BMW M4 GT3 Watkins Glen HYMO Hot Lap Analysis

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Let’s take a look at this hot lap of Watkins Glen in the BMW M4 GT3 driven by HYMO.

The Track

Watkins Glen International, affectionately known as "The Glen", is a storied motor racing circuit located in New York, USA. Renowned for its challenging layout and rich history in motorsport, it spans approximately 3.4 miles and features a unique combination of high-speed straights and demanding corners. The circuit is a favourite among GT3 racers for its complex elevation changes and the iconic "Esses" section, which demands precision and skill. Watkins Glen has hosted a diverse range of racing events, making it a revered track in the world of GT3 racing.

To help you out, the HYMO setup used in this hot lap video is available for you to try HERE.

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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 Turn 1. The community driver gets the braking point timing correct however it all goes wrong after the apex. It looks like they get on the power later than the reference but still run wider and are forced to lift again slightly. How is it possible they needed to lift even though they were going slower than the reference? Some of it could be in the car setup or the attitude of the car at the time. You can see from the steering trace that the community driver is using more steering angle than the reference which suggests they are understeering. the driver might want to alter the front suspension or aerodynamics to give more front grip to avoid having to lift on exit, hopefully gaining them over 0.1s.

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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.

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Sim Racing Top Tips

In GT3 racing, effective tyre wear management is vital, especially in endurance races. Here are key points:

1. Tyre Wear Factors: Understand how driving style, track surface, and weather affect tyre degradation.
2. Maintain Optimal Tyre Temperatures: Use tyre blankets pre-race and drive at a pace that keeps tyres within their ideal temperature range.
3. Smooth Driving: Employ gentle steering, braking, and throttle application to reduce wear. Avoid abrupt manoeuvres.
4. Cornering: Aim for precise lines to minimise sliding and maintain tyre condition.
5. Braking and Acceleration: Practice trail braking to control understeer and apply throttle smoothly to prevent tyre spin.
6. Tyre Pressure: Adjust pressures based on telemetry data for even wear.
7. Strategic Pit Stops: Plan pit stops around tyre condition. In long races, conserving tyres can save pit time.
8. Adapt to Weather: Switch tyre types at the right moment in varying conditions.
9. Track Specifics: Each track has unique aspects affecting tyre wear; adjust your approach accordingly.
10. Data Analysis: Post-race, analyse data to refine your driving and setup.

Effective tyre management balances speed with conservation, crucial for outperforming rivals in GT3 races.

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.

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