Tire tech
 

Hi,
Obviously there is a huge difference in the performance of different tires relating to there grip, wear and handeling charictoristics. I was wondering what actually makes one tire better than another. I assume it has to do with tread patterns and compounds. Does anyone have informaiton or links to sites about tire technology?

Ah tires. Choosing one is like choosing your wife or girlfriend. So many choices, for so many different people with so many different needs!!!

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/index.jsp

is a good place to start..the only problem is every tire they have is the best one available ;)

I'm not really looking for information on which tire to buy. I'm looking for info on tires and how they work.

Sounds like a very broad question that none of us have the qualifications to answer appropriately. Might check Bridgestone.com Michelin.com, and do some reading...

I just read a new book out called Formula 1 Technology by Peter Wright. There's an excellent chapter on tire tech in there. Of course it's discussed within the context of Formula 1 racing, but the concepts all apply to us lowly folk as well.

By the way, if you are interested in the cutting edge of race car technology, it's a great book for all kinds of topics....engines, aero, susp, tires, materials, etc.

Regards,

Fabian