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you'll also see most tracks have a lot of rubber build up modelled around the braking points and turn in points
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And here's an important point - and a sight that's often overlooked - what we refer to as the 'rabbitline'. Once you've disabled the drive/brake indication line you will very clearly see this rubber build up as soon as a couple of laps have been laid down.
This is the technical driving line - the optimum line - around the course, but not necessarily the fastest or best line in any particular race. A player's driveline in a race will keep changing constantly because of varying conditions. The only occasion to use the optimum line to the full is when one is out in front - either pole, or having overtaken all opponents.
So - even when the driving aid is disabled, an optimum line is visible.
Careful noting of this line will also show the braking points.
For actual barking efficiency, markers - esp ones with numeric signs - are a sure gauge of where to apply brakes, and when to prepare for turn in.
Then there are other points one needs to learn to apply just the right amount of brakes (or downshifting) like when approaching the Flugplatz at the Ring. Markers for that sort of flightpath along the track are learned through experience, and each player has a different marker they use as the critical point which they know at which they can't leave the track.
Practise, and a good eye for the detail by your wings as you fly down the tracks are what will give you the ultimate and almost subconcious feel of when to brake, and where to place those wheels on the track for best effect.
There - I guess that balanced my somewhat tongue-in-cheek previous post.