Eli5: Why are f1 tires smooth and grippy, but street tires with no tread are dangerous and slippery

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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

39 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Smooth, soft rubber tires are better on dry surfaces but terrible on wet! And they’re soft rubber that wears out super fast.

Regular drivers have to drive on water and snow, where treads are needed to remove water from under the tire. And road tires need to be harder rubber to prolong lifespan.

Basically, what’s feasible for F1 drivers to maximize traction on perfect track conditions is very different from what typical drivers need for daily driving.

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