A bias tyre consists of multiple rubber plies over lapping each other. The crown and sidewalls are interdependent. The overlapped plies form a thick layer that is less flexible and more sensitive to overheating. Despite continuous advancements, high heat generation in bias tyres has proved difficult to overcome. The high degree of heat generated in bias tyres has a negative impact on the overall performance of the tyres. This is one of the primary reasons for the adoption of radial tyres in the world.
The first radial tyre designs were patented in 1915 by Arthur W. Savage, a tyre manufacturer (1915–1919), and inventor in San Diego, California.
Advantages of Radial tyres over Bias tyres
- Radials allows the sidewall and the tread to function as two independent features of the tyre, hence lowering heat production
- Radial tyres have a belt package under the tread which ensures a well distributed contact patch hence reducing the effects of wear resulting in longer tread life.
- When rolling, footprint lengthens without distortion from sidewall flex, therefore allow vehicles to transfer more power to the ground.
- Reduced transversal slip allow precise driving input.
- Lower rolling resistance manifests in fuel consumption and greater productivity; more of your engine’s power is used moving the vehicle as opposed to overcoming rolling inefficiencies.
- Radial tyres have a larger surface area at the foot print compared to bias tyres resulting in less ground compaction and damage particularly in agricultural use.
- Radial tyres have been observed to deliver up to a third more mileage compared to bias ones, leading to reduced tyre replacement. Thanks to the longer service life of radial tyres.
- Radial tyres are more flexible, especially on the side wall, while stronger on the tread. They absorb shock, impact and bumps better than bias tyres. The result is an improved ride and better operator comfort.
Radial Thin sidewall allows for flex which has a number of benefits. |
Bias Thick sidewall does not flex easily thereby transferring almost ninety percent impacts from the ground up to the suspension system. |