"peter wezeman" wrote in message
m...


Is the coefficient of friction of those special tires that high,
or do they use aerodynamic downforce to increase the traction?

Both.

If memory serves, the coefficient of friction of Formula One
racing tires is on the order of 1.2, but of course a drag slick doesn't
have to last nearly as long. One journalist wrote that, touching
a racing tire at operating temperature, it feels sticky, about like
wet bubble gum.


They sit at the start and deliberately induce wheelspin to get the tyres
good and hot, touch one of those tyres at racing temperature
and you'll get a 3rd degree burn

http://www.kagered-racing.com/images...02_burnout.jpg

Keith