Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Day 16 (17 APR, YEAR 1): License B 16

B License No. 16 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'23.671

License Center : B License Tests : B16 "Graduation Test"
Test Car: BMW 120d '04
Venue: Tsukuba Circuit
Gold: 0'23.700
# Failed Attempts: 7
4 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Another test at Tsukuba, this time in the 120d. TCS is off for this one, which helps keep the wheels spinning through the turn.

The turn-in for the first right hander begins just before the yellow banner on the left starts to go out of view. There's no need to brake, but a little lift is needed so that the car can stay on track, instead of dumping to the outside.

I keep a tight line for the gradual left hander, knowing the right-hand hairpin is coming up. Braking for the final turn begins as the tall wall starts to go out of view (taken similarly to B5), and turn-in starts just after that. I brake from 83 all the way down to 33, then get back on the gas for the exit. I cross the finish line at 0'23.506, going 66 mph...

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8221448146554035322

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 15 (16 APR, YEAR 1): License B 15

B License No. 15 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 2'17.002

License Center : B License Tests : B15 "1 Lap Guide Run (Infineon Raceway)"
Test Car: Chrysler PT Cruiser '00
Venue: Infineon Raceway - Sports Car Course
Gold: 2'19.100
# Failed Attempts: 2
4 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Another full-lap run with the Pace Car, this time at Infineon. There are a few spots where you might collide with the Pace Car, so be careful. Other than that, keeping a smooth line with this front wheel drive car will help you keep your speeds up through the turns.

I launch around 4500, and shift into 2nd at 31. There's not much redline to play with on this car, so I try to shift as soon as the indicator blinks. I keep a straight line until I'm into 3rd gear, then prepare for the left hand uphill curve.

The Pace Car stays wide for this turn, cutting the ensuing right hander from the middle of the road. I prefer to start the right hander from the left side curbing, braking slightly and staying in 3rd. I swing the steering to the right, and stab the brakes to go from 71 to about 62. I flutter the gas to stay in the 50s, and try to take a smooth line behind the Skyline.

I follow the Pace Car's draft from the left side to the right, and begin turn-in for the left hander when the right hand side of the track widens out (where the yellow painted line separates from the grass). There's no need to brake for this turn, but I have to lift early enough so that I don't collide with the Pace Car. I slow from 75 to around 66 before going full throttle, and cross T1 at 0'35.552.

Braking for the sharp right begins where the left-side rumblestrip ends. I brake from 78 to around 40, and begin the turn-in just before the pavement changes color. This lets me get back on the gas early, with a good exit angle.

The Pace Car's windbreak will help keep speeds high, which is especially important because of the uphill approach. I brake at the top of the hill, from 88 to 70 before I start coasting down to the low 60s. This helps settle the car's disposition, and lets me get back on the gas before the inside curb shows up. I follow the Pace Car to the left side, and prepare for the hairpin.

I keep my eyes on the brakelights of the Pace Car, and brake a little bit deeper than it (near the 4th billboard). I go from 90 to about 40 under braking, then give a couple stabs with the gas to maintain the mid 30s through the turn. Staying tight to the inside for the entry helps reduce the risk of a collision, but it's important to end up on the outside to stay in the Pace Car's draft.

Staying steady through the first part of the Esses is easy enough, and I cross T2 at 1'30.746. I lift a little to get the right speed and angle just after T2, then I try to fall in line behind the Skyline for the final right hander before the last hairpin.

I brake for the right kink to go from 102 to around 85. I aim for the inside curb, but I jump back on the gas a little too early (and/or took a bad entry angle). This puts my left side into the dirt for the exit, and I gradually make my way behind the Skyline for the final hairpin.

I've failed this test many times (not on this gamesave) where I hit the wall that sticks out along the left hand side, or the cones that lead up to it. Stay clear of these! I begin braking after passing the 2nd or 3rd cone, going from 97 to around 40. Turn-in doesn't begin until well after braking, and it's near the same spot where the Pace Car begins its turn. I let the car coast down to 32, then jump back on the gas for the final stretch.

Completing the last hairpin before 2'05.000 is a good sign that you'll gold the run. I keep the wind resistance low, and shift when the indicator flashes. No need to ruin a run by over-revving a car that has little redline to play with... I cross the finish at 2'14.986, going 86 mph...

