MSR Houston

“The basic rule with asphalt is that the rougher the surface, the better the grip. Conversely, the smoother or more worn it becomes, the less grip it has. When you notice a sheen on the surface, especially in warmer months, you can expect reduced grip.”

How to Drive — Ben Collins

Houston's extreme heat from April through October compounds with the smooth surface quality to reduce grip progressively through the day. Collins' observation about reduced grip on warm, smooth surfaces means you should expect noticeably less traction in afternoon sessions compared to morning. Adjust tire pressures upward and drive with more margin as surface temperature climbs.

“The faster and longer the corner, the less trail braking you should use and the earlier you need to be on the power; the slower and tighter the corner, the more trail braking you should use to help rotate the car.”

Ultimate Speed Secrets — Ross Bentley

MSR Houston's mix of slow and medium-speed corners demands both approaches from Bentley's rotation-vs-set framework. The tighter infield corners are rotation turns that need trail braking to change direction on the flat surface. The medium-speed sweepers are set turns where early throttle application settles the car and maximizes cornering grip. Categorize each corner and apply the matching technique — do not use the same approach everywhere.