A chicane consists of an artificial sequence of corners, typically in an 'S' formation, specifically designed to slow vehicles and break up long straight sections. Whilst commonly used in car racing circuits, chicanes are generally discouraged in UK karting circuit design due to their tendency to cause bottlenecks and racing incidents.
Chicane characteristics in karting:
- Often creates single-file racing and reduces overtaking opportunities
- Can lead to contact and incidents as drivers bunch together
- Requires precise steering input and rhythm to maintain momentum
- Tests driver precision and ability to link corners together
The British karting community generally prefers flowing circuit designs that maintain speed and provide multiple racing lines rather than artificial chicanes that force all drivers through the same tight sequence. However, some established circuits do feature chicane sections, requiring drivers to develop specific techniques for negotiating these tight sequences efficiently. Success through chicanes demands late braking, accurate turn-in points, and smooth throttle application to maintain momentum whilst avoiding the temptation to attack aggressively and risk contact with competitors in close proximity.