Construction of Run Flat tyres
Run flat tyres allow motorists to continue driving after they lose tyre pressure. On average, these products let you travel up to 50 miles, on speeds up to 50 mph (depending on the technology and product). This is due to reinforced sidewalls. In short, this enables drivers to reach the nearest tyre service station without having to change the wheel on the roadside. Consequently, many motorists prefer to run flat tyres as they reduce your reliance on a spare wheel.
What are run flat tyres?
Run flat tyres were first designed to serve as protective measures for military vehicles. These tyres were made with thicker sidewalls to allow for continued movement, even if the tyre had been punctured. Modern run flat tyres do not deflate and will let drivers travel at speeds up to fifty miles per hour. That said, you won’t be able to run on run flat tyres forever. Top distances will vary based on the brand you purchase. Most, though, will carry you for between ten and fifty miles. The good news is that there should be more than enough speed and distance to get you to the nearest garage.
Run flat tyres - what you need to know
Run flat tyres are a boon to your road safety. If you puncture a normal tyre, the abrupt lack of balance beneath your car can result in an accident. If you have run flat tyres, though, you’ll maintain control over your car and be able to pull over to the side of the road. Alternatively, you’ll be able to safely make your way to the nearest garage.
In a similar vein, flat run tyres are significantly resistant to mechanical damage. While you should still make an effort to avoid potholes and other roadway obstacles, you won’t have to worry about damaging your shocks when you have these tyres serving as a buffer.
Run flat tyres are also fitted to individual classes of car. If you drive a sports car, for example, you won’t have to forgo a run flat tyre’s safe design. Instead, you can browse tyre catalogues and find the run flat set that suits you best. While their versatility can make it difficult to identify run flat tyres on the road, their chameleon-esque nature appeals to drivers interested in aesthetic and safety.
That said, run flat tyres aren’t perfect. Most run flat tyres are more expensive than your standard set of winter or summer tyres. Not only will they cost you more upfront, but they’re less fuel-efficient than many other tyres, meaning you’ll have to spend more on petrol. They’re also stiffer than your average tyre, which can disrupt an otherwise smooth ride.
All that said, the safety features that’ve made run flat tyres so popular are a sort of buffer to drivers who want to avoid accidents on the road.
Looking for a run flat tyre for your car? Oponeo has a wide variety of run flat tyre options available to you. You’ll be able to purchase your preferred tyre here before visiting your local garage for a professional fitting.
Depending on who makes the product, there are different markings for run flat tyres. The most common terms are:
- DSST, used on Dunlop tyres
- EMT, used on Goodyear tyres
- HRPS, used on Hankook tyres
- PAX and ZP, used on Michelin tyres
- RFT, used on Bridgestone tyres
- RSC, used on BMW vehicles
- SSRF, used on Pirelli tyres
- SSR, used on Continental tyres
- TRF, used on Toyo tyres
- XRP, used on Kumho tyres
- ZPS, used on Yokohama tyres
Let us know if you have any questions concerning any types of run flat tyres. Our experts will be happy to help you.