LOW-profile tyres are currently quite trendy, but why do people use them?
What tyres do
Tyres are where your car’s suspension system touches the road. It is where your car has to deal with humps and potholes and other irregularities first.
What are low-profile tyres?
These tyres have less sidewall than standard tyres, but a larger wheel surface. A wider road-contact area improves grip, roadholding and braking. Although some simply like the look of low-profile tyres – a larger wheel size can impart a sense of sportiness or prestige to a vehicle.
What problems do low-profiles have?
The lower a tyre’s profile, the less a tyre is able to absorb and cushion bumps. This creates a harder and less comfortable ride, and the chance of impact damage to the tyres, wheels and other components increases.
Sadly, poor South African roads are even more unforgiving to low-profile tyres.
