Automotive & Motorsports – Your Rally Hub

Welcome to the Automotive & Motorsports corner of Earls Barton Rally Hub. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just getting curious about rally cars, you’ll find practical info that helps you enjoy the sport more. We keep it simple, straight‑to‑the‑point, so you can get what you need without wading through jargon.

Key Rally Gear Explained

One of the most common questions we get is: "What are the two sticks a rally driver uses?" The answer is quick – a gear stick and a handbrake lever. The gear stick lets the driver shift up or down, matching engine power to the terrain. The handbrake lever, often called the “e‑brake,” locks the rear wheels for tight spins and sudden direction changes. Mastering both lets a driver slide through corners and keep speed on loose surfaces.

These sticks aren’t just for show. The gear stick is positioned in the center console, just like any road car, but it’s built for faster, more precise shifts. The handbrake sits on the left side of the driver’s footwell, within easy reach. When a driver pulls the handbrake while turning, the rear slides, creating a “handbrake turn” that’s a signature rally move. Knowing when and how to use each stick can shave seconds off a stage and keep the car stable on gravel.

Stay Updated with Rally News

Our category page pulls the latest rally headlines, event calendars, and driver interviews into one place. Got a question about a recent rally? You’ll find match reports and expert analysis that break down what happened on the stages, why certain choices worked, and what you can learn for your own runs.

We also share tips on car setup, from tyre choices to suspension tweaks. For example, many drivers adjust their ride height before a dusty stage to improve clearance and reduce under‑body damage. Small changes like that can make a big difference when you’re pushing the limits.

Want to hear from people who live and breathe rallying? Our community section lets you read stories from drivers, mechanics, and fans right here in Earls Barton. You’ll get practical advice, like how to practice handbrake turns safely on a closed course or which gear ratios work best for hill climbs.

Everything on this page is organized so you can jump straight to the topic that matters most to you. Whether you’re looking for gear explanations, event schedules, or how‑to guides, we keep the language plain and the details useful. No fluff, just the facts you need to get the most out of your rally experience.

Ready to explore more? Dive into our latest posts, check the upcoming rally calendar, and start experimenting with the gear stick and handbrake on your next practice run. The road (or mud) is waiting, and the more you know, the more fun you’ll have.