Trail braking is a technique used in racing, including iRacing, where a driver continues to brake as they begin to turn into a corner.

This technique involves a gradual release of the brake pedal while initiating the turn, allowing the driver to carry more speed into the corner and better control the weight distribution of the car.

Here’s a breakdown of how trail braking works and its significance in iRacing:

Braking Into the Turn:
As you approach a corner, you start braking in a straight line, shedding speed before entering the turn. This initial braking phase is crucial to set up for the corner.

Transition to Turn-In:
While still applying the brakes, you begin to turn the steering wheel to initiate the turn. This transition from braking to turning is the essence of trail braking.

Gradual Release of Brakes:
Instead of abruptly releasing the brake pedal, you gradually ease off the brakes as you progress into the corner. This helps to maintain a balance between braking and cornering forces.

Weight Transfer:
Trail braking allows you to manage the distribution of weight over the car’s tyres. By continuing to brake into the turn, you keep more weight on the front tyres, providing better grip and control during the turn.

Increased Corner Entry Speed:
One of the primary benefits of trail braking is the ability to carry more speed into the corner. This can lead to quicker lap times, as you are utilizing the full potential of the car’s braking and cornering capabilities.

Adaptability to Different Cars:
Trail braking is a technique that can be adapted to different types of cars, although the degree of trail braking and its effectiveness may vary based on the characteristics of the specific vehicle.

Simulation in iRacing:
In iRacing, trail braking is implemented to simulate real-world racing dynamics. The physics engine is designed to respond realistically to changes in weight distribution, providing a virtual environment where trail braking techniques can be practiced and refined.

To effectively use trail braking in iRacing, it’s essential to understand the specific characteristics of the car you are driving. Experiment with different braking points, turn-in points, and amounts of trail braking to find the optimal approach for each corner on a particular track. Practicing trail braking can enhance your overall racing skills and improve your performance in iRacing events.