Perfect Driving
Owen Murphy
| 08-10-2023
· Information Team
The connection between cars and tires is akin to the relationship between people and shoes. Just like a well-fitting pair of shoes can make walking more comfortable and energy-efficient for people, the appropriate tires for a car can make driving easier.
Shoes come in various styles such as sneakers, hiking boots, and snow boots, and similarly, tires vary depending on the type of road conditions they are designed for.
First and foremost, when categorizing tires, it is advised to start by considering the type of vehicle they are meant for.
There are eight main categories: PC (Passenger Car) tires, LT (Light Truck) tires, TB (Truck and Bus) tires, AG (Agricultural) tires, OTR (Off-The-Road) tires for engineering vehicles, ID (Industrial) vehicle tires, AC (Aircraft) tires, and MC (Motorcycle) tires.
Moving on to their intended use, there are heavy-duty tires, passenger tires, engineering tires, and sports tires, among others. It is crucial to make a clear distinction between light trucks or vans and regular passenger cars when selecting the appropriate tires.
Size is another important factor to consider when choosing tires. Generally, tires with an outer diameter greater than 17 inches fall into the category of giant tires, which are typically used for large trucks and engineering vehicles.
Tires with an outer diameter ranging from 10 to 17 inches are considered large tires, while those with an outer diameter below 10 inches are classified as small tires.
Tire patterns are diverse and serve different purposes. Some common patterns include the straight groove pattern (also known as ordinary pattern tires), cross groove pattern tires, longitudinal and transverse groove pattern tires, and mud and snow pattern tires, denoted by "M + S" where 'M' stands for mud and 'S' for snow.
Each pattern has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should align with individual needs.
Tire structure is another criterion for classification. Currently, tires mainly fall into two categories: bias tires and radial tires. Most family cars use radial tires due to their widespread use and performance benefits.
Since cars come in various types and are designed with differing priorities, and road conditions can vary significantly, tire development is incredibly diverse.
The key is to select the most suitable tires based on your specific requirements. Just as the right pair of shoes can make a walk comfortable and enjoyable, the right tires can make your drive smoother and safer.