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5548259186664859681

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 14 (15 APR, YEAR 1): License B 14

B License No. 14 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'18.010

License Center : B License Tests : B14 "Basics of Cornering: 6"
Test Car: Infiniti G35 COUPE '03
Venue: El Capitan
Gold: 0'18.100
# Failed Attempts: 8
4 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

This test usually gives me problems because I take too tight of an entry. It's important to be patient before going full throttle for the exit, as this turn is usually a bit longer than it seems (for me). I turn-in when the last tree's shadow goes off screen (on the right hand side).

I start braking shortly after, from 93 to about 68, then I coast down to 59 or so before I jump back on the gas. The car will oversteer for the first part of the exit, so I try to be careful not to bog the rpms by turning too much. After settling the car's direction, I head toward the right hand side of the road for the finish.

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-379572400055582794

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Monday, September 29, 2008

Day 13 (14 APR, YEAR 1): License B 13

B License No. 13 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'22.580

License Center : B License Tests : B13 "Basics of Cornering: 5"
Test Car: Fiat Barchetta Giovane Due '00
Venue: Tsukuba Circuit
Gold: 0'22.650
# Failed Attempts: 3
2 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Here's a run at Tsukuba in the Fiat. This test is quite straight-forward, and having already done the full-track run for B5, this turn is a familiar one. Along the left side, I keep it in 3rd as I approach the final turn. Turn-in starts when I get out from the trees' shadows, and then I brake from 85 to about 70. From there, I coast to around 62 or 63, then get back on the gas. Apparently, I did so a little too early and too hard, as I go a little wide before finishing.

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2665249248037760894

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 12 (13 APR, YEAR 1): License B 12

B License No. 12 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'17.489

License Center : B License Tests : B12 "Basics of Dirt Driving: 2"
Test Car: Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 '85
Venue: Swiss Alps
Gold: 0'17.500
# Failed Attempts: 1
1 min

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

This test starts the car headed toward the left wall. I keep the steering to the right gradual, with a line that puts me near the wall when I turn in. There's no need to brake nor lift for this turn, as the car will lose enough speed when sliding. I crank the wheel to the right, and ease off the steering after pointing in the right direction.

The speed drops from 83 to about 57 mph, and I begin countersteering after passing the inside barrier. This helps get me back to speed, and I manage to cross the line at 0'17.127, going 78 mph.

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8066388776608904245&hl=en

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 11 (12 APR, YEAR 1): License B 11

B License No. 11 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'17.530

License Center : B License Tests : B11 "Basics of Dirt Driving: 1"
Test Car: Toyota CELICA 2000GT-FOUR (ST 165) '86
Venue: Grand Canyon
Gold: 0'17.650
# Failed Attempts: 0
1 min

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

The first of the rally-type tests, this one is a good introduction to driving on dirt. It's important to use the throttle to help the car get around the hairpins, as this will keep your exit speeds up.

I launch around 4400, and quickly make my way to the inside of the first right hander. Since the next hairpin left comes up so quickly, it's key to stay to the right for the first turn's exit.

There's a sign behind the barrier of the inside of the turn. Once it goes off screen, I start braking for the turn. I start the turn-in shortly after, dropping from 43 to around 30, and then the back end starts to swing around. The speedometer dips down to 16 before the wheels catch again, and I make a bee line for the finish.

Again, I don't worry about running into the wall after crossing the line, hoping for the straightest path across the finish. I cross going 45 mph, with a time of 0'17.072

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8874705872440566754&hl=en

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 10 (11 APR, YEAR 1): License B 10

B License No. 10 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 2'13.696

License Center : B License Tests : B10 "1 Lap Guide Run (Laguna Seca)"
Test Car: Citroen C3 1.6 '02
Venue: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
Gold: 2'14.400
# Failed Attempts: 9
14 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

A fun run in the Citroen C3. This is a great track to drive! The Pace Car will give you a windbreak in a couple of key spots, so being mindful of the line it takes is crucial to a gold time.

Off the start, I choose to cut the first left bend, instead of following the Pace Car on the outside. I haven't done much testing, but it seemed like I don't lose enough by going up the steeper part of the hill to negate the cut in distance travelled. Also, I can stop steering earlier and still end up in a good spot for the first hairpin. Lastly, the windbreak from the Pace Car goes much further to the outside than I would want to drive.

