2nd Driving Lesson – more mental notes

Prep – adjust seat BEFORE mirrors.

Moving off – check gear (to 1st…I need power to move!), accelerate and half-clutch at the same time, until the vehicle starts to move (biting point), accelerate more, release clutch. Start slowing at about 2 to 1.5 car lengths.

Slowing down – make use of the brake and engine brake. If on higher gear (e.g. 3rd gear), downshift: clutch, change gear, half-clutch, clutch off. Timing is KEY.

Stopping – brake, clutch (disengage to avoid stalling), brake completely. STOP -> FIRST GEAR. ALWAYS stop at the Stop Line.  I can release the brake if I have too much brake, but I can’t brake harder if I have too little brake…it will cause a jerk.  SO, brake harder at the beginning, then release towards the end.

Around a bend – wait till the kerb is covered by the bonnet, then start turning. Accelerate when about halfway through the bend (on large radius bends). On small radius bends, turn and return QUICKLY. Look at the direction you are turning into.

Gear up – speed and power, clutch, change gear, half-clutch, clutch off.

Steering – stronger grip during turning, loosen grip on straight roads, especially when changing gear.

Keep in lane – as it is. Keep in the CENTRE of the lane. Look FAR and WIDE.