Tires
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May 30, 2019
What To Know About the Pros and Cons of Run-Flat Tires
Tires |Run-flat tires are special tires that have unique benefits and disadvantages. Below, we explain what you need to know about the pros and cons of run-flat tires.
What Are Run-Flat Tires?
Before we get into the advantages and weaknesses of run-flat tires, how are run-flat tires different than regular tires? Run-flat tires feature a unique tread construction that gives the tire an ultra-stiff sidewall.
This stiff sidewall allows the tire to support the weight of a vehicle without air in the tire, even at highway speeds. As the name suggests, run-flat tires allow your vehicle to keep running even when it sustains a flat for around 50 miles.
Advantages of Run-Flat Tires
Convenience
The main thing to know about the pros and cons of run-flat tires is they’re the most convenient option if your vehicle ever sustains a puncture while driving. If you get a flat with normal tires, you have to pull over immediately and change the tire or call a tow truck to bring it to a local mechanic or tire store for a swap.
But with a run-flat tire, you can keep going, even on the highway, until you find a mechanic, get home, or find a safe place to stop and change the tire.
Safety
The strength of run-flat tires isn’t just convenient for choosing when and where to change your tire but is also much safer for your vehicle and yourself. When a puncture occurs suddenly on a standard tire, it can immediately put you and other cars in danger as you struggle to control a vehicle without a working tire.
But run-flat tires allow you to control your vehicle even when it loses a tire. Plus, with the option to continue driving, you can choose a safe place to change the tire instead of having to do it on the side of the highway or a busy street.
Drawbacks of Run-Flat Tires
Limited Selection
While run-flat tires are excellent for safety and convenience, they’re not the most common or widely available tire for drivers. While most tire companies offer some versions of run-flat tires, you may struggle to find a wide selection for your vehicle.
Because of the limited nature and special construction of run-flat tires, they are also more expensive than standard all-purpose tires.
Stiffer Ride
The other downside to the stiff sidewall of the run-flat tire is it means a bumpier and stiffer ride. Since run-flat tires are stronger and less flexible, drivers will feel the road bumps more than with general-purpose tires.
If the vehicle comes with standard run-flat tires, it likely also has a tuned suspension that considers the stiffer tires for a more comfortable ride. But if you’re replacing normal tires with run-flat tires, you’ll likely feel a difference in the ride quality.
Where To Find Run-Flat Tires in Tucson, AZ
If you need run-flat tires in Tucson, look no further than RNR Tire Express! As reliable tire experts, we’ll ensure your vehicle gets the best tires you’re looking for, whether you want run-flat tires, high-performance tires, or something else.
