SKIDCAR SYSTEM Course Layouts

Over the years we have tried many different course configurations. Since the condition and shape of each area is different, it is necessary to build slightly different courses for each.

Because of the reality of limited training time behind the wheel of the SKIDCAR, we have designed some short and simple layouts to gain maximum value from the least amount of time and space. Our priorities for SKIDCAR use with a limited time behind the wheel are:

1. Use of the Eyes - You must look in the direction you want to go

2. Use of the Steering Wheel - Experience shows us that most everyone uses the steering wheel too much, and needed knowledge of how the front contact patches actually work is quick, easy, and enlightening in the SKIDCAR.

3. Use of the Brakes – The brakes should be seen as a tool to stabilize and add grip to the car rather than just something to use to slow or stop.

4. Maximum Repetition - A course 30 to 40 seconds in length allows maximum repetition. If you only have 15 minutes per student, a 30 second course give them thirty tries to get it right or wrong!

So if you follow my drift (a little skid humor) a simple oval designed to move the drivers’ eyes past the windshield post and out the side window is good for the use of head and eyes.

A turn designed with a long enough radius to allow for good and bad stable platform cornering techniques will provide validation of "Do everything sooner but less of it."

The two straightaways should be long enough to build enough speed to practice critical braking techniques for corner entry. This also helps with throttle application as they have to learn not to spin the rear tires on acceleration.

We have seen very good training response leaving the grip level constant during the 15 minutes and decreasing the amount of "NEW" traction levels to deal with. We still feel it is entirely appropriate to segregate front wheel skids and rear wheel skids, but time being what it is, which is the more important experience?

We have found that if we make the desired outcomes simpler, the student gets it quicker and validation of cognitive information about real world vehicle control comes with a shorter investment of time.