Tyre Theory – The Three Types of Grip

Tyres have a certain level of grip available. Der! I hear you all say.

Well the theory is that the amount of grip is finite. It can be used for either accelerating, braking or turning.

If I want maximum braking, don’t be turning because this will diminish the amount of grip available for braking. Conversely, if you want maximum cornering, don’t be
braking, because this will diminish the amount of grip available for turning.

There is only so much grip available so decide what you want. The idea is to maximum brake in a straight line, then get totally off the brakes before turning in to the corner and allow maximum grip for cornering (be careful how much power you apply).

Sounds simple but how often do we find ourselves attempting to do both at the same time and can’t work out why we understeer.

Courtesy of Steve – On The Marque February 2022