MotoGP riders do not turn their handles while racing because it would be inefficient and potentially dangerous. When a rider turns the handle, it turns the front wheel, and can cause the bike to lose traction, slowing the rider down. Additionally, turning the handle increases the risk of the rider losing control, crashing, or losing the race. As a result, riders must rely on body positioning in order to control the bike and maintain optimum speed. By leaning the body, riders can make the bike turn, creating a smoother overall ride and allowing them to remain in the race.
Steering Basics for Motorsport Fans
When you sit behind a race car wheel, the first thing you feel is the steering. It’s the direct link between your hands and the road, and a good feel can mean the difference between a clean pass and a spin. On this page we break down the core ideas of steering, why it’s crucial for speed, and simple actions you can take to make the most of it.
Why Steering Matters in Racing
Steering isn’t just about turning the wheel; it controls the car’s balance, weight transfer, and corner entry speed. A tight, responsive steering system lets you hit the apex late, stay in the optimal racing line, and keep the tires in the sweet spot of grip. If the steering feels vague, you’ll over‑steer or under‑steer without even noticing, which wastes precious seconds.
Most race cars use a quick‑ratio steering box, meaning a small wheel turn produces a big angle at the wheels. That quick response is great for quick direction changes, but it also demands precise inputs. The faster the steering ratio, the more you have to trust your gut feel, so developing that feel is essential.
Practical Steering Tips to Boost Lap Times
1. Know your steering ratio. Check the spec sheet or ask your team. A 12:1 ratio is common in many formula cars, while touring cars might sit around 15:1. When you know the ratio, you can gauge how much wheel movement equals a given corner angle.
2. Keep your hands at 9 and 3 o’clock. This position gives the best leverage and keeps the wheel from wobbling. It also makes small corrections quicker and reduces fatigue during long stints.
3. Practice smooth inputs. Jerky steering motions unsettle the suspension and make the tires lose grip. Try to turn the wheel in a continuous, fluid motion—think of steering like drawing a line rather than punching the wheel.
4. Use steering feedback. Modern race cars have a lot of tactile information. If the steering shudders, the front tires are at their limit. Use that vibration to know when to ease off throttle or adjust your line.
5. Check wheel alignment regularly. Even a few degrees of toe or camber change can alter steering feel. A well‑aligned car gives predictable steering response, making it easier to trust your inputs.
6. Experiment with steering lock‑to‑lock. Most tracks require only a fraction of full lock. Practicing with the wheel near the center lets you focus on micro‑adjustments that shave off tenths of a second.
7. Stay relaxed. Tension in your arms transfers to the steering and makes it feel heavier. Take a deep breath, keep your elbows slightly bent, and let the car do the work.
Getting a good steering feel isn’t a one‑time thing. It’s built lap after lap, with each corner teaching you how the car reacts. Keep a notebook of what works on each circuit—maybe a tighter lock‑to‑lock works at Monaco, while a wider angle helps at Silverstone.
Remember, steering is your primary communication tool with the car. The more you listen and respond, the faster you’ll become. Dive into your next session, focus on these tips, and watch your lap times drop. Happy racing!