0 - Introduction
Introduction to the PHORS article series - By Brian Beckman
"I started this series in 1991 for my local racing club's printed newsletter. The web had just been born, though the Internet was not ye |
1 - Weight Transfer
Most autocrossers and race drivers learn early in their careers the importance of balancing a car. Learning to do it consistently and automatically is one essential part of becoming a truly |
2 - Keeping Your Tyres Stuck to the Ground
In last month's article, we explained the physics behind weight transfer. That is, we explained why braking shifts weight to the front of the car, accelerating shifts weight to the rear, an |
3 - Basic Calculations
In the last two articles, we plunged right into some relatively complex issues, namely weight transfer and tyre adhesion. This month, we regroup and review some of the basic units and dimensions need |
4 - There Is No Such Thing as Centrifugal Force
One often hears of "centrifugal force." This is the apparent force that throws you to the outside of a turn during cornering. If there is anything loose in the car, it will immediately slide to the r |
5 - Introduction to the Racing Line
This month, we analyse the best way to go through a corner. "Best" means in the least time, at the greatest average speed. We ask "what is the shape of the driving line through the corner that gives |
6 - Speed and Horsepower
The title of this month's article consists of two words dear to every racer's heart. This month, we do some "back of the envelope" calculations to investigate the basic physics of speed and horsepowe |
7 - The Traction Budget
This month, we introduce the traction budget. This is a way of thinking about the traction available for car control under various conditions. It can help you make decisions about driving style, t |