For the hairpin, turn-in is a bit before passing the "1" sign. I begin braking just after that, and I don't stop braking until my front left wheel hits the inside curb. Speed gets cut from 79 to 40 mph, and I jump back on the gas for the exit as I come off of the inside rumblestrip. There's no need to take this turn as deeply as the Skyline, but I try to catch it's windbreak while I make my way to the left side.

I stab the brakes just before turn-in for the right kink, slowing from 66 to around 54. This settles the car's disposition, and helps keep me from going wide (a common mistake for me). I jump on the gas as I hit the inside curb, using the steering and TCS to help manage the speed.

I cross T1 at 0'40.643, going around 65 mph. I try to stay to the outside, in the Skyline's draft, and begin the turn-in as I pass the "1" sign. I take it flat-out, and manage to stay out of the outside dirt. Cutting the inside curb helps a lot. I almost over-corrected after passing the end of the outside rumblestrip, but keep it steady enough to maintain a good line behind the Pace Car.

It's CRITICAL to get a good draft from T1 to the Corkscrew. This can make or break a gold run. If you normally listen to music while racing, make sure you can still hear the wind resistance to help indicate whether you're in the draft or not.

I start braking for the hard left just before passing the "1" sign. My turn-in was just before that, somewhere between the "2" and "1", but it's hard for me to tell how hard I'm cranking the wheel by looking at the replay. Anyway, I stay in 4th, and brake from 90 to about 65, then I prepare my exit. I end up getting back on the gas too early, which starts to send me wide. I have to crank the wheel and rely on the TCS to help me make my turn, and it slows me down considerably. A little more patience with the gas would've paid dividends.

For the left bender heading into the hill, I could never find the right line to stay flat-out. Lift and Turn-in start near the "1" sign, and my speed dips from 76 to 69. Drafting the Pace Car from T2 up the hill is vital, and I follow it gradually from the right side to the left.

For the first part of the Corkscrew, I get to the right side curbing, and start braking at the "2" sign. Turn-in starts at the "1" sign, and I release the brakes from there. I get back on the gas in 2nd as I hit the curbing on the left, then take steady aim at the curbing on the right.

Finally, I try to take as smooth of an exit as possible, but I think a better entry/exit for the right turn of the Corkscrew would've been better. Anyway, I make my way near the right side of the track, and prepare for the final section.

For the downhill left bender, I always have problems going wide into the dirt. This is usually the result of turning in too early for it, so I tried to be patient and do so gradually. I did a lot of lifting as well, to help make sure I could get a good angle for my exit. I didn't brake for it, but I ended up dipping to 67 mph, and I think a higher speed can be maintained. I cross T3 at 1'39.359.

After making my way to the left, I start the turn-in and braking just after the "1" sign. I drop from 83 to 64, but I get back on the gas too early, sending me too wide. My left side goes in the dirt, and this slows me down a bit, but I try to keep a smooth line out of it.

Braking for the final left corner begins at the "2" sign, and turn-in starts at the "1". I don't stop braking until the inside curb approaches, where I get back on the gas and hound the Pace Car's tail. From here, it's staying in the draft, and shifting just past the redline. I cross the finish at 2'09.983, going 77 mph.

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-9045429500979526204&hl=en

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 9 (10 APR, YEAR 1): License B 9

B License No. 9 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'12.462

License Center : B License Tests : B9 "Basics of Cornering: 4"
Test Car: BMW M3 CSL '03
Venue: Twin Ring Motegi - Road Course
Gold: 0'12.550
# Failed Attempts: 2
1 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Another run in the same section, but in a much more powerful car. The M3 can break the back end loose, and I try to use the oversteer to cut a later apex. The braking point seems to be close to the previous test, B8, but the brakes are much better for this test. I try to take an exit line that doesn't include much of the outside curb (and definitely not in the dirt), as this car can lose a lot of speed when doing so...

