How to Drift Lexus IS250: Unleash Your Inner Drift King on the Track
What To Know
- Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced driver looking to take your drifting skills to the next level, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to conquer the track.
- This advanced maneuver involves a quick steering input in the opposite direction to the intended drift angle, followed by a sharp turn in the desired direction.
- This technique involves using the throttle to maintain a controlled slide through the corner, adjusting the throttle and steering to maintain the desired drift angle.
The Lexus IS250, with its sleek design and powerful engine, might not be the first car that comes to mind when you think of drifting. But with the right techniques and modifications, this luxurious sedan can become a surprisingly capable drift machine.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps and techniques on how to drift a Lexus IS250, from understanding the basics to mastering advanced maneuvers. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced driver looking to take your drifting skills to the next level, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to conquer the track.
Understanding the Basics of Drifting
Drifting, at its core, is a controlled loss of traction. It’s about maintaining a balance between oversteer and understeer, allowing you to slide the car sideways while maintaining control and direction. Mastering drifting requires a deep understanding of your car’s handling characteristics and a willingness to push its limits within a safe environment.
Preparing Your Lexus IS250 for Drifting
Before you hit the track, it’s crucial to prepare your Lexus IS250 for the demands of drifting. This involves a combination of modifications and adjustments to enhance its performance and handling.
Modifications:
- Suspension Tuning: A well-tuned suspension system is essential for controlled drifting. Lowering the car’s ride height and adjusting the spring rates and dampening can improve its handling and stability.
- Wheel and Tire Setup: Wider wheels and tires with a sticky compound provide the grip needed to initiate and maintain a drift. Consider a staggered setup for better traction and stability.
- Limited Slip Differential (LSD): An LSD helps distribute power evenly to both rear wheels, improving traction and making it easier to initiate a drift.
- Engine Tuning: While the IS250’s naturally aspirated V6 engine is reliable, some power upgrades can be beneficial for drifting. Consider a cold air intake, exhaust system, or a tune to increase horsepower and torque.
Adjustments:
- Tire Pressure: Adjusting tire pressure can significantly impact your car’s handling. Lowering tire pressure in the rear tires can help induce oversteer and make it easier to initiate a drift.
- Handbrake Adjustment: The handbrake is crucial for initiating a drift. Ensure it’s properly adjusted for a firm and consistent feel.
Mastering the Art of Initiating a Drift
Once your Lexus IS250 is prepped, the next step is learning how to initiate a drift.
Techniques:
- Handbrake Turn: This is the most common method for beginners. Apply the handbrake while turning the steering wheel in the direction you want to drift. The sudden braking action will transfer weight to the rear wheels, causing them to lose traction and initiate a slide.
- Clutch Kick: This technique involves quickly releasing and re-engaging the clutch while applying throttle. This creates a sudden power surge to the rear wheels, inducing oversteer and initiating a drift.
- Power Oversteer: This involves using the throttle to induce oversteer. Accelerate hard while steering slightly into the corner, causing the rear wheels to lose traction and start drifting.
Maintaining and Controlling the Drift
Once you’ve initiated a drift, the real challenge lies in maintaining control and driving smoothly through the corner.
Techniques:
- Steering Input: Use smooth and precise steering inputs to control the drift angle and direction. Avoid over-correcting, as this can lead to a spin.
- Throttle Control: Throttle control is crucial for maintaining the drift. Apply the right amount of throttle to keep the rear wheels spinning and maintain a stable slide.
- Counter-Steering: Counter-steering is used to correct for oversteer and maintain control. If the car starts to spin, quickly steer in the opposite direction to regain stability.
Advanced Drifting Techniques
As you gain experience, you can explore advanced drifting techniques to enhance your skills and performance.
Techniques:
- Clutch-Kick Drifting: This technique involves using the clutch to control the drift angle and maintain a smooth slide.
- Scandinavian Flick: This advanced maneuver involves a quick steering input in the opposite direction to the intended drift angle, followed by a sharp turn in the desired direction. It’s a powerful technique for initiating a drift in tight spaces.
- Power Slide: This technique involves using the throttle to maintain a controlled slide through the corner, adjusting the throttle and steering to maintain the desired drift angle.
Drifting Safety: A Must-Know
Drifting is a high-risk activity that should only be performed in controlled environments like a race track. Always prioritize safety and follow these guidelines:
- Track Day Preparation: Ensure your car is in top condition and equipped with appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, racing suit, and fire extinguisher.
- Track Etiquette: Follow the track rules and regulations, and be mindful of other drivers.
- Practice and Patience: Start with basic techniques and gradually progress to more advanced maneuvers. Don’t rush the learning process and be patient with yourself.
The Final Lap: Mastering the Drift
Drifting a Lexus IS250 is a rewarding experience, but it requires dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of your car’s capabilities. By following the techniques and safety guidelines outlined in this guide, you can unlock the potential of your IS250 and become a true drift master. Remember, safety is paramount, and practice makes perfect.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Is it possible to drift a Lexus IS250 with stock suspension?
A: While it’s possible to initiate a drift with stock suspension, a tuned suspension will significantly improve your car’s handling and control, making it easier to maintain a drift and perform advanced maneuvers.
Q: What are the best tires for drifting a Lexus IS250?
A: Look for tires with a sticky compound and a wide tread pattern for optimal grip. Some popular options include Falken Azenis RT615K+ and Toyo Proxes R888R.
Q: Is it necessary to install a limited slip differential (LSD)?
A: An LSD is highly recommended for drifting as it helps distribute power evenly to both rear wheels, improving traction and making it easier to initiate and control a drift.
Q: How much does it cost to prepare a Lexus IS250 for drifting?
A: The cost of preparing a Lexus IS250 for drifting can vary depending on the modifications you choose. Expect to spend anywhere from a few hundred dollars for basic adjustments to several thousand dollars for more extensive modifications.
Q: Where can I learn to drift safely?
A: The safest way to learn to drift is at a professional driving school or a dedicated drift track. These facilities provide a controlled environment with experienced instructors who can guide you through the process and ensure your safety.