Tyre widths

[Steve]

Was reading an interesting discussion on this with the idea that tyre width isn't the be all and end all when it comes down to transaction, and that it is just a bigger must be better mentality.

The scientific reasoning is that the same pressure a 255mm and 225mm tyre will exert the same footprint on the floor, the 255 being wider but narrower and the 225 having a narrower but longer one.

The wider tyre gives poor aquaplaning in wet conditions so arguably a narrower tyre will always rule?

The only true way to gain traction is the grip facto of the rubber compound (I for get the term) and increasing rubber by reducing tread cuts like the toyo r888s

Side wall strength seems to be far more important for the most part

Now that makes sense and is something I had not thought of before.



I am sure there are some far more knowledgeable people on here than me who could chip in.

 

[Steve]

lol sorry about the wider and narrower bit, wasn't making myself clear

a tyre with the same radius and pressure would have a static contact patch size even if it was say 225mm and 255mm in width

There is a whole physics explanation that eludes me.

Although i is so ingrained in us that wider is better when ever this topic comes out you get the roll eyes and don'r be stupid comments

I am just starting a debate oin this as I don't know all the ins and outs

 

[Steve]

I am not claiming anything as it is a new idea to me but makes sense

no because the fiat panda had different diameter wheels a tyre profile

This link shows how when changing tyre width on the same sized wheel at the same presure you are just changing several elements of the friction formula so the end result is the same.

Think about it to maintain the two different tyre sizes at the same pressure the wider tyre requires a greater volume of air as they are suporting the same weight of car, therefor the tyre deforms differently, the wider tyre squashes less but is wider to start with, the narrower tyre squashes more so although a smaller width, the overall foot print is the same.

 

[Steve]

Amazing, I'd better phone up Bugatti right away and inform them that the 365 section rear tyres on the Veyron are too wide, would be better on some 225's.

Show me some maths or give me a reason that you disagree with the hypothesis?

For side g in corners then ther is more benefit I believe as the ratio between side wall and width gives less flex so helps grip.

If width was everything then cars would be rucking about on 1000mm tyres.

Car weight will play a massive part in the tyre width choice.

I am not a tyre engineer nor do I have fantastic knowledge in physics but It makes sense and I can't propose a reason against it, so until someone can then I Will sign up to it being correct