Threshold braking is a technique used in go-karting to maximize braking efficiency while maintaining control of the kart. It involves applying the brakes just below the point where the wheels start to lock up or lose traction.
Here are the steps for executing threshold braking in a go-kart:
- Look ahead: Look ahead to identify the braking point, which is usually marked by cones or other markers on the track.
- Apply brake pressure: Apply gradual pressure to the brake pedal, increasing the pressure as you approach the braking point. The goal is to apply enough pressure to slow down the kart as quickly as possible, but not so much that the wheels lock up and the kart loses control.
- Modulate brake pressure: As you approach the threshold point where the wheels start to lock up, modulate the brake pressure by gently releasing and reapplying the brakes. This will help you maintain control of the kart and prevent it from spinning out or sliding.
- Release brakes: As you approach the corner, release the brakes gradually to allow the kart to turn smoothly and maintain traction.
- Accelerate out of the corner: Once you have completed the turn, accelerate smoothly out of the corner to maximize speed and maintain momentum.
Practicing threshold braking can help you to improve your lap times and driving skills, and is an essential technique for competitive kart racing.
