DRIVING AT A HIGHER LEVEL

We have talked about a number of ways to improve your driving thus far. We will now discuss an advanced technique known as Heel and Toe downshifting. This is a more difficult concept to grasp but one that you will find very helpful and enjoy once you master it. This technique is used when braking and downshifting through the gears. Watch our video demonstration to learn about this technique.

If you are wondering what the point of heel/toe downshifting is, we'll explain. First of all it is much easier on your vehicle to blip the throttle and match the engine RPM with the wheel speed, rather than just downshifting and letting the clutch out. When you master this technique you will instantly notice how much smoother your downshifts will become. You will be easier on your drivetrain, which will ultimately lower your maintenance costs. On a race track using this technique is essential. When downshifting aggressively you must match your engine RPM to your wheel speed or you will lock your drive wheels. This is very hard on a vehicle's drivetrain. On a rear wheel drive vehicle you can actually loose control and spin as a result of this locking action. Use the techinique described in the video and you will notice the improvements.

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