seat height adjustment performance

seat height adjustment performance

Author
Discussion

lakebum

Original Poster:

27 posts

224 months

Saturday 22nd April 2006
quotequote all
Does anybody really knows what s the beneffit for someone if sits low in the drivers seat? Vic Elford in his book "PORSCHE HIGH PERFORMANCE DRIVING" says "The lower you sit ,the better you can feel the balance of the car." Alain Prost has mention the same. But, if you see other legends like the great AYRTON SENNA, Ari Vatanen and others they dont sit really low ,compair to other todays drivers, like the talented Kimi Raikonnen in that video http://spaces.msn.com/members/cristhe he is seating really low and others those days. I found out that in a performance rythm ,and espesially in driffting ,i have a better feeling of the the car, if i adjust my seat all the way down, so i can still see above the steering wheel (nose level).Plus, i have much better control on the steering wheel because it comes fairly higher.Anyone who have any suggestions or professional advise whould be appreciate
Thanks

>> Edited by lakebum on Saturday 22 April 15:25

>> Edited by lakebum on Saturday 22 April 15:27

>> Edited by lakebum on Sunday 23 April 17:14

lakebum

Original Poster:

27 posts

224 months

Sunday 23rd April 2006
quotequote all
Thanks guys! I was thinking about the same too i just wasnt sure,not too many performance schools or instructors mention often about the seat height adjustment. Here is something from www.racingschools.com i thought that you might like to read says: So, what has this to do with driving your car better and more safely? The answer is that if you are focused, you are going to be a better, safer driver. The seating position should be with the back of the seat slightly reclined, maybe one or two notches from the vertical. Your legs should have a 60-80 degree bend at the knee.

Your hand positioning is easy to set. When you get into your vehicle, put your wrists on top of the steering wheel. They should be at the top of the wheel at the 12 o'clock position, with the wheel 1/2-1 1/2" behind the wrist joint. Some drivers like the wrists to just "cut" the top of the steering wheel. Try to find you most comfortable position that gives you the required wheel authority.

If you are now leaning forward, move your seat up to achieve both the wrist and knee bent positioning. Together the position should be comfortable and relaxed. I really can't stress the importance of taking time to get this right. Your arms should have an 80-90 degree bend at the elbow once you have settled in. You will probably be somewhat nearer the wheel than customary for you, but try it both on short and longer journeys. Correct seat placement, along with steering wheel adjustment should ensure that you are in the correct position for a safe controlled drive.
Now doesnt this sound like TOO close or what?!