How to drift?
How to drift?
Drifting is a driving technique that has become very popular in recent years, especially world of racing and motorsports. It consists of causing a controlled slide of the vehicle, maintaining control and direction while it slides laterally. For car and adrenaline enthusiasts, drifting is an exciting way to show off driving skills and enjoy the power and speed of a car. If you are interested in learning how to drift, in this article you will find the basic principles and some essential tips.
Drift Basics
To be able to drift in a safe way and controlled, it is necessary to understand and master some key principles. Firstly, it is essential to understand the importance of weight transfer and how it affects the traction and control of the vehicle. During drifting, weight transfer is used to destabilize the car and allow the rear wheels to lose grip, while maintaining steering control. Another fundamental aspect is the correct use of the pedals, especially the accelerator and brake. The correct combination of these two pedals is essential to maintain balance and the power necessary for lateral sliding.
Tips for drifting
Although drifting may seem like a challenging maneuver, with the right practice and knowledge it can be mastered. To start, it is advisable to find a safe and large place, such as a racetrack or an open space without traffic. Additionally, it is essential to use an appropriate car for drifting, preferably with rear-wheel drive and adequate power. Another important tip is to properly adjust the tire pressure, as excessive grip will make it difficult to slide. It is also essential to learn to countersteer, that is, quickly turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction to the slide to maintain control of the vehicle.
The importance of security
While drifting can be exciting and adrenaline-filled, it is essential to remember that it is an advanced driving technique and requires skill and experience. It is important that it is always practiced in a safe place and with appropriate safety measures, such as the use of a helmet and seat belt. In addition, it is necessary to respect traffic laws and keep in mind that drifting is reserved for closed circuits and areas designated for this type of practice. Safety is essential to enjoy drifting responsibly.
In short, drifting is an exciting and challenging driving technique that requires skill, knowledge and practice. If you want to learn how to drift, it is important to understand the basic principles, follow the right tips, and practice in safe places. Always remember to prioritize safety and respect traffic rules. Get ready to experience the excitement and adrenaline of drifting and surprise everyone with your driving skills!
1. Preparation of the vehicle to drift
Vehicle mechanics: Before entering the exciting world of drifting, it is essential to ensure that our vehicle is in optimal mechanical condition. It is important to check and make adjustments to various components to ensure outstanding performance in this driving style. The key aspects to consider are:
- Tires: Tires are the fundamental piece to control the lateral displacement of the vehicle during drift. It is essential to equip our car with tires The future of television is here specifically designed for this technique. These tires must have the right amount of grip and controlled slip, which will allow the vehicle to maintain control at all times.
- Suspension: Proper suspension is essential to allow lateral displacement during drifting. The suspension must be modified to achieve greater rigidity, which will ensure quick and precise response when cornering. In addition, it is advisable to install stabilizer bars and adjustable shock absorbers to adapt the car's behavior to our needs and driving style.
- Refrigeration: During intense drifts and radical maneuvers, the vehicle's engine will experience a considerable increase in temperature. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you have an efficient cooling system installed. This involves checking the correct operation of the radiator, fan and thermostat, as well as ensuring adequate air flow to the engine.
Modifications: In addition to the basic mechanics, there are certain modifications that we can make to our vehicle to improve its performance and ability to drift. Below we list some popular options:
- Powertrain Modifications: Changes in the gear ratio, limited slip differential (LSD), and a shorter transmission can help improve response and acceleration. These modifications will allow the vehicle to have faster and more controlled power delivery, which is essential for drifting.
- Sports exhaust system: A sports exhaust system not only provides a great sound, it also helps release engine retention and improve overall vehicle performance. This will allow the car to have better response and better control when cornering during drifting.
- Reinforced structure: Reinforcing the vehicle structure with reinforcement bars and roll cages can improve chassis rigidity and provide greater safety in the event of an accident. This modification is especially important if we plan to perform drift maneuvers at high speeds.
In conclusion, it is not an aspect that should be taken lightly. It is essential to guarantee a car in optimal mechanical condition and make the relevant modifications to achieve outstanding performance. With the right mechanics and the right modifications, we will be ready to fully enjoy the exciting drift experience.
2. Choosing and preparing the space to practice drift
One of the key aspects of drifting safe way and effective is to choose and properly prepare the space where this activity will be carried out. It is essential to select a place that meets the necessary requirements to practice drifting. in a safe way and lawful. For example, it is advisable to look for open areas away from the circulation of vehicles and pedestrians, preferably outside urban areas. Additionally, it is important to have a permit or authorization if practicing in a private space.
Once the place has been selected, it is time to prepare it for drifting. It is essential to check the condition of the pavement and ensure adequate grip. a pavement in good state With a good grip it will allow you to perform drift maneuvers with greater control and safety. It is advisable to eliminate any type of obstacle, such as stones, branches or other elements that may interfere during practice.
In addition, it is important to have good lighting and visibility. in the practice area, especially if done at night. This will allow you to have a better perception of space and avoid possible accidents or collisions with objects or structures that are not visible in the dark. Additional lighting, such as additional reflectors or headlights, can be a good option to improve visibility. It is also advisable to mark the limits of the practice area with cones or other visible elements, to clearly delimit the space for action.
