Unleash the Beast: How to Drift GR86 and Turn Heads on the Track

The Toyota GR86 is a car that’s begging to be driven sideways. Its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive layout, and naturally aspirated boxer engine make it an ideal platform for learning how to drift. But mastering the art of drifting requires more than just throwing the car into a corner and hoping for the best. It takes practice, patience, and a deep understanding of the car’s dynamics. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to confidently tackle your first drifts in your GR86.

Preparing Your GR86 for Drifting

Before you even think about hitting the track, it’s crucial to ensure your GR86 is properly prepped for drifting. This involves more than just a quick wash and wax.

1. Safety First:

• Driver Training: Enroll in a professional drifting course. This will provide you with the fundamental skills and techniques, along with a safe environment to practice.
• Safety Gear: Invest in a helmet, racing suit, gloves, and shoes specifically designed for motorsport.
• Track Day Preparation: Thoroughly inspect your car before each track day, paying close attention to tire pressure, fluid levels, and any potential wear and tear.

2. Essential Modifications:

• Tires: Drifting puts immense stress on tires. Opt for dedicated drift tires, like those from brands like Falken, Nitto, or Achilles, for optimal grip and heat resistance.
• Suspension: A well-tuned suspension is crucial for handling and stability. Consider adjustable coilovers for fine-tuning your car’s setup.
• Brakes: Upgraded brake pads and rotors are essential for consistent braking performance, especially under heavy braking during drifting.
• Limited Slip Differential (LSD): An LSD helps distribute power evenly to both rear wheels, improving traction and making it easier to initiate a drift.

3. The Right Mindset:

• Respect the Car: Understand that drifting is a demanding activity that can put stress on your car’s components. Learn to drive smoothly and avoid unnecessary abuse.
• Patience and Practice: Mastering drifting takes time and dedication. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away.
• Focus on Technique: Drifting is more about finesse than brute force. Focus on learning the proper techniques and gradually build your skills.

The Fundamentals of Drifting

Once your GR86 is prepped, it’s time to dive into the fundamentals of drifting:

1. Understanding the Drifting Technique:

• Initiation: The key to initiating a drift is to create a slight oversteer condition. This can be achieved by applying throttle while turning, using the handbrake, or even a combination of both.
• Maintaining the Drift: Once the rear end starts to slide, you need to maintain the drift by steering into the slide and using the throttle to control the angle.
• Exiting the Drift: To exit the drift, gradually reduce the throttle and steer back towards your desired line.

2. Mastering Throttle Control:

• The Throttle is Your Steering Wheel: The throttle is your primary tool for controlling the drift. By adjusting the throttle, you can influence the angle of the slide and maintain control.
• Smooth Transitions: Avoid abrupt throttle changes, as they can upset the car’s balance and make it difficult to control.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: The only way to master throttle control is through consistent practice.

3. Steering Inputs:

• Counter-Steering: Counter-steering is essential for maintaining a drift. As the rear end slides out, you need to steer in the opposite direction to keep the car from spinning out.
• Smooth and Gradual: Avoid sudden steering inputs, as they can cause the car to become unstable.
• Weight Transfer: Remember that steering inputs also influence weight transfer, which can affect the drift angle.

Taking Your GR86 to the Track

Now that you’ve grasped the basics, it’s time to take your GR86 to the track and put your skills to the test.

1. Choose the Right Track:

• Beginner-Friendly Tracks: Look for tracks with wide corners and forgiving surfaces, allowing you to practice without putting too much pressure on yourself or your car.
• Track Etiquette: Always follow track rules and regulations, respect other drivers, and be aware of your surroundings.

2. Track Day Preparation:

• Pre-Track Inspection: Thoroughly inspect your car before heading out, checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and any potential issues.
• Warm-up Laps: Always start with a few warm-up laps to get a feel for the track conditions and warm up your tires.
• Practice Drifts: Start with basic drifts in slow corners, gradually increasing your speed and complexity as you gain confidence.

3. Building Your Skills:

• Focus on Technique: Don’t get caught up in chasing speed. Focus on refining your drifting technique and building consistency.
• Learn from Others: Observe other drivers, especially those with more experience, and learn from their techniques.
• Record Your Runs: Use a dashcam or GoPro to record your runs and analyze your performance afterward.

Advanced Drifting Techniques

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

1. Clutch Kick: This technique involves using the clutch to initiate a drift by momentarily releasing the clutch while applying throttle.

• Handbrake Turn: This technique involves using the handbrake to initiate a drift.
• Power Oversteer: This technique involves using the throttle to induce oversteer.
• Drifting in Different Conditions: Learn to adapt your drifting technique to different track conditions, such as wet or slippery surfaces.

Mastering the Drift Angle

Controlling the drift angle is essential for smooth and consistent drifting.

1. Throttle Control: The throttle is your primary tool for controlling the drift angle.
2. Steering Inputs: Precise steering inputs can also influence the drift angle.
3. Body English: Using your body weight to shift the car’s balance can help you adjust the drift angle.

The Art of Drifting: Beyond the Basics

Drifting is not just about driving sideways. It’s about precision, control, and a deep understanding of your car’s dynamics.

1. Car Control: Mastering car control is essential for smooth and consistent drifting.
2. Track Awareness: Knowing the track layout and conditions is crucial for making informed decisions.
3. Rhythm and Flow: Drifting is about finding a rhythm and flow.
4. Creativity and Style: Express your creativity and develop your own unique drifting style.

The Final Lap: Embracing the Drifting Journey

Drifting is a challenging but rewarding pursuit. It requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to push your limits. Embrace the learning curve, celebrate your progress, and enjoy the thrill of driving your GR86 sideways.

What You Need to Know

1. What is the best way to learn how to drift?

The best way to learn how to drift is to take a professional drifting course. These courses will provide you with the fundamental skills and techniques, along with a safe environment to practice.

2. What are the essential modifications for drifting a GR86?

Essential modifications for drifting a GR86 include drift tires, adjustable coilovers, upgraded brakes, and a limited slip differential (LSD).

3. How do I get started with drifting?

To get started with drifting, you need to find a safe place to practice, such as a deserted parking lot or a racetrack. Start by practicing basic drifting techniques, such as initiating a drift and maintaining a drift angle.

4. Is drifting dangerous?

Drifting can be dangerous if not done properly. It’s important to take proper safety precautions, such as wearing safety gear and practicing in a safe environment.

5. What are some tips for improving my drifting skills?

Some tips for improving your drifting skills include practicing regularly, taking a professional drifting course, and watching videos of experienced drifters.