Semi-Slicks

What are semi-slicks?

Semi-slicks are high-performance tyres optimised for the circuit that still carry enough tread to be road legal. Their soft compound and minimal tread pattern deliver far more grip than normal sports tyres - with trade-offs: faster wear, weaker wet performance and higher cost. The Porsche GT3 RS leaves the factory on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, a classic semi-slick.

On the circuit

On track semi-slicks show what they can do. They reach working temperature faster than normal tyres and then deliver enormous grip for cornering speed and braking stability. The soft compound works best inside a defined temperature window - too cold on your first laps, or too hot after a long run of fast laps, and the grip falls away. Professionals use tyre warmers so the semi-slick starts straight in its optimum window.

Semi-slicks versus slicks versus road tyres

Slicks are pure racing tyres with no tread - maximum grip, but not road legal and unusable in the wet. Road tyres have deep tread to clear water, but they are slower on circuit. Semi-slicks sit in between: more grip than a road tyre, still road legal, but less suited to everyday use. For trackdays they are the ideal choice.

Semi-slick performance at ESC

The ESC CarForGo fleet runs tyres chosen for maximum performance. You get to feel what semi-slicks can really do - and tyre wear is included in the event price. No mental arithmetic about whether you can still afford another lap. Experience grip at professional level.