Ill throw in my 2c on downforce. Downforce does indeed apply weight (force) but does so without adding matter (mass). In real simple terms, downforce allows you to push the tires harder into the ground (download) without increasing the load that they are carrying at a given speed/angle. So, with the added download the grip level is increased and you can corner faster. Downforce of course, adds drag.
Downforce does NOT have the same effect as adding ballast. With ballast, or simply running a heavier kart you increase BOTH the download on the tires AND the load that they have carry through the turn at x speed. Some download is needed of course, but there is a point of diminishing returns where load capability of the tire is not increased with the added download. You are also changing the inertia of the vehicle which makes it harder to convince to change direction.
Extreme example of downforce, in the 90's and F1 car could theoretically drive upside down at about 70MPH with Monaco downforce settings. They were generating 600KG of downforce and the car weighed 550Kg. Obviously adding 600KG of ballast would not have the same effect!
On balancing tires, my experience ties up with what mike grady said. when you get above 60, its crucial. I road race shifters and we often average 90MPH on some tracks, if your tires are out of balance, especially on the front it destroys the handling like you wouldn't believe. But, you'd barely notice it (handling wise) below 50. How that factors on the banking you folks run I have no idea.
Downforce does NOT have the same effect as adding ballast. With ballast, or simply running a heavier kart you increase BOTH the download on the tires AND the load that they have carry through the turn at x speed. Some download is needed of course, but there is a point of diminishing returns where load capability of the tire is not increased with the added download. You are also changing the inertia of the vehicle which makes it harder to convince to change direction.
Extreme example of downforce, in the 90's and F1 car could theoretically drive upside down at about 70MPH with Monaco downforce settings. They were generating 600KG of downforce and the car weighed 550Kg. Obviously adding 600KG of ballast would not have the same effect!
On balancing tires, my experience ties up with what mike grady said. when you get above 60, its crucial. I road race shifters and we often average 90MPH on some tracks, if your tires are out of balance, especially on the front it destroys the handling like you wouldn't believe. But, you'd barely notice it (handling wise) below 50. How that factors on the banking you folks run I have no idea.
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