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7852961939377037037

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 8 (9 APR, YEAR 1): License B 8

B License No. 8 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'15.298

License Center : B License Tests : B8 "Basics of Cornering: 3"
Test Car: Mazda MX-5 Miata J-Limited (NA, J) '91
Venue: Twin Ring Motegi - Road Course
Gold: 0'15.400
# Failed Attempts: 0
1 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Here's a quick run through a hairpin at Motegi. The TCS is turned off, and the Miata's power is tame enough to keep the wheels from breaking traction when jumping back on the gas.

There's some sort of building or structure along the left wall on the approach to the hairpin. I use this as my braking point, as well as the cue for turn-in. I go from 72 to 37, and aim for the inside curb. My exit was going well enough, until I over-corrected and sent my left side into the dirt. The bumpiness slows me down for the finish, but I manage to cross at 0'15.028 going 66 mph.

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5945232575841752805&hl=en

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 7 (8 APR, YEAR 1): License B 7

B License No. 7 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'26.815

License Center : B License Tests : B7 "Acceleration and Braking: 4"
Test Car: Dodge Viper GTS '99
Venue: Test Course - 1000m
Gold: 0'27.000
# Failed Attempts: 0
1 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Another Standing Start & Stop at the Test Course. Again with the TCS off, but this time in a high-powered Viper GTS, and for 800 m. Minimizing wheel spin for the launch is key, but other than that, the braking point seems to be at about 810-820 m. Keep the car straight, and things shouldn't be a problem...

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8598959827916096050&hl=en

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 6 (7 APR, YEAR 1): License B 6

B License No. 6 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'22.549

License Center : B License Tests : B6 "Acceleration and Braking: 3"
Test Car: Renault Megane 2.0 16V '03
Venue: Test Course - 500m
Gold: 0'22.800
# Failed Attempts: 0
1 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

A 500 m Standing Start & Stop with the Megane. This one's no big deal. TCS off, steady throttle for launch, blah blah blah.

I launch at 4000, but I don't go wide-open until after I'm sure the wheels catch. I get into 2nd at 33, 3rd at 67, then start braking just before the 450 m mark, around 85 mph. The stop wasn't that great, but good enough for a gold time...

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8629899022033175655

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 5 (6 APR, YEAR 1): License B 5

B License No. 5 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 1'27.025

License Center : B License Tests : B5 "1 Lap Guide Run (Tsukuba)"
Test Car: MINI ONE '02
Venue: Tsukuba Circuit
Gold: 1'27.200
# Failed Attempts: 3
4 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

This is the first full-lap test for GT4. I was happy to see that there are so many, since the full-lap tests were my favorites for GT3. Every 5th, 10th, and 15th test, as well as all of the S tests, will be full-lappers, and except for the S tests, the Pace Car will be on-track. The full-lap tests are good, in that they usually offer MANY opportunities to get a good time. With as many turns as they usually have, making up time for a mediocre run is something that's offered throughout much of the lap, so never despair.

While the Pace Car doesn't always take the best line for the car being tested, it should be used as much as possible as a windbreaker. There are several points during most tests where the Pace Car gets in the way, so you must be careful not to pass nor collide too heavily with it. Otherwise a DQ will be issued.

I launch at around 5200, and start steering toward the left. This car pulls to the right from a standing start, so a little steering may be needed to keep you headed toward the outside for the first turn. I start the turn-in as the yellow banner on the left wall starts to go out of view. Braking is done after turn-in, and only briefly. I brake from 57 to around 40 and get back on the throttle, but the TCS activates and dips my mph down to 37. The exit wasn't that great, but I keep a line that allows me to stay in the Pace Car's draft.

After crossing T1 at 0'25.996, I prepare for the next left turn. I brake just as the inside curb starts to go out of view, and take the speed from 71 to 33. I take a late apex to keep my exit straight, and aim for the left side to prepare for the next turn.

For the next right bend, braking isn't necessary. Steering hard to the right will shed enough speed to take the turn flat-out, but taking the right angle is important. I didn't want to get into the dirt after passing the Dunlop tire, which is easy to do with a bad turn-in. In addition to risking a DQ, it'll slow down this car quite a bit unless all wheels are kept on the track for the exit.

I try to keep the steering smooth after Dunlop, but I don't want to take the next left bend as wide as the Pace Car. I cross T2 at 0'49.253, and stay to the left. For this turn, it's easy to rear-end the Pace Car. I keep to the outside until the corner of the tall wall starts to go out of view. I take it from 74 to 34, and get back on the gas for a late apex.

