Brakes: Best Ally or Worst Enemy

17 July 2015 Redazione Techniques and Driving

Driving fast is important, it is the basis of a hot lap on track. But, being able to brake the car and entering the corner in the best way is just as crucial, as to not lose precious seconds, or in the worst case, end up against a wall. The point we face today, about the importance of proper braking is applied both through the curbs, than on everyday roads. We analyze it in 3 points, so that the concept will be simple and clear and that we identify once and for all, brakes, as an ally, not as an enemy:

1 It’s fundamental to establish the correct braking point: each curve has one and depending on the speed and the trajectory, it may vary. Starting from the assumption that we are on track, with a well-defined trajectory and with the possibility of using the total amplitude of the road, the ideal choice is to brake (avoiding wheel lock due to braking too late or too powerful) before the entrance of the curve itself. In fact, in the moment of braking, the “load” is transferred to the front of the car, causing an imbalance of the weights that, in case the vehicle is already engaged in steering, may turn into a loss of vehicle control.

2 Apply the brakes too late can lead to a “straight” and a consequent off the track, braking too early can lose the required speed for bending the fastest way. We must therefore know each corner of the circuit and the limits of our car and, at that point, choose the right braking point, the intensity of the same and to work with the gearbox, so as to exploit also, where useful, the engine brake.

3 In addition to stay aware not to lock the wheels when braking, the more geeks will love to learn two techniques, useful to keep the engine revs up in favor of torque and power out of corners. The “heel-toe” or the “braking with the left foot” allow precisely not to give up on the gas pedal, and even to dose, with one eye on the tachometer needle. The sensitivity of the left foot should be trained, however, while it is strongly recommended not to improvise similar maneuvers on the road, where it is not necessary to exit the curve flat out.

That said, once we applied these 3 simple principles on track, you’ll see that the brakes are not to be seen as a handicap for your hot lap, but as an ally to allow us to burn more seconds.

Alex Marrone