Burnout
A burnout is a motorsport maneuver where a driver spins the vehicle's wheels while keeping the car stationary, creating friction that heats up the tires and produces dramatic clouds of smoke.
In drag racing, burnouts serve an important practical purpose beyond just looking impressive. Racing tires, especially the wide slicks used in professional drag racing, work best when they're hot. A burnout quickly raises the tire temperature to the optimal range for maximum grip. This heated rubber becomes stickier and grips the track surface better, which can mean the difference between winning and losing a race that's decided by fractions of a second.
Burnouts also clean debris and small stones off the tire surface that could reduce traction. Additionally, the spinning tires lay down a fresh layer of rubber on the starting line, creating an even better surface for the launch. Many drag strips have a "water box," which is exactly what it sounds like—a wet area where drivers perform their burnouts. The water helps reduce initial friction, making it easier to get the tires spinning.
The technique for performing a burnout varies depending on the vehicle's drivetrain. In rear-wheel drive cars, the most common setup in motorsport, the driver presses both the gas and brake pedals simultaneously. The front brakes hold the car in place while the rear wheels spin freely. Many racers install a device called a "line lock" that locks only the front brakes, making the process easier and reducing wear on the rear brakes.
Front-wheel drive vehicles can perform burnouts by engaging the handbrake to lock the rear wheels, then releasing the clutch while revving the engine. All-wheel drive vehicles present the biggest challenge because all four tires must break traction simultaneously, requiring significantly more engine power.
Beyond racing, burnouts have become popular entertainment at car shows and exhibitions. Burnout competitions judge participants on factors like how quickly smoke appears, the volume and thickness of the smoke produced, and the driver's style and showmanship. Some drivers perform "donuts," spinning the car in circles while maintaining the burnout.
However, burnouts aren't without risks. Excessive burnouts can actually melt the tire tread or create flat spots, ironically reducing the traction you're trying to improve. They also put stress on the transmission, clutch, and brakes, potentially shortening their lifespan. Done incorrectly, burnouts can damage various vehicle components.
It's crucial to note that performing burnouts on public roads is illegal in most countries and can result in fines, license suspension, or even vehicle impoundment. They should only be performed in controlled environments like racetracks or designated areas.