When you Google why are f1 tires smooth, the answer is no tread means more surface area, so better grip, but when you Google why do street tires have grooves, the same answer comes up. I’m confused. Also, is this a physics question, engineering or technology? Lol
In: Engineering
The grooves are meant to displace water. Without them a solid layer of water can form under the tire that has nowhere to go because it can’t get out of the way fast enough and suddenly you lose all grip as you skate on a layer of water. It’s called hydroplaning. Slick tires are illegal for road use because they’re dangerous if you encounter water, which is likely even in summer for a multitude of reasons.
On racing tracks however the conditions are controlled, so they use slick tires to get maximum grip. A lot more goes into grip than just surface area. When it’s raining they use racing tires with grooves.
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