How To Drift: The Art of Oversteer

Drifting, the art of controlling a car’s oversteer to slide through corners, has become one of the most popular motorsports around the globe. This exhilarating sport combines speed, precision, and showmanship, attracting both drivers and fans alike. If you've ever dreamed of learning how to drift, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary knowledge and techniques to get started.

The Basics of Oversteer

Before you can master the art of drifting, it's essential to understand the concept of oversteer. Oversteer occurs when the rear wheels lose traction and slide outwards while cornering. This allows the car to rotate around its center axis, creating a controlled drift. To initiate oversteer, there are several key techniques to keep in mind:

How to Drift: The Art of Oversteer

by Paul Morton (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	46676 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	357 pages

FREE

• Throttle Control: Learning to balance the throttle is crucial in drifting. Applying too much throttle can cause a spinout, while too little can result in understeer. Gradually increase and modulate the throttle while cornering to maintain control.
• Weight Transfer: Shifting the car's weight transfers more load to the rear tires, providing better traction for initiating and maintaining a drift. Techniques such as clutch kicking, feinting, and handbrake turns are commonly used to induce weight transfer.
• Countersteering: When the rear end of the car begins to slide, countersteering is necessary to maintain control. This means turning the steering wheel in the same direction as the slide. It may feel counterintuitive at first, but practice will help you react quickly and effectively.

The Perfect Drift Car

Choosing the right car is fundamental in the pursuit of drifting mastery. While any rear-wheel-drive car can be used for drifting, there are specific characteristics that make some cars more suitable for this sport. The ideal drift car should have:

• Rear-Wheel Drive: A rear-wheel-drive layout allows for better weight transfer and control during drifts.
• Manual Transmission: Manual transmissions provide better control over gear selection, allowing you to stay within your optimum power band.
• Power and Torque: Drifting requires power and torque to break traction, so a car with sufficient horsepower is recommended.
• Aftermarket Modifications: While not necessary for beginners, certain modifications such as coilovers, limited-slip differentials, and upgraded brakes can enhance a car's drifting capabilities.

Mastering Techniques

Now that you understand the fundamentals, let's dive deeper into some essential drifting techniques:

1. Power Slides

Power slides involve using the throttle to break traction and initiate a drift while maintaining control. Start by finding a wide, open area, preferably with low grip (e.g., a wet surface). Gradually increase the throttle while countersteering to control the slide. Remember to modulate the throttle to extend or reduce the slide as desired.

2. Clutch Kicking

Clutch kicking is a popular technique used to initiate oversteer by quickly engaging the clutch while simultaneously releasing it to transfer weight to the rear wheels. This abrupt transfer of weight provides a burst of power to break traction and induce a drift. Practice timing and coordination to master this advanced technique.

3. Handbrake Turns

Handbrake turns are another effective way to initiate a drift. As you approach a corner, quickly pull the handbrake while simultaneously steering into the turn. The rear wheels will lock, causing the rear end to slide out. Once the slide is initiated, countersteer and modulate the throttle to maintain control.

Getting Started: Practice and Safety

Drifting is a high-risk motorsport that requires a controlled environment and strict safety precautions. Here are some tips to help you get started safely:

• Find an Appropriate Location: Look for local racetracks, autocross courses, or drifting circuits that provide a safe and controlled environment for practicing drifting.
• Invest in Safety Equipment: Prioritize your safety by investing in a good quality helmet, racing suit, gloves, and harness. These will protect you in case of an accident or spinout.
• Attend Driving Schools: Enroll in professional drifting schools or seek guidance from experienced drifters. They can provide valuable tips, techniques, and guidance to help you develop your skills.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: Becoming a skilled drifter takes time and practice. Start with simple techniques in a safe environment and gradually progress to more advanced maneuvers.

The Drift Community

Drifting has a strong and passionate community that extends beyond the physical tracks. Join online forums, social media groups, and local car clubs to connect with fellow drift enthusiasts. Attending drift events and competitions allows you to witness professional drifters in action, learn from their techniques, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this thrilling motorsport.

Drifting is a blend of skill, precision, and adrenaline. By understanding the principles of oversteer, practicing different techniques, and prioritizing safety, you can embark on a journey to master the art of drifting. Remember, it takes dedication, perseverance, and a passion for pushing the limits of both yourself and your car. So, put on your helmet, buckle up, and get ready to experience the exhilaration of drifting!

How to Drift: The Art of Oversteer

by Paul Morton (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	46676 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	357 pages

FREE

The photos in this edition are black and white.

Drifting is the newest, most exciting motorsport we have seen in the United States since the invention of the limited slip differential - it may even be the most exhilarating contest man and machine ever devised!

From the winding mountain passes and desolate industrial roads of Japan, this unique sport of sliding a car sideways through a series of corners has become a huge hit in America. Drift, or dorifto as they call it Japan, extracts the most exciting portion from various forms of auto racing - the four-wheel drift - and makes it the focus of an extremely intense and visually intoxicating new motor sport.

How to Drift: The Art of Oversteer is a comprehensive guide to both driving technique and car setup. The author explains various styles and methods of drifting, and provides technical physical descriptions and detailed line art and photos. He goes on to explain how you need to modify your car's suspension, chassis, engine, and driveline to enhance its ability to drift.

This book contains more than 350 photos and detailed line drawings.