When it comes to replacement tyres, ride comfort is valued almost as much as performance, according to a new survey.
According to the research, carried out on behalf of Apollo Tyres, when asked: “Which characteristics would you prioritise when buying a replacement tyre?” 34% of those who say they ‘love’ or ‘like’ driving cite ‘high-performance grip and traction’, while 23% mention ‘ride refinement and low noise’.
In addition, just over twice as many enthusiast drivers would favour ‘a smaller wheel with a larger-profile tyre that gives enhanced comfort’ (45%) over ‘a larger wheel and a low-profile tyre that looks great on the vehicle’ (21%).
Comfort choice
The findings highlight the importance of comfort to those who are most likely to purchase high-performance road tyres. This is at odds with the fact that these products traditionally provide comparatively low levels of ride refinement, a direct consequence of the more rigid structure and very stiff sidewalls that manufacturers use to maximise dynamic capabilities.
This means it is imperative that the right tyre is matched to the vehicle upon which they are being fitted. This is especially true for electric vehicles, where the heavier batteries mean specialist tyres are the best fit, for improved comfort alongside performance.
The Apollo Tyres survey also found that, among all motorists, the most important criteria when selecting replacement tyres is the price or affordability. This was identified as a priority by 65% of respondants. This was followed by ‘safety, and short stopping distances’ (44%) and ‘year-round grip and traction’ (41%).
“Our survey highlights that performance-car drivers seek greater versatility from their tyres,” commented Yves Pouliquen, Group Head of Sales and Marketing at Apollo Tyres. “Many will commute in the same car that they take on track or use for a spirited weekend drive.”
