Racing Techniques
5 Common Mistakes Track Day Drivers Make
Are you guilty of these? Early apexing, lazy throttle, and looking at the cone instead of through the corner.
1. Turning In Too Early
This is a common source of lost consistency and unnecessary risk. Your brain wants you to get to the safety of the inside curb NOW. Resistance. Wait. Wait. Turn. Late apex = safer exit = earlier throttle.
2. Coasting Too Much
The “Comfort Coast.” You lift off the gas, pause, then touch the brake. Fix: Transition instantly. Gas -> Brake. Minimize the coast time.
3. Looking at the Reference Cone
Don’t stare at the brake marker. If you stare at the cone, you will hit the cone. Look where you want to go (the apex), not where you are.
4. Not Reaching Full Throttle When Intended
Check your data. Drivers can think they are flat out while the pedal trace shows that they never reached the intended full-throttle position. Push through the carpet.
5. Ignoring Tire Pressures
Starting with “street” pressures (32psi cold) means you’ll be at 42psi hot. You’ll have no grip. Bleed them down. Aim for ~32-34psi HOT (depending on tire).
Summary
Fixing these small habits yields massive time. Need a spotter to call you out on these? Book a trackside session.