Here are some steps that will guide you on how to do drifting:
Get the right car: Not every car is suitable for drifting. Rear-wheel drive vehicles are the best for drifting, as they have a balanced weight distribution, which makes it easier to maintain control while drifting. Also, a manual transmission car is preferred over automatic as it gives you more control over the car’s movements. You can always modify your car to suit your drifting needs.
Understand the physics of drifting: Drifting involves controlled oversteering, where the rear wheels lose traction, causing the car to rotate around its center axis. When entering a turn, you need to reduce your speed and then quickly apply the brakes while transitioning to the turn. This sudden change in weight distribution destabilizes the car, which allows you to initiate the drift while maintaining control.
Master the techniques: There are various techniques you can use to initiate, maintain and exit a drift. The most common technique is the clutch kick or the e-brake, where you abruptly release the clutch pedal or pull the handbrake to break the rear wheels’ traction. Another method is the power slide, where you use the car’s power to break the traction in the rear wheels and maintain drift through the turn. The Scandinavian flick technique involves flicking the car’s rear end with a quick turn of the steering wheel in the opposite direction before turning into the corner.
Find the perfect location: Not every location is suited for practicing drifting. Look for an open area with little to no traffic, like an empty parking lot, race track, or an abandoned road. Ensure there are no obstacles, pedestrians or other vehicles around. Practice in a safe and controlled environment.
Start slow and practice: Like any other skill, drifting requires practice and patience. Begin with gradual and low-speed turns, then gradually increase the speed and the difficulty of the turns. Always listen to your car and feel its behavior, take it slow at first, and gradually increase your skills.
Safety: Drifting can be dangerous, particularly if done improperly. Safety should always be a top priority when practicing drifting. You should always wear safety gear like a helmet, gloves, and safety harness. Ensure that your car is well-maintained and in good condition before attempting any maneuvers. And always keep a safe distance from other people.
In conclusion, drifting is a fun and exciting motorsport that requires knowledge, skill, and practice. With the right car, location, and techniques, anyone can learn how to drift. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when practicing drifting. Start slow and gradually increase your speed and skill. Happy drifting!