I stay in the draft of the Pace Car on the left side of the final straight. After reaching 82, I start the turn-in for the last corner. This right hander should be taken without braking, simply lifting to slow down. I held 66 through it, and was at 74 mph for the finish... 1'26.158

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8728028629074031279

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Day 4 (5 APR, YEAR 1): License B 4

B License No. 4 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'29.706

License Center : B License : B3 "Basics of Cornering: 2"
Test Car: Nissan SILVIA Q's AERO (S14) '96
Venue: Deep Forest Raceway
Gold: 0'29.800
# Failed Attempts: 0
1 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Here's another run at DFR, this time in a Rear-Wheel-Drive SILVIA. It's heavier, but has more power than the del Sol. TCS is turned on, so smooth driving through the turn will help keep speeds up.

I launch at around 4500 rpm, and take 1st gear to 35. I try to take a gradual line toward the right side, to keep the steering minimal, and to take the most direct path to the turn-in point. I shift into 3rd after passing the bridge at 66 mph, and prepare for the turn.

After passing the overhead banner, I jerk the wheel to the inside curb, then begin braking. At this point, I need to mention how this game has been criticized for how it handles Braking While Turning. Whether or not it realistically models how a car will behave in the real world, this game will be played AS A GAME. I'm not necessarily trying to simulate what I would or would not do in the real world, in a real car.

So after slowing from 86 to 46, I jump back on the throttle and try to take as straight of an exit as possible. I shift back into 3rd at 65 mph, and stay along the right to cross the line. Keep in mind that the line taken for License Tests may differ from the ideal full-lap racing line. This means that you can save a lot of time on some tests, by ignoring anything beyond the finish. You won't get DQ'd for going off-track or smacking a barrier if you've already passed the test.

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=605268523314277629

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Friday, September 26, 2008

Day 3 (4 APR, YEAR 1): License B 3

B License No. 3 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'30.754

License Center : B License : B3 "Basics of Cornering: 1"
Test Car: Honda CR-X del Sol SiR '92
Venue: Deep Forest Raceway
Gold: 0'30.900
# Failed Attempts: 3
2 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

From a Standing Start, take the "Del Slow" around the first corner of DFR. Sounds simple enough, and it's not too hard to get gold, as long as you remember to exit the corner while turning as little as possible. The TCS is turned on for this test, which helps with the launch, but will slow you down if you're turning too much when coming out of a corner.

I launched at around 6500 rpm, but the start isn't as important for this test as the turn. I went through the gears normally, except for hitting the limiter between 1st and 2nd. I shifted into 2nd near 37 or 38, and into 3rd at 61. The limiter is set around 8500, and getting all I can from 2nd is important, to keep as much speed as possible while coming up the little hill.

Braking comes shortly after passing the overhead banner. I aimed for a tight line, intending to use the TCS and Steering to get a good exit speed and angle. I try to make sure that when I downshift, I'm not entering the lower gear in the redline. For the Licenses and Missions, it's not that important. But for cars that are owned (in your Garage), staying out of the redline and definitely off the limiter will help your car's life.

Coming up the hill, it's important to take 2nd gear as far as it'll go. Shifting too early into 3rd will bog you down.

Anyway, I could've used the curb more, but I'll try to improve this run at a later date.

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8187265595031268568

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Day 2 (3 APR, YEAR 1): License B 2

B License No. 2 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'10.966


License Center : B License Tests : B2 "Acceleration and Braking: 2"
Test Car: Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 Turbo (J) '95
Venue: Test Course - 200m
Gold: 0'11.000
# Failed Attempts: 4
2 mins



Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving). The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

Another Standing Start & Stop @ the Test Course. This time, in a Mitsu 3000, and for 200 m. In this car, it's a lot easier to blow out the traction for the drive wheels. I haven't taken enough time for these tests (also for GT3) to "master" the Art of Launching, but it's definitely something that can be learned... even using a DualShock2.

