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Welcome to SimSepp's SIM Racing School
If you're interested in learning the essential basics of sim racing, this guide is for you. Sim racing closely mimics real-world motorsports, so the following lessons cover several important racing topics in a concise manner. Although implementing each step won't guarantee immediate race victories, they will help lay a solid foundation for improvement. Ultimately, becoming a skilled sim racing driver takes practice, which is up to the individual to pursue. With these lessons, you'll have the tools to start your journey toward becoming a proficient sim racer.
1. Lesson: Gentlemen’s Agreement.
1st Commandment, respect: It's essential to always treat every competitor with respect, regardless of their origin, gender, or driving skill. Showing respect towards others is key to earning respect from them as well. This principle holds true in all aspects of life and remember, treating others with respect is a basic human value that should guide our actions both on and off the track.
2nd Commandment, race rules: To participate in a racing event, it is essential to learn and understand the rules thoroughly. Only those who have a clear understanding of the rules can avoid penalties and ensure a fair competition. It is crucial to always follow the established rules without exceptions. Rather than being an obstacle, the rule book serves as a guide to help ensure the event is run smoothly and safely. Therefore, it is important to view the rule book as a helpful resource, not an adversary.
3rd Commandment, turn 1: As old as motorsport itself, this tip still holds true today: the race is not won in the first turn. Making a mistake early on can end your race before it even really begins. It's important to be vigilant and carefully observe what's happening around your race car. You must always be ready to respond quickly if needed. While losing places in the beginning may seem like a setback, it can give you a tactical advantage later in the race. Stay focused, stay alert, and remember that every second counts in motorsport.
A Gentleman's agreement in racing is an unwritten code of conduct that promotes fair play and safety on the track. It encourages racers to respect each other's safety and avoid unsportsmanlike or dangerous practices, such as sudden braking or blocking other cars. Violators may face penalties such as losing positions or disqualification. While not a formal rule, the agreement is an important part of racing etiquette, based on sportsmanship and respect for competitors. By promoting healthy competition, racers can enjoy the sport and create positive memories.
2. Lesson: Racing flags - What do they mean?
The marshals positioned around the racetrack wave different flags to communicate important information to the drivers. It's important to understand the meaning of each flag and commit it to memory as it can be critical to ensuring safety on the track. Knowing the flags is a prerequisite for participating in any race, whether it's virtual or real.
While there are many flags used in different race series, the ones listed here are universal and the most important to know. Understanding the flags is crucial for all drivers, and failing to do so can result in serious consequences. Let's take a closer look at what each flag means:
GREEN FLAG
Explanation: The Green flag denotes the start of the race or signals to drivers that the course is clear, and the race has resumed after a caution or safety car period. In other words, it’s time to send it and to overtake as many racers as possible.
YELLOW FLAG
Explanation: The Yellow flag is a warning signal for drivers to slow down and proceed with caution due to a hazard or incident on the track. If marshals or officials are on track, drivers are not allowed to overtake.
DOUBLE YELLOW
Explanation: A Double Yellow flag is a more severe warning signal than a single yellow flag. The double yellow flag signals that there is a significant hazard or obstruction on the track, and drivers must slow down even more and be prepared to stop. Someone sent it a bit too hard, do not try to be the next.
BLUE FLAG
Explanation: The flag is shown to the slower driver by a marshal at a designated point on the track. The purpose of the blue flag is to inform the slower driver that they should move over and allow the faster car to pass. Someone else is sending it harder than you. You are too slow, get out of the way!
RED FLAG
Explanation: The Red flag signals an immediate stop to the race due to a severe safety hazard or incident on the track. Drivers must immediately slow down and return to the pits. Someone sent it so hard that the race has to stop. Avoid being the cause of a red flag, because it’s guaranteed that neither the participants nor the spectators will be amused.
BLACK FLAG
Explanation: When a driver is shown a Black flag, it is an indication that they have to return to the pits immediately. This can happen due to a mechanical issue with the car, breaking the rules, or dangerous driving. The stewards are now mad because you really fucked up! Shame on you.
WHITE FLAG
Explanation: The White flag indicates one lap to go before the checkered flag, the end of the race. This is your last chance to send it, as hard as possible!
