hydroplaning

["Dave Aukerman" <mhauk@ccsdana.net>]

Yes, tire width does have a large contribution in min/max hydroplaning. 
One reason cyclist can use slick tires on the bike is that the contact
patch is so small that you would have to travel around 150+mph in order to
lose contact due to water.  Of course, going around corners at speed still
presents a danger lest you look forward to a bit of road rash.  But this
has nothing to do with tread pattern.  Cars on the other hand LOVE tread
patterns that get water out of the way.

Dave