"More siping for better wet-weather traction!""Larger void area for a better mud tire!""Strongest carcass ever, with more sidewall plys!"
What are these tire manufacturers going on about? They all toot their horns, but what does it all really mean? Well, believe it or not, before we go out and make that huge ring of burning tires, we actually use them, look at them, and even study them. So here's what the buzzwords mean, along with the advantages and disadvantages of different tire types.
What It MeansKick-out bar: Feature on the edge of a tire tread that facilitates breaking suction of mud. Often doubles as a tread-wear indicator.
Ply: A layer of interwoven material. A tire isn't just rubber, but rather a mesh or weave of material. Whether it is nylon, polyester, Kevlar, or steel, there is often more than one ply or layer of material in the tire. Typically, more plys make for a sturdier tire. Also, more plys make for a less flexible tire.
Tread compound: Technically refers to a whole mess of things. In this usage, it refers to how hard or soft the rubber of the tire is and how easily chunks break off in hard usage. Harder tires wear better on-road; softer ones provide more traction on- and off-road.
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