Why do race cars constantly change their tyres is a pertinent question that clicks our mind while watching the fascinating car race. R ace cars are really different from regular cars since they are each made to serve a certain activity.
Tires for normal cars are strong and perfect for using every day. Their tyres can also accommodate a wide range of drivers with various driving techniques. On the other hand, race car tyres give the vehicle the maximum level of grip while performing stunts like rapid acceleration, braking, and turning.
Let’s read together how race car tyres differ from the on road vehicles and also why they need to be replaced frequently before every race.
Flexiblity of Tyres
Although both road and racing tyres are made of rubber, the type of rubber differs for both. R ace cars tyres are designed for exceptional circumstances depending on the circuit, while road car tyres are created to respond to a wide range of weather and road conditions.
Furthermore, the tyre compounds of the two are different. A certain tyre composition is made up of a number of distinct materials, including rubber, carbon, and mechanical grease. The slightest alteration to any of them will produce wildly different tyre formulations, giving each tyre a unique set of performance characteristics.
Construction of Tyres
Road tyres have a more durable tyre design since they are built of robust rubber. Racing tyres, on the other hand, use a polymer mixed with a double layer of carbon particles to increase grip and stability.
Because of this, race car tyres are often softer and more prone to damage, necessitating frequent replacement.
Tire Tread
Have you ever observed the many tread designs or patterns on tyres? You may have questioned their purpose for existing. The grip provided by these tyre treads or patterns is evident. The reason is that they improve the traction and makes the brake smooth.
The tyres used by race cars, on the other hand, have no tread or patterns. In order to help race cars accelerate swiftly and with less resistance, these smooth tyres were created specifically for them.
Bottom Line
Stickiness and durability are inversely related when we talk about tyres. A small amount of rubber can be scrubbed off at each corner because of the softer rubber compounds that have excellent turning traction.
A little rubber is left on the paper after each mark you erase with this, similar to how a pencil eraser does. Tires with a lot of traction therefore, degrade quickly.While lasting far longer, harder tyre rubber compounds are more likely to slide during braking or harsh braking.
Since most racing involves driving remarkably fast around a simple or complex circuit, having sticky, short-lived tyres will enable you to cross the finish line ahead of a competitor who would have to slow down more for each corner or risk slamming into the concrete barrier.