“You’re so smooth… except when you apply the brakes. You really hit them hard.” That’s a comment I’ve heard more than once after giving a sport/track day/HPDE driver a ride around the track. I’ve also heard a variation on the comment from these same sort of people after riding with anyone that I’ll call here a “pro driver.”
Why are some drivers faster than others? There’s more than one reason, but a significant reason is how they use their senses to pick up information about the track and their car. In this video tip I describe what that means, and give you advice on how to develop those skills further yourself. No matter your level, from club to pro racer, or from HPDE student to experienced track day performance driver, this is the most productive strategy for improving your driving that I’ve ever experienced.
Everyone (including me) will tell you “Smooth is fast.” But why? Understanding why will make you a faster driver, whether you’re a race driver, track day driver, just starting out, or an old pro, as I explain in this Speed Secrets Quick Tip.
In this “explainer” video, I illustrate why driving smoothly improves traction using a concept I call the Traction Unit Number. It’s all about weight transfer, load on your tires, and balance. Check it out.
Why is smooth fast? Because a balanced car has more grip than an un-balanced one. Why? Read this Quick Tip to find out, and also how to drive smoother.