HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!
The main difference between the two technologies is in the belt construction:
Radial Tyres
In radial tyres steel belts run at 90° angle with the tread line.
This allows the sidewall and tread of the tyre to function independently, so there is low sidewall flex and more contact with the road surface.
Bias Ply Tyres
In bias ply tyres the nylon belts run at 30-45° angle with the tread line. The multiple over-lapping rubber plies in these tyres connect the sidewall and the upper tread. The stiff internal construction causes less contact with the road surface, but usually can tolerate heavier loads (sometimes resulting in overheating).Here are some Pros and Cons for each type of tyre:
Pros of Radial Tyres
- Wider footprint keeps the vehicle more stable
- Steel belts provide tougher construction and higher puncture resistance
- Run cooler at motorway/higher constant speeds and under load
- Uniform contact with the road surface provides more even tread wear
Cons of Radial Tyres
- Hard tread increases tyre/road noise
- Curb impacts can cause sidewall damage
- Steel belt construction adversely affects the ride quality
Pros of Bias Ply Tyres
- Tougher sidewalls due to crosshatch construction
- Less expensive than radial tyres
- Smoother ride on rough surfaces
Cons of Bias Ply Tyres
- High rolling resistance which can affect fuel efficiency
- Roll-over effect causes loss of traction when cornering
- Tread wears faster due to higher traction
This is for your general information only and is not in any circumstance intended to represent any particular manufacturer