How a proper game plan can help deliver time trial success | Articles

Remember Why You’re There

We’ll start by saying that competitive time trials aren’t necessarily about track time. Sure, the additional track time over something like autocross is certainly a nice perk, but let’s remember that the whole point here is turning a single fast lap, and spending too much time on track isn’t always conducive that that goal. 

Your first goal here is to form a plan based on what you actually need to achieve given the parameters of the competition. Do you need to set a single fast lap over an entire weekend of competition? Or will laps from multiple sessions be combined? 

These variables affect your approach since each session will likely have its own unique conditions. A generalization that we can make here: Most tracks will yield the fastest lap when clean and cool. When those conditions are actually present is going to vary from track to track, but in general, early sessions are faster than late sessions. 

As a track heats from both atmospheric conditions and friction, the asphalt softens and trapped oils can be wicked to the surface, reducing traction. Yes, in heavily loaded corners a rubber line can form, which can increase traction in some circumstances, but this isn’t always the case in this age of 200tw rubber.

So while you might get some mild rubbering-in through some corners, extreme heat can make that petroleum-based rubber just as much of a liability as a benefit. The bottom line here is to not rely on the track getting better throughout the day–unless the day starts wet.

Know Your Performance

A theme you’re probably already picking up on here is that going fast for that one perfect lap requires executing that lap at a time when a lot of variables are in their ideal range. And a key to exploiting those variables is knowing how you’re performing in real time during…