Run Flat Tyres –what are they and what are the advantages?

Run Flat Tyres –what are they and what are the advantages?

Run-flat tyres are specially designed pneumatic tyres that allow a vehicle to continue driving for a limited distance and speed after a puncture or loss of air pressure. 

The tyre has reinforced sidewalls that can support the vehicle’s weight even when the tire is deflated.   

This technology allows you to drive for a certain distance (typically around 50 miles) at a reduced speed (usually around 50 mph) after a puncture.   

Here’s a breakdown of their advantages:

Advantages of Run-Flat Tires:

• Increased Safety:

Obviously the main advantage is that they prevent sudden and dangerous loss of control that can occur with a flat tire, especially at high speeds.   

Additionally they eliminate the need to change a tire on the side of a busy or dangerous road, by giving you time to choose a desired spot or even get to a garage.    

• Convenience:

As we said, they allow you to drive to a safe location or a service station to have the tire repaired or replaced.   

They often eliminate the need to carry a spare tire, freeing up boot space and reducing vehicle weight.   

• Improved Vehicle Stability:

Even with a puncture, the reinforced sidewalls help maintain vehicle stability and handling.   

Key Considerations:

There are limitations to the distance and speed you can travel even with a run flat tyre –you can’t go forever.    

Because you might not even notice your tyre has a puncture, especially if you are driving then Vehicles with run-flat tires should also have a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to alert the driver to a loss of pressure.   

Run flat tires can have a harsher ride than standard tires.