Pros And Cons Of Low Profile Tyres

Are you looking to get low profile tyres fitted in your vehicle? Read this.

Amidst the evergreen trend of putting bigger tyres in SUVs, the buyers of mid and high range cars are gradually moving towards installing tyres with low profiles. So, what is so good about these low profile tyres? Is it just the aesthetic appeal which is compelling users to opt for one or has it got some functional benefits too?

Before getting into the nitty-gritty of the advantages and disadvantages of low profile tyres, let’s first understand what are these tyres.

What is a low profile tyre?

Typically, a tyre with a smaller sidewall than a regular tyre can be termed as a low profile tyre. Simply put when you look at a tyre from the side and find the distance between the rim and tread shorter, it is a low profile tyre. In mechanical terms, it is the aspect ratio of the tyre. A tyre size reads 195/60 R 16 W. Here, 60 is the aspect ratio. So, the smaller this number the lower the profile would be.

Pros of low profile tyres

1-     Visual aspect

This is one of the prime reasons why new car buyers go ‘low profile’. And, this is true as these tyres add a sporty and luxury feel to the exterior of the car. Usually, you see low profile tyres in premium saloons or hatchbacks. Adding this rubber to your car is sure to up its visual appeal but don’t forget to consult a tyre professional before taking this step as it may or may not work for you.

2-     Great handling 

Low profile tyres were earlier used only by sports car drivers due to their precise handling and grip. These tyres have larger contact patch with the road and stiffer sidewall which improves steering response and you feel much more in control of your vehicle.

3-     Improved braking

With wider contact with the surface, these tyres get good grip which helps in increasing their traction levels. Moreover, larger rim calls for larger braking hardware and thus, more stopping power. They can handle dry and wet braking equally well.

Cons of low profile tyres

1-     Not suit your vehicle

Equipping your car with low profile tyres without understanding the tyre upsize equation can lend your car in trouble. Unless your car had OEM fitted low profile tyres, avoid using them.

2-     Ride quality may become bad

With shorter sidewall, the distance between the rim and rubber is very less and hence, you experience every undulation or bad patches first-hand. The ride quality becomes harsh compared to the standard tyres which absorb most of the road irregularities. Moreover, if your suspension setup is not tuned to handle low profile tyres, you might end up damaging it.

3-     Fuel efficiency dips

If you are putting on the low profile tyres be ready to increase the number of trips to the fuel pump as the fuel efficiency with these tyres goes for a toss. Drivers looking to save fuel should stay away from them.

Read more : How Tyres Affect Fuel Economy?

4-     Grip on rough roads

Low profile tyres can be explored to their full potential on smooth roads. If the road isn’t smooth, the grip of these tyres would make your ride uncomfortable as every bit of the thud would be filtering into the cabin.

Apart from the driving habits of an individual, the car type and the road condition are equally important when buying low profile tyres. Choose low profile tyres cautiously. Drive safe.

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