The best tyres for long distance driving
Long-distance driving can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're planning a road trip, heading for a UK staycation or simply heading out on a long drive to visit friends and family, having the right tyres on your car is crucial for a safe and smooth journey.
Your tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, and they play a significant role in your car's overall performance, especially during long-distance drives where you may encounter varying weather conditions and road surfaces.
With so many tyre options available on the market, choosing the best car tyres for long-distance driving can be overwhelming.
However, considering factors such as tread pattern, tyre size, durability, and performance characteristics can help you make an informed decision. In this blog article, we will delve into these factors and explore some of the best car tyres for long-distance driving.
Tread Pattern
The tread pattern of a tyre is one of the most critical factors to consider when selecting tyres for long-distance driving. Tread patterns affect traction, handling, and overall performance, especially in wet or slippery road conditions. There are three main types of tread patterns: summer, winter, and all-season.
- Summer tyres are designed to provide optimal performance in dry and warm conditions. They typically have wide and shallow grooves that provide excellent traction on dry roads and enhance handling at high speeds. However, summer tyres may not perform as well in wet or icy conditions.
- Winter tyres, also known as snow tyres, are designed to perform well in cold weather conditions, including snow and ice. They have deeper and more aggressive tread patterns with sipes that improve traction on slippery surfaces. Winter tyres are made from softer rubber compounds that remain pliable even in freezing temperatures, providing superior grip and braking performance. However, they may wear out more quickly in warmer conditions and may not perform optimally on dry roads.
- All-season tyres, as the name suggests, are designed to perform well in a variety of weather conditions, including dry, wet, and light snow. They have a balanced tread pattern that provides good traction and handling in different driving conditions. All-season tyres are a popular choice for long-distance driving as they offer a good compromise between summer and winter tyres, providing decent performance in a wide range of weather conditions.
Tyre Size
Selecting the correct tyre size for your vehicle is crucial for safety and performance.
The correct tyre size is usually specified in your vehicle handbook or on the sidewall of your existing tyres. The tyre size is indicated by a series of numbers and letters, such as 205/55R16, 205 indicates the width of the tyre from the tyre tread to the sidewall in mm, and 55 is the aspect ratio (percentage of tyre height to width), and R16 indicates the rim diameter in inches.
Using the wrong tyre size can negatively impact your car's handling, ride comfort, and fuel efficiency. It can also cause premature wear and tear on your tyres and other vehicle components. Therefore, it's essential to choose the correct tyre size that matches the specifications of your vehicle when looking for the best car tyres for long distance driving.
Durability
Durability is another crucial factor to consider when selecting tyres for long-distance driving.
Long-distance drives can put a significant amount of stress on your tyres, including high speeds, long hours of continuous motorway driving, and exposure to varying road conditions.
Therefore, opting for durable tyres can ensure that they can withstand the rigours of long-distance driving and provide reliable performance throughout your journey.
What are the risks of dangerous tyres?
It's worth thinking about the safety of your tyres before a long journey too. Every year, dangerous tyres lead to around 5,000 convictions, 900 casualties, and 160 deaths or serious injuries. Not only that, but illegal tyres can actually end up costing you more than the price of a new set: you could face fines of up to £2500 and 3 points on your licence per illegal tyre, not to mention that if you're found to have illegal tyres in an accident, it can invalidate your insurance.
A free tyre check from National can make sure your four wheels are ready for the road. Book in now to stay safe on your journeys.
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Want to know more about looking after your tyres? Check out our online tyre safety hub.
Here are some examples of the best car tyres for long-distance driving, taking into consideration factors such as tread pattern, tyre size, and durability:
Avon AX7
This excellent mid-range tyre is known for its long-lasting durability, making it a great option for long-distance driving. The tread pattern offers reliable traction in both wet and dry conditions. The Avon AX7 also offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it ideal for extended drives.
Bridgestone Potenza S007
The Bridgestone Potenza S007 is a premium tyre that is designed for quiet and comfortable performance. Road noise is reduced for a smooth and quiet driving experience. The tyre also offers excellent wet and dry traction, making it a reliable option for long-distance driving in varying weather conditions.
Sailun Atrezzo 4 Seasons
If you're looking for a high-performance all-season tyre for long-distance driving, the Sailun Atrezzo 4 Seasons is worth considering. It offers superb traction in wet, dry, and snowy conditions, thanks to its unique tread pattern and compound. The tyre also has a long tread life and offers responsive handling, making it a good option for performance-oriented driving during long trips.
Pirelli Cinturato All Season Plus
The Pirelli Cinturato All Season Plus is another excellent all-season tyre that offers a comfortable and quiet ride, making it suitable for long-distance driving. The tyre also offers good wet and dry traction, making it a reliable option for different driving conditions.
Hankook Ventus Prime 3 K125
If you're a performance-oriented driver and want a high-performance tyre for long-distance driving, the Hankook Ventus Prime 3 K125 is worth considering.
It offers excellent handling, traction, and braking performance in wet and dry conditions, thanks to its advanced tread pattern and compound. The tyre also provides a comfortable and smooth ride, making it a good option for long drives.
When it comes to long-distance driving, having the right tyres on your car is crucial for safety, performance, and comfort. Considering factors such as tread pattern, tyre size, and durability can help you select the best car tyres for your long-distance drives.
The examples mentioned above, including the Avon AX7, Bridgestone Potenza S007, Sailun Atrezzo 4 Seasons, Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus, and Hankook Ventus Prime 3 K125, are all top-rated options that offer a combination of durability, traction, handling, and comfort, making them suitable for long-distance driving.
With the right tyres, you can hit the road with confidence and enjoy a smooth and safe long-distance driving experience.
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