Braking point

Braking point in front of the depression in the “Fuchsröhre” section of the Nordschleife . The tire wear on the asphalt, which is clearly visible in the area of ​​the ideal line, illustrates the forces acting on the vehicle and the tires at this point.

A braking point is a point on a racetrack where braking is initiated. This point is usually located before a curve or bend and varies depending on the nature of the route, the vehicle and the driver. Often a braking point is between 50 and 150 meters before the turning point of a curve. The aim of a racing driver is to approach the latest possible braking points on a racetrack in order to lose as little time as possible by braking or to be able to slow down competitors .

The curbs or "chatter stones" beginning in front of the curve on the outside of the curve and distance information on small signs on the edge of the curve in front of the curve (in Central Europe often starting at 200 meters and then counting down at 50 meter intervals) serve as a guide . However, on a racetrack there are not necessarily as many braking points as there are corners. So-called double curves (such as the south curve of the Hockenheimring Motodrom) can have two braking points, while curves with a large radius can sometimes be negotiated without prior braking (such as the quick right bend in front of the Mercedes grandstand of the Hockenheimring).

The pressure point of the brake pedal is often incorrectly referred to as the braking point, i.e. the point (or rather the area) of the pedal travel at which the brake pressure is noticeably built up.