CHECKERED FLAG
Explanation: The Checkered flag denotes the end of the race, and the first driver to cross the finish line is declared the winner. Congrats, you nailed it! Do not send it anymore.
3. Lesson: Race Engineer - Get all needed information.
This video gives you an overview of what all the software does for you during a race. Note, the software is free of charge to everyone.
The Crew Chief is a powerful software tool that can be used in a wide range of racing simulators to provide live information and feedback to the driver.
This sophisticated program is designed to recognize the unique nuances of each track and car combination, and it provides personalized advice to each driver based on their driving style, car setup, and track conditions. With the ability to communicate with the driver via voice commands, text, or both, the Crew Chief makes it easy for drivers to use it while staying focused on the track.
One of the primary features of the Crew Chief is its ability to monitor various aspects of the car, using real-time data to provide updates on fuel usage or tire wear. This critical information can help drivers decide when to make a pit stop or adjust their driving style to conserve fuel or preserve the tires, ultimately improving their performance on the track.
In addition to monitoring the car's performance, the Crew Chief also provides important race strategy advice, such as when to pit, how much to refuel and tires to take, as well as if one should push or conserve resources. By analyzing the driver's lap times and comparing them to their competitors' times, the software can determine if adjustments need to be made to stay competitive.
Safety is always a top priority in racing, and the Crew Chief provides an extra layer of protection by warning the driver of potential hazards or accidents, such as an accident in front of them or yellow caution flags on the track. With the Crew Chief's timely warnings and real-time updates, drivers can stay safe and avoid potentially dangerous situations.
Overall, the Crew Chief is a versatile and customizable tool that can enhance the racing experience for drivers of all levels. With its detailed feedback, real-time updates, and personalized advice, the software can help drivers optimize their performance, increase their chances of winning, and stay safe on the track
4. Lesson: Equipment / Ergonomic / Health - Pay attention to this!
When it comes to sim racing, finding the right tools is crucial. It's not about spending the most money on equipment, as there are no pay-to-win options among the different manufacturers. Personally, I've been using FANATEC products since 2000 and highly recommend the brand. However, the choice of equipment is entirely up to you, and there's no obligation to choose a specific brand.
4.1 - Cockpit
4.3 - Pedals
Ensure your cockpit is stable, and your seat is comfortable, as ergonomics is a crucial factor that is often overlooked.
For a realistic driving experience, a load cell braking system is a must-have! This system accurately simulates the progressive brake behavior.
4.2 - Racing Wheel
4.4 - Monitor - FOV
I highly recommend investing in a direct drive system for the ultimate sim racing experience. This system allows you to feel even the smallest details. Additionally, a round-shaped steering wheel is a great choice for optimal control and handling.
Ensure that your field of view (FOV) is accurately set to enhance your driving experience. You can utilize the tool linked below to calculate the correct value.
Mental strength is crucial in both sim racing and real racing, as it allows drivers to stay focused and committed. Remaining calm and composed in high-pressure situations is a significant advantage, enabling drivers to make better decisions and react more quickly to unexpected situations.
Maintaining physical health is vital for a driver as high-speed racing demands immense endurance. Fatigue or poor health can compromise their ability to concentrate and make split-second decisions, leading to accidents and poor performance. Therefore, being in good physical shape and having a clear mind is crucial for success in racing. It helps drivers to stay focused, maintain peak physical condition, and improve their overall performance on the racetrack.
To conclude, mental strength and physical fitness are vital components in racing, aiding drivers to maintain focus and make optimal decisions. Therefore, prioritizing mental and physical health is essential for drivers to achieve success in the sport.
5. Lesson: The racing line - What is meant by this?
▶️ - Analyze the course: To drive a race successfully, it is crucial for the driver to analyze the course before getting behind the wheel. This involves studying the various features of the track, including its turns, straights, and any other unique elements that may affect the driver's performance. By understanding the layout of the track, the driver can develop a strategy that takes advantage of the course's strengths while minimizing its weaknesses.
▶️ - Identify the turn-in point: To take each corner smoothly, the driver should identify the correct turn-in point. This is the point where the car should start turning into the corner to follow the racing line efficiently.
