Trail braking is a technique that is used by sim racers to improve their lap times and overall driving performance. It involves applying the brakes while cornering and gradually releasing them towards the exit of the turn.
By doing this, the driver can manipulate the speed at which they release the brakes and the steering angle of their wheel to give their front tires more grip, which helps to reduce lap times.
The technique of trail braking is particularly beneficial in sim racing because it allows drivers to use all the longitudinal as well as latitudinal grip of the tyres. This means that they can enter corners at higher speeds, which can significantly improve their lap times.
However, it is important to note that trail braking is not suitable for all types of corners, and drivers need to be aware of the type of corner they are dealing with to use the technique effectively.
The technique is commonly used in low-downforce cars, such as the Mazda MX-5, Skip Barber, Porsche/RUF and Lotus 49, and high downforce cars, such as the Formula Renault 2.0, the HPD, and the McLaren MP4-30.
What is Trail Braking?
Trail braking is a technique used in sim racing where the brakes are applied throughout a turn while cornering and are gradually released towards the exit of the turn. This technique allows the driver to manipulate the speed at which they release the brakes and the steering angle of the wheel to give the front tires more grip. By doing so, the driver can maintain more control over the car and achieve faster lap times.
The technique involves carrying the brakes while turning into a corner until you reach the apex. This helps to reduce your lap time as you will be able to enter the turn at a higher speed. But most importantly, you will be able to use all the longitudinal as well as latitudinal grip of the tyres.
Trail braking is particularly useful in corners that require a lot of turning and where the driver needs to maintain control of the car. The technique allows the driver to maintain a high level of grip throughout the turn, which can be especially important in wet or slippery conditions.
To execute trail braking correctly, you need to have good braking technique. You need to apply the brakes smoothly and evenly to avoid locking up the wheels. The amount of brake pressure required will depend on the car you are driving and the type of corner you are approaching.
In summary, trail braking is a technique used in sim racing to maintain control of the car while turning into a corner. By carrying the brakes into the turn and gradually releasing them towards the apex, the driver can maintain a high level of grip and achieve faster lap times. Good braking technique is essential for executing this technique correctly and avoiding locking up the wheels.
How to Trail Brake
Trail braking is a technique that can help improve your lap times in sim racing. Here are some tips on how to trail brake effectively:
Brake Pressure
The key to trail braking is to gradually release the brakes as you turn into the corner. Start by applying maximum braking force and then gradually reduce the pressure on the brakes as you approach the apex of the turn. This will help to transfer the weight of the car to the front tires, improving their grip and allowing you to carry more speed through the corner.
Cornering
As you approach the corner, turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to go. This will help to initiate the turn and transfer the weight of the car to the outside tires. As you begin to release the brakes, gradually increase the steering angle to maintain the car’s balance and prevent understeer or oversteer.
Tires and Grip
Trail braking requires a delicate balance between braking force and cornering grip. If you release the brakes too quickly, you may lose traction and spin out. If you release the brakes too slowly, you may lose speed and understeer. To find the right balance, practice on different tracks and adjust your braking technique to suit the conditions.
Vision and Control
To trail brake effectively, you need to maintain good vision and control of the car. Keep your eyes focused on the apex of the turn and use your peripheral vision to monitor the car’s position on the track. Use your steering wheel and pedals to make small adjustments to the car’s trajectory and maintain control through the corner.
Overall, trail braking is a technique that can help you improve your lap times and performance in sim racing. With practice and patience, you can learn to manipulate the car’s weight transfer and optimize your braking and cornering technique for maximum speed and control.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does trail braking affect cornering in sim racing?
Trail braking allows the racer to maintain speed throughout the corner and brake later, resulting in faster lap times. By carrying the brakes while turning into a corner, the weight of the car shifts forward, increasing the grip on the front tires and improving turn-in. This technique helps the car to rotate better through the corner, allowing the driver to get back on the throttle sooner.
What is the purpose of trail braking in racing?
The purpose of trail braking is to maintain speed throughout the corner and allow the racer to brake later. This technique helps to shave off a good bit of time off the racer’s best lap times. Trail braking also helps to improve the car’s balance and traction through the corner, making it easier to control.
How do you execute trail braking in sim racing?
To execute trail braking in sim racing, the racer needs to carry the brakes while turning into a corner, until they reach the apex. The racer should then start to release the brakes gradually while applying throttle to accelerate out of the corner. The timing and pressure of the brake and throttle inputs are critical to achieving the best lap times.
What are the advantages of trail braking in sim racing?
The advantages of trail braking in sim racing are numerous. Trail braking allows the racer to maintain speed throughout the corner, resulting in faster lap times. It also helps to improve the car’s balance and traction through the corner, making it easier to control. Trail braking also allows the driver to brake later, giving them more time to react to changing conditions on the track.
What is the difference between trail braking and normal braking in sim racing?
The main difference between trail braking and normal braking in sim racing is the timing of the brake release. In normal braking, the racer releases the brakes completely before turning into the corner, while in trail braking, the racer carries the brakes while turning into the corner, until they reach the apex. This technique allows the racer to maintain speed throughout the corner and brake later.
Can trail braking help improve lap times in sim racing?
Yes, trail braking can help improve lap times in sim racing. By allowing the racer to maintain speed throughout the corner and brake later, trail braking helps to shave off a good bit of time off the racer’s best lap times. Trail braking also helps to improve the car’s balance and traction through the corner, making it easier to control and reducing the risk of spinning out.