DEFINITION
A Cone is the physical marker on a drift course — usually a rubber traffic cone weighted at the base — that defines a clipping point, an outer zone boundary, or the edge of a track-out zone. Hitting one is normal in drift and rarely penalized; knocking one over more than a couple of meters can deduct points.
Some series replace cones with painted zones, lights, or fluorescent foam pads, but 'cone' is still the universal shorthand.
HISTORY & ORIGIN
Drift courses borrowed cones from autocross. Modern courses often use weighted, high-visibility cones designed to survive bumper hits without damaging the car.
TECHNIQUE BREAKDOWN
Treat cones as targets, not obstacles. Aim the rear of the car at the cone for clipping points; use cones as outer-edge reference for outer zones. Don't be afraid to tag them — judges expect to see cones moved by good runs.
PRO TIPS & COMMON MISTAKES
• A cone tagged hard with the wheel can puncture a tyre; tag with the body instead.
• If you knock a cone into another car's path, expect a judging discussion — it can be ruled as causing collision.
• Cones placed on the inside of a corner are usually clipping points; cones on the outside usually mark zone boundaries.
He took out the second cone clean off its base, but kept the run going.