What does radial tire mean?
2 Answers
The following is a detailed introduction to radial tires: 1. Radial tires are a type of tire structure, different from bias tires, arch tires, and adjustable pressure tires. The international code for radial tires is "R", commonly known as "steel-belted tires". Characteristics of radial tires: 1. Large contact area, good adhesion performance, small tread slippage, and low unit pressure on the ground, resulting in low rolling resistance and long service life. 2. The tread is thicker with a hard belt layer, making it less prone to punctures; small deformation during driving can reduce fuel consumption by 3% to 8%. 3. Due to fewer cord layers and thin sidewalls, they have good radial elasticity, excellent cushioning performance, and higher load capacity.
Radial tires actually refer to a specific tire structure, primarily defined by the arrangement of internal cords. These cords radiate from the center of the tire towards both sides, resembling the meridians on a globe. This design makes the tire more durable and robust. Back when I worked as a mechanic, this design was already common—it's far superior to the older bias-ply tires, offering better road feedback, stability at high speeds, and improved fuel efficiency. Nowadays, most vehicles use radial tires because they perform well on various road conditions, even handling potholes in urban areas without easily blowing out. Maintenance is straightforward—just regularly check tire pressure and tread wear. But don’t overlook this, as neglecting it could compromise driving safety.