Are radials always better than non-radials? The answer may surprise you!
Tyres are one of the most important parts of a vehicle, yet many people overlook this decision while buying them and end up getting the wrong ones, or in most cases, the cheapest ones available. Tyres are the only and main contact between a vehicle and the road. Understanding the difference between radial and non-radial (bias-ply or zero-radial) can help you make an informed decision when purchasing new tyres.
Radial Tyres
Radial tyres are the most common tyres used in all types of vehicles today. They are constructed using cords set at a 90-degree angle to the traveling direction, giving them a softer sidewall. This design reduces internal friction, preventing the plies from rubbing against each other and producing less heat buildup, hence offering a smoother ride. They also reduce rolling resistance, improving mileage and extending tyre life.
The key highlight of radial tyres are the steel belts beneath the tread. They increase rigidity, improve stability, provide a more uniform contact area with the road, and help resist punctures. This steel belt also reduces tyre deformation, offering more traction and long term durability. Radial tyres provide better grip making them ideal for high-speed usage. However, radial tyres are not as effective on rough, uneven surfaces. The flexibility of the sidewalls may result in a harder ride at low speeds on rough roads, and they are less suited for off-road conditions.
Bias-Ply/Non-Radial/Zero Radial Tyres
Bias-ply, non-radial, or zero radial tyres are built using 30 to 45-degree nylon or fabric plies that are placed in a criss-cross pattern. These plies give a stiffer sidewall that enables the tyre to support heavy loads more efficiently. They are used mostly in construction equipment, trailers, and off-road vehicles. Bias-ply tyres will perform better in harsh, uneven roads by giving a smoother ride and improved durability with load. Also a majority of commuter bikes and scooters in India use bias-ply tyres.
Though they also have their own strength benefits, bias-ply tyres are not suited for use at high speeds. The rigid sidewall structure causes them to generate more heat, a worse grip at high speeds, and a greater rolling resistance, lowering mileage. Such tyres will last shorter than radial tyres because they experience uneven wear on the tread.
Tyre Life
The life of a tyre is determined by usage, load, and heat resistance. Radial tyres last longer, approximately seven years, because of their wide sidewalls, even tread wear, and improved heat dissipation. While more costly than bias-ply tyres, their extended life and overall performance justify the extra cost.
Bias-ply tyres, on the other hand, typically last at most up to five years. Their lack of a uniform tread pattern and more rigid sidewalls lead to faster wear. While they are more affordable to buy, they need to be replaced more frequently.
Radials For Motorcycles
Radial tyres are advantageous for motorcycles in one way or another, especially where performance and safety are concerned. Radial tyre steel belts provide better grip and cornering ability, with the larger contact area and stable nature. Radial sidewalls are more flexible, thereby making the tyre react better to weight transfer during cornering. Radials also run cooler than bias-ply tyres as they spread heat evenly and prevent overheating and longer tyre life. This is crucial for performance bikes. Radials also enhance puncture resistance due to the harder compound of the tread.
But radial tyres have some disadvantages. Because of their softer sidewalls, radial tyres are not as good for heavy loads, and can make the bike wobble when loaded heavily. If they are fitted on a heavily loaded bike or with heavy luggage or loads, radial tyres will not be as good if proper tyre pressure is not maintained. Also, the cost of manufacturing radial tyres is more, which makes them more expensive than bias-ply tyres.
BikeDekho Says
Radial or bias-ply tyres: your choice, depending on your usage. Radials are best for high speed use, with improved stability, comfort, mileage, and durability – particularly on well paved roads. Bias-ply tyres are more suitable for off road use, and heavy duty usage with load carrying applications. Though they are better on rough roads, they are not built for speed and will deteriorate quicker. There are pros and cons to each tyre, so the right tyre for your particular needs must be chosen as per your specific use case.
Follow the BikeDekho WhatsApp channel to get instant updates from the automotive world.