Laguna Seca
Turn 6 (Rainey Curve): Setup and Exit Speed
Introduction
Turn 6 is often underestimated. It looks like a simple left-hander under the bridge. But this corner is:
- Heavily cambered (banked)
- High compression
- The setup for the steep climb to the Corkscrew
If you overslow Turn 6, you lose time all the way up the hill to Turn 8.
The Entry
You are approaching fast from Turn 5. The braking zone is under the bridge. Because the track dips (compression), you have extra grip here.
Technique:
- Brake later than you think.
- Trail brake deep into the corner.
- The banking will “catch” the car.
The Apex
This is a classic “late apex” corner. If you turn in early, you will run out of track on the exit and hit the dirt (which is bad). Wait… wait… turn.
The Exit
This is the most critical part. As soon as you hit the apex compression, you need to go to full throttle. You need every pony to pull you up the hill.
Risk Factor
Turn 6 has a “sound booth” on the exit. If you are close to the 90dB limit, you might need to lift here. Lifting here kills your lap time. Solution: GPS exhaust controller or localized muffler (Laguna pipes).
Summary
Trust the compression. The car will stick more than your brain thinks it will. Need help finding that limit? Book a coaching day and we’ll work up to it safely.