Winter tyres are specially designed to provide extra grip in cold weather and icy conditions. They offer improved braking, handling and traction on wet, snow-covered or icy roads. With the right winter tyres fitted, you can stay safer when driving in the colder months. Here are 15 things about winter tyres you may not have known:
1. Winter Tyres are Made of Soft Rubber
The soft rubber used in winter tyres is specifically formulated to remain flexible even at low temperatures – unlike all-season or summer tyres which become hard and brittle when temperatures drop below 7°C (45°F). This means they will still grip the road in cold temperatures, improving traction and handling on slippery surfaces such as snow and ice.
2. Winter Tyres Have More Grippy Sipes
Sipes are small grooves in the tread of tyres which help to evacuate water, disperse slush and provide more grip on wet surfaces. Winter Continental Tyres Mansfield have a higher number of sipes than summer or all-season tyres, giving them better traction when driving on frozen roads.
3. Winter Tyres Provide Better Control in Snow and Ice
Winter tyres use an advanced tread compound that enables them to bite into snow and ice more effectively than other types of tyre. This gives drivers greater control over their vehicle, improving safety while driving in cold weather conditions.
4. Winter Tyres Require Less Effort When Braking
The soft rubber in winter Continental Tyres Mansfield has a higher coefficient of friction than other types of tyre, meaning it requires less effort to slow down or stop the vehicle. This is especially important on icy roads where braking distances can be significantly longer than normal.
5. Winter Tyres Are Designed for Cold Weather Conditions
Winter tyres are specifically designed with cold weather conditions in mind and are most effective when temperatures drop below 7°C (45°F). When temperatures remain above this threshold, summer or all-season tyres may offer better performance and fuel economy.
6. Winter Tyres Improve Traction on Slippery Surfaces
The tread pattern of winter tyres provides more grip on slippery surfaces such as snow and ice, making them ideal for driving in winter weather conditions. They also provide better control when cornering and help to reduce the risk of skidding or sliding on icy roads.
7. Winter Tyres Can Reduce Stopping Distances
The increased traction provided by winter tyres can significantly reduce stopping distances, especially in wet weather or icy conditions. This allows drivers more time to react to hazards and helps to keep them safe while driving in cold weather.
8. Winter Tyres Wear Quickly When Used In Warmer Conditions
Winter tyres are designed for use in cold weather conditions only and tend to wear quickly when used at higher temperatures. Therefore, it is important to switch back to summer or all-season tyres when temperatures rise above 7°C (45°F).
9. Winter Tyres Are Noisy on Dry Roads
The softer rubber compound used in winter tyres can make them quite noisy when driving on dry roads, particularly at higher speeds.
10. Winter Tyres Require Regular Pressure Checks
Winter tyres tend to lose pressure more quickly than other types of tyre due to their softer compound and increased sipe density. This means it is important to check pressures regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level for optimal performance.
11. Winter Tyres Help Improve Fuel Economy
The improved grip provided by winter tyres helps to reduce the amount of energy needed to move the vehicle forward, resulting in improved fuel economy. This is especially true when driving in icy or wet conditions where other types of tyre may struggle to provide adequate traction.
12. Winter Tyres Improve Comfort and Handling
Winter Car Tyres Mansfield are designed to absorb road shocks more effectively than summer or all-season tyres, providing a smoother ride for drivers and passengers alike. They also offer better handling on slippery surfaces and can help reduce body roll while cornering.
13. Winter Tyres Are Safer in Cold Weather Conditions
By improving grip, reducing stopping distances, increasing sipe density and providing better control over steering, winter tyres help to keep drivers safe when driving in cold weather conditions. This makes them an essential component of winter driving and a worthwhile investment for anyone who drives in cold climates.
14. Winter Tyres Should Be Replaced Regularly
Due to their softer rubber compound, winter tyres tend to wear more quickly than other types of tyre and should be replaced regularly to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, the sipe density decreases with use, meaning regular replacement is necessary for maximum grip on icy roads.
15. Winter Tyres Are Available In Various Sizes
Winter tyres are available in various sizes to fit most vehicles, from small hatchbacks to large SUVs. It is important to select the correct size for your vehicle as this will ensure maximum safety and performance when driving in winter weather.
By following these tips, you can ensure your tyres are up to the task when the temperature drops and winter weather strikes. Remember, investing in a set of winter tyres is an important step in keeping safe on icy roads.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can ensure your tyres are up to the task when the temperature drops and winter weather strikes. Investing in a set of winter tyres is an easy way to increase safety while driving in cold climates as they provide better grip, reduced stopping distances and improved fuel economy. They also help to reduce body roll while cornering and absorb road shocks more effectively for a smoother ride.With the right set of winter tyres, you can drive with confidence this winter season.