Finding the right brake pressure

Finding the right brake pressure is critical for any race driver to understand and this week, Motorsport Prospects contributor and founder and CEO Baseline Driver Training Tommy Schröter explains how to go about it.

If we assume that the car’s brake balance is adjusted properly, the weight distribution when braking will still vary a lot depending on what kind of car you are driving. If you for example drive a single seater or another car with a great deal of downforce, then you will be able to shift the weight quickly onto the front wheels and the tires will bite down on the asphalt.

Depending on the car’s settings and tires you need to ease a little onto the brakes before quickly finding your peak pressure, because you risk blocking the front wheels if you apply too much pressure from the beginning. You have to shift a little weight before you shift the weight of the entire car.

• If you are driving at a high speed and your braking zone is long and straight, then you won’t be able to apply too much brake pressure. As soon as the car bites down on the asphalt and your grip is good and your braking balance is adjusted, your wheels won’t lock no matter how hard you come onto the brakes.

• If on the other hand you are not driving at a very high speed and you only have to brake a little, or your braking zone is curved into a corner you might risk locking up the front wheels and you have to be a bit more careful.

It’s also important that you know the difference between finding your peak pressure and
searching for your peak pressure. If you’re searching for the ideal peak pressure, you will become hesitant in your movements and this can affect the efficiency of your braking.

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