When it comes to racing, cars are built for speed. However, the frames and engines aren’t the most important part of the vehicle. The tires are arguably the most crucial part of the vehicle.
If you are involved in motorsport, the motorsport tires you need will depend on the track that you’re racing on. If you are going to race on a track, the tire selection will depend on a number of factors which will be mentioned below.
Considering Tyre Regulations: Finding a suitable tire for your type of competition can be a confusing task. The first thing you need to do is to consult the regulations in place. For instance, regulations for racing in the UK are set by Motorsport UK.
They usually prepare a list of tires that you can use in the respective competitions. In some cases, championships run a control tire that all entrants must use, which makes the selection much more straightforward.
Considering Tread Pattern: There is a diverse range of tread patterns you will encounter when you look for tires. While many of them may look the same, making a choice is very difficult. There are three different tread patterns used for circuit racing – Dry weather tires, fully wet tires, and Multipurpose tires. In case you want tires for rallying, you can choose from gravel and tarmac types.
Considering the compound: Many tires used for competitions and track days are available in different compounds, depending on the construction of the rubber tread. Softer compounds offer a greater amount of grip but do not tend to last long.
Harder compounds have a better lifespan but compromise the grip. However, there are other variables that need to be considered including surface type, weather conditions, and temperature.
Considering surface types: When competing on gravel, the surface types to consider are slightly different. The road conditions can evolve over the course of a rally, as it can change from being soft to harder surfaces which yield a different type of grip. Combined with weather conditions, it requires a more involved decision on what compounds to use.
Considering track conditions: The level of abrasion on the track surface has a great role to play in tire life. Not all tarmac surfaces have the same surface properties which cause varying wear and tear on tires.
If the track has more high-speed corners, the tires will wear more quickly. A change in temperature can also affect the amount of grip that tires have on the surface as high temperatures produce a greater amount of wear.
Types of Tires Used in Motorsports
When racing in motorsports, tires play a crucial role. However, the type of race you are taking part in will dictate the type of tire you are going for.
Additionally, the brands of tires are also as important as the type, with brands such as Giti Tire making a splash in the motorsport arena. With that being said, here are some of the major types of tires available for motorsports.
Wet Weather Tires: Wet weather tires are made for wet weather conditions and used in races that are likely to experience rain. The treads for these tires are deep which allows the water to be pushed out of the surface treads which doesn’t affect the driver’s control. These tires are meant for the worst racing conditions. They are known from Formula One races where the weather requires it.
Dry Weather Tires: Dry weather tires are likely used in hotter, dry conditions. They are known as slicks as they do not possess any tread. They are constructed with a smooth surface that can stick to any dry road. While it’s ideal for summer races, there is always a risk if there is any wet weather on the horizon.
Tarmac Tires: For competing in long races, it’s very common to see a change in the weather during the course of the competition. Slick tires cannot provide you with the control you need in wet areas. On the other hand, it’s not practical to use deep-tread tires the entire time. Tarmac tires can provide the solution you are looking for, as they combine the above two options and has treads where needed.
Gravel Tires: Gravel tires are made especially for tough terrain that features gravel and rocks throughout. These tires are suited for races which have mud and rocky stages. These tires also feature protection for the sides of the tires that can prevent punctures.
Final Thoughts
Motorsports involve a lot of different types of track conditions that drivers must face. The safety of the driver is important in addition to the tire’s performance. Using the right tires for the right occasion can ensure that you aren’t compromising on either performance or the driver’s safety.
