Dunno, haven't tried it. Taking into account the different game modes, the number of courses and the additional bonuses makes for a great game. Experimentation with driving lines is the only way to improve lap times. Learning how each weapon operates and where is best to use it is the key to ploughing through the field in a race. As with any other game playing skills will improve over time.
Perseverance is the key.
If you have played the original Wipeout then, you can probably select the AG Systems or the Auricom cars from the start without having too much bother. It's up to personal preferences really. Steering can be difficult, especially when travelling at the high-speeds of Rapier and Phantom classes. There is one method that can be easily adopted. I think you will find that this saves time and increases reaction time.