BRISTOL, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 15: Tyler Reddick, driver of the #45 Jordan Brand Toyota, drives during practice for the NASCAR Cup Series Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 15, 2023, in Bristol, Tennessee. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) | Getty Images
NASCAR Cup Series — Race No. 29 – 500 laps / 266.5 miles
Bristol Motor Speedway (0.533-mile oval) – Bristol, Tennessee
Fast Facts for September 20-21, 2024
Tire: Goodyear Eagle 18-inch Speedway Radials
Set limits: Cup: 2 sets for practice, 1 set for qualifying, and 11 sets for the race (10 race sets plus 1 set transferred from qualifying)
Tire Codes: Left-side — D-5170; Right-side — D-5206
Tire Circumference: Left-side — 2,254 mm (88.74 in.); Right-side — 2,276 mm (89.61 in.)
Minimum Recommended Inflation:
Left Front — 16 psi; Left Rear — 18 psi;
Right Front — 46 psi; Right Rear — 44 psi
Storyline – Goodyear returns to Bristol with the spring tire setup; effective tire management will be crucial: The spring NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway unveiled some insights. Utilizing the same tire setup as last fall’s event, the track did not accumulate rubber, leading to significant tire wear throughout March’s 500-lap race. Following this, Goodyear conducted a test on July 16-17 to investigate the factors contributing to the excessive wear. Six teams participated in this evaluation, those of drivers Chase Briscoe, Chris Buescher, Austin Dillon, Justin Haley, Corey Lajoie, and John Hunter Nemechek. Despite mid-summer temperatures exceeding those of March’s race, the track again failed to take rubber during the test. This left track preparation and the chosen traction compound as the differing elements compared to the September 2023 race, which featured the same tire setup. In September 2023, the track was prepared using PJ1, while earlier this year it used a resin treatment. This alteration emerged as the primary factor influencing the conditions observed in March. Given the favorable response from that race, it was decided to replicate the setup and track conditions this week. With teams now more prepared, effective tire management will be paramount for drivers. Although tires will inevitably wear, those who best manage theirs will be positioned to advance as the race progresses, overtaking competitors whose tires degrade more rapidly.
“After all the effort from the sport’s stakeholders regarding the Next Gen car and the short track package, the spring race at Bristol will be remembered as a significant turning point.
“We have always maintained at Goodyear that our goal is to provide setups that maximize grip while allowing the tires to last through a full fuel run,” remarked Greg Stucker, director of racing at Goodyear. “The high wear race at Bristol in March revealed valuable insights, showing us the potential of what we can achieve. Ultimately, tire wear benefits racing performances. Drivers appreciate the challenge of tire management, which enables them to play a more significant role in the race, and teams are compelled to create a well-balanced car setup. Fans, in turn, enjoy an increase in passing opportunities on the track.”
Notes – This marks the third consecutive Bristol Cup race featuring this tire setup: NASCAR Cup teams will utilize a different tire configuration from those in the Xfinity and Craftsman Truck Series this week, as they are racing on 18-inch bead diameter tires. This particular setup was first introduced to the Cup cars at Bristol in September 2023. While the right-side tire code is specific to Bristol, the left-side code was previously utilized by Cup teams at Dover in April. Moreover, because of the lower profile sidewall of the 18-inch tire, NASCAR Cup cars will not use inner liners in any of their tires.
Wet Weather Tires – Goodyear introduces wet weather tires at Bristol for the first time: Goodyear is supplying its 18-inch wet weather radial tires to Bristol for the NASCAR Cup cars, contingent upon NASCAR’s assessment of the weather conditions. Cup teams will be permitted a maximum of four sets of wet weather tires for this event. The last time Cup teams used wet weather tires in competition was at Chicago in July, with the most recent short track use occurring at New Hampshire in June. Additionally, notable differences include a tread pattern designed for wet conditions in contrast to Goodyear’s dry weather “slick” tires, with the “Goodyear” and “Eagle” markings on the sidewalls of the wet tires appearing in white rather than the usual yellow.
NASCAR Xfinity Series – Race No. 26 – 300 laps / 160 miles
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series – Race No. 18 – 200 laps / 106.6 miles
Bristol Motor Speedway (0.533-mile oval) – Bristol, Tenn.
Fast Facts for September 19-20, 2024
Tire: Goodyear Eagle 15-inch Speedway Radials
Set limits: Xfinity: 5 sets for the event;
Craftsman Truck: 5 sets for the event
Tire Codes: Left-side — D-6106; Right-side — D-6132
Tire Circumference: Left-side — 2,225 mm (87.60 in.); Right-side — 2,250 mm (88.58 in.)
Minimum Recommended Inflation:
Left Front — 20 psi; Left Rear — 18 psi;
Right Front — 45 psi; Right Rear — 40 psi
Notes – Xfinity concludes its regular season while Trucks advance into playoffs with established tire setup: With 15-inch bead diameter tires, NASCAR Xfinity and Craftsman Truck Series teams will use a different tire configuration compared to the Cup Series at Bristol this week. This is the identical combination of left- and right-side tires that these series have employed on Bristol’s concrete surface since September 2022. Unlike most NASCAR tracks measuring one mile or less, Xfinity and Truck teams will incorporate inner liners exclusively in their right-side tires at Bristol, with the air pressure in these liners set to be 12-25 psi higher than that of the outer tire.
