For the past few months I’ve been shifting gears without using the clutch – just for the challenge. I never grind the ’box or force it into gear, and it’s a smooth change 99 per cent of the time. However, everyone I speak to about it tells me not to do it. What do you think? – Paul O’Hare

A clutchless shift will take longer to perform, as you need to ensure gears are at a matched speed before they will engage. If the change is as smooth as you suggest, I would imagine you are timing your shift to coincide with a low to moderate engine speed as you increase and reduce road speed. Clutchless shifts are very difficult to achieve at high engine rpm, where the differential in gear speeds prohibits the change and puts unnecessarily high loadings on synchros, gear teeth and the selector mechanism.

Have you ever considered where you are looking when driving on circuit? I am looking at the road ahead I hear you all shout, the answer is obvious! ..... or is it? Those members who have trained with us will have experienced the exercises and coaching techniques that raise your awareness of the importance of sound observational skills when driving at speed.

Every CAT Driver Training session will include time spent working on where we are looking when driving. Be your objectives improving road skills or reducing your lap time, the message is the same - you must drive with a long focal point. It is without doubt, a core element to safe progress.

Publication: Total Magazine Article 2009

The summer is a busy time for us at CAT, lots of track day and race tuition. With the benefit of longer evenings and the hope of nicer weather the diary is always full. The motor racing calendar at this time of year is in full swing, championships are taking shape with a natural pecking order being established. Drivers often look to find an advantage over their competitors through vehicle set up, and improved driving skills.

Publication: Total Magazine Article 2009

Over previous issues we have been focusing on driving technique - relating our driving inputs to the dynamic loading of the vehicles platform as we drive on a circuit. Let’s take a more polarised look at the tyres we use and how we can optimise their grip with the tarmac.

An MLR Performance Driver ‘Track’ Day at Millbrook begins with an ABS braking exercise. Braking from high speed with the ABS activated allows the driver to brake and steer to avoid a hazard. ABS is a safety aid. It allows the wheel to remain rotating throughout the emergency braking and steering phase, as opposed to a locked wheel which will offer a very limited percentage of grip. A tyre has to be rotating to grip the road.

Threshold Braking