Finding Grip on a Drying Track

There is nothing harder than braving a race track of varying weather conditions. Compared to a fully dry or fully wet track surface, tracks that are transitioning from dry to wet and vice versa can present a unique and tough challenge. In today’s article, we’ll be focusing on the latter, finding traction on an otherwise drying surface.

For a track with mixed conditions, sticking solely to one line can hinder your pace. In a drying surface, utilizing both dry and wet lines is a driver’s key to success.

Let’s assume that in a drying track, the driver is on wet tyres as the track was previously drenched in water. At some point in the race, the driver may need to look for patches of water. This is because failure to do so can lead to excessive tyre wear, overheating, and massive understeer.

In finding a dry line, drivers may find themselves taking odd lines that may look slow from the outside. However, with the factors mentioned above, this is the best case scenario for drivers.

Following drivers ahead of you can be a good reference for finding the ideal line in mixed conditions. Keep in mind that it is anyone’s game in a scenario like this. Thus, to make sure you’re not falling behind, try to follow the line that others ahead have set out for you.

However, this should not be the be-all end all as that would mean being stuck behind a driver for the whole race. Once you are comfortable with the conditions, experimenting with different lines for overtaking should be the next step. Remember that often when drivers are attempting to pass on a drying track, they are looking to overtake where the track is more damp (as less karts have driven there), so mistakes can happen or loss of control.

Tread lightly. While you are finding possible points of attack, it is also important to not overdo it. A good tip would be to make minor adjustments with each passing lap. This balancing game of finding an opponent’s weak points whilst keeping the driver’s own kart on track is what separates good drivers from the greats. Try something different to the kart in front and pay attention to who is faster. If the driver in front is, follow their lines next lap. If your line is faster, keep repeating yours and an overtake might present itself whilst the driver in front can’t see your faster line.

Finally, smooth steering is paramount, especially in a track with many uncertainties. Be gentle with the steering, throttle, and braking. Sudden movements can cause the kart to lose grip, especially in damp areas.

Gradually apply the throttle to avoid wheel spin in damp areas. Being too aggressive can reduce traction. With braking, make sure to do so earlier and more progressively. Locking up can happen easily on a damp surface, so avoid sudden, hard braking.

CONCLUSION 

A drying track provides the most chaos compared to any other moment in a race. Therefore, it is key to keep your head in the game during challenging moments like this.

Change will happen, albeit in a slow-burning manner. Every lap will present different changes that the driver must adapt to accordingly. The most obvious adjustments will come in the lines you take.

A racing line is never set and stone. In a track with both dry and wet conditions, slight alterations must be made. If you are unsure what changes must be made, keeping an eye on the driver ahead can be a good starting point. All of these are crucial keys to success that can help you bring home some silverware by race end.

To elevate your go-kart racing career to the next level, Kart Class has your back! Under the tutelage of a multi-time race winner and Australian kart champion David Sera, a variety of training programs are in store for you.

For beginners and champions alike, and even track guides on the most notorious race tracks out there, Kart Class will be sure to take you from the back of the pack and all the way to the winner’s circle!