rec.autos.simulators

I'm using MS Sidewinder Pro joystick and trying to learn how to drive
Monza. Initially, I started out as a semi-pro and used automatic shifting.
Later, after looking at some hotlap replays I downloaded, I noticed that
the cars were braking/downshifting at points after the 100 yard markers in
most turns. However, when I tried to do the same I can't seem to slow the
car enough to make a clean turn. I either stop entirely or miss the turn
entirely and usually get blackflagged.If anyone is using the SIdewinder
Pro and can explain how to set up the joystick (i.e. buttons for
acceleration, braking, shifting) I'd be grateful since I can't seem to
improve my lap times. Thanks.

: Later, after looking at some hotlap replays I downloaded, I noticed that
: the cars were braking/downshifting at points after the 100 yard markers in
: most turns. However, when I tried to do the same I can't seem to slow the
: car enough to make a clean turn. I either stop entirely or miss the turn

That's because when you brake that late, you have to actually carry the
braking INTO the corner.  It's called trail-braking and can help you turn.
Most of the turns at Monza are this way, except the 2nd chicane (the one
just before the Lesbo corners).

Also, start braking hard, then easy off just when the tires start to lock
up. This is the most efficient way of braking.

I personally LOVE Monza. It's fact, but not as boring as Hockenheim, where
it's just straight booming along the trees. Now, driving my Alfa Romeo car,
The Italians are completely ecstatic.

But also remember brake-balance, to return to the question. You'd like to do
some hotlapping, then go to the setup screen and get the telemetry data.
Then check wheel speed, and look for any earlier braking of either the front
or the rear wheels. Set the brakebalance so that all 4 wheels brake at the
same time. This greatly increases your braking power.

What also helps is experimenting with wingsettings, suspension (softer for
better grip allows you to brake later and take corners at higher speeds,
while not riscing an oversteer-spin).

Look at the setups in the hotlaps and compare this to your own, you will
find some interesting clues, I think.

    "Fellas, stoke me a clipper,
               I'll be back for Christmas."

     "It's sharper than a page of Oscar Wilde whitticisms rolled into a
point,
              sprinkled with lemon juice and stuck into someone's eye."

                                         Ace Rimmer, Red Dwarf VII

Herbert Ackermans.