Tyre Construction
There are five different types of tyre construction, so what are the differences and more importantly which tyre should you be buying? Three methods of tyre construction commonly used for car tyres are explained here.
Bias Tyres (Cross Ply) – made by using cords that form a crisscross pattern going diagonally at a 30 to 40 degree angles. The tread is then applied to this pattern which forms the tyre. These tyres offer a smooth ride over rough and bumpy surfaces as this design lets the whole tyre flex easily. Although a down side to this tyre technology, especially in today’s environmentally aware society, is increased rolling resistance. Another downside to this tyre technology is the loss of control and traction at faster speeds! These tyres would tend to have a lower speed rating. Although they can still achieve speed ratings of up to 150mph, therefore unless you are Lewis Hamilton this should not affect you too much!
Belted Bias – is made from a similar design as the bias tyre. The difference here is bias piles to which the stabiliser belts (made from cord or steel) are bonded directly beneath the tread. This type of tyre has improved ride performance offering a smoother ride but also has a reduced CO2 output due to improved rolling resistance.
Radial Tyres – Offer the best of both worlds. These tyres are stronger in design and more suited to van tyres and other vehicles such as 4×4 tyres. UK tyres have to adhere to European specifications, which means that these tyres are tested to destruction to see what weights and speeds they can take. Radial tyres are made by the cords going around the tyre going in the direction of travel. This reduces wear on the tyre and the radial cords are in the sidewall therefore allowing the tyre to spring and support the vehicle’s weight. A radial tyre uses ply cords extending from the beads across the tread. The cords are laid from the center of the tyre at right angles and parallel to each other as well as the stabiliser belts.
When you check your tyres if you can see metal showing through the tyre they should be changed immediately. If the metal is showing the tyres are illegal and would carry a fine and three penalty points per tyre. Get in touch with Grippy and have your new tyres fitted at a place to suit you with our mobile tyre fitting service.