How to perform a handbrake turn

Handbrake turns are frequently used in rally driving to negotiate tight, lower speed corners, and can be useful in a variety of low speed manoeuvres.

Flash move: A handbrake turn

Figure 1 demonstrates the technique required to pull off the perfect handbrake turn, each step is explained below.

Figure 1: Handbrake turn technique

A. Approach the cone at a fairly low speed, 15-25 mph would be ideal in this case. Use first gear if possible. Position your hands in a way which allows you to take big bite of the steering wheel and turn in a single fluid motion (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Suggested hand position for rapid right hand steering input

Red = gripping the wheel, Yellow = allowing to slide through fingers

RH = Right hand, LH = Left hand

B. Come off the gas rapidly to transfer weight to the front wheels (Figure 3). Turn in hard and if you're in a right hand drive car, take your left hand off the steering wheel and prepare to use the hand brake.

Figure 3: Forward weight transfer, and turning the steering wheel

C. Depress the clutch and slam on the handbrake in a rapid and positive motion, ensuring you are holding down the release button to prevent the ratchet engaging.

D. As the back comes round, start to feed off the steering lock, letting the wheel slide through your right hand fingers if necessary. Release the hand brake when the car has rotated through the desired angle.

E. Change down to first gear (if not already in it), release the clutch smoothly and accelerate away.

When done correctly, stages B to D should take between only two to three seconds - this is a rapid series of fluid motions. When learning this technique, it's best to practice in a smooth wet grassy field with plenty of room.

Video: Fifth Gear demonstrated hand brake turns

Video: Hand brake turns in rallying