The story behind the evolution of motorcycle tyres

The two-wheeler technology has undergone an immense transformation since its invention and has reached a very advanced stage today. Along with the core engineering, something that has also undergone evolution is the tyre of the motorcycle. From the invention of rubber tyres in the 1900s to the development of tyres using multiple compounds, it is a story of technological excellence. It is true that there are many two-wheeler enthusiasts all across the world, and they want the best motorcycle tyres for their vehicles.

This is the reason why it becomes very important to know how the quality and technology for these tyres have evolved and how manufacturers are able to create tyres that can support advanced engines. Let us closely explore this story and understand the changing nature of two-wheeler tyres in further detail.

From Rubber to Pneumatic

It was in the nineteenth century that motorcycles were introduced to consumers for the first time. Back then, very basic tyres made of rubber were fitted to the vehicles. These tyres were fitted to metallic rims that provided durability, but were not so great when it came to the comfort of the rider. There were a number of aspects that were absent in those tyres that made it very uncomfortable for the rider during long journeys. No matter how uncomfortable, they were still the first kind of motorcycle tyres that were ever made in the world. As the world moved ahead, it was time for new engineering in motorcycles and in tyres.

It was during the late 19th century that the world first got to see the pneumatic tyres that were initially developed for tricycles. The technology soon found its way into the motorcycle industry and was adopted by many manufacturers across the world. A number of aspects can be highlighted to make one understand how pneumatic tyres added value to the two-wheeler industry as a whole. Suspension, shock absorption and other factors are in this list.

Also Read: 5 Must-Know Tips Before Buying Tubeless Tyres for a Bullet

Introduction of Treaded Tyres

It was during the onset of the 20th century that better engineering was reflected in two-wheeler tyre manufacturing. In order to provide better safety, security and comfort to the rider, there was the entry of tread patterns in tyres. There are a number of reputed motorcycle tyre manufacturers in India that produce treaded two-wheeler tyres. There are a number of aspects that are significantly enhanced because of this engineering. These include banking of the vehicle, better braking and better water displacement.

These treads in tyres made it easier for riders to cover long distances as well as uneven roads. As of today, we can see that there are different treading patterns available in the market for different kinds of rides. There are tyres for smooth roads and there are treaded designs for mountainous and rugged terrains.

Technological Developments

It was now time for a major engineering enhancement in tyre technology, and the world witnessed the emergence of the crossply tyres. These are the kind of tyres that were manufactured by putting multiple layers of rubber diagonally over each other. This engineering meant various new advantages in terms of loading capacity and comfort. For a better part of the 20th century, the crossply tyres were the most advanced form of tyres in the industry.

During the latter part of the 20th century the radial tyres were introduced to consumers and gained immediate attention. There were multiple new developments in this product, and there are many motorcycle tyre manufacturers in India that specialise in manufacturing them. Compared to its predecessor, the radial tyres provided better fuel economy, longevity and performance.

Today, the two-wheeler industry is making use of an advanced kind of tyre that is tubeless in nature. These tyres are being manufactured using multiple compounds as raw materials and offer better grip and safety to the rider.

Also Read: All You Need to Know about High-Mileage Sport Touring Motorcycle Tires

In Conclusion

There are different kinds of tyres that are required for the different kinds of two-wheelers on roads today. So it is easy to understand that manufacturers need to innovate and keep up with the increasing demand in the market. Considering the growth of the two-wheeler industry, it can be expected that more innovations will be made in tyre engineering in the coming days.