In any case, I try to get the Tach rising when the lights go out, especially for a turbo-powered car like the 3000. This will get the boost up, but I also have to take it easy enough so that it doesn't compromise too much traction. When the Tires are hooked, I lay into it and get ready to shift up. If you're just looking to pass the test, you can start in 2nd to get better traction. Otherwise, shifting into 2nd at 35 or 36 will help get the most out of 1st, and put you in a better place (rpm-wise) when the gears mesh into 2nd.

I launched the 3000 at 3000, but I think a better start is definitely attainable. I had slower times that had faster-launching ghosts, but couldn't get the braking point right. Some cars drive quicker when shifting before the redline. I haven't driven this car enough to determine if this is one of them, but I took it to near-limit anyway. I got to 73 mph in 3rd before braking near 160 m (just past the unlabeled 150 m line).

I left the rear Bumper hanging over the stopping area, but it looks like there's still about a foot to play with before my tires are outside...

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7940319083222773061

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Day 1 (2 APR, YEAR 1): License B 1

Well, it's Day 1, and what is there to do?

The least expensive of the brand-new cars I'm buying is the 1978 Mitsubishi MIRAGE 1400 GLX for $9220. However, the races I'd run would require spending more to make it a contender.

The next-least expensive costs $14980 (the Daihatsu Copen Active Top). This means that buying a new car is out of the question (based on the rules I set for myself). While there are plenty of affordable cars in the Used Lots, none of the ones I'd use are available in their lowest mileage forms. In fact, that won't happen until Week 6 (Days 36-42, 7 May - 13 May), when the lowest-mileage (non-6.2) Daihatsu Midget shows up in the Used Car II lots.

So, until then, I'll be working straight through the B and A License Tests (no Coffee Breaks). After that, I'll buy the Midget, then continue on with the IB and IA License Tests. That way, I can make some $ without getting into a car. That'll be important as Week 13 approaches, for reasons to be explained later.

..........................
A Little Note: The time I spent and the # of attempts made are for this gamesave's run only. This is the 4th time Ive gone up to IA, the 3rd time Ive gone up to S, and the 2nd time I've completed all of them. The time spent playing on those attempts or for any of those races will not included in this blog. The # of failed attempts includes all non-gold finishes, aborted runs, and DQ's for collisions, pace car passing, and off-track incidents. The "launched at" rpms are based on the Tachometer position at the time the Clutch is released (by the game), not when the X button is pressed.

B License No. 1 Gold medal acquired.
Time: 0'10.048

License Center : B License Tests : B1 "Acceleration and Braking: 1"
Test Car: Mazda DEMIO (J) '99
Venue: Test Course - 100m
Gold: 0'10.150
# Failed Attempts: 2
2 mins

Please keep in mind that these are not necessarily my best times (CLICK HERE for my best times/replays). All replays will be shown in 1st person mode (in-cabin, the same display that I have when driving).
The replays for this gamesave's B License runs have been deleted. The replays shown below are my personal current "bests", and the commentary that follows is associated with my best time runs, NOT this gamesave's runs. For all License Tests other than B, I'll post the replays of THIS gamesave's runs, and maintain replays of my best runs elsewhere. I'll update these posts if/when I improve...

This is a 100 m Standing Start & Stop. The only notable thing about this test is that the TCS is turned off. I'm a natural mash & gnash-er when it comes to the buttons, but it's important during this test (and others that have TCS=0) to get used to the pressure-sensitivity of the buttons. If launching without TCS is difficult, sometimes starting from 2nd will help, but if you're running an Auto Tranny, then you're out of luck.

I launched at around 2500 rpm, and hit the rev limiter twice before switching into 2nd gear. I haven't played around with it much, but shifting seemed to be best around 27 or 28 mph. You don't get much more out of 1st above that, not to mention your Tach would probably be bouncing by then.

My stop is pretty good, and it looks like I came about 5 inches from making this run a throw-out. This must mean my start was REALLY horrible, as most time-reporting sites have much better times than my best. I got to 43 mph before hitting the brakes, somewhere near the middle of the yellow "1000" on the ground. I stayed in 2nd gear through the end of the test, but there's such a short distance between the braking and stopping points that I didn't think downshifting would matter much (for getting gold).

Here's a video of my (best) run:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-1365681433539356186&hl=en

Thanks for reading. Thanks for watching. And Have A Great Drive!
RoadHazard
http://www.mygt4diary.com/