Why is F1 going to 18" tires? | FerrariChat

Why is F1 going to 18" tires?

Discussion in 'General Automotive Discussion' started by Tcar, Dec 10, 2019.

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  1. Tcar

    Tcar F1 Rookie

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    Cannot find a definitive answer....

    Going to to 18" low profile....???

    2021. I think.
     
  2. Sterling Sackey

    Sterling Sackey Formula 3 Sponsor

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    I'm not sure what the stated reasons are, but the current 13" wheel size is totally irrelevant to what is used on roadgoing cars today, so perhaps the tire manufacturers would like to use a wheel size that allows them to carry over the racing technology to the road more effectively.

    Of course, a lower profile tire will also have less tire flex, although it's not like F1 cars are sloppy on turn-in to begin with.
     
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  3. tbakowsky

    tbakowsky F1 World Champ Consultant Professional Ferrari Technician

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    I'm sure they know better then most of us..but an 18 inch tire for racing I would think is less then ideal. That's a lot of weight being thrown around out there
     
  4. Tcar

    Tcar F1 Rookie

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    Well, they'll all be on 18's... low profile...
     
  5. Sterling Sackey

    Sterling Sackey Formula 3 Sponsor

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    More wheel diameter will mean less rubber sidewall diameter. Rubber is often heavier than the alloy used for wheels. It's very possible the wheel / tire package will be lighter as a result of bigger wheels.
     
  6. F2003-GA

    F2003-GA F1 World Champ Rossa Subscribed

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    IMO They look better
     
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  7. BMW.SauberF1Team

    BMW.SauberF1Team F1 World Champ

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    Well they will have to redesign the suspension as the sidewall on the F1 tires are designed to act as a part of the suspension with the play they have vs a low profile tire. They'll act like it's more inline with street cars and will somehow save costs, but will end up costing a lot more than just leaving it the same.
     
  8. PerKr

    PerKr Formula Junior

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    Because there is no real reason to stay with 13 inch rims.
     
  9. Fred2

    Fred2 F1 World Champ Silver Subscribed

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    Bigger wheels would allow bigger brakes.

    Is there any change to the brakes in the rules?
     

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