When is a Zero Grip not a zero grip?

[Fast Co.]

Question - If a zero grip tire is trued by sanding does it still maintain it's zero grip properties?

[Audi1]

I don't think that any tire that touches the track is actually zero grip; it's more of a minimizing the grip situation.

If you're talking about Slot.It zero grips; either the 17x10 or the 19x10, then there does seem to be a surface difference between the tire as it comes from the package and the same tire after it's been trued (sanded). I'm not sure if there is a measurable difference, but there definitely is a difference in the feel of the tire tread before and after sanding.

I overcoat my zero grips, once they're trued, so that the grip is as minimal as I can make it.

Audi1

[HomeRacingWorld]

Just coat it with some Future (Pledge) using a cheap brush.

[Fast Co.]

I have a Sideway Capri that has some handling issues. In part, the stock front tires are too grippy. I replaced them with Slot.It Zero Grips and there is a considerable improvement in the car's handling. However, on my set up block I can see the Zero Grips need truing. I guess my question should have read, "What's the point of using a Zero Grip tire on the front if it has to coated after truing?" Virtually any trued tire can be coated with nail polish effectively making it a zero grip.

[dr fabio]

Correct there is no point. I true the tyres so that I have the correct clearance off the deck and then coat with superglue. Once it sets a light sanding with 800grit and then a quick buff with cut and polish auto. Smoother than a babies bottom.....and "zero" grip.

[Fast Co.]

Someone on another forum pointed out that rules and regs may sometimes state no coating on front tires or allow slip-on tires only up front. It would make sense in that case.

[dr fabio]

Yes of course you have to race within the rules as they are written at the club you race. Not allowing you to coat an original tyre, but allowing you to buy aftermarket tyres would seem a strange rule though?? Youd have to ask for the logic behind that decision. I can buy an 8 pack of superglue from the nickel and dime store for $2. Or buy brand name zero grip aftermarket tyres for $10-12. Most clubs allow you to glue tyres onto the rims. Most rules dont say how to glue those tyres on. Just have to read the rules very carefully.

[nhdungeonracer]

[RichD]

I have been coating my tires with nail polish for years and never had a problem with it flaking off. The polish will wear off after about a year of running. If you are using a coating that tends to flake then it would be a good idea to try something else.

[btaylor]

Back in "the day" we used to sand our front tires on an angle,leaving only the very outside edge making contact with the track,it was not zero grip,but it sure did minimize traction on the front. Only in classes that did not allow O-rings.
Bob

[Abarth Mike]

One can by "conical" tires for "European" wheels. They are ribbed tires with one rib being slightly bigger than the others. So can be mounted on the inside or the outside depending on....