Aerodynamics
Monaco demands maximum downforce for optimal grip through its many slow corners.
- Front Wing Aero: Set to maximum or very close to maximum.
- Rear Wing Aero: Set to maximum.
Transmission
A balanced differential setup is key for traction out of tight corners and stability.
- Differential Adjustment (On Throttle): A lower setting (e.g., 50% – 65%) is recommended to maximize traction on corner exit without excessive wheelspin.
- Differential Adjustment (Off Throttle): A medium setting (e.g., 55% – 70%) helps with rotation on turn-in while maintaining stability.
Suspension Geometry
This setup focuses on maximizing mechanical grip and responsiveness for the narrow streets.
- Front Camber: Run high negative values (e.g., towards -2.5° to -3.0°) to increase grip during cornering.
- Rear Camber: Use lower negative values (e.g., towards -1.0° to -1.5°) to improve traction under acceleration.
- Front Toe-Out: A small amount of toe-out (e.g., 0.05° to 0.10°) will make the car more responsive on turn-in.
- Rear Toe-In: A moderate amount of toe-in (e.g., 0.20° to 0.35°) enhances stability, especially during acceleration out of slow corners.
Suspension
A soft suspension setup is crucial for navigating Monaco’s bumps and kerbs effectively.
- Front Suspension: Very soft (e.g., 1-4 clicks from minimum).
- Rear Suspension: Very soft (e.g., 1-4 clicks from minimum).
- Front Anti-Roll Bar: Soft (e.g., 1-5 clicks from minimum) to allow the car to ride kerbs without unsettling.
- Rear Anti-Roll Bar: Slightly stiffer than the front (e.g., 6-9 clicks) to aid rotation and balance.
- Front Ride Height: As low as possible without significant bottoming out (e.g., 2-4 clicks from minimum).
- Rear Ride Height: Higher than the front to create rake, aiding downforce and stability (e.g., 3-6 clicks from minimum, ensuring it’s higher than the front).
Brakes
High brake pressure is needed, but balance is key to avoid lock-ups.
- Brake Pressure: High (e.g., 95% – 100%). Adjust based on driver feedback to prevent frequent lock-ups.
- Brake Bias: A more rearward bias (e.g., 52% – 56%) can help with turn-in, but monitor for rear instability, especially during long braking zones.
Tyre Pressures
Optimizing tyre pressures helps with grip, tyre wear, and temperature management.
- Front Tyre Pressures: Lower pressures (e.g., 21.0 – 22.5 psi) generally provide better mechanical grip and help keep temperatures in the optimal window on a low-speed track.
- Rear Tyre Pressures: Lower pressures (e.g., 19.5 – 21.0 psi) are crucial for maximizing traction out of the slow corners and managing tyre temperatures.
Important Considerations:
- These settings are a baseline. Fine-tune based on driver feedback, specific car characteristics, and weather conditions.
- Monaco’s unique layout means that driver confidence and consistency are paramount. A stable car is often faster than an overly aggressive one.
- Prioritize qualifying performance, as overtaking is extremely difficult. Track position is king.
