GETTING THE RIGHT TYRES FOR YOUR CAR: THE FACTS

It’s easy to think that all tyres are the same. After all, they’re all black, round and turn when you apply power through the engine. Though tyres might look the same and perform the same purpose, there is a considerable amount of variation between them.

As we’ve spoken about in previous articles, tyres have evolved over time and new innovations are being developed. To get the most up-to-date information and the best advice for your new tyres, talk to your local expert.

You Pay More for Quality, but It’s Worth It

All tyres sold in New Zealand must meet our stringent national safeguards. There is still a significant difference in performance between quality and budget tyres. You might be thinking to yourself that you’re never going to push your tyres to their limit and you may be right. But it’s worth noting that unexpected situations are when you will need the extra grip and stopping power. Quality tyres aren’t just for motoring enthusiasts; they are for people who want to be as safe as possible in their car.

Symmetrical, Directional and Asymmetric Tread

Symmetrical tread tires are symmetrical and look the same for all four wheels. Directional tyres have a ‘v’ shaped tread with the pointy end in the middle and this point is the first part of the tyre to hit the ground in forward motion. Asymmetric tyres have large thick blocks of tread on the outside edge for improved grip while turning. They also have bigger grooves on the inside edge to expel water.

Asymmetrical tyres have the word ‘outside’ printed on the outside edge of the tyre. Directional and asymmetrical tyres will also have the direction of travel marked on the tyres. It is important to check that you can see these labels and they are in the right place before you drive on new tyres.

For All New Tyres!
The tyre manufacturing process leaves a surface agent on the outside of the tyres that decreases grip for the first 30-100km. It also leaves those tiny rubber spikes, which are a result of pushing air out of the tyre cast. Under high-performance conditions, both of these factors can reduce tyre performance. A short drive on new tyres allows abrasive forces to remove the surface agent and the rubber spikes. Even high-performance tyres need to be ‘worn-in’ before pushing them to their limits.

Call Us Today for a Professional Consultation
Here at Drury Tires, we have more than thirty years of experience fitting and servicing tyres and wheels. We have a 1-week trial period on all new tyres so that if you aren’t happy you can bring them back free of charge. We will also guarantee our work and repair any puncture for free in the first six months after a new install. Call us on 09 294 8139. Our professional consultants can also be found online.