The automotive industry offers a wide range of vehicles for different terrains and driving situations, accompanied by a diverse selection of car tyres designed to meet specific requirements. Among the many tyre classes available, the most commonly known are normal tyres and racing tyres. While both types are used on paved roads, they differ significantly in their intended purpose and design.
Despite the unique features that set them apart, road and racing tyres share similar elements in their structure, including the tyre carcass, which provides strength and structure, and the rubber tyre surface, which uses various thread patterns to sustain the tyres longer despite conditions and temperatures. Additionally, both tyres have tread patterns designed to protect them from road debris and hazards and maintain road grip and traction.
However, significant differences exist between road and racing tyres. The type of rubber used to make the tyre compound varies, with racing tyres utilizing a combination of up to 150 different ingredients to generate a tyre that can carry a lightweight racing vehicle at high speeds. By contrast, standard road tyres are designed to last longer and can typically last up to 16,000 kilometers or more.The construction of road and racing tyres also differs significantly. Racing tyres are built with a polymer composition and a dual layer of particulate carbon, providing enhanced stability and grip levels. In contrast, conventional road tyres are constructed of tough rubber and steel or Kevlar-plated radial plies.
Another difference between road and racing tyres is the amount of force given to each tyre. Racing tyres are continually subjected to high downforce, air, and rolling resistance and can travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h. In contrast, road tyres are not designed to achieve the same high speeds and are better suited for everyday use and a wider range of temperatures and weather conditions.