Tires (tread/condition) and weight distribution on the driven wheels have the greatest impact on traction.
Explanation
Traction comes from the grip between your tires and the road. The tire’s tread depth, rubber compound, temperature, and inflation determine how well it can grip on dry, wet, snowy, or icy surfaces. Maintaining tires with sufficient tread, correct pressure, and using the right type of tire for the conditions yields the biggest traction benefits.
Weight distribution and how weight transfers during acceleration, braking, and cornering affect the normal force on the driven wheels, which in turn affects traction. More weight on the drive wheels generally increases available grip, while abrupt weight shifts can reduce traction. Proper loading and cautious driving on slippery surfaces help maintain traction.
Driver inputs and vehicle systems also play a role. Throttle control and braking technique, along with traction control and other stability systems, help manage traction by preventing wheel spin and maintaining stability on varying surfaces.
Key Points
- 1, Tires are the primary source of traction; tread depth, condition, and tire type dramatically affect grip on different surfaces.
- 2, Weight on the driven wheels and weight transfer during acceleration/braking determine the available friction for traction.
- 3, Throttle control and vehicle stability systems (traction control, ABS, ESC) help manage traction by preventing wheel spin and maintaining stability.