In the first two blog posts I reviewed a few key points to help you stay on track and how to potentially change your fortunes in case of a bad race. So far, the season has taken on a more positive tone and some consistency I felt was lost at the beginning of the season was regained. I guess practicing what you preach isn’t overrated! In the most recent race though another challenge arose that I, and any newish “Iracer” will face – a new track or car combo. Worst case it’s a combination of both and in that case your wallet and your wife won’t be happy with you, money and time will be spent!
Variety is the spice of life
As mentioned previously, the Masters League race a new car and track combination every week. This poses a unique challenge as we typically switch between tin tops and open wheelers, modern vs old or front wheel vs rear wheel drive car configurations. In the best case, you get to drive a car and track combination that you know and prefer. Worst case you get to learn how to drive a track and car combo that you don’t but still improve your general skill. Or simply suffer through the week and hope next weeks combination suits you better! This is one of the reasons I enjoy racing in the Masters League, your whole season is not based on your ability to gel with a car you struggle with or simply don’t enjoy driving.
Not every driving aid will make you fast
I do think there is something really satisfying about mastering a new track or finessing a hard to drive car to a decent lap time or overall result. I have learned one key take away to help master each, which may help you too:
Attack a new track – don’t switch on the driving line. Although this function might be useful to help you with the general track direction and slow/fast zones it does not help you when it comes to key nuances of the track. From my experience the driving line can make you lazy by not using external braking markers, taking note of the apex, acceleration zones or unique track conditions. Remember, in sim racing you drive different cars and these aspects can be unique for each car you drive. Also, whilst you are in battle with other cars you need external markers to help orientate you on the track – see the meatball blog last week if you don’t heed my warning!
New car – log in and watch an onboard. If you are really struggling to understand a new car it is highly recommended to watch onboards of other drivers. Do this either throughout your open lobby session or through the plethora of online videos available. When you do get a hang of it though you might need a little more help and this is where analysis comes in
The devil is in the details
One helpful tool I am trying to use more often is data analysis. Although there are plenty of paid for services available, Garage 61 offers a free to use platform. This enables you to automatically link you session to the Garage 61 application and compare your laps to those of other users. You even have access to setup data in the case of users sharing this – very useful for open setup Iracing series. Get the basics of the car and track right and the addition of data analysis will not only help unlock ultimate lap time but also consistency across an entire stint.
Want to Join the Grid?
We would love more drivers to join us in the series. The joining fee is minimal, and you will become a faster driver whilst enjoying the racing and getting to know some industry stalwarts in the process! More information can be found here: https://masters-series.co.za/Entry