Motorcycles use many types of tires.
Tires, especially on motorcycles, need to be strong and reliable for the safety of the driver. Different types of tires are available, such as radial and non-radial, that have varying advantages and disadvantages.
Identification
The most common non-radial tire is the bias ply. Their construction is in the form of intersecting structural cords used to create strength. In contrast, radial tires have cords perpendicular to the center line of the tire, creating a 90 degree angle.
Considerations
When installed on a motorcycle, radial tires perform well at high speeds since they produce less heat emission. This contributes to their longer life span than a bias ply. On the other hand, bias ply is less expensive to purchase initially and offers better resistance to punctures.
Significance
Increasing radial tire sales prompted motorcycle manufacturers to modify frames and suspensions to work in harmony with the differing construction and adherence to the road that makes radials successful on other vehicles. Motorcycle USA recommends that a motorcycle should not mix radial and non-radial tires together since that combination adversely alters the overall performance.
Tags: radial non-radial, radial tires, types tires