Bias-ply tires, also known as cross-ply tires, are made with fabric belts placed at a 30 to 40-degree angle to the direction of travel. This construction method was the standard for tire manufacturing until the development of radial tires in the 1940s. Bias-ply tires are still there, especially for certain applications and vintage vehicles.
What Is a Bias-Ply Tire?
A bias-ply tire is a design of a tire that is constructed with its plies arranged at alternating angles of less than 90 degrees to the center line of the tread. The term ‘bias-ply’ comes from the method of laying the body plies diagonally in a crisscross pattern. The edges of these plies overlap, which creates a thick and rigid sidewall. This construction method gives the tire a high degree of flexibility along the sidewall and a sturdy crown or tread area.
History and Evolution
The bias-ply tire was the first successful pneumatic tire design and dominated the market until the advent of radial tires. Originally, manufacturers made all tires using this technique until Michelin introduced the first radial tire in 1946. Bias-ply tires were popular for their cushioning ability and were typically used on vehicles from motorcycles to cars and heavy commercial vehicles.
Characteristics of Bias-Ply Tires
Bias-ply tires are popular for their durability and strong sidewalls, which can be beneficial when driving on rough or uneven surfaces. They are less prone to sidewall damage and punctures, especially when used in off-road or rugged conditions. However, due to their construction, they have a higher rolling resistance which can affect fuel efficiency. Moreover, they generate more heat which can lead to faster wear under certain conditions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Bias Ply Tires
One of the advantages of bias-ply tires is their load-carrying capacity. This makes them particularly suitable for trailers, trucks, and agricultural equipment. On the downside, they offer less traction and can provide a harsher ride compared to radial tires. They also have a shorter tread life due to the increased heat generation and are less fuel-efficient.
Applications of Bias-Ply Tires
Despite the popularity of radial tires, bias-ply tires still have a place in modern applications. They are often used in the construction and agriculture industries where vehicles face severe service conditions. Most all-terrain tires also belong to the bias-ply tire category.
Additionally, bias-ply tires are the tire of choice for classic and vintage car enthusiasts who wish to maintain the original look and performance characteristics of their vehicles.
Bias-Ply vs Radial Tires – What’s the Difference?
Bias-ply tires have plies that run diagonally across the tire, creating a rigid structure that doesn’t grip the road as efficiently as radial tires.
​​In radial tires, polyester threads run perpendicular from bead to bead, and a belt often made of steel fibers lies below the tread. This structure gives them the name “steel-belted” radials. This construction reduces wear and stabilizes the tread.
Radial tires offer better ride comfort and handling, especially in cornering. This makes them suitable for daily driving. They also dissipate heat more effectively, which is crucial at high speeds. However, they are more complex to manufacture and repair.
Bias-ply tires provide better durability and traction in off-road conditions. They have higher load-carrying capacity and offer increased puncture resistance. This makes them suitable for industrial, agricultural, and off-road applications. However, modern radial tires that have steel belt structures provide the same level of durability.
Choosing Between Bias-Ply and Radial Tires
The choice between bias-ply and radial tires depends on the intended use of the vehicle. Radial tires are generally suitable for family cars, sedans, SUVs, crossovers, luxury vehicles, etc. due to their handling and comfort. While bias-ply tires are suitable for full-sized trucks, trailers, and SUVs for off-roading for their load capacity and durability in rough conditions.