Esses

Esses are a sequence of connected turns on a race track that alternate between left and right directions, creating an "S" shape when viewed from above.

Imagine drawing the letter "S" on a piece of paper—that's essentially what esses look like on a race track. These sections feature curves that flow in opposite directions, one after another, forcing drivers to quickly change the direction their car is turning. You might turn left, then immediately right, then left again, all within a few seconds.

What makes esses particularly challenging is the rapid weight transfer required. When a race car turns left, the weight shifts to the right side of the vehicle. Then, when the driver immediately steers right for the next turn, all that weight must shift back to the left side. This constant back-and-forth motion tests both the driver's skill and the car's suspension system.

Unlike a single corner where drivers can find the perfect racing line, esses require compromise. The ideal path through the first turn might leave the car in a poor position for the second turn, costing precious time. Drivers must instead find a flowing line that works for the entire sequence, sacrificing perfection in individual corners for overall speed through the section.

Smooth steering is absolutely critical when navigating esses. Aggressive or jerky movements can unsettle the car's balance, potentially causing it to slide sideways or even spin. Professional drivers spend countless hours practicing these sections to develop the precise, flowing inputs needed to maintain momentum while the car transitions from one direction to another.

Famous examples of esses appear at legendary tracks around the world. Suzuka International Racing Course in Japan features one of the most celebrated esses sections in motorsport. Road Atlanta in the United States and Circuit of the Americas in Texas also contain well-known esses that challenge even the most experienced drivers. Other notable examples include sections at Silverstone, Watkins Glen, Virginia International Raceway, and Sebring International Raceway.

From a spectator perspective, esses provide some of the most exciting viewing opportunities at any race track. These sections often showcase dramatic overtaking maneuvers and occasional mistakes that can change the outcome of a race. The visual appeal of multiple cars flowing through these serpentine curves makes esses popular camera locations during television broadcasts.

Track designers frequently incorporate esses into their layouts because they add technical difficulty and visual interest. These sections separate skilled drivers from the rest of the field, as mastering esses requires exceptional car control, spatial awareness, and the ability to plan several moves ahead while traveling at high speeds.