Unlock the Secrets of Drifting with How to Drift BRZ

The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are renowned for their playful handling and rear-wheel-drive setup, making them ideal platforms for learning the exhilarating art of drifting. However, drifting is not just about burning rubber and making smoke; it requires a deep understanding of car control, precision, and a healthy dose of respect for the limits of your vehicle. This comprehensive guide will break down the fundamentals of how to drift BRZ, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques.

Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success

Before you even think about throwing the BRZ into a slide, it’s crucial to ensure you have the right foundation. This includes:

• Understanding the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of car control, such as throttle steering, weight transfer, and the relationship between steering input and the car’s response.

• Safety First: Drifting can be dangerous if not done properly. Always prioritize safety by choosing a safe and controlled environment, like a closed track or an empty parking lot. Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and racing gloves.

• Vehicle Setup: The BRZ is already a great platform for drifting, but some modifications can enhance its capabilities. Consider lowering the suspension, upgrading the tires to dedicated drift tires, and adjusting the alignment to maximize rear-wheel slip.

The Drifting Fundamentals: Building a Strong Foundation

Now, let’s dive into the core concepts of drifting:

• Throttle Control: Mastering throttle control is paramount. You need to learn how to apply and modulate the throttle to initiate and maintain a controlled slide.

• Steering Input: Steering input is crucial for controlling the angle and direction of the drift. Smooth and precise steering movements are essential for maintaining a smooth and controlled drift.

• Weight Transfer: Understanding weight transfer is crucial. By applying throttle and braking, you can shift the weight of the car to the front or rear, influencing the car’s balance and the ease of initiating a drift.

The Initial Drift: Getting the Car to Slide

Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals, it’s time to put theory into practice. Here’s how to initiate a drift:

1. Choose Your Spot: Find a safe and open area with a good surface for drifting.

2. Build Up Speed: Accelerate to a moderate speed, keeping the engine in the power band.

3. Initiate the Drift:

• Clutch Kick (for manual transmission): Briefly depress the clutch while applying throttle to induce a sudden power surge.
• Handbrake (for manual or automatic): Apply the handbrake sharply while turning the steering wheel in the direction you want to drift.

4. Maintain the Drift:

• Throttle Control: Use the throttle to maintain the slide, adjusting the power output to control the drift angle.
• Steering Input: Steer with smooth and precise movements to maintain the desired drift angle.

Advanced Drifting Techniques: Taking Your Skills to the Next Level

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start exploring advanced drifting techniques:

• Counter Steering: Counter steering is used to correct the drift angle by steering in the opposite direction of the slide. This creates a counterforce that helps stabilize the car.

• Clutch Kick Technique: This technique involves quickly depressing and releasing the clutch while applying throttle to induce a sudden power surge, initiating the drift.

• Handbrake Turn: The handbrake turn is a common technique for initiating a drift. It involves applying the handbrake while turning the steering wheel.

Practice Makes Perfect: Refine Your Drifting Skills

Drifting is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Here are some tips for improving your drifting abilities:

• Start Slowly: Begin with gentle drifts at low speeds, gradually increasing your speed as you gain confidence.

• Focus on Smoothness: Aim for smooth and controlled movements, both with the steering wheel and throttle.

• Observe and Analyze: Pay attention to how the car reacts to your inputs and analyze your mistakes.

• Seek Feedback: Ask experienced drifters for feedback on your technique and areas for improvement.

Drifting Etiquette: Respecting the Community

Drifting is a community-driven activity, and it’s essential to respect the unwritten rules and etiquette:

• Be Respectful of Others: Avoid drifting in areas where it is not allowed or could pose a danger to others.

• Clean Up After Yourself: Always clean up any debris or tire marks you leave behind.

• Share Your Knowledge: Be willing to share your knowledge and experience with others.

The Final Drift: Embracing the Journey

Drifting is not just about mastering techniques; it’s about embracing the journey of learning and pushing your limits. It’s about feeling the adrenaline rush, the connection with your car, and the satisfaction of executing a perfect slide. So, buckle up, get ready to have fun, and welcome to the world of drifting!

Top Questions Asked

1. What are the best tires for drifting a BRZ?

Drifting tires are designed to provide controlled slip and grip, making them ideal for drifting. Some popular choices include:

• Maxxis Victra RC-1: A great all-around drift tire with good grip and durability.
• Falken Azenis RT615K+: Known for its excellent grip and responsiveness.
• Nitto NT01: A high-performance tire designed for track and drifting.

2. Can I drift a BRZ with a stock suspension?

While a stock BRZ can be drifted, a lowered suspension with adjustable dampers can improve handling and stability, making it easier to control the drift.

3. What are some good places to practice drifting?

• Closed Tracks: The safest and most controlled environment for drifting.
• Empty Parking Lots: Choose a large, empty parking lot with a smooth surface.
• Drifting Events: Attend drifting events to learn from experienced drivers and get valuable feedback.

4. What are some essential safety precautions for drifting?

• Choose a safe environment: Avoid drifting on public roads or in areas with heavy traffic.
• Wear appropriate safety gear: Always wear a helmet, racing gloves, and fire-resistant clothing.
• Have a spotter: Have someone observe your drifts and warn you of any potential hazards.

5. How do I know if I’m ready for drifting?

If you’re comfortable with basic car control, have a good understanding of weight transfer, and are willing to practice and learn, you’re on the right track. Remember, drifting is a skill that takes time and dedication to master.