A Beginners Guide to How to Drift

Embark on the Ultimate Adrenaline Rush: Mastering Car Drift in Australia

Are you craving an escape from the ordinary? Ready to swap mundane for adrenaline-pumping action? Welcome to the thrilling world of car drifting in Australia! This high-speed adventure isn't just about pushing the pedal to the metal; it's about redefining control and embracing a heart-racing journey. Imagine yourself, heart pounding, as you glide sideways, tyres screeching - a true departure from everyday life.

Gearing Up: The Drifter's Arsenal

Genuine adventure seekers know the essence of the right equipment. Becoming a drift maestro is not only about skill; it's about gearing up for safety. Essential drifting gear includes a crash helmet, racing gloves, and a fire-resistant suit. These aren't just accessories; they're your armour, enhancing your drift dynamics while keeping safety paramount.

When it comes to cars, any RWD vehicle can be your canvas. But for the aspiring drift artist, a car with a Locking Differential (LSD) and a modified or hydraulic handbrake is ideal. It's not just a car; it's your partner in this adrenaline-fueled escapade.

Choosing Your Drift Companion: The Perfect Drift Car

Before you hit the track, finding a car that suits your drifting ambitions is crucial. This guide will help you understand what to look for:

• Power-to-Weight Ratio: A car with a good balance of power and weight will make learning to drift easier. It doesn't have to be the most powerful but it should have enough grunt to break traction.
• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Essential for traditional drifting. RWD cars offer the necessary dynamics for initiating and maintaining a drift.
• Suspension Setup: The right suspension can significantly affect your car's driftability. Look for adjustable suspension systems that can be tuned to your liking.
• Popular Models for Beginners: Cars like the Nissan 240SX, Mazda MX-5, and Toyota GT86 are great for beginners due to their affordability and ease of modification.

Remember, it's not just about the car but also how you tune and maintain it for drifting perfection.

The Dance of Drifting: Technique is King

Drifting is an artful blend of control and chaos. Here's how:

1. Throttle Mastery: Like balancing a bike, mastering your throttle is key to maintaining the perfect drift. It's about the right amount of power and precision.
2. Clutch Control: The essence of drifting lies in clutch kicking. This technique keeps the car's sideways momentum, creating a surge of torque and an unforgettable slide.
3. Steering Savvy: Drifting isn't just about turning wheels. It's an intricate balance of steering finesse, throttle control, and fearless spirit. With practice, your steering will turn your drift into a smooth, exhilarating glide.

Step-by-Step Drifting Tutorials: Master the Basics of Drifting

Embarking on your drifting journey starts with mastering the basics. This section breaks down the fundamental techniques of drifting into easy-to-follow steps, ideal for beginners. Supplementing this guide with video content and diagrams can further enhance understanding.

1. Initiating a Drift

The Clutch Kick Method

• Accelerate to a moderate speed in a lower gear.
• Depress the clutch and rev the engine.
• Quickly release the clutch to send a burst of power to the rear wheels, breaking traction.

The Handbrake Technique

• Approach the turn at a steady speed.
• Pull the handbrake to lock the rear wheels, initiating a slide.
• Control the slide with steering input.

2. Maintaining Control During the Drift

Throttle and Steering Balance

• Once the drift is initiated, balance the throttle and steering to maintain the drift.
• Apply throttle to keep the rear wheels spinning; steer in the direction of the drift to control the car's angle.

Countersteering

• As the car starts sliding, turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the drift (countersteer) to control the slide.
• Adjust the throttle and countersteer to maintain a steady drift angle.

3. Exiting a Drift

Smoothing Out the Exit

• As you near the end of the turn, gradually lessen the throttle.
• Begin to straighten the steering wheel to align the car with the direction of travel.

Regaining Traction

• Carefully modulate the throttle and steering to regain traction without losing control.
• The goal is to exit the drift smoothly without abrupt movements.

Practice Makes Perfect

Drifting is a skill that requires practice and patience. Start slowly in a safe, controlled environment, like a designated drifting track or a driving school. Remember, the key to becoming a skilled drifter is learning these techniques, understanding your car, and reacting to its behaviour.

Discover Australia's Drift Paradises

Picture yourself drifting across Australia's stunning backdrops, tyres wailing, smoke swirling. With an array of drift schools and tracks, your next adventure is just around the corner. Now that you're versed in the essentials of drifting, it's time to dive into the experience. Don your helmet, suit up in your racing gear, and embrace the power slide of your life.

Join the Drift Community: Events and Competitions in Australia

Drifting is not just a solo journey; it's a community. Participating in or even attending events and competitions can exponentially enhance your drifting experience.

• Local Drifting Schools and Tracks: These are great places to start. They often host events where beginners can learn, and experts can showcase their skills.
• Popular Drifting Competitions: Look for events like the Australian Drifting Grand Prix or local club competitions. These events are about competition, learning, and community building.
• Meet and Greets: Often, drifting events have sessions where enthusiasts can meet professionals, get advice, and even see their cars up close.

Getting involved in local events is a fantastic way to learn, improve, and share your passion for drifting.

Conclusion: Dare to Drift into the Extraordinary

Why settle for the sidelines when you can be at the heart of the action, surrounded by a whirlwind of smoke and rubber? Australia is calling. Are you prepared to challenge your limits and drift into the extraordinary?

Browse a full range of car Drifting experiences available in Australia.