In short, it is a fundamental part of carrying out this activity safely and effectively. It is essential to select a suitable and legal location, review and prepare the pavement, ensure good lighting and visibility, as well as clearly mark the boundaries of the practice area. Following these tips, you can enjoy the exciting world of drift in a responsible and safe way.
3. Basic drift technique: steering wheel control
To perform a successful drift technique, it is essential to have good control of the steering wheel. Steering wheel control is what will allow you to maintain control of the vehicle and slide sideways in a controlled manner. Here are some basic techniques to improve your steering control during drifting:
Counterwheel technique: During drifting, it is necessary to learn to countersteer to maintain control of the vehicle. The counterwheel It consists of turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction to the vehicle's slippage, which will help maintain stability and prevent the vehicle from going out of control.
Hands in the correct position: When drifting, it is essential to keep your hands in the correct position on the wheel. The recommended technique is to have your hands in the "10 and 2" position, where your hands are placed at 10 and 2 o'clock on the steering wheel. This provides greater control and allows you to react quickly to any unexpected situation.
Acceleration control: Acceleration control is key to achieving good drift. You must learn to modulate the accelerator pedal to maintain a constant and controlled speed during the slide. It is important to remember that excessive acceleration can do the vehicle to lose traction, while a lack of acceleration can lead to the vehicle stopping during drifting.
4. The importance of acceleration and deceleration in drifting
When talking about drift, it is essential to understand the relevance of controlling acceleration and deceleration to achieve precise and spectacular maneuvers. In this art of controlled drifting, the driver's actions when accelerating and decelerating are decisive in maintaining control of the vehicle and executing elegant movements.
First, the It plays a crucial role in drifting, as it generates the force necessary to make the wheels lose traction and slide laterally. It is important to note that acceleration control must be precise and millimetric, since excess can lead to an uncontrolled spin or even a spin. Additionally, during drifting, throttle control allows the pilot to maintain a constant drift angle and maintain the pace of movement throughout the ride.
Furthermore, the deceleration It is equally essential for adjusting speed and angle during drift. Proper deceleration control allows the pilot to balance drift and maintain vehicle control in high-speed situations. Likewise, by reducing speed at strategic moments, the driver has the possibility of making smooth transitions between different maneuvers or quickly changing direction on sections with tight curves. Deceleration is also essential to maintain fluidity in drift and create your own distinctive style.
In conclusion, acceleration and deceleration are fundamental elements in drifting. Both precise control of acceleration and mastery of deceleration allow the pilot to execute elegant and spectacular maneuvers. Mastering the combination of these two technical skills is what separates true drift experts from beginners, and is what creates the beauty and excitement of this intriguing sport of motorsports.
5. Advanced drift techniques: braking and countersteering
Drifting is a driving technique that has become very popular in recent years. It consists of making the vehicle skid in a controlled manner, maintaining control over it while it slides through curves. To be able to drift an effective form, it is important to master several advanced techniques. In this article, we will focus on two of them: the brake stroke and the countersteering.
The brake slam is an essential technique to start drifting. It consists of braking suddenly just before entering the curve. This causes a transfer of weight to the front tires, which in turn reduces traction on the rear wheels. When the brake is released, the vehicle slides toward the outside of the curve, allowing the driver to control the skid.
Once the brake stroke has been applied, it is time to use the countersteering wheel. This technique consists of quickly turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction to the skid, which helps maintain control of the vehicle and correct its trajectory. It is important to do this quickly and accurately to prevent the vehicle from going out of control or leaving the track. Countersteering should be applied gradually as you come out of the skid, allowing the vehicle to return to the normal driving line.
Mastering these advanced drift techniques requires practice and experience. It is important to remember that drifting should be done in a safe and controlled location, such as a closed circuit or an area designated for this activity. Drifting on public roads or in inappropriate places is extremely dangerous and is prohibited by law. If you are interested in learning to drift, it is advisable to take classes with professionals and practice in a suitable environment. Always remember to respect safety regulations and drive responsibly.
6. Key vehicle elements for successful drifting
To carry out a successful drift, it is essential to have a properly prepared and equipped vehicle. Below are the key elements that every car intended for drifting must have:
1. powerful engine: To achieve a controlled skid, it is essential that the vehicle has a powerful engine that provides sufficient power and torque. An engine with a high compression ratio and quick response is ideal for having greater control over the car during skids.
2. Proper transmission: A manual transmission is the preferred option for drifting, as it allows for greater control over the power delivered to the rear wheels. Additionally, it is important to consider a limited slip differential (LSD) or differential lock to ensure even power distribution to both rear wheels.
3. Sport suspension: Suspension plays a crucial role in handling during skids. A stiffer and more adjustable suspension allows for precise control of the vehicle, allowing the driver to maintain balance during drifts. In addition, tires with good grip and an adequate profile are essential to guarantee optimal traction.
