Rubbing in Motorsports: What It Is and How to Handle It
Ever wondered why you sometimes hear a squeal from the car and feel a little vibration? That’s rubbing – when a tyre, body panel, or suspension part drags against the track or another component. It’s not just a noise; it can sap speed, heat up tyres, and even cause a crash if you ignore it.
Why Rubbing Happens
Rubbing shows up when a car’s setup is off. Too much camber, worn tyre sidewalls, or loose bodywork can make the rubber scrape the track surface or brush another part of the car. The faster you go, the more the forces push the car into those risky positions. In short, the car is trying to find the fastest line, but a mis‑aligned wheel can’t keep up.
How Rubbing Affects Performance and Safety
First, rubbing adds unwanted drag. The tyre’s sidewall isn’t meant to touch the road, so any contact creates friction that slows you down. Second, the heat from rubbing wears the tyre quicker, shortening its life and increasing the chance of a blow‑out. Finally, if a panel rubs the ground, it can damage the bodywork and even affect aerodynamics, making the car harder to control.
Most drivers notice rubbing right away. You’ll feel a shaking wheel, hear a high‑pitched squeal, or see extra smoke from the tyre. Those cues are your body’s way of saying, “Hey, check the setup before it turns into a problem.”
So, what can you do? Start with a quick visual check after each session. Look for scuffs on the tyre sidewalls and any dents on the under‑tray. If you spot anything, adjust camber, toe, or ride height until the car runs clean. Small changes can make a big difference.
For teams, tracking rubbing data helps fine‑tune the car. Many modern race suites log tyre temperatures and vibration levels. When the numbers spike, the crew knows to pull the driver in for a quick inspection. It’s a proactive way to keep the car in the sweet spot.
Another tip is to keep your tyres properly cooled. Over‑inflated tyres are more likely to roll onto the sidewall, which leads to rubbing. Follow the tyre manufacturer’s pressure guide—and adjust for temperature changes on race day.
If you’re into DIY track days, bring a spare tyre and a set of basic tools. A quick wheel‑nut check can reveal if a loose bolt is causing the wheel to wobble and rub the apron. Tightening everything before you hit the start line saves time and headaches later.
Remember, rubbing isn’t just a performance issue; it’s a safety issue. A tyre that’s losing grip because of constant sidewall contact can break, and that’s a scenario nobody wants on a high‑speed circuit.
Bottom line: listen to your car, keep an eye on tyre wear, and make small setup tweaks before the problem grows. With a bit of awareness, you’ll keep the squeal out of your lap times and stay safer on the track.
Is rubbing really part of Nascar racing?
Nascar racing is a sport that involves a lot of passing and maneuvering on the track. It is often assumed that rubbing is an essential part of the sport, but some drivers and officials disagree. Rubbing is a form of contact between cars that can cause damage, and is illegal in some forms. While it can be used to gain an advantage, it is often seen as a sign of aggressive and dangerous driving. Rubbing can also be dangerous for other drivers on the track. Ultimately, it is up to each driver to decide if rubbing is part of their racing strategy.