.....