This is how you wave!






A proper wave!



















Save the wave!
Last edited by Factoid; Jun 28, 2023 at 11:49 AM.
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts





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 whether 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 your 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.





