Thanks for your help. So then all other things being equal, a 35 aspect ratio will launch better than a 30 series tire due to more sidewall flex area. Makes sense.
The physics question though is still open. Is dry braking distance a direct indicator of launch prowess? I find it very odd that an extensive google search has as of yet, turned up nothing on this topic. It seems logically so straightforward to me... I guess I could explore whether any research looks at the affect of sidewall flex on braking distance. Thanks for the research lead!
Originally Posted by
32krazy!
launch is controlled by air pressure and tire patch contact along with sidewall flex. the less grooves in the tread allow more contact with the pavement but less than ideal control in the wet. sidewall fles allows the torque to reach the ground rather than spin the tire off the pavement but this means a soft sidewall doesnt handle well in the turns and wears much faster.
in short if you want a drag style tire you buy one. if you want a all season road tire you buy that. theres very few if any tire that meets all criteria