Drifting – the adrenaline-pumping art of maneuvering a car along bends and turns by intentionally oversteering while maintaining control. It’s a popular motorsport that thrills both drivers and spectators alike. So, how can you master the skill for yourself? Here are four techniques to get you started on your journey to becoming a drift pro.

1. The Clutch Kick Drift

The clutch kick is a classic drifting technique, perfect for beginners looking to practice their skills. Follow these steps:

– Find a safe, open area with plenty of space to practice

– Approach the turn at your desired speed

– Depress the clutch pedal fully while keeping the throttle on the same position

– Release the clutch quickly and sharply, causing a sudden increase in engine RPMs

– The sudden increase in torque will cause your rear wheels to break traction, initiating the drift

– Steer into the slide while modulating the throttle to maintain control

2. The Handbrake Drift

Another beginner-friendly technique, handbrake drift utilizes your car’s handbrake as you enter a corner.

– Enter a corner at moderate speed

– Apply a small amount of pressure on the brake pedal

– Pull up on the handbrake as you simultaneously turn into the corner

– Release the handbrake once you’ve initiated the drift and modulate throttle and steering inputs as necessary to maintain control

3. The Power Oversteer Drift

This technique is ideal for cars with high horsepower and torque. Power oversteer drifting relies on using engine power alone to break traction of rear wheels.

– As you approach a corner, turn slightly past your intended trajectory

– As soon as you’ve turned, quickly apply full throttle to break traction in your rear tires – this will initiate your drift

– Manipulate steering and throttle inputs to maintain the drift and exit the corner smoothly

4. The Feint Drift (Scandinavian Flick)

Feint drifting, also known as the Scandinavian Flick, is an advanced technique that requires precise timing and finesse.

– Approach a bend at speed – faster than the aforementioned techniques

– Before entering the corner, quickly steer away from the turn (creating a feint)

– Immediately after, snap the steering wheel back in the direction of the turn, shifting the car’s weight suddenly

– As your car’s weight shifts, steer into the turn while managing throttle and steering inputs to maintain control of your drift

Remember, safety first! Drifting can be dangerous and is best practiced on a closed track under professional supervision. Get out there and practice these four techniques to drift your way to racing glory!