Racing line

[3]In theory, the optimal path around a race course follows a geometric line, which takes the widest possible arc through a corner.

The line starts at the outside of the road, clips a point on the inside, and finishes back outside—while maintaining a constant radius throughout.

[4] But while this line theoretically represents the fastest way through the corner, it may result in longer overall track times due to slower speeds on the straightaways.

This late apex line allows for earlier acceleration when exiting the corner into the straightaway, but requires slower speeds going in.

Race driver Ross Bentley suggests as a rule of thumb: "The faster the corner, the closer to the geometric line you should drive" in order to maintain more speed through the turn.