It is important to mention that in addition to these key elements, regular vehicle maintenance and proper modifications also contribute to drifting success. These elements will provide the driver with greater confidence and control over the vehicle, allowing them to perform more precise and spectacular maneuvers. Remember that practicing drifting safely and in appropriate places is essential to fully enjoy this exciting automotive discipline!
7. Practice and perfect your drifting skills
Drifts, extreme speeds and a lot of adrenaline: If you love speed and excitement, drift is the motor sport you have been waiting for. But how to drift? Here we present some tips so you can practice and perfect your skills in this discipline.
1. Know your vehicle: Before venturing into the world of drifting, it is essential that you know your car in depth. Familiarize yourself with its power, braking and suspension system, as well as its rear-wheel drive configuration. A good knowledge of your vehicle will allow you to understand how it will react to drift maneuvers and make the necessary adjustments.
2. Practice in a safe place: Drifting requires a lot of control and precision, so it is essential that you start practicing in a safe and legal place to avoid putting yourself at risk. to yourself and to the others. Circuits or specific areas designated for drifting are ideal, as they will allow you to experiment without restrictions. Always remember to follow safety rules and respect traffic laws.
3. Improve your techniques: Drifting is an art that requires constant improvement. Once you have acquired the basic skills, it is important that you work on improving your techniques. Practice the countersteering technique, which consists of turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction to the vehicle's slide to maintain control. Also, work on your ability to control the accelerator and brakes precisely and smoothly.
8. Safety considerations when drifting
When performing the exciting drift maneuver, it is crucial to keep a number of safety considerations in mind to ensure a fun and incident-free experience. Drifting can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken, so it is essential to follow these recommendations:
1. Suitable location: It is vital to carefully select the place where you drift. It must be a wide, clear area suitable for maneuvering without nearby obstacles or pedestrians. Looking for a closed circuit, a road course or an approved place for this activity is the safest and most appropriate option.
2. Safety equipment: Before embarking on any drift adventure, make sure you are wearing the proper safety equipment. This includes a protective helmet, safety harness, fireproof suit and heat resistant gloves. These elements will be essential to protect yourself in case of any eventuality.
3. Vehicle maintenance: Before performing drift maneuvers, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle is in excellent operating condition. Check the brake system, steering, tires and any other critical components. Also, make sure the vehicle is equipped with a limited-slip differential and proper drift tires to ensure optimal performance during practice.
Remember, drifting is an exciting way to drive, but it should always be done safely and responsibly. Follow these safety considerations to minimize risks and make the most of this incredible experience.
9. Maintenance and care of the vehicle after drift sessions
Once the exciting drift sessions are over, it is essential to carry out proper maintenance and care of our vehicle to ensure its proper functioning and prolong its useful life. Drifting is a driving technique that involves high stress on different components of the car, so it is essential to carry out certain aftercare. Below are some recommendations to keep your vehicle in optimal condition after each drift session.
1. General inspection: After each drift session, it is important to perform a visual and physical inspection of the car for possible damage or wear. Check the bodywork for any dings, scratches or dents. Pay special attention to the wheels and tires, checking their condition and inflation pressure. Also examine the brakes and suspensions for any abnormalities.
2. Change of fluids: Due to the high stress to which the vehicle components are subjected during drift sessions, it is advisable to periodically change the most important fluids. Change the engine oil to ensure good lubrication and remove any possible debris or metal particles. It is also advisable to change the brake fluid, since it heats up and degrades during sports driving. Don't forget to also check the level and quality of the engine coolant, making sure it is within the appropriate parameters.
3. Adjustments and alignment: Drifting can cause changes in wheel alignment and uneven tire wear. Therefore, after each session it is advisable to align and balance the wheels. This will help maintain better stability and prevent premature tire wear. Additionally, check and adjust the air pressure levels in the wheels to ensure proper grip and handling of the vehicle.
10. Participate in drift competitions and events: how to enter and stand out
If you are passionate about the world of drift and would like to experience the excitement of competing in professional events, here we tell you how to enter and stand out in this exciting automotive discipline. First of all, it is essential to know the regulations and requirements of each competition or event you want to register for. Each organization has its own rules and standards, so it is crucial to familiarize yourself with them to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements. Some competitions may also require licensing and prior experience, so it is recommended to start by participating in local or amateur events to gain experience and skills.
Another important aspect to take into account is having a suitable vehicle to practice drifting. Rear-wheel drive cars are generally preferred, as they provide better weight distribution and allow controlled maneuvers to be performed more easily. It is advisable to make modifications to the vehicle to improve its performance, such as increasing engine power, adjusting the suspension and adding braking systems. high perfomance. Remember that safety is paramount, so what is necessary have a good roll cage system, seat belts and other protective elements.
Once you have the vehicle and know the rules of the event you want to enter, it is crucial to practice and perfect your skills. The drift technique requires mastering countersteering, corner entry, accelerator and handbrake control, among other essential aspects. You can look for specialized schools or instructors to teach you the proper techniques, participate in circuit practice days, or even follow online tutorials. Remember that perseverance and dedication are key to standing out in this sport, so it is necessary to invest time and effort in continually improving.