Hi All,
I'm reasonably new to karting however, have spent a bit of time driving around the eastern creek track (mostly the 1024m layout).
While I can feel my times getting quicker every session I do (within reason), I am having trouble seeing how the lap record is possible, i.e, how I am supposed to go 2 seconds faster. (I'm in tag r light)
Now yes, those who set the records will have been driving for years and there is no substitute for track time but I'm still a bit confused.
So, my question is, what sort of tips are there for this track, lines, corners you don't need to brake for, and those you really do etc etc. Basically, I'm just interested in any sort of tricks that people have for this track.
Also, are there going to be some days when regardless of how many sessions you do, getting anywhere near the track record is just impossible, even for those who hold it, simply because of grip levels, weather etc.
Apologies for the long winded first post but many thanks in advance for the help.
Joe.
Comments7
Takes plenty of laps to get anywhere near record lap paceÂ
I will be out there on the 12th doing some praccy so you are more than welcome to come out and do laps with me and learn the lines. PM me if interested
'Brien on July 27, 2018 at 18:46
Thanks very much for that offer Niven. Don't think I'll be able to get out there on the 12th but no doubt will see you around at some point. Thanks. Niven Riches said:
Takes plenty of laps to get anywhere near record lap paceÂ
I will be out there on the 12th doing some praccy so you are more than welcome to come out and do laps with me and learn the lines. PM me if interested
As Niven said takes many laps. Unfortunately for any track there is not many things that can be said especially on a forum without been trackside and watching the kart and the driving style that will unlock lap record times.
Eastern creek is a deceivingly complex track, looks relatively simple and the high average speeds mean it is easy to get close to fast times but the last 0.5sec is usually where it starts getting tricky.
It is a track that will reward smooth driving and faith/confidence in your karts grip. Corners such as the grandstand and the carousel have many different ways to approach it with similar results.
As they say practice makes perfect. Don't be too discouraged by your pace initially as you will find that getting within 1-1.5secs (condition depending) is relatively easy with just extra laps under your belt.
If you want to help accelerate the learning process, although it does cost money. Booking even just a session with someone like Troy Hunt (topgun racing) will help incredibly.
I have seen him work wonders with many inexperienced and younger drivers. His own record speaks for itself but some of the driver's he has worked with have gone on to incredible things.
If you want to go down this route with learning I would say that earlier will be more beneficial as it is easier to learn techniques before you have 'bad habits' developed.
Thanks very much for those comments Ben. Track time is definitely important, only problem is that its hard to get enough of it.
It is a bit frustrating though when you feel like you're going well and the lap times suggest otherwise, never mind the last 0.5 sec, its the first 2.5 that I'm struggling to get even when feeling quick. Benjamin Piper said:
If you want to help accelerate the learning process, although it does cost money. Booking even just a session with someone like Troy Hunt (topgun racing) will help incredibly. I have seen him work wonders with many inexperienced and younger drivers. His own record speaks for itself but some of the driver's he has worked with have gone on to incredible things. If you want to go down this route with learning I would say that earlier will be more beneficial as it is easier to learn techniques before you have 'bad habits' developed.
I wouldn't concentrate on the lap record as a target. Look at the lap times of your class at the last club meet. Don't even look at pole of that session, look mid pack, thats what you're aiming for. If that is within reach you're away.Â
Usually records are set at large meets when lots of rubber has gone down. You're just not comparing apples with apples.Â
That's a good point Felix. Only thing is, looking at a decent lap time for the mid field seems to still be about a second quicker. And my issue is where that second is... felix reiten said:
I wouldn't concentrate on the lap record as a target. Look at the lap times of your class at the last club meet. Don't even look at pole of that session, look mid pack, thats what you're aiming for. If that is within reach you're away.Â
Usually records are set at large meets when lots of rubber has gone down. You're just not comparing apples with apples.Â