Use the Slide function to get enemies off your tail or put some distance between you and capital ships while keeping them targeted. Hold Q or [Gamepad 4] to point your nose any direction while continuing on your original vector. This also helps you make faster turns.

Reverse course rapidly with the reverse thrusters (Z) and reverse afterburners ([Tab] + Z). These are difficult to use because they function quickly. A quick reverse is another way to shake an enemy off your tail and turn the tables on him. A combination of slide and reverse afterburners can be lethal once mastered.