Loading...
The evolution of tyres has been remarkable, advancing with each decade to enable machines to reach speeds of more than 300 km/h. The word "tyre" originates from "attire," as early wheels were "dressed" or wrapped in leather strips for protection.
Over the past 120 years, tyre technology has continuously evolved, improving with each passing year. We will take an in-depth look at the evolution of tyres, from the history of the tyre industry to technological developments. We will trace its journey from its inception to the innovations that lie ahead in the future.
We will start with the past, discuss the present scenario, and present a vision of the future.
Let’s go back to the very beginning. Before vulcanized rubber was invented, horse carts used wooden wheels reinforced with metal strips to enhance durability. However, this design lacked comfort. The introduction of vulcanized rubber marked a turning point, leading to the evolution of solid rubber tyres, which began appearing on wheels. Thus, beginning the modern evolution of tyres.
In 1847, Robert William Thomson invented the pneumatic tyre. However, it wasn’t widely adopted. In 1888, John Boyd Dunlop created the first "practical" pneumatic tyre. He was inspired by his child struggling to ride a bicycle with solid rubber tyres. Later, he founded his own company. In this way, the tyre technology evolved into the first pneumatic tyre and was used on a two-wheeler.
From then on, pneumatic tyres on spoked wheels with an inner tube were used. This technique was easier to repair, but the tyres seemed to flatten out easily. In the 1930s, Bias-Ply tyres were invented, which featured a criss-cross-patterned layer of fabric for more durability. Now, the tyres were wider and durable.
It wasn't until the 1970s that motorcycles started using radial tyres. Bias-ply tyres struggled to sustain high speeds effectively. Radial tyres, with perpendicular cords and a steel layer, reduced heat buildup while maintaining excellent traction and fuel efficiency.
The motorcycle community was evolving rapidly, with new performance sports emerging. Different categories like off-road bikes, racing bikes, cruisers, commuters, and scooters each require specialised tyres. Off-road bikes needed deep treads, racing bikes relied on slicks and radial tyres, while cruisers mainly used durable bias-ply tyres. However, one major challenge remained—punctures in pneumatic tubular tyres.
The introduction of tubeless tyres significantly reduced the challenges posed by punctures. When a nail pierces a tubeless tyre, it remains lodged, preventing air from escaping. This innovation not only improved reliability but also enabled motorcycle manufacturers to incorporate alloy wheels, enhancing both performance and design.
The evolution of tyre technology has advanced to the point where wire-spoked wheels can now accommodate tubeless tyres. This recent innovation is already featured on some motorcycles in India. Radial tyre technology reached its pinnacle when motorcycle manufacturers created sports bikes capable of surpassing 300 km/h, with the tyres remaining intact, thanks to the Y mark on those tyres indicating their high-speed capability.
The introduction of the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has allowed consumers to protect their tyres from deterioration, ensuring they perform for a longer period. With TPMS, consumers can now make informed decisions when facing tyre-related issues.
A very recent evolution of tyres has to do with Eurogrip Quadrazone technology. This technology uses four compound zones fused to deliver better grip, mileage, and stability. This technology has been integrated into the Eurogrip Roadhound tyres.
One might assume that after achieving speeds of 300 km/h and extending tyre life to a maximum of six years, there would be no further evolution in tyre technology. However, this assumption is incorrect, as the history of the tyre industry has consistently shown that tyre technology continues to evolve gradually, as we've seen throughout this article.
The current focus of tyre technologists is to make tyres more reliable, puncture-resistant, sustainable and environment-friendly for the future. While most tyre innovations are being developed for automobiles, it's reasonable to assume that these advancements can also be applied to motorcycles.
Some OEMs have started using airless tyres, which feature designs similar to spoke wheels, made entirely of rubber. This technology is particularly well-suited for off-road use, where the rubber can easily absorb road undulations. Since there is no air inside, punctures do not affect the tyre's performance. While this technology is still in development, it seems unlikely to be applied to motorcycle tyres in the near future. The main reason for this is that the sidewalls of these tyres are very small, which results in slower cornering speeds and reduced handling performance. But still, hopes are high!
Continuing with the topic of punctures, sealant-layer-based tyres have been developed, where if a nail punctures the tyre and is removed, a sealant fills the gap, sealing the hole and making the tyre drivable again. This is a very recent technology with promising potential, and it could have a chance of being implemented in future motorcycle tyres, offering enhanced convenience and safety.
Thus, we can say that the evolution of tyres has undergone significant and gradual progress over the years. What began as a simple and basic technology has evolved into a highly advanced and specialised component. As we look to the future, tyre technology continues to improve, with a focus on addressing the environmental challenges of the modern world. The industry is moving toward a future that promises faster, more reliable, economical, and eco-friendly solutions for consumers worldwide.
At Eurogrip, we are at the forefront of tyre technology and we take pride in calling ourselves the "Bike Tyre Specialist". So, to find the best future-proof tyres for your bike, look no further than Eurogrip.