BMW M4 GT3 Spa HYMO Hot Lap Analysis
Let’s take a look at this hot lap of Spa in the BMW M4 GT3 driven by HYMO.
The Track
Spa-Francorchamps, often simply called "Spa," is a highly esteemed motor-racing circuit in Stavelot, Belgium. It is well-known for hosting the Formula One Belgian Grand Prix, as well as important events in the World Endurance Championship and GT3 races. The circuit is distinguished by its demanding layout, featuring fast, undulating, and twisting sections, most notably the renowned Eau Rouge-Raidillon complex.
Weather conditions at Spa can be unpredictable, often changing rapidly during a race, adding an extra layer of challenge. This aspect particularly influences tyre strategy and vehicle setup. Spa-Francorchamps is not just a test of speed, but also of endurance. It's home to the Spa 24 Hours, a key event in the GT3 racing calendar. In sim racing, especially in platforms like Assetto Corsa Competizione, Spa is recreated with high fidelity, offering drivers a virtual experience remarkably close to real-world racing at this iconic circuit.
To help you out, the HYMO setup used in this hot lap video is available for you to try HERE.
Analysis
The analysis below uses the Track Titan platform to compare a HYMO reference hotlap in blue to one of the Track Titan community drivers through Segment 10. The data below highlights the importance of picking the right time to get back on the throttle. You can see the community driver gets a little to keen on the throttle on the exit of the chicane. It looks like they pick up a little bit of understeer and are forced to fully lift to prevent going off track. The cost is over 0.1s of lap time on exit. They would have been better to be more patient.
You can analyse every other turn in the Track Titan platform; see reference lap here.
You can also take it to the next level and compare it against your own driving, just sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.
Sim Racing Top Tips
To fix rear locking in GT3 cars, including in sim racing like Assetto Corsa Competizione, try these key adjustments:
- Adjust Brake Bias: Shift the brake bias more towards the front. This helps reduce braking force on the rear, lessening rear lock-up.
- Reduce Brake Pressure: Lower the brake pressure settings. This makes braking less aggressive and can help prevent locking.
- Soften Rear Dampers: Softer rear dampers can improve traction during braking, reducing the chances of the rear wheels locking.
- Check Tyre Pressures: Ensure your tyre pressures are optimal. Incorrect pressures can affect grip and lead to locking.
- Smooth Braking: Practice progressive and smooth braking rather than abrupt braking to avoid locking the rear wheels.
Remember, small adjustments can have a significant impact, so make changes incrementally and test them out.
Don't know where to improve? Use the HYMO hotlap to find out.
To see full lap analysis of your own driving, you can sign up to Track Titan for FREE today here.