Re: Why do drag race cars use low press. in tires designed to resist deforming?

Lee,

Simply stated, it's to get more tire to be in contact with the ground to improve traction. A "flat" tire will touch the ground in a larger area than a highly inflated tire. More contact area = better traction = better acceleration. The tires must have the sidewalls strengthened to be able to support the weight of the car. Here's a couple other articles in the MadSci archives which discuss friction (traction) and tires:

• Friction
• Why does friction increse when warming the tyres of a racing car?
• If friction forces don't vary with surf. area, why are race car tires wide?

Your Mad Scientist,
Mike Scannell