Regular Vs. Winter Tire Sizes
Driving conditions vary widely between seasons. An area that receives snow requires a different type of tire, such as a winter tire. Sizing of regular tires and winter tires remains the same, but function differs.
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Regular Tires
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Regular tires are meant to be driven on dry or wet pavement. The tire tread is not as deep as a winter tire, allowing a smooth and quiet drive along with good traction. The size of the regular tire can be found on the sidewall; the size is typically a measure of the diameter of the tire, such as 14.
Winter Tires
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The sizing of winter tires should be the same diameter as regular tires, or suspension or steering problems can result with a mismatch. Winter tires have notably deeper tread, as well as a mandatory picture along the sidewall of a mountain and snowflake within.
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Considerations
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Winter tires should be uses strictly for snow applications. Handling deteriorates in dry conditions, and the noise of the tread against the road is noticeably louder than regular tires.
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References
- Photo Credit tire image by Orlando Florin Rosu from Fotolia.com