How to Understand the Racing Term Tight

NASCAR racing is one of the fastest growing spectator sports in the United States. The speed and crashes get the adrenaline flowing whether you watch the race or compete. It is important to understand the handling of race cars. A tight car can be very difficult to drive. The following steps tell you why.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Ticket to a Race
• Television

1. Watch a NASCAR race on television or at the track to get a feel for the racing style. The in-car cameras show 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 the announcer or driver says a car is tight, watch that car on the track.
3. Notice how the front end of that car moves up the racetrack when the car goes into a corner. The front tires don't have enough grip, so the car won't turn.
4. Watch the driver. The driver must run a higher line through the corners or slow down so that the car can turn.
5. Look for cars that hit the outside walls when they go into corners. The car will move up the racetrack into the wall when the driver can't get it to turn.

Tips & Warnings

• A tight car can be difficult to handle. If you are racing, slow down or enter the pits to have the crew correct the condition.