Stopwatch

A stopwatch measures time from the start of a test. The co-driver keeps comparing it with the target time for the distance driven and tells the driver to speed up or slow down.

Which watches are used

• Mechanical stopwatches: the classic choice in historic classes, often two or three side by side on a board.
• Digital stopwatches: more precise and with split times, but not allowed in some classes.
• Rally computers and apps: combine time, distance and average speed.

Which devices are allowed depends on the regulations of each class. Some classes only permit mechanical clocks and a simple odometer.

Why several watches

Many crews run two stopwatches at once. One runs for the whole test, the other restarts after each speed change. That keeps you on top of things and gives you a backup if one fails.

Tip

Practise starting the watch on command. A late press easily costs a few tenths. Rally Co-Pilot offers as many stopwatches and countdowns as you need, for example as backup timers. The guide to timing methods covers more approaches.