Take Your Driving Skills to the Next Level: How to Drift with Emergency Brake

Drifting, the art of controlled oversteer, is a thrilling technique that adds a touch of excitement to any driving experience. While professional drifters often rely on advanced techniques, learning how to drift with the emergency brake is a fantastic starting point for beginners. This method allows you to experience the exhilarating feeling of sliding while gaining valuable control and understanding of vehicle dynamics.

Choosing the Right Car

Not all cars are created equal when it comes to drifting. While you can technically attempt it in any vehicle, some are better suited for the task than others. Here’s what to consider:

• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): RWD cars are the preferred choice for drifting due to their tendency to oversteer easily. This makes them more responsive to the emergency brake, allowing you to initiate slides with greater control.
• Manual Transmission: A manual transmission gives you precise control over engine speed and braking, which are crucial for maintaining a controlled drift.
• Lightweight: Lighter vehicles are more agile and require less power to initiate and maintain a drift.
• Wide Tires: Wider tires provide more grip, which can help you control the slide and prevent the car from spinning out.

Finding the Right Location

Safety should always be your top priority when practicing any driving technique, and drifting is no exception. Avoid public roads and opt for a safe, controlled environment:

• Empty Parking Lot: A large, empty parking lot offers ample space to practice without the risk of hitting other vehicles or pedestrians.
• Private Track: If you have access to a private track or racing facility, it provides a dedicated and safe space for drifting.
• Closed Road: Some areas offer closed road days or events specifically designed for practicing drifting and other performance driving techniques.

Preparing Your Car

Before you hit the track, make sure your car is in top condition and ready for the demands of drifting:

• Check Tire Pressure: Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure for your vehicle.
• Inspect Brakes: Verify that your brakes are in good working order, as they play a crucial role in controlling the drift.
• Adjust Handbrake: Ensure your handbrake is properly adjusted and engages smoothly.
• Disable Traction Control: Traction control systems are designed to prevent wheelspin, which can hinder drifting. Disabling it allows the car to slide more freely.

The Initial Pull

The initial pull is where you initiate the drift. This requires a balance of throttle input and emergency brake application:

1. Accelerate: Start with a moderate acceleration to build momentum.
2. Turn the Steering Wheel: Turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to drift. For example, if you want to drift to the right, turn the steering wheel to the right.
3. Engage the Emergency Brake: As you turn the wheel, apply the emergency brake firmly and quickly. This will transfer weight to the rear wheels, causing them to lose traction and initiate the slide.

Maintaining the Drift

Once the car starts to slide, you need to maintain the drift by balancing throttle input, steering, and emergency brake:

• Throttle Control: Use the throttle to control the speed of the drift. A gentle application of the throttle will help maintain the slide, while too much throttle can cause the car to spin out.
• Steering Input: Use the steering wheel to adjust the angle of the drift. You may need to steer slightly into the slide to maintain control.
• Emergency Brake Adjustment: Adjust the pressure on the emergency brake to fine-tune the angle of the drift.

Exiting the Drift

Exiting the drift requires a smooth transition back to controlled driving:

1. Release the Emergency Brake: Slowly release the emergency brake to allow the car to regain traction.
2. Counter Steer: As the car begins to straighten out, counter steer by turning the wheel in the opposite direction of the drift.
3. Apply Throttle: Apply a gentle amount of throttle to help the car regain stability.

Mastering the Technique

Drifting with the emergency brake is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Here are some tips to help you improve:

• Start Slowly: Begin with low speeds and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
• Practice in a Safe Environment: Always practice in a safe and controlled environment, such as an empty parking lot.
• Focus on Smoothness: Aim for smooth and controlled movements when applying the emergency brake, steering, and throttle.
• Experiment with Different Techniques: Try different techniques, such as using the throttle to maintain the drift or using the emergency brake to initiate a tighter turn.

The Final Lap: Putting it All Together

Drifting with the emergency brake is a challenging but rewarding experience. By understanding the principles of vehicle dynamics, practicing in a safe environment, and mastering the techniques, you can unlock the thrilling world of drifting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is drifting with the emergency brake safe?

A: Drifting with the emergency brake can be safe if practiced in a controlled environment and with proper technique. However, it is important to understand the risks involved and prioritize safety.

Q: Can I drift any car with the emergency brake?

A: While you can technically attempt it in any car, rear-wheel drive vehicles are better suited for drifting due to their tendency to oversteer.

Q: How do I know if my handbrake is properly adjusted?

A: A properly adjusted handbrake should engage smoothly and hold the car in place on a slight incline.

Q: What are some common mistakes beginners make when drifting?

A: Common mistakes include applying the emergency brake too abruptly, over-steering, and not using enough throttle.

Q: Is drifting illegal?

A: Drifting on public roads is generally illegal and can result in fines and penalties. Always practice drifting in a safe and legal environment.