▶️ - Identify the Apex: The driver needs to identify the apex point of each corner. This is the point at which the car should be closest to the inside of the turn. Properly hitting the apex is crucial to achieve the fastest line through the corner and carry more speed out of it.
▶️ - Exit Point: It is important for the driver to identify the correct exit point of each corner, which is where the car should be positioned for optimal acceleration out of the corner.
▶️ - Visualize the racing line: Once the track has been analyzed, the driver should mentally visualize the racing line. This enables the driver to determine the correct positioning of the car on each section of the track.
▶️ - Implementation: After visualizing the racing line, the driver should consistently follow it throughout the race. Maintaining a smooth and consistent driving line is crucial to achieving fast lap times and staying competitive on the track.
▶️ - Adjust as necessary: The racing line may need to be adapted depending on various factors, such as weather conditions, traffic, and the characteristics of the car being driven. The driver should be prepared to adjust the racing line during the race to optimize their performance on the track.
- Summary - Driving the correct racing line involves a series of steps. First, the driver must analyze the track, taking note of key features such as turns and straights. Then, the driver should identify the optimal turn-in point, apex point, and exit point for each corner.
Afterward, the driver should visualize the racing line, mentally mapping out the ideal trajectory around the track. Once on the track, the driver should consistently follow this line, adjusting as necessary based on external factors such as weather conditions, traffic, and the characteristics of the car being driven. By following these steps, the driver can effectively and efficiently navigate the track, optimizing their speed and performance.
6. Lesson: Practice makes perfect - Just do it!
6.1 - Selecting the right vehicle for sim racing is a personal choice, but it's essential to have a good understanding of the options available. It's common for beginners to overestimate their abilities and aim for the fastest car possible. However, as in real motorsports, it's essential to start with a vehicle that matches your skill level. For newbies, we recommend starting with Formula 3 race cars or cup cars, such as the BMW M2 CS. These vehicles may not be as fast as GT3 cars, but they require a certain level of skill to drive effectively. Starting with these vehicles allows you to develop the necessary skills and build confidence before moving up to more advanced cars.
6.2 - Setting and achieving realistic goals is essential, especially at the beginning of your racing journey. To start with, you should focus on learning the track inside out, memorizing every turn, and figuring out which gear to use at each corner. It's also crucial to know the exact braking points for every section of the track.
As you progress, aim to complete a 30-minute stint without any significant errors. This will help you build consistency and confidence in your driving skills. Your lap times should be within half a second of each other, depending on the weather conditions. Remember, consistency is key in racing, and it takes time and practice to achieve this level of performance.
6.3 - Practicing pit stops is an essential part of sim racing. You should spend time practicing driving into and out of the pit lane to ensure that you don't get lost or penalized for exceeding the speed limit. Additionally, parking your car accurately in the pit area may seem simple, but it can be challenging to get right. Don't risk losing valuable time in the pits or incurring penalties by neglecting this aspect of your training.
6.4 - In motorsport, handling disappointments and defeats is crucial to develop mental resilience. Each setback should be seen as an opportunity to learn and improve, identify areas of improvement, and use this knowledge to your advantage. Successful drivers have faced defeats, but their ability to bounce back and persevere sets them apart.
6.5 - I have some resources to help you get started quickly. Below, you'll find three videos that demonstrate the racing line and gear selection for the Nürburgring, Spa, and Hungaroring tracks. Additionally, I've included three links to BMW M2 CS setups. With this complete package, you’ll be able to produce immediate results, if you apply what we've learned together:
🇩🇪 NUERBURGRING
This setup is made for dry weather conditions. The chassis geometry + aerodynamics have been adjusted. Depending on the track temperatures, the tyre pressure must be adjusted. Fuel has been added for a race duration of approximately 20 minutes.
🇧🇪 SPA
This setup is made for dry weather conditions. The chassis geometry + aerodynamics have been adjusted. Depending on the track temperatures, the tyre pressure must be adjusted. Fuel has been added for a race duration of approximately 20 minutes.
🇭🇺 HUNGARORING
This setup is made for dry weather conditions. The chassis geometry + aerodynamics have been adjusted. Depending on the track temperatures, the tyre pressure must be adjusted. Fuel has been added for a race duration of approximately 20 minutes.
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