stretch
2004-09-25, 07:48 PM
Here's a graph of grip versus load on a tire. Notice that the relationship is not linear:
http://www.mazda6tech.com/images/suspension/tire_grip.gif
A tire carrying 400lbs will be able to resist 600lbs of lateral force. This is enough for 1.3 g's of cornering force! On the other hand, a tire carrying 1400lbs resists 1400lbs of lateral force- enough for only 1 g of cornering force. In other words, the coefficient of friction steadily declines with increased load.
The question is- how can this graph be modified?
Tire pressures may raise or lower the limits of the graph, but do they change the shape of the curve?
I've been trying to find information on tire load ratings and whether or not tires made to carry a heavy load can sustain more weight before their coefficient of friction drops. For example, some larger tires are rated for well beyond 1500lbs each, whereas the stock tires are rated for ~1350lbs (I think). Could their be an advantage in looking for a tire with a higher load rating? Any ideas?
With a front-heavy car, a tire that maintains a high coefficient of friction (a large, wide tire) might do wonders for braking and cornering- two instances where one or both front tires often become saturated.
http://www.mazda6tech.com/images/suspension/tire_grip.gif
A tire carrying 400lbs will be able to resist 600lbs of lateral force. This is enough for 1.3 g's of cornering force! On the other hand, a tire carrying 1400lbs resists 1400lbs of lateral force- enough for only 1 g of cornering force. In other words, the coefficient of friction steadily declines with increased load.
The question is- how can this graph be modified?
Tire pressures may raise or lower the limits of the graph, but do they change the shape of the curve?
I've been trying to find information on tire load ratings and whether or not tires made to carry a heavy load can sustain more weight before their coefficient of friction drops. For example, some larger tires are rated for well beyond 1500lbs each, whereas the stock tires are rated for ~1350lbs (I think). Could their be an advantage in looking for a tire with a higher load rating? Any ideas?
With a front-heavy car, a tire that maintains a high coefficient of friction (a large, wide tire) might do wonders for braking and cornering- two instances where one or both front tires often become saturated.