Master the Art of Drifting: How to Drift Auto Like a Pro

Drifting, the art of controlled oversteer, has captivated car enthusiasts for decades. The exhilarating feeling of the car sliding sideways, tires screaming, and smoke billowing out, is an adrenaline rush like no other. But how do you master this seemingly impossible feat? This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to learn how to drift auto, from the basics to advanced maneuvers.

1. The Fundamentals: Understanding Drifting

Drifting is essentially the art of maintaining a controlled slide while navigating a corner. It’s a delicate balance of throttle control, steering input, and understanding the car’s limits. Unlike traditional cornering, where you aim to maintain grip, drifting involves intentionally breaking traction to induce a controlled slide.

2. Essential Equipment: Your Drifting Arsenal

Before you embark on your drifting journey, you’ll need the right tools. While any car can technically drift, certain vehicles are better suited for the task.

• Rear-wheel drive (RWD) car: RWD cars are the preferred choice for drifting due to their inherent ability to break traction at the rear wheels.
• Modified suspension: A well-tuned suspension system is crucial for handling the stresses of drifting. Consider lowering the car, adjusting the camber, and upgrading the shock absorbers.
• Performance tires: Drift tires are designed to lose grip easily and provide consistent slide characteristics.
• Handbrake: A strong handbrake is essential for initiating drifts and controlling the slide.
• Safety equipment: Always prioritize safety. Wear a helmet, racing suit, and other protective gear.

3. Mastering the Art of Throttle Control

Throttle control is the cornerstone of drifting. It’s the key to initiating, maintaining, and controlling the slide.

• Initiating the drift: To start a drift, you’ll need to apply a sudden burst of throttle while turning the steering wheel. This will transfer weight to the rear wheels, causing them to break traction.
• Maintaining the slide: Once the car starts to slide, you need to maintain a steady throttle input to keep the car drifting. Too much throttle will cause the car to oversteer, while too little will cause the car to lose momentum and straighten out.
• Controlling the angle: The amount of throttle you apply determines the angle of the drift. More throttle will result in a wider drift, while less throttle will result in a tighter drift.

4. Steering Techniques: The Art of Counter-Steering

Steering is another crucial aspect of drifting. While it seems counterintuitive, you’ll need to steer in the opposite direction of the slide to control the car. This is known as counter-steering.

• Initiating the counter-steer: As the car starts to slide, you’ll need to turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the slide. This will help to straighten the car out and prevent it from spinning out of control.
• Maintaining the slide: Once the car is in a controlled slide, you’ll need to use small, precise steering inputs to maintain the desired angle.
• Exiting the drift: To exit the drift, you’ll need to gradually reduce the throttle and steer back into the direction of the corner.

5. Learning the Handbrake Technique

The handbrake is a valuable tool for initiating drifts and controlling the slide. It allows you to quickly transfer weight to the rear wheels, creating a sudden loss of traction.

• Initiating a drift with the handbrake: As you approach the corner, apply the handbrake while turning the steering wheel. This will cause the rear wheels to lock up, creating a slide.
• Maintaining the slide: Once the car is in a slide, you’ll need to release the handbrake and use throttle and steering input to control the angle.
• Exiting the drift: To exit the drift, release the throttle and steer back into the direction of the corner.

6. The Importance of Practice and Patience

Drifting is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Don’t expect to become a drifting expert overnight. Start with small, controlled slides and gradually work your way up to more challenging maneuvers.

• Start on a closed course: Find a safe, enclosed area with a smooth surface where you can practice without the risk of accidents.
• Find a mentor: If possible, find an experienced drifter who can provide guidance and feedback.
• Be patient: Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Practice makes perfect, and with persistence, you’ll eventually master the art of drifting.

7. Beyond the Basics: Advanced Drifting Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals of drifting, you can start exploring more advanced techniques.

• Clutch kick: This technique involves using the clutch to quickly transfer weight to the rear wheels, initiating a drift.
• Power oversteer: This technique involves using the throttle to induce oversteer and maintain a slide.
• Tandem drifting: This involves drifting alongside another car, maintaining a close distance and synchronized movements.
• Drifting in different conditions: Practice drifting on different surfaces, such as asphalt, gravel, and snow, to develop your skills in various conditions.

The Journey Continues: Mastering the Art of Drifting

Drifting is an exhilarating and challenging skill to master. It requires a deep understanding of car dynamics, precise control, and a healthy dose of bravery. By following these steps and practicing consistently, you can gradually unlock the secrets of drifting and unleash your inner drift king.

What You Need to Know

Q1: What type of car is best for drifting?
A: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) cars are the best choice for drifting due to their inherent ability to break traction at the rear wheels.

Q2: Is drifting safe?
A: Drifting can be dangerous if not done correctly. Always practice in a safe, enclosed area and wear appropriate safety gear.

Q3: How can I improve my drifting skills?
A: The key to improving your drifting skills is consistent practice. Start with small, controlled slides and gradually work your way up to more challenging maneuvers.

Q4: What are some common mistakes beginners make when drifting?
A: Some common mistakes beginners make include: over-steering, not using enough throttle, and not using the handbrake effectively.

Q5: What are some good resources for learning more about drifting?
A: There are many excellent resources available online and in print. Check out drifting forums, websites, and YouTube channels for tips and advice.