How to properly execute a "Corvette Wave" 101
Overview:
There are three typical waves that are usually accomplished when two corvette drivers pass in opposite directions. We will be discussing the two main waves in this guide, for the third wave is covered in the upcoming "Advanced Guide for properly executing a "Corvette Wave ", due to the complexity and intricate techniques required performing the third wave type.
The first, and most common "Corvette Wave" consists of two basic actions performed within a range that was set, as the standard distance in which each properly executed wave must be completed. This standard distance was developed by me, through research and test studies utilizing a vague form of calculations which, over a period of 6 months has been determined to consist of all pertinent criteria and all necessary factors to complete this task in the most effective way, at the most effective moment.
At this time, I would like to offer a few precautionary measures that will insure the Corvette driver a safe and pleasant time behind the wheel.
What to look for as a Corvette driver on public thoroughfares:
The three things you want to look out for while driving a Corvette are as follows:
1. You want to look out for speed traps, especially if they are within a school zone.
2. You will want to watch for Supra Turbo drivers, and the notorious, slightly arrogant Mustang HO drivers, who always want to race, and of course, you want to watch out for hitchhikers in halter tops and tight shorts heading to Sturgis, but willing to take the ride offered, even if it is in the opposite direction.
3. Lastly, you want to watch out for wild game on the roadways. There is nothing worse than hitting a deer at 140 MPH in a Corvette. The fiberglass tends to shatter, taking out the clip, hood, fenders, windshield, T-tops, and usually, not only do you need a wrecker to get your car home, but you have to leave the road kill, even during hunting season.
NOTE: *(Certain times, weather conditions, and Seasons may increase the likelihood of wild game crossing a highway speed roadway. Check your area to determine the best times for driving at high speeds. Also, a deer whistle could be an asset you will not regret having should this concern manifest itself).
Requirements:
a) The first requirement, and most important item you will need is a Corvette.
The year, features and options have no bearing on this procedure, therefore, any Corvette will do just fine.
b) The second requirement, you will need to maintain a high degree of safety is a blue-tooth headset for your cellular phone. Using a hand held phone is simply not tolerated if you desire to complete the execution of either wave in a proper and precise manner, and within the specifications established within this guide.
c) The third requirement set you will be responsible for is timing and crispness of retort while rendering the wave itself.
Before I go any further, some of you may not be prepared to participate at this time. If you feel that you are unable to obtain a required item under Requirements: a) or b), or if you feel you need additional training to render the required physical attributes under Requirements: c), you may not be eligible to interpret this guide properly.
Type 1 Wave:
This first wave consists of two flowing motions, a brisk retort, and concentration.
To accomplish this wave, timing is most critical. There is a momentary window of opportunity to establish the motions required. This window can be calculated using the following formula. Speed + Acceleration per second multiplied by 2, then by adding the numbers in the sum - (with any three digit number, the first two digits are considered the first number, and the third digit is the second number); then, by subtracting 9 from this number, and then dividing this sum by 4, you will have a relative window of time to perform the wave.
*Speeds under 55 MPH will not accurately calculate and will not be considered proper.
Example: if you are driving in the city at 55 MPH, and accelerating at 6 MPH per second, your number will be 61. Multiplied by 2, you now have 122. You then add the digits in this sum12 + 2 = 14. Then, subtract 9. You will end up with 5. Divide this number by 4. You end up with a 1.25 second window.
In the example above, you must time the wave from start to finish within a parameter of 1.25 seconds, and prior to the oncoming Corvette driver passing by you in the opposite direction. As the other Corvette approaches, DO NOT CHANGE THE RATE OF ACCELERATION! By doing so not only foils the timing, but shows weakness.
Start by firmly gripping the steering wheel with your left hand. As you steady your line, release your right hands grip on the steering wheel, and in a smooth sweeping motion, raise your right arm at the elbow, (do not raise your shoulder), and extend your pointer and middle fingers, while pressing your ring and little fingers together, touching your thumb just left of the thumbnail, to your ring fingers first knuckle. As your arm rises, you want to lock your muscles firm just as your extended pointer and middle fingers approach the high side of your forehead, just above and off-center of your right eye brow and at a 10 O’clock angle. Then, snap your right wrist forward, so that your extended fingers are now pointing at the swivel point of your driver’s side sun visor.
As you view the approaching Corvette driver, his response should be simultaneous as you pass each other’s view. You may need to practice this to get the correct timing and feel. As the window of opportunity, per the above formula increases or decreases, you will need to change the speed your arm sweep accordingly, for maximum effect. The retort and snap should be quick and confident.
Type 2 Wave:
The second wave covered in this guide is completely different than the first.
This wave is performed at a red signal light. This wave can be performed weather the other Corvette is next to you on a multiple lane road, perpendicular at a crossing point of the intersection, or across from you heading the opposite direction.
This is the simplest wave to perform, pending your health and flexibility. The following describes the type 2 wave:
As you are waiting for the light to change, you may turn you neck, should the participation Corvette idle beside you, or perpendicular to you on either side of the intersection. You do not want to rotate your torso, only your neck, and keep both hands on the wheel - (10 and 2 O’clock on any model without airbags, and 9 and 3 O’clock on all models with air bags); and only turn your neck to 70 degrees (+/- 2 degrees) on a side by side, and 25 degrees (+/- 2 degrees) on a cross or perpendicular intersection idle.
Once the angle of degree is achieved, simply nod your head in an upward jerk-type motion extending your chin slightly, then resuming the starting point of the nod, slowly turn your neck back to a natural driving position. That’s it. Just remember; never do this nod in a downward, chin-tucking fashion. Always extend the chin and nod upward. By reversing this nod, your wave will show weakness and may be construed as an insult rather than its intended meaning.
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