[98_1LE]

I seem to recall that max lateral G's of friction is 1 G, and that to go above that adhesion is required.

If true I interpret this to mean that typical street tires would be limited to 1.0 G.

Am I nuts, close, or correct?

[z28tt]

You can get well over 1g without any type of aerodynamic downforce. That number isn't a magic wall... Eugenio posted the formula for the force of friction, and it all depends on the coef. of friction of the tire (which depends on the compound, temperature, slip angle, pressure, etc...). Most manufacturers don't even have the CoF curves unless they've done some very expensive tests (not on street tires or most racing tires we use). For some interesting reading, Racecar Engineering Magazine had an article a few months back about the Formula SAE teams chipping in to do the experiments and get tire data from a few different sizes. I believe the Millikens were involved w/ the test, and the tire research center in upstate NY.

Clear as mud, right? (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)