Long Sticks in Rally Racing – A Practical Guide

If you’ve ever watched a rally car tear through gravel and wondered about the strange, elongated levers the drivers clutch, you’re looking at what enthusiasts call “long sticks.” They’re not fancy gadgets – just a type of shifter or steering aid that gives drivers extra leverage when they need it most.

Why Rally Drivers Choose Long Sticks

First off, rally courses are unpredictable. One moment you’re on smooth tarmac, the next you’re sliding over loose stone. A long stick lets you shift gears faster and keep the engine in the sweet spot. The extra length means you don’t have to wiggle your wrist as much, which reduces fatigue on long stages. That small advantage can translate into a few tenths of a second saved per shift – enough to move you up the leaderboard.

Second, the stick’s length gives better feel for the car’s balance. When you push the shifter forward or pull it back, you get a clearer sense of engine revs and torque. It’s like having a bigger hand on the steering wheel; you feel every bite and can react quicker.

How to Use a Long Stick Effectively

Start by getting comfortable with the travel distance. A long stick moves farther than a short, so you’ll need a slightly different hand position. Keep your elbow relaxed and let the stick do the work – don’t force it. When you’re approaching a tight corner, pre‑shift a gear using the stick while you’re still on the straight. That way you’re already in the right gear when you hit the apex.

Practice makes perfect. Set aside a few laps on a local track, experiment with different shift patterns, and notice how the car responds. You’ll quickly learn whether a longer pull or push feels more natural for your driving style.

Don’t forget maintenance. Because the stick moves more, the pivot points can wear faster. Check the linkage for play before each event and lubricate the joints regularly. A smooth‑moving stick is a reliable stick.

Finally, pair the long stick with a solid co‑driver routine. The navigator calls out pace notes, and you’ll need to shift at the right moments. Communicating clearly – “gear 3 now” – helps you stay synced and avoids missed shifts.

In short, long sticks are a simple upgrade that offers real performance gains in rally racing. They give you more leverage, better feedback, and less hand strain on those marathon stages. If you’re serious about improving your split times, give them a try.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a teen just starting out, adding a long stick to your rally kit could be the edge you’ve been missing. Grab one, hit the practice track, and feel the difference for yourself.