Grip, also referred to as traction, is the ability of a vehicle’s tires to maintain contact with the road surface. It is determined by the level of interaction between the tire’s molecules and the road at the point of contact.
The amount of grip can be affected by the type of tire, the tread’s condition, and the condition of the road surface. A good grip is essential for maintaining control and stability while driving. During turning or braking, in challenging weather conditions, and on slippery roads.
Three factors that can affect a tire’s grip while driving on a circuit are:
- The coefficient of friction between the tire and the track
- The size of the area of contact between the tire and the track (contact patch)
- The weight of the vehicle and any aerodynamic forces acting on the tire (vertical load)
