Quote: Originally Posted by phoggberg
I agree that the technique starts similarly, but the end result is different. Left Foot Braking is putting the car into a controlled imbalance condition. What nonsequitur is describing is more aptly described as weight shift control.
I'll just accept this as true, but I don't see a difference between what I'm describing and the article on Left-Foot Braking linked in the earlier post. It clearly talks about using the left foot, and the intent is balance, adjustment, and very controlled rotation of the car.
It's important to say the tires are sliding (slip angle) all the time in a corner. The degree of slip angle difference between the fronts and rears can be managed short of losing grip (break away) by inputs of steering, throttle, and brake. The MINI permits both throttle and brake to be used at the same time (good), and the way to do that in the CVT-equipped MINI is with your left foot on the brake and your right foot on the gas.
I think we agree, except on the amplitude of the result.
WRC and SCCA rally massively slide the rear to rotate the cars around slow, tight corners. They are probably using LFB, and many times a touch of hand brake (using that repositioned and lengthened handle next to the steering wheel). The objective is lock-up and break away of the rears, just as you say.
The same technique, but much less aggressive, is useful on the road and hard surface track to help rotate the car in more sweeping corners at much higher speeds. Lock-up and break away of the rears would be a disaster (a big spin).
My focus in all of these threads has been on road (or track) techniques, not rally. It is not necessary, and not desirable, to have the rear "step out" abruptly in a high speed corner on a road course. Smoothness counts for everything. LFB permits bias to be applied to the MINI, in a corner, for enhanced control not loss of control.
It works!
