Why Surface Area Matters with Tires But Not with Brakes

🔑Increasing surface area does not increase friction with brakes, but it does with tires due to the nature of the materials.

📈Wider tires offer more grip and traction, better heat management, and reduced wear.

💦Wider tires may have reduced performance in wet conditions due to water displacement.

🏎️Sports cars and race cars often have larger brakes for heat management and wider tires for maximum grip in dry conditions.

🔬Tribology, the science of friction, lubrication, and surface contact, deals with the mechanics behind brakes, tires, and other surfaces.

Why don't bigger brakes reduce braking distance?

—Bigger brakes do not reduce braking distance because increasing the size of brake discs and pads does not increase friction. Instead, larger brakes help dissipate heat and prevent brake fade.

Do wider tires improve braking performance?

—Wider tires can improve braking performance by providing more grip and traction. However, their performance may be reduced in wet conditions due to water displacement.

Why do sports cars and race cars have larger brakes and wider tires?

—Sports cars and race cars have larger brakes for heat management and wider tires for maximum grip in dry conditions. These upgrades enhance performance during aggressive driving.

Do wider tires last longer?

—Yes, wider tires can last longer because the wear is spread out over a greater surface area. This helps prevent excessive wear and increases the lifespan of the tires.

What is tribology?

—Tribology is the scientific field that studies the mechanics of friction, lubrication, and surface contact. It encompasses the complex interactions between surfaces, such as brakes and tires.

00:00In today's video, we explain why surface area matters with tires but not with brakes.

16:12In conclusion, understanding the mechanics behind brakes and tires can help make informed tuning and upgrading choices for your vehicle.