What are the Best Tyre Patterns for Driving in the City?

Extensive amounts of city driving could wear down your tyres if they aren’t suitable for road terrain, so it’s important that you have tyres fitted which are specifically designed to endure hours of driving through city roads. They must be able to cope with the stop/start flow of city centre traffic, as well as transitioning speeds. Do you have the right tyres fitted to your vehicle? We’re here to help you find out.

Directional Tread Patterns

These would be best suited towards sporty cars and those who regularly drive along wet roads. Directional tyres usually have a chevron or an arrow-shaped pattern, something which aids the speed of water displacement due to unimpeded waterflow. They provide ultimate protection against aquaplaning, where the water between the road surface and the tyres builds up, decreasing traction. Directional tyres are ideal for use in snow or on muddy surfaces, making for the perfect all-season tyre.

Pros	Cons
High aquaplaning protection Ideal for driving in the snow Great roadholding at high speeds Excellent traction	Rotation limitations could lead to shorter life Can be more costly in comparison to other tyres Can have specific usage rules

Symmetrical Tread Patterns

These can be fitted and rotated in either direction as both sides of the tread are identical. They’re quiet and provide great roadholding. Their lower rolling resistance can help to prolong the lifetime of the tyres, as well as reducing fuel consumption, saving you money. Although they’re mainly used on commercial vehicles, these would be exceptionally cost effective for those who only drive short distances.

 

Pros	Cons
Cost effective Particularly quiet Smooth to drive on Low rolling resistance High directional stability	Meant for everyday use Not appropriate for sport cars as they aren’t high performance tyres Unsuitable for long journeys or motorway use

 

Asymmetrical Tread Pattern

Asymmetrical tyres will have different tread patterns on their inner and outer shoulders, each side serving a different, but important, purpose. The inner treads are responsible for water displacement and aquaplaning protection, whereas the outer treads provide a high level of lateral stiffness, ensuring substantial grip on tight corners or when driving on dry surfaces. With asymmetrical tyres, it’s important they’re fitted correctly.

 

Pros	Cons
Excellent handling Great curve stability Provides fantastic grip on both wet and dry surfaces Quiet to drive on	Shorter lifespan in comparison to other tyres Can be expensive to buy Generally only available for 17+ inch wheels

 

If you’re in need of new or replacement tyres, look no further than Auto Exhaust and Tyres. We have a highly skilled team of professional mechanics who are trained and take pride in carrying out high quality servicing, repairs and MOTs. We offer a comprehensive service, including friendly, reliable advice from our experts. Operating throughout Lincoln and the surrounding areas, we’re always on hand to help. For more advice and information or to simply book in your car, get in touch with us today.