Wet Weather Tires – White-lettered tires prepared: Goodyear will supply 15-inch wet weather radials for use by Xfinity and Craftsman Truck Series teams at Bristol if NASCAR deems weather conditions appropriate. Xfinity and Truck teams will have three sets of wet tires available for their respective events. Xfinity teams last raced in wet conditions at New Hampshire in June, whereas Truck teams last faced wet conditions at Martinsville last season. In addition to the evident differences in tread patterns compared to Goodyear’s dry weather “slick” tires, the “Goodyear” and “Eagle” lettering on the sidewalls of the wet tires will be white.
The wet weather tires are distinguished by a white color, unlike the typical yellow.
— Goodyear Racing —
Contact: Mike Siberini, Goodyear Racing Public Relations – 704-905-3309 (C).
Tire Management Takes Center Stage at NASCAR’s Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol
The Importance of Tire Management in NASCAR
Tire management is crucial in NASCAR racing, especially at demanding tracks like Bristol Motor Speedway. The unique layout and surface conditions at Bristol make tire strategy a key component for success. Racers must carefully consider tire wear, grip levels, and pit stop timing to optimize their performance over the intense 500-lap race.
Understanding Tire Wear
Tires endure immense stress during a NASCAR race, particularly at Bristol, where the short track emphasizes frequent cornering. Here’s a breakdown of tire wear factors:
– **Surface Abrasion**: Bristol’s high-banked, concrete surface leads to rapid tire degradation.
- **Heat Buildup**: As tires heat up, performance can fluctuate, affecting grip and handling.
– **Track Position**: Drivers often battle for track position, which can impact tire wear due to increased friction.
Key Tire Management Strategies for Bristol
When it comes to managing tires at the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, teams deploy several strategies to gain an edge. Here are some essential tactics that have been employed historically:
- Scouting the Track: Teams analyze previous races to understand tire performance under various conditions.
- Adjustments During Practice: During practice sessions, teams experiment with tire pressures and camber settings to find the most effective configurations.
- Strategic Pit Stops: Timing pit stops effectively can help drivers stay competitive; teams must balance the risk of tire degradation against the potential time lost during a pit stop.
- Monitoring Tire Temperature: Keeping an eye on tire temperatures helps teams make real-time adjustments for better grip and performance.
Practical Tips for Tire Management at Bristol
To excel in tire management during the Bass Pro Shops Night Race, here are some practical tips for teams and drivers:
1. Optimize Tire Pressure
Maintaining the right tire pressure is vital for maximizing grip and minimizing wear. Teams should aim for a balance between performance and durability.
2. Use Data Analytics
Leverage data analytics to assess tire performance and make informed strategic decisions. Utilizing past race data can provide insights into optimal pit strategies.
3. Develop a Tire Management Plan
Prior to the race, teams should develop a comprehensive tire management plan that includes pit stop timing, tire selection, and strategies for different race scenarios.
Case Studies: Successful Tire Management at Bristol
Several teams have effectively demonstrated successful tire management during the Bass Pro Shops Night Race over the years. Here are a couple of noteworthy examples:
Case Study 1: Kyle Busch’s Dominance
In 2019, Kyle Busch exhibited exceptional tire management by optimizing his pit stop timing. He chose to pit earlier than competitors, allowing him to maintain fresh tires and gain crucial track position late in the race. This strategy helped him secure victory despite the tough competition.
Case Study 2: The 2020 Night Race
During the 2020 Bass Pro Shops Night Race, several drivers struggled with tire wear, but Kevin Harvick’s team focused on monitoring tire temperatures throughout the event. By making real-time adjustments, they ensured their tires remained competitive, which was pivotal in securing a top-five finish.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from NASCAR Drivers
Drivers often share valuable insights on tire management through interviews and team communications. Here’s a compilation of perspectives on tire management at Bristol:
– **Denny Hamlin**: ”Understanding how quickly the tires degrade can make or break your race. It’s all about finding that sweet spot.”
– **Chase Elliott**: “You have to be proactive with tire management. Listening to the car and making adjustments on the fly is critical.”
The Role of Technology in Tire Management
Innovative technology continues to revolutionize tire management in NASCAR. Key advancements include:
| Technology | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) | Provides real-time data on tire pressure, allowing teams to make quick adjustments. |
| Telematics | Tracks tire performance metrics, helping teams analyze wear patterns and optimize strategies. |
| Data Analytics Software | Utilizes historical data to predict tire performance and develop effective race strategies. |
Benefits of Effective Tire Management
Implementing a solid tire management strategy can yield various benefits for teams and drivers:
– **Enhanced Performance**: Maintaining tire integrity leads to better grip, handling, and overall race speed.
– **Extended Tire Life**: Smart management can prolong tire life, reducing the number of pit stops needed.
– **Increased Track Position**: Effective tire management can allow teams to execute strategic pit stops that improve track position.
The Future of Tire Management in NASCAR
As NASCAR evolves, tire management will continue to be a focal point. The introduction of new tire technologies and data analysis tools is likely to further enhance teams’ capabilities. Here’s what to watch for:
– **Sustainable Tires**: The push towards more eco-friendly tire solutions may change tire management strategies.
– **Advanced Simulation Tools**: Enhanced simulation tools will allow teams to predict tire performance under various conditions more accurately.
- **Increased Emphasis on Driver Feedback**: The role of driver feedback will become more prominent as teams attempt to capitalize on real-time data during races.
Conclusion
In the fast-paced environment of NASCAR’s Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol, tire management is key to achieving success on the track. By understanding tire wear, implementing effective strategies, and adapting to technological advancements, teams can navigate the challenges of Bristol more effectively. The insights gained from past races, combined with ongoing innovations in tire technology, will continue to shape the strategies of NASCAR teams as they strive for victory.
