Originally posted by Andy W.:
Demon,
Tell me why it is such a common practice and why I've run both ways and have put down better numbers with lower tire pressure in back to back runs! BTW I pump up my rears to 37psi!
-Andy
That's quite odd. Myself and several others have the exact opposite results.
Rolling resistance does increase with lower tire pressure so you are losing performance as well as traction.
We are talking low profile radial tires! Not drag slick made to run at low psi levels. There would be no wrinkling of the sidewall either.
CB99SVT in the drag radial post says he runs at the stock 32psi and gets his best times. Those are on "drag radials" as well!
Read a few magazine, a few books, etc... They all will state exactly what I posted.
Bruce -
As for running at a low 25psi. That will really hurt performance, mileage, and likely tire life.
I'm for tuning the suspension the other way. Increase pressure until abnormal center wear would become apparent.
This way you keep the most contact patch on the road.
It stays to the road better (more air pressure).
The sidewalls are stiffer (Better handling/less rollover).
Less rolling resistance (better performance & mileage)
Much stabler & more predictable handling.
Better road & steering feel.
