While tyres from every manufacturer differ when it comes to the design, processes and of course very importantly, quality, most modern vehicles that are found on our roads are fitted with Radial tyres. Radials are built using technologically advanced construction and offer a range of advantages over Bias tyres, particularly when it comes to vehicles that drive on the road.
The older style Bias construction (used widely before Radial construction was introduced) is still used, however mainly for tyres for OTR (off-the-road) applications. Used in quarries, mines, on construction sites, industrial and off-road applications, OTR tyres are required to go the distance sometimes in extremely arduous conditions! Not only must they bear substantial weight, but OTR tyres are also often expected to put in extensive mileage and take on challenging terrains, which is why Bias construction can still be preferred in these environments.
Let’s take a quick look at these two construction types and their pros and cons!
Bias tyres
Bias tyres are made from rubber-coated ply cords arranged in an overlapping, criss-cross configuration at approximately 35 degrees – with the cords stretching from bead to bead. One of the primary advantages of their construction is that the tyre is flexible (with a flexible sidewall), creating superior grip on uneven terrains and a smooth ride even on rough and rugged surfaces. Bias tyres are also extremely durable, offering excellent longevity and long-wearing tread life. A downside is that they offer less traction and less control at higher speeds and overheat more easily than Radial tyres.
Belted Bias tyres
Belted Bias tyres, as their name suggests are also Bias tyres, with some additional criss-cross layers and corded or steel stabilising belts underneath the tread as additional reinforcement to assist with the tyre’s performance. While Belted Bias tyres provide a ride similar in comfort to Bias tyres, they have the further advantage of increased stiffness which has the effect of reducing the rolling resistance at high speeds.
Radial tyres
Radial tyres (which are the tyres used on most modern passenger vehicles, as well as trucks and some tractors) are made from a combination of polyester, nylon or steel plies in a radial pattern (at right angles to the centreline of the tyre), reinforced with steel belts under the tread.
Along with a range of beneficial features such as performance and comfort on the road, Radials can also be operated at a lower air pressure. This results in better traction and lower compaction. They are also generally more efficient, optimising fuel savings in on-road conditions. Downsides include the ride being less comfortable at lower speeds, and them having less self-cleaning ability than the other tyre types which is why Bias is still sometimes preferred for off-the-road operations.
While most Maxxis tyres are Radials, Maxxis makes the most of both of these tyre constructions to best meet the requirements of the applications they are used for. While the majority of Maxxis on-road tyres are Radials, the Trepador M060 range (as just one example) offers both Radial and Bias ply sizes for off-road environments. While the Trepador Radial is designed for high-speed off-roading and features high-strength materials in a robust radial design for maximum puncture resistance and stability, the Trepador Bias features a conformable bias ply casing with ultra-aggressive sidewall design for excellent off-road traction on sand and rocks. To improve stability and performance, the Trepador Bias tyre also features nylon belt reinforcement for extra stability while improving puncture resistance.
For more information on Maxxis tyres that are right for your vehicle, application and requirements, call in on one of our expert Maxxis dealers. You can find one nearest you by using the handy Dealer Locator tool!
