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Brake bias, ABS and traction control explained: what to change and when

Brake bias, ABS and traction control explained: what to change and when

Electronics are not “cheating”. They are part of modern racing, and most sims model them for a reason. The trick is to use ABS and traction control to become more consistent, not to hide bad technique.

This guide explains what each setting does, then gives you simple rules for when to change them.

Brake bias: the balance that shapes your corner entry

Brake bias is how much braking force goes to the front vs the rear.

  • More front bias = stable braking, less rear rotation, can increase understeer into the corner
  • More rear bias = more rotation, can help turn-in, but increases risk of rear lock and spins

Beginner rules for brake bias

  • If you spin under braking, move bias slightly forward (small steps)
  • If the car refuses to rotate on entry, try a tiny step rearward
  • Do not chase “the perfect number” every lap; use bias as a tool for conditions

ABS: a consistency tool, not a brake pedal substitute

ABS prevents full lock-up. In many GT cars it is designed to allow heavy braking without flat-spotting tyres.

When to increase ABS

  • Cold tyres
  • Wet conditions
  • Tracks with big braking zones and bumps

When to decrease ABS

  • You are confident with threshold braking
  • You want more braking bite and you are not over-braking
  • Your tyres are fully up to temperature

Traction control: making exits repeatable

Traction control reduces wheelspin. It can cost a little peak acceleration, but it often saves time overall by keeping exits clean.

When to increase TC

  • Rear tyres overheat easily
  • Low-grip tracks or wet sessions
  • You are learning a new car and want consistent exits

When to decrease TC

  • You feel the car is “bogging” and losing acceleration
  • You have strong throttle control and want maximum drive

A simple cheat sheet

Problem Try Why
Rear steps out under braking Brake bias forward More stability
Car will not turn in Brake bias rearward (small) More rotation
Lockups and flat spots Increase ABS Less wheel lock
Wheelspin on exit Increase TC Cleaner drive
Car feels “held back” on exit Decrease TC slightly More acceleration

Hardware matters: why a stable rig makes electronics easier to use

If your brake pedal flexes or your seat position shifts, you will fight electronics because your input is inconsistent. A rigid cockpit and repeatable ergonomics make it easier to run lower ABS/TC settings safely.

Recommended SIMGASM gear

All SIMGASM simulators are built for broad compatibility and a clean, durable finish. If you want a quick “buy the right once” shortlist for this topic, start here:

Simulator

Seat

Monitor solution

Tip: if you are unsure which tier fits your hardware, start with Club for “works with almost anything” and jump to Sport or Pro if you plan motion, very high torque, or want maximum adjustability with a clean cable route.

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