2014 tyres: premium economy

Harder than in the past after a decision from the CIK, the new tyres have been hotly debated since the Winter Cup. We know from experience that tyres are often criticized when performance is not as good as hoped. Does this mean they are no good? Nothing could be less certain! With the introduction of harder compounds, the frame or steering set up must be adjusted and it can’t necessarily be done in a few days.

The difference in grip to the old specification is obvious, especially as the temperature is still cool at this stage in the season. There was about 0.8” difference over the lap in KF-Junior with Vega, 1.2” in KF with Dunlop and 1” in KZ2 with Bridgestone. But the main thing is that everyone is in the same boat and that all drivers will benefit from a reduction in their tyre budgets. The first races of the season have not thrown up any particular problems and the hierarchy is similar among the three categories. More precise braking has been noticed, sometimes a little understeer, and some mistakes in the pack, which is not a bad thing! The essentials are still there: to allow fair competition among the drivers, and if there can be cost savings, the goal is reached.

Info Kartcom / © Photo KSP