How to Align the Entrance in an S-Turn?
3 Answers
When entering from the left entrance, keep the vehicle as close as possible to the right line before turning the steering wheel to the left. Conversely, when entering from the right entrance, stay close to the left line before turning the steering wheel to the right. Additionally, make full use of all available resources, including instructor mirrors (the two small round mirrors added on the hood) and rearview mirrors.
The key to aligning with the entrance of an S-curve is early observation and speed control. Having driven many mountain roads, my experience tells me to clearly see the shape of the curve from a distance and estimate the entrance position. Don't drive too fast—reduce speed to a safe range before entering the curve, such as 40-50 km/h, to ensure enough reaction time. Turn the steering wheel gently without sudden movements, and focus your eyes on the curve's exit rather than the entrance point—this helps the car glide into the curve more naturally. Be extra cautious in rain or poor visibility, and check tire wear in advance to avoid skidding if the car drifts. I recommend practicing on open roads, using reference points like road signs or trees to build familiarity, preventing loss of control at high speeds.
When driving through an S-curve, I always feel that aligning with the entrance is like playing a game, requiring flexible responses. Keep your gaze further ahead instead of focusing on the front wheels, and anticipate the curve's outline to slow down early to a steady speed. Gently adjust the steering wheel without rushing, maintaining strong tire grip makes alignment easier. At night or in foggy conditions, it's best to turn on the lights to improve visibility and avoid sudden braking that could cause skidding. When practicing, you can have a partner guide you from the roadside or use a mobile app to record your trajectory and analyze where misalignment occurs. I've gotten used to applying these techniques on my daily commute, smoothly entering curves makes driving smoother and safer.
