What are the principles and operating methods of drifting?
3 Answers
The principle of drifting is that the rear wheels lose most of their grip while the front wheels maintain their grip. At this point, as long as there is a certain lateral force on the front wheels, drifting will occur. The following introduces the methods for generating drifting and maintaining front wheel grip: 1. Methods to generate drifting: Pull the handbrake while driving straight and then turn the steering wheel; pull the handbrake during a turn; slam the brakes while driving straight and then turn the steering wheel; slam the brakes during a turn. 2. Methods to maintain front wheel grip: Avoid creating a large speed difference between the front wheels and the ground while driving; avoid significantly reducing the normal pressure between the front wheels and the ground—ideally, increase the normal pressure. Both conditions must be met simultaneously. In practical operations, pulling the handbrake ensures that there is a negative speed difference between the rear wheels and the ground (the rear wheels are relatively slower) while driving, without creating a large speed difference between the front wheels and the ground.
The principle of drifting is to make the rear wheels lose traction, causing the car to slide sideways, while you control the slide with the steering wheel and throttle. In terms of technique, my favorite is power oversteer: slightly brake before entering the turn, then stomp on the throttle to make the rear wheels lose grip, while counter-steering to maintain the angle. This requires practicing throttle control—too much and you'll spin, too little and you'll stop. Safety first, I always practice in open spaces with a helmet on. Drifting isn't just about looking cool; it also improves cornering skills, but you need a rear-wheel-drive car—front-wheel-drive is tough. Vehicle setup matters too, like lower tire pressure for better sliding. Remember, don't try this on public roads—only on tracks or safe areas.
From a physics perspective, drifting relies on weight transfer: during turns, weight shifts to the outer wheels, reducing rear tire grip and making sliding easier. In terms of technique, the handbrake drift is simplest – at low speeds, pulling the handbrake locks the rear wheels, causing the tail to swing out, then you control the steering and throttle to maintain the slide. The principle involves exceeding the tires' friction limit and using centrifugal force for balance. I recommend beginners start practicing in empty parking lots, applying throttle gently without rushing. Vehicles equipped with an LSD differential help distribute sliding more evenly. Drifting is fun but wears tires quickly. After practice, you'll find controlling the car's angle thrilling, but safety should always come first – avoid attempting it in crowded areas.
