Getting into sim racing is an exciting ride, but it can feel like you're learning a whole new language. Between all the acronyms and racing lingo, it’s easy to feel a bit lost when you're just starting out. Whether you're fresh on the grid or have a few laps under your belt, this glossary will help you talk the talk—and drive the drive.
Here are 20 must-know sim racing terms to get you up to speed:
1. Sim racing - Short for “simulated racing,” it’s a realistic form of virtual motorsport using software and often a racing wheel and pedals.
2. Sim setup - Your physical setup: wheel, pedals, seat, monitor(s), etc. Can range from budget builds to full motion rigs.
3. Force feedback - A system in your wheel that simulates road feel, letting you "feel" the car’s grip, bumps, and weight shifts.
4. Overtake – Well, overtaking it's when you pass someone on track.
5. The Cliff – The term refers to the sudden drop in tire performance after they’ve worn past their optimal grip level.
6. Racing line - The fastest path around the track. It’s all about maximizing speed and minimizing unnecessary steering.
7. Trail braking - A technique where you continue braking as you turn into a corner, helping rotate the car.
8. Hot lap - A lap where you're going all out for the fastest time possible—no traffic, no mistakes.
9. Pit stop - When you pull in for fresh tires, fuel, or repairs.
10. ABS - Anti-lock Braking System. Prevents wheel lockup, especially useful for beginners.
11. TC (Traction Control) - Helps prevent the tires from spinning when you accelerate. Common in GT and modern cars.
12. BOP (Balance of Performance) - It evens out different cars by tweaking power, weight, or fuel for fairer racing. Largely used in GT competition, helps to balance the performance of different kind of cars.
13. Brake fade - Loss of braking power during long races due to overheating brakes.
14. Spotter - Either AI or a real person helping you with traffic awareness (like “Car left” or “Clear right.”), cautions or debris on track.
15. Dash app / HUD - On-screen display of your speed, gear, lap time, etc. Some use external apps or tablets for more info.
16. Delta time - Shows the time difference between your current lap and your best lap. Can be useful to maintain the pace and concentration.
17. Cockpit view - The in-car camera angle that simulates what a real driver sees from the seat.
18. Tire deg - Short for "tire degradation." Over time, tires wear out, reducing grip and performance.
19. Splash and dash - A splash and dash is a quick late-race fuel stop to reach the finish without refueling fully.
20. Push to pass - Push to pass is a limited-use power boost in sim racing to help with overtaking or defending.
Learning the lingo helps you feel more confident and connected, both in races and in the sim racing community. Save this glossary, and you’ll be sounding like a pro in no time. See you on the track!
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