How to Understand the Racing Term Loose

Nascar racing is one of the fastest growing spectator sports in the United States. The speed and crashes get the adrenaline flowing whether you are watching the race or competing. It is important to understand the handling of the race cars. A loose car can be difficult to drive.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Watch a Nascar race on television or at the track to get a feel for the racing style. The in-car cameras can give you a feel of how a driver handles the race car.
2. Listen to the announcers on television and to the in-car communication between the driver and his crew. When an announcer or driver says a car is loose, watch that car on the track.
3. Notice how the back end of that car tries to come around when the car comes off a corner. The rear tires don't have enough grip.
4. Watch the driver. The driver will have to oversteer the car to keep it straight off the corner.
5. Watch for spins in the turns. The back end of a loose car can come around causing a car to spin.

Tips & Warnings

• A slightly loose car can be very fast. But you don't want the car to be too loose.
• A very loose car can be very difficult to handle. Drivers must slow down or enter the pit to get the condition corrected.