All type of Truck Tyre

Summer is about to leave house. And before you know it, winter will come knocking at the door. For many truckers, the thought of switching tyres in this transition often takes the back seat. Little do they know that the very set can decide if their journey will be smooth or slippery. “Winter vs summer tire - are they really different? If yes, does it actually matter?” 

There are questions going on in your mind right now, we know. Having their answers is more crucial than you think. In this blog, Amigo Tyres will share the differences between summer and winter tyres. We are here to prepare you for performance, safety, and peace of mind before you hit Australian roads. 

Let’s start. 

Summer vs winter tyres: Rubber compound

The rubber used is one of the largest disparities between summer and winter tires. Summer tyres are built using a harder compound. It is resistant to high temperatures on the roads and doesn’t wear out fast. This rubber, however, becomes hard when the temperature decreases, causing less traction. 

Alternatively, winter tyres are made using a less solid rubber compound. This is the reason it does not freeze in winter. This flexibility enables the tire to have a stronger grip on the ice or snowy roads. Making it safer to drive in a cold climate. 

Without the right compound, even the best tread design won’t be able to perform under seasonal conditions. 

Summer vs winter tires: Tread pattern

For those who have been reading our blogs for long time, they know how we have said over and over that tread design of your tyre can make a difference in its performance on various roads. Summer tires have less grooves, bigger tread blocks, and a streamlined design. These provide the maximum number of contact points. 

They also guarantee improved performance on dry and mildly wet roads, enhancing speed and handling. Winter tires, on the other hand, are designed with more grooves, sharp edges, and a blocky tread design. This design aids tyres to sink into snow and force slush aside. Thereby, minimizing the chances of falling. 

Summer vs winter tires: Traction

Traction is where summer and winter tyres actually show purpose. The former, as we told you earlier, have a streamlined tread and harder rubber. Thanks to them, it’s easy for drivers to maintain grip on dry or wet asphalt as well as their hard rubber. This provides consistent road contact and stability in warm months. 

But the same design will not perform well in snow and ice. Why, you ask? Because wheels are likely to be slippery. The latter shines in such an Australian climate. These type of tyres are designed to meet slippery problems with their softer compound and specially grooved designs that improve the grip. They can easily dig into icy surfaces and snow layers for firmer hold. 

Simply put, summer tyres grip heat and winter tyres conquer the cold! 

Do check out these resources as well: 

Front vs rear wheel drive

Dealing with bald tyres

Things to do when truck tyre burst strikes 

Truck tyre emergency support in Rocklea

Summer vs winter tyres: Temperature optimization

Different types of tires are designed to work in different range of temperatures. And this is where it becomes clearer that summer tires and winter tires are not the same. The first option is stable, durable, and accurate in their handling in temperatures above 7C where their harder rubber compound gives them more stability and durability. 

But once the temperature falls below this point, the rubber becomes too stiff. This significantly limits performance. Winter tires are designed specifically to operate under that environment. Their softer rubber will remain the same in a freezing environment. This adaptability guarantees proper adherence to snow and ice on roads. 

If your tyre does not fit within its optimal range, you will end up raising safety and efficiency concerns for you and your vehicle!

Summer vs winter tires: Handling and stability

Responsiveness and control? Summer tyres simply excel! Their rigid compound and smooth tread provide exceptional handling. It’s easy to turn corners and stay stable at high speeds on Australian roads. Not just commuters but even performance vehicles prefer using them during the warmer months. 

And it’s not like winter tires are totally bad. They just trade some of that high-speed cornering accuracy and enhanced stability on slippery surfaces. Their deeper grooves and blocky treads absorb shocks from uneven snowy terrain, however. Ensuring that their drivers are in control on dangerous roads.

Winter vs Summer Tires: Who’s the Winner?

Moment of truth - after all those comparisons, you must be wondering who takes the crown in this battle of winter vs summer tires. Time to end the suspense here with a simple answer… No one. You read it right! 

Both tyres serve their own purposes and are designed to keep drivers safe irrespective of climate conditions. Want speed, grip, and performance in warm weather? Go for summer tyres. Need something that excels in icy, snowy terrains with unmatched traction? Winter tires are your BFF. 

Remember, it’s not about picking a winner but picking wisely for the season. And hey, there’s one more factor that matters - where you buy them from. Amigo tyres ensure quality, durability, and perfect fit for every season and every road in Australia. 

Call us at  07 3519 6491 to learn about our tyre sales in Rocklea.