Zero grip tyres 17x10

Slot.it Zero Grip 17x10 Front Tyres — precision and stability for the front axle

Within the spare parts catalogue of Slot.it, the Zero Grip 17x10 tyres (reference SIPT19) play a very specific role: to provide the front axle with a clean rolling surface, without active grip, so that the car behaves in a balanced and predictable manner throughout each corner. It is not a traction tyre; it is a precision component designed to manage front slip in a controlled way.

Function and performance

The Zero Grip concept on the front axle is not a compromise: it is a deliberate technical decision. In a 1/32 scale slot car, the front axle does not provide traction, but it does directly influence rolling resistance and directional stability. A front tyre with too much grip can cause understeer or unnecessary friction; a Zero Grip tyre reduces that resistance and allows the car to pivot naturally around the rear axle.

• Measurements: 17 mm outer diameter × 10 mm width.
• Zero Grip concept: low-grip compound specifically for the front axle.
• Smooth rolling: minimises front friction and contributes to higher top speed.
• Neutral behaviour: favours stability in fast corners and chicanes.

Compatibility and fitting

These tyres are designed for the front axles of the Slot.it range of cars and chassis in 1/32 scale. Before fitting, check that the diameter of your vehicle's front rim is compatible with the 17×10 measurement. The fit should be snug but not forced: a well-seated tyre does not require additional adhesive. If your usual setup uses tyres of a different diameter, check the technical specifications of your chassis to ensure there is no interference with the bodywork.

Fitting and preparation

The fitting process is straightforward but deserves attention:

1. Clean the front rims with a dry cloth before fitting the tyres to remove any grease or silicone residue.
2. Slide the tyre onto the rim evenly, applying pressure with your fingers progressively.
3. Check the visual centring before placing the axle in the car.
4. It is not necessary to true (turn) a Zero Grip front tyre under normal conditions, but if you detect vibration, a very light sanding with fine sandpaper may resolve the issue.

Common mistakes

• Using Zero Grip tyres on the rear axle: their compound is not designed to transmit traction; on the rear axle, you would lose performance significantly.
• Ignoring the diameter: a tyre that is too large rubs against the bodywork; one that is too small loses contact with the track. Always verify the measurements.
• Fitting with grease on the rims: reduces the adhesion of the tyre to the rim and may cause the tyre to spin freely on it.

Frequently asked questions

How many tyres are included in the SIPT19 pack?

The SIPT19 reference includes 4 Zero Grip 17×10 tyres, sufficient to equip two front axles or have spare units.

Can I use these tyres on the rear axle?

This is not their recommended application. Zero Grip tyres are formulated for the front axle, where traction is not required. On the rear axle, their lack of grip would penalise the car's performance.

Are they compatible with bodies from other brands mounted on Slot.it chassis?

Compatibility depends on the available space in the wheel arch. The 17 mm diameter is standard in many 1/32 configurations, but it is always advisable to check for interference with the specific bodywork you are using.

Do I need to true these tyres before using them?

In most cases, this is not necessary. If you detect any vibration or rolling irregularity, a gentle manual sanding may resolve the issue without the need for a lathe.

What tracks are they compatible with?

As low-grip front tyres, their performance is consistent on any type of surface: plastic track of the Sport type (Scaleauto, Slot.it) or universal rail (Scalextric, Ninco). Their function of reducing front friction applies in all cases.

Slot.it SIPT19 Zero Grip tyres 17x10 — front axle rubber tyres designed for 1/32 scale slot cars. Low-grip compound reduces front resistance and improves directional stability, delivering a smoother and more predictable lap in any circuit configuration. A reliable replacement part for competitive and club-level slot racing.