What Are Run Flat Tyres? Its Pros and Cons
The tyre industry spends billions of dollars every year on research & development. They are continuously trying to introduce new innovative products for their consumers. It is because of this commitment and dedication that today, drivers have the option of buying run-flat tyres. Many of you will know what run-flat tires are, while some of you would not.
Therefore, in this article, PitStopArabia will discuss one of the most significant technological innovations in the tyre industry – run-flat tyres. Even if you know what they are, keep reading the article as we assure you will learn something new and beneficial.
What Are Run Flat Tyres?
Instead of taking the long route, we will keep it short and straightforward. Run-flat tyres are simply those tyres which can be driven even after complete loss of air pressure. The loss of air pressure can be due to a puncture or for any other reason. Keep in mind that these are specially designed tyres, and not all tyres support this feature.
Therefore, if you do not own such a type of tyre, change your tire immediately after the loss of air pressure. Do not keep driving thinking that all new tyres come with this feature. Moreover, run-flat tyres can only work in a vehicle that comes with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
A common question that most customers ask is whether these tyres can be driven forever. The answer is no! When your run-flat tyres experience a complete loss of air pressure, they can be driven up to a maximum of 80 km. It gives you ample time to drive to a safe distance before changing your tyre or having the air refilled.
Moreover, these tyres cannot be driven at high speeds. Such tyres can be driven at a maximum speed of 80 km/h. However, the specifications may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. It is expected that with continuous innovation, these limits may soon be increased.
Types of Run Flat Tyres
There are two types of these tyres – self-supporting and support ring system. There is not a learn to learn about the two types.
Just know that self-supporting features a reinforced sidewall construction that keeps supporting the tyre after complete loss of air pressure. On the other hand, the support ring features an extra ring of hard rubber that enables the vehicle to be driven after the loss of air pressure.
Benefits
There is no doubt that these tyres offer many benefits over conventional tyres. One of the most significant advantages is that these tyres allow you to drive even after the loss of air pressure. Hence, you do not require to change your tyres in an uncomfortable or even dangerous situation.
If you are driving around a sparsely populated area, it is better to keep on driving instead of opting to change the tyre there. Also, maybe you might have to tow your car, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
Another advantage is that these tyres can support the vehicle even after a sudden tyre blowout. Tire blowouts can be dangerous, whereas the run-flat tyre removes the uncertainty of blowout. Hence, it increases safety.
Moreover, these tyres eliminate the need for keeping a spare tyre and tire repair tools in the vehicle. It decreases the overall vehicle weight and allows you ample storage space.
While there are various advantages, there are disadvantages as well.
Disadvantages
One of the biggest disadvantages is that most run-flat tyres offer less durability than conventional tires. They must be replaced earlier than the conventional tires. There are various reasons for it. However, with continuous research and development in the tyre industry, run-flat tires might offer more extended durability in the future.
Moreover, they are costly and difficult to repair. In case of damage, they usually need to be replaced. Also, they can only be installed on a vehicle with a TPMS. Furthermore, these tyres are not readily available in the market.
However, the increasing demand may lead to retailers starting to offer them more. Nevertheless, PitStopArabia already offers a wide variety of run-flat tyres from top-end manufacturers to our consumers.
Conclusion
The number of accidents due to tyre blowouts in the UAE during the hot summer months is on the rise every year. Due to its safety features, we encourage our customers to buy run-flat tyres to experience its advantages themselves.