Low Profile Tires: Pros and Cons

The tires that have lesser sidewalls compared with the rest of the tires are called low profile tires. The reason why these tires are sought after is that they can offer superior performance. When the contact area with the tire is wider, the road handling and the braking are more efficient. When the sidewall is made short, there are many advantages associated like the improved grip on the surface. Not only this, the low profile tire is often considered the one that offers more sporty look to the cars.

How low profile tires are categorized?

One has to understand that the various parameters like height, width and rim diameter of a wheel are interconnected. When any of them change, the rest have to follow the same. Most of the manufacturers fix the profile height based on the various safety concerns. The ratio between height and width of the sidewall is called the profile series. When it is said that the low profile tires are of a smaller width, it is not too much, but a very minimum value. These tires can improve the racing performance of the car. Having said this, it does not mean that these tires are not suitable for other vehicles, but can be used for racing performance too.

With the automobile industry undergoing an extensive range of changes each day, it has to be kept in mind that the tires also evolve every now and then. The 205/55 R16 is often considered the best low profile tire for the cars of mid range. But, these are losing the status of being the tires of low profile style, while the tires with 185/55 R15 are readily accepted to belong to this category.

Many people might have a question in their minds if the low profile tire can last long. It has to be kept in mind that these tires are manufactured in a way to last long like any other tire, and they can withstand wear and tear like most of the tires in the market.

Before shopping the low profile tires, find about the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros

1. The looks are astounding. This is not related to the performance but still can give a macho look to your vehicle.
2. The cornering grip is improved, letting the car to corner with ease.
3. The car can move faster when cornering.
4. When there are straight lines on cornering, the car feels more stable.
5. You can stop quickly, and the responsiveness is higher.

Cons

1. When using the low profile tire, the road noise is higher.
2. The ride is more firm.
3. When you try to push more than you can get, the grip is lost.
4. They come with a huge price tag.
5. The ride is harsh, and there is a higher chance of damage unless you use it on a car that is designed to allow a low profile tire.
6. On snowy roads, the grip is very less.

You can get the low profile tire fitted to your car with ease through a technician. To avoid any insurance issues regardless of the tire you opt to change, inform the motor insurer beforehand.