As the 2024 Formula 1 season kicks off, players diving into the F1 24 game will find their first challenge at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir. This circuit, which has been a staple in the Formula 1 calendar since 2004, is known for its long straights that promote overtaking and its challenging corners that test both driver and machine.
The Bahrain GP has evolved over the years, including a significant shift to a night race in 2014, adding to the spectacle and challenge of the event.
Aerodynamics
For the aerodynamics setup, a front wing and rear wing setting of 32 each is recommended to strike a balance between cornering performance and straight-line speed. This setup is crucial as it affects how the car handles the aerodynamic loads during high-speed straights and tight corners.
Transmission
The transmission in F1 24 has a new engine braking option, which dictates how much speed is scrubbed off when off the throttle and how it contributes to the ERS battery pack. A 100% setting is currently the best option for engine braking. The differential adjustments should be set to 45% on-throttle and 70% off-throttle to manage the rear wheels’ rotation and improve stability.
Suspension Geometry
Suspension geometry settings have been adjusted to -3.5 and -2.2 for the camber settings and 0.25 for both toe settings. These settings help maintain car stability through challenging turns, such as turns 2, 4, and 10, which are particularly treacherous this year.
Suspension
The suspension setup is highly personal and can vary based on driving style and skill level. However, a general recommendation is to set a stiff front suspension at 41 and a loose rear suspension at 1. This configuration helps control the rear end on exit. Anti-roll bars should be set to a middle level, with 21 on both the front and back, to manage the car’s pitch during direction changes.
Brakes
Bahrain is one of the hardest circuits on brakes in F1, necessitating a high brake pressure of 95%. The front brake bias should be set more towards the front at 56% to maximize initial stopping power.
Tyres
Lower tyre pressures are better in F1 24, as they improve tyre life without significantly affecting performance. Front tyre pressures should be set to 24.0 psi, with rear pressures at 21.0 psi.
Race Strategy
A good race strategy for the Bahrain GP in F1 24 is to plan for two pit stops, using two sets of soft tyres and one set of hard tyres. Additionally, to improve performance, players are encouraged to practice in the Time Trial mode.
In conclusion, the best F1 24 Bahrain setup requires a careful balance of aerodynamics, transmission, suspension geometry, suspension, brakes, and tyres to master the Sakhir circuit. As the handling in F1 24 has received criticism and a patch is expected, this setup is based on the game’s launch state and may evolve with future updates. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the series, these settings will help you get off to a competitive start in your F1 24 Career Mode.
