A Spin Turn is a technique introduced in Mario Kart 64 and modified in Mario Kart Wii. It also appears in Mario Kart DS. It allows a racer to turn on the spot, which is useful for evasion in Battle Mode or if a vehicle happens to get stuck. This is accomplished by pressing both the acceleration and brake buttons at the same time while the vehicle is stopped, turning in the appropriate direction, and releasing the brake button.
If done correctly in Mario Kart 64 and Mario Kart DS, the kart's tires will squeal and will turn quickly in a circle for as long as left or right on the Control Stick is held. In Mario Kart Wii, a kart or bike can perform a Standing Mini-Turbo by holding down A (or 2) and B (or 1) until blue sparks appear.