Regular Tire vs Radial Tire: A World of Differences

Radial tires and regular tires are a bit like spaghetti and a glass of milk: we don’t mix that. Seriously, it’s a bit more complicated than that. What exactly is a radial tire? Take the time to read these few lines and you will know the difference between a so-called radial tire and an ordinary tire.

A different structure

Tires have come a long way since the invention of the automobile. While cars were originally powered by wheels made of wood or solid rubber, their weight now relies on the compressed air inside the rubber structure of the tires. This principle called “pneumatic” gave its name, in short, to the tire.

Today, when we look at all the products available on the market, we mainly find radial type tires. It is said to be radial because the layers of rubber that compose it (called plies) stack on top of each other, under the tread.

The ordinary tire, on the other hand, has a structure with layers crossed on top of each other. This has the effect that the work of the tread of the radial tire will be independent of that of the sidewalls, whereas on an ordinary tire the functions will not be differentiated. Thus, the radial tire will have less tendency to skid and its contact surface with the ground will not vary over time.

Even in the tire family, we don’t always get along!

For safety reasons, we remind you that it is not recommended to mix radial tires with regular tires, and especially not on the same axle. This would destabilize your vehicle and greatly reduce its handling.

As a general rule, we recommend that you use the same type of tire on all axles of your car (and not to install, for example, all-season tires on the front and all-terrain tires on the rear) .

However, it may well be that you only have to change one or two tires before having to change all four at the same time. In such a case, be sure to keep the same dimensions and characteristics as your old tires.

If your car has rear-wheel drive, install your new tires on the rear axle of your vehicle. This is where tires wear out the fastest (particularly because of the greater friction caused by braking and accelerating).

Still unsure?

2If you are unsure of the type of tire you need, do not hesitate to contact one of our workshops. We will be happy to advise you on your purchase.