Unleash Your Inner Racer: How to Drift in LFS Like a Champion

Learning how to drift in Live for Speed (LFS) can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. It’s a skill that takes time and practice, but with the right techniques and knowledge, you can master the art of controlled slides and become a true drifting champion. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the fundamentals, advanced techniques, and essential tips to help you conquer the world of LFS drifting.

Setting the Stage: Choosing the Right Car and Track

Before you dive into the world of drifting, it’s crucial to select the right tools for the job. In LFS, certain cars and tracks are better suited for drifting than others. Here’s what to consider:

Car Selection:

• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) is King: RWD cars are the most popular choice for drifting due to their inherent ability to lose traction at the rear wheels. Look for cars like the BMW E30, Nissan 240SX, or Mazda MX-5.
• Power and Torque: A powerful engine with ample torque will make initiating and maintaining drifts easier.
• Weight Distribution: Cars with a balanced weight distribution (50/50 front/rear) tend to be more stable during drifts.
• Suspension and Tires: A soft suspension setup and sticky tires will aid in controlling the drift. Experiment with different settings to find your sweet spot.

Track Selection:

• Wide Tracks: Tracks with wide corners and long straights provide ample space for practicing drifts.
• Smooth Surfaces: Avoid tracks with rough or bumpy surfaces, as they can disrupt your drifts.
• Grip Levels: Tracks with lower grip levels (like asphalt or dirt) are more forgiving for beginners.

The Fundamentals: Getting Started with Drifting

Once you’ve chosen your car and track, it’s time to lay the foundation of your drifting skills.

1. Understanding the Basics:

• Weight Transfer: The key to initiating a drift is to shift the car’s weight to the rear. This is achieved by applying the throttle and steering.
• Throttle Control: Maintaining a consistent throttle input is crucial for maintaining a controlled drift. Too much throttle will cause the car to oversteer, while too little will result in the drift ending.
• Steering Input: Use smooth and precise steering inputs to guide the car through the corner. Avoid jerky movements that can cause the car to spin out.
• Clutch and Brake: The clutch and brake can be used to adjust the car’s speed and help you regain control if you oversteer.

2. Practicing the Initial Drift:

• Find a Straight: Start by practicing on a straight section of the track.
• Apply Throttle: Give the car some throttle to build up speed.
• Turn the Wheel: Turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to drift.
• Apply the Handbrake: Engage the handbrake to initiate the drift.
• Control the Throttle: Adjust the throttle to maintain the drift.

3. Mastering the Counter-Steering:

• Counter-Steering: This is the crucial technique for keeping the car under control during a drift.
• Steering in the Opposite Direction: As the car starts to slide, turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction to counter the oversteer.
• Smooth and Progressive: Use smooth and progressive steering inputs to avoid overcorrecting and losing control.

Advanced Drifting Techniques: Taking Your Skills to the Next Level

Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, it’s time to explore advanced techniques that will elevate your drifting game.

1. Clutch Kick:

• Initiating a Drift: The clutch kick is a technique used to initiate a drift without using the handbrake.
• Releasing the Clutch: While applying throttle, quickly release and reengage the clutch to transfer weight to the rear wheels.
• Smooth and Controlled: Practice releasing the clutch smoothly and progressively to avoid stalling the engine.

2. Drifting Through Corners:

• Maintaining Speed: Keep the car at a consistent speed through the corner to avoid losing control.
• Early Entry: Initiate the drift early before entering the corner.
• Adjusting Steering: Use counter-steering to maintain the drift angle and guide the car through the corner.
• Exiting the Drift: Gradually reduce throttle and steer the car back into the track as you exit the corner.

3. Tandem Drifting:

• Following Closely: Drive closely behind another car while maintaining a safe distance.
• Matching Speed: Adjust your speed to match the lead car’s speed.
• Using the Lead Car’s Wake: Use the lead car’s wake to help maintain your drift.
• Communication: Communicate with the lead driver to ensure a safe and enjoyable tandem drift.

Essential Tips for Success: Refining Your Drifting Skills

Here are some additional tips to enhance your drifting skills and make your journey smoother:

• Practice, Practice, Practice: The key to mastering drifting is consistent practice. Spend time practicing the fundamentals and advanced techniques.
• Experiment with Settings: Adjust your car’s suspension, tire pressure, and other settings to find the optimal setup for drifting.
• Watch Drifting Videos: Study professional drifters and learn from their techniques and strategies.
• Join a Drifting Community: Connect with other LFS players who are passionate about drifting. Share tips, learn from each other, and compete in drift events.
• Have Fun: Most importantly, enjoy the process of learning and improving your drifting skills.

The Final Lap: Embracing the Thrill of Drifting in LFS

Drifting in LFS is an exhilarating and challenging experience that can test your driving skills and push your limits. By understanding the fundamentals, practicing diligently, and embracing the thrill of controlled slides, you can become a master of the art of drifting. So, put your foot down, embrace the slide, and enjoy the adrenaline rush of drifting in LFS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best cars for drifting in LFS?

A: Some popular choices include the BMW E30, Nissan 240SX, Mazda MX-5, and Ford Mustang. These cars offer a good balance of power, weight distribution, and handling characteristics for drifting.

Q: How do I adjust my car settings for drifting?

A: Experiment with your car’s suspension settings, tire pressure, and differential settings to find the optimal configuration for your drifting style. Softer suspension and sticky tires will generally aid in maintaining drifts.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when drifting?

A: Over-steering, under-steering, and inconsistent throttle control are common mistakes. Practice smooth and controlled inputs to avoid losing control.

Q: How can I improve my handbrake technique?

A: Practice using the handbrake to initiate drifts in a controlled manner. Avoid pulling the handbrake too hard or too quickly, as this can lead to oversteer.

Q: Where can I find more information about drifting in LFS?

A: You can find valuable resources online, including forums, YouTube tutorials, and LFS communities. Connect with experienced drifters and learn from their insights.