As opposed to driving on the street, using brakes on a race track is so much more than just decelerating. Proper use of brakes in a racing setting allows a driver to manipulate the pitch of the car as it enters a corner, and this is called trail braking.

Trail braking is the name given to the technique of lightened, but continued, braking into a corner. This important technique is neglected by many amateur drivers, and blends braking and turning into one action, allowing you to brake later and more effectively control the car into the corner.

How to Trail Brake

Trail braking is difficult for many to master quickly, as it seems counterintuitive at first. It takes time to get a feel for what the car is doing at the corner entrance, but taking the time to master it will undoubtedly result in lower lap times.

To trail brake:

1. Brake in a straight line at maximum force
2. Slightly before the turn in point begin to ease off the brakes
3. Begin to turn into the corner
4. As you increase steering angle, reduce braking pressure
5. Use appropriate amount of braking to keep a well-balanced car through the corner entry

Why Does it Make Me Faster?

Trail braking allows you to use all of the available grip that the car has to give through the entry of the corner. Additionally, effective trail braking allows you to start decelerating closer to the corner, giving you an edge over other drivers.

If you’re looking for every advantage over other drivers in your class, take the time to learn and master trail braking. If you’re looking to improve your driving skills even further, or put your skills to the test, join us for a track day or one of our driver’s education classes! Call us today at (407) 804-0892 with any questions.