In this article, we will delve into the world of race starts in various driving conditions, including dry, intermediate, and wet tracks. This blog post will prepare you with the knowledge to master in any situation.
From the initial few meters to crossing the finish line, we will break down the process step-by-step. So, if you find this guide helpful, read on and take your race starts to the next level!
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The Perfect Start
To achieve the perfect start, there are a few things you need to know beforehand. Firstly, ensure that your traction control is turned off completely. Secondly, use manual transmission, as this technique doesn’t require a formation lap.
Now, let’s move on to Steps of the tutorial.
Step One
- Applying Throttle and Engaging Clutch: To initiate the perfect start, begin by applying 50% throttle. Your target RPM should be around 11,000. It’s not necessary to be overly specific with the RPM; as long as it hovers around 11,000, you’re on track. Hold down the clutch and wait for the countdown. As soon as the lights go out, release the clutch.
Step Two
- First Gear and Smooth Transition to Second Gear: After releasing the clutch, stay in first gear for a brief moment. Keep the throttle at around 50%. Wait until you feel the grip or count approximately one second (one Mississippi) before smoothly shifting to second gear. This transition should be seamless.
Step Three
- Applying More Throttle and Upshifting: Once you’re in second gear, gradually apply more throttle, aiming for around 90% throttle input. Pay attention to the RPM meter and shift to third gear as soon as it reaches the full purple section. At this point, you can go full throttle.
- You can choose to remain in third gear or short shift to fourth gear if necessary. Utilize ERS (Energy Recovery System) when required and continue shifting gears as usual.
Minimizing Mistakes
Now that we’ve covered the step-by-step tutorial, let’s focus on minimizing mistakes, a crucial aspect of achieving a perfect race start. Here are some tips:
- Maintain RPM Range: Ensure that you stay within the 11,000 RPM range when building up the RPM. As long as you apply 50% throttle, the RPM will naturally reach around 11,000. Avoid going below 11,000 or into the 12,000 range, as this can negatively impact tire rotation and slow you down.
- Calm Recovery: If you accidentally apply extra throttle in first gear, stay calm and bring it down to around 50% or a level where you feel the grip. Likewise, if you hit 100% throttle in second gear before the light turns purple, gently reduce the throttle and hold that position. Delay shifting to third gear to maintain tire rotation and pace.
- Adjusting to Car Movement: If you notice the car turning during the start, it indicates excessive throttle input. Ease off the throttle or lift slightly while counter-steering to keep the car in a straight line. Avoid oversteering, as it can lead to crashes or spins.
- Turning Mistakes into Opportunities: Sometimes, mistakes can present opportunities to go faster. By adjusting and reacting appropriately to unexpected situations, such as correcting a spin, you can gain more grip and potentially improve your performance.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Practicing race starts is essential. Repeat the process in offline Grand Prix races, utilizing the restart function. The more you practice, the more mistakes you’ll encounter, providing opportunities to refine your technique and minimize errors.
Conditions Tips
Dry Conditions
When it comes to race starts on dry tracks, achieving the perfect RPM is crucial. Aiming for approximately six to seven bars, it is recommended to target around six and a half bars for optimal performance. As you accelerate, shifting gears quickly is key. Let’s take a closer look at the starting procedure and explore some useful tips.
Rather than focusing solely on the RPM, a little life hack to ensure consistency is to pay attention to the bars on your dashboard. Starting with 50% throttle input, aim to maintain a steady six and a half bars, just barely crossing into the seventh bar. From there, accelerate from first gear to second and then to third gear. By utilizing short shifts, you can enhance traction and smoothly progress from roughly 35% throttle input to 70% or 80%. This allows for a seamless transition into second gear and then up to third gear while maintaining full throttle.
Intermediate Conditions
In intermediate driving conditions, the starting procedure requires some adjustments. Aiming for around five and a half to six bars, or even lower at around five bars, will provide better traction. Additionally, shorter shifting is necessary to adapt to the reduced grip. Let’s examine the starting technique in more detail.
In intermediate conditions, releasing the throttle momentarily after the race begins is essential. Aim for approximately 30% to 50% throttle input before shifting from second to third gear. Holding and gradually applying power is crucial, reaching roughly 100% throttle input before executing a short shift into fourth gear. Remember, finesse is key in these conditions, so avoid rushing the short shifts to maintain control.
Wet Conditions
Now, let’s tackle race starts in wet conditions. With extremely limited traction, it becomes more challenging to deliver power smoothly. However, with the right approach, you can still achieve impressive starts. Let’s explore the starting technique for wet conditions.
In wet conditions, aim for around five bars, with a maximum of five and a half bars. Start in first gear and gradually increase throttle input, aiming for around 30% or slightly less. Perform a short shift into second gear and, at around 70% throttle input, shift into third gear. Finally, at approximately 60% to 70% throttle input, shift into fourth gear. Adjusting to the reduced grip requires careful throttle control and smooth gear changes.
I hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and strategies. Implement these techniques, experiment, and fine-tune your approach to suit your driving style. Keep pushing the boundaries, and may your race starts be nothing short of phenomenal!
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See you on the track!
