How Do Low-profile Tyres Affect Your Car?

By Author: Johan Allen
Total Articles: 3
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The automobile industry has undergone major changes in the last decade or so. We have seen the rise of electric cars and the drive towards greener fuel. But not all the changes were this big. If you look closer, you will find the tyre industry to be more susceptible to technological revolutions. Today, there are different types of tyres available, so much so that an average car owner can’t help but feel overwhelmed. One such type is the low-profile tyre. Arguably, these tyres do make your car aesthetically appealing. But are they worth it? Let’s find out.

What Do We Mean By Tyre Profile?

First, let us ask you a question, do you know what tyre profile is? If you have ever handled tyres then you must be aware that every tyre has an aspect ratio, which is the ratio of the height of the tyre’s sidewalls to its width. Typical tyres have a much higher aspect ratio as the sidewalls are taller than the width of the tyres. However, low-profile tyres are quite the opposite.

Explaining Low-Profile Tyres

As per their name, low-profile tyres have a much smaller sidewall as compared to the width of these ...
... tyres. The shorter aspect ratio allows the tyres to offer a sleek and sporty style, which can complement the overall look of your car.  Such tyres can help with handling and offer a much better braking performance, however, if you are looking to buy tyres Newport, then sadly, such tyres won’t be an option due to their higher cost.

Advantages of Low-Profile Tyres

Before making any decision, it's best that you understand what low-profile tyres have to offer. Here are a few advantages to these tyres:

Enhanced Handling and Overall Stability

These tyres are quite good at providing a much more stable driving experience. You are also able to better handle and control your car using these tyres. Since these tyres have a much wider contact patch (due to the width being greater than the sidewalls), they have superior road grip and traction, making them perform exceptionally well at faster speeds and tight corners. 

Better Braking

These tyres are also quite good at braking, all due to the wider contact patch. This increases the friction, resulting in a shorter stopping distance, thus making you safer on the road.

Improves Road Safety Of Your Vehicle

Another factor you should consider when buying tyres in Castleton is that low-profile tyres keep your vehicle closer to the ground, and this lower center of gravity allows you to stay in more control, even in the event of a crash. This is also one of the reasons that race cars have low-profile tyres. 

Allows For A Superior Driving Experience

The lower the center of gravity, the more control you will be able to exert on your car, thus improving your drive. Even when you are not driving at a faster speed, you can enjoy a stable and comfortable ride, all thanks to low-profile tyres. 

Makes Your Car Aesthetically Appealing

Lastly, you must acknowledge the fact that these tyres do make your car stand out. Although this might be vain, there are people who buy cars just for the sake of showing off. If you are proud of your car and want it to look better than it does, then these tyres are worth looking into. 

Disadvantages of Low-Profile Tyres

But, low-profile tyres also have some disadvantages, such as:

Ill-suited For Off-roading 

These tyres are not meant to be driven on an uneven or rough surface. Due to the shorter sidewalls, they will not have enough cushioning effect to absorb the vibrations that will occur due to driving on such roads. While they are excellent for use on asphalt roads, any surface that isn't near perfect will result in a harsher drive. 

Costly 

Of course, these tyres are not cheap. Even maintaining low-profile tyres is costly, and they require more frequent replacement due to their shorter lifespan, as they are prone to wearing out faster. 

Can Fail In Winter

Yes, these tyres are also not suitable for use in winter, no matter how thin the layer of ice is. They are not as flexible as winter tyres and experience reduced traction on slippery roads. 

Sometimes Illegal And Not Covered Under Insurance

Most cars are made to mount higher-profile tyres. Thus, when you install low-profile tyres on these cars, there is a chance it will cause issues. Due to this, authorities sometimes prevent drivers from changing tyre types. Furthermore, if you get into an accident while using these tyres it is likely that the insurance provider will refuse to cover any damages as such tyres were added to the car and not the standard. 

Most Roads Are Not Suitable For Such Tyres

A very busy road is already not suited for such tyres because you won't be able to get the most out of low-profile tyres in traffic. Furthermore, if the weather conditions are not ideal, then these tyres will wear out faster, driving up your expenses. Also, note that not all roads are constructed and remain in a near-perfect state. These tyres require very good roads to show off their potential, and sadly, most roads aren't suitable for this. 

Prone To Incidental Damage

Lastly, keep in mind that while low-profile tyres will lessen the chance of your car tipping over in an accident, there will be a lot more scratches and dents. Due to the low ride height, the car is more likely to get bumps while driving as the tyres kick up dirt and debris against the floor of your car.

In Leicester, MOT services at Continental Motors assure thorough vehicle inspections. With expertise in MOT Leicester requirements, their team ensures vehicles meet safety standards. Trust Continental Motors for reliable MOT assessments, providing peace of mind on Leicester's roads. https://www.continental-motor.co.uk/mot