During emergency braking with weight transfer, which tires are at risk of losing grip first?

• A. Front tires.
• B. Rear tires.
• C. All tires equally.
• D. Inside tires only.

Answer: (A)

Weight transfer during hard braking shifts weight toward the front axle. That increased vertical load on the front tires means they reach the friction limit sooner than the rear tires, so they are the first to lose grip when you brake hard. As the front tires skid or lock, steering control is compromised, which is why you’ll often feel understeer if you push braking beyond what the tires can handle. The rear tires become lighter and generally maintain grip longer, though road conditions and tire wear can influence the exact behavior. So, the tires most at risk of losing grip first during emergency braking with weight transfer are the front tires.