Difference Between Radial and Bias Tyres? All You Need to Know

Apollo Tyre Dealers get a lot of queries about the difference between a Radial tyre and a Bias Ply tyre from customers. So, in today’s post we are discussing the differences between these tyre technologies, including pros and cons of Radial and Bias Ply tyres.

Radial tyres vs. Bias Ply tyres

The main difference between Radial and Bias Ply tyres is in the belt construction. The cord materials too are different, leading to changes in the functional performance of Radial and Bias Ply tyres.

Radial tyre construction and uses

• Radial tyres are the most common type of tyre used on modern vehicles.
• They have a sidewall that runs straight up and down and are made of a single layer of steel cord plies that run at a 90-degree angle to the centerline of the tyre.
• Radial tyres offer a smoother, more comfortable ride than Bias Ply tyres.
• Radial tyres run cooler at highway speeds and under load.
• They are more fuel-efficient and have a longer lifespan.
• Radial tyres are more resistant to punctures and can handle high-speed driving better.
• They are recommended for high-performance cars, SUVs, and trucks.
• Radial tyres have a better grip on the road, providing improved handling and stability.
• They are typically more expensive than Bias Ply tyres, but their longer lifespan and improved performance make them a better investment in the long run.

Some cons of Radial Tyres:

• Sometimes the steel belt construction can affect ride quality.
• Curb impacts can cause sidewall damage.
• Harder tread increases tyre noise.

Bias Ply tyre construction and uses

• Bias Ply tyres have a sidewall that runs diagonally from bead to bead, with multiple layers of rubber-coated fabric plies that run at angles to each other and to the centerline of the tyre.
• Bias Ply tyres are typically used on older vehicles.
• They are more suitable for off-road conditions due to their rugged construction and tough tread patterns.
• Bias Ply tyres have a more flexible sidewall that provides better grip on irregular surfaces, making them a good choice for off-road vehicles, such as 4x4s and trucks.
• They are often less expensive than Radial tyres.
• Bias Ply tyres provide a firmer ride and can handle heavy loads better than Radial tyres.
• They are not as fuel-efficient or as durable as Radial tyres, and they do not handle high-speed driving as well.
• Despite their limitations, Bias Ply tyres can still provide good performance and value for certain applications.
• Bias Ply tyres are less expensive than Radial tyres.

Cons of Bias Ply tyres:

• Tread wears faster due to higher traction.
• High rolling resistance can affect fuel economy.
• Roll-over effect causes loss of traction while cornering.

Need to learn more about Radial and Bias tyres? Visit an Apollo Tyres shop near you today. To find an authorised Apollo dealer, you can use our dealer finder.

How to check if you have Bias Ply or Radial tyres?

You can easily determine whether you have Bias Ply or Radial tyres by checking the sidewall of the tyre.

Bias Ply tyres have a sidewall that runs diagonally from bead to bead, with multiple layers of rubber-coated fabric plies that run at angles to each other and to the centreline of the tyre. The letters "BIAS" or the word "BIAS PLY" will typically be written on the sidewall to indicate this type of tyre.

Radial tyres, on the other hand, have a sidewall that runs straight up and down and is made of a single layer of steel cord plies that run at a 90-degree angle to the centreline of the tyre. The word "RADIAL" or the letters "RADIAL PLY" will be written on the sidewall to indicate this type of tyre.

So, which tyre do you choose?

The choice between Radial and Bias Ply tyres depends on several factors such as the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and personal preference.

Radial tyres are the more popular choice and offer several advantages over Bias Ply tyres. They have a longer lifespan, better fuel efficiency, and provide a smoother, more comfortable ride. Radial tyres are also more resistant to punctures and can handle high-speed driving better. They are typically used on modern vehicles and are recommended for high-performance cars, SUVs, and trucks.

Bias Ply tyres, on the other hand, are more suited for older vehicles and for use in off-road conditions, where their rugged construction and tough tread patterns are better suited to the demands of rough terrain. They also have a more flexible sidewall that provides a better grip on irregular surfaces, making them a good choice for off-road vehicles, such as 4x4s and trucks.

In conclusion, Radial tyres are the better choice for most vehicles and driving conditions, but Bias Ply tyres may be a better choice for certain applications, such as off-road vehicles and older vehicles. Ultimately, the decision between the two types of tyres should be based on the specific needs of your vehicle and the type of driving you do.

Frequently asked questions:

Here we address some of the common queries people have when selecting tyres for their car, SUV, or bike.

Can you mix Radial and Bias tyres?

It is not recommended to mix Radial and Bias tyres on the same vehicle. Mixing tyre types can cause handling and stability problems, and can also lead to unequal tyre wear. Radial and Bias tyres are designed differently and have different handling characteristics, and when used together, can result in a loss of traction and control, as well as an increase in wear and tear on the tyres and suspension.

What vehicles use Bias Ply tyres?

Bias Ply tyres are typically used on older vehicles and vehicles that are used for off-road purposes. They are not as commonly used as Radial tyres on modern vehicles. Bias Ply tyres are also used on some vintage and classic cars, as well as some light-duty trucks and trailers. However, it is important to note that the use of Bias Ply tyres on modern vehicles is becoming increasingly rare, and Radial tyres are now the preferred choice for most vehicles and driving conditions.

Can you patch Bias tyres?

Yes, it is possible to patch a Bias tyre, just like any other type of tyre. However, the process is the same as patching a Radial tyre, and it is best to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations when performing the repair.

If the tyre has a puncture or a slow leak, it is possible to patch it by removing the tyre from the wheel, cleaning the area around the puncture, and applying a patch to the inside of the tyre. The patch should be made of a durable, flexible material that can withstand the pressure and movement of the tyre as it rolls.

What type of tyre is safer?

It is difficult to say that one type of tyre is inherently safer than another, as both Radial and Bias tyres have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The type of tyre that is safest for you will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of vehicle you drive, the road conditions you will be driving on, and your driving style.

In general, Radial tyres are considered to be better for high-speed driving and are more fuel-efficient and durable than Bias tyres. They also offer a smoother, more comfortable ride and have a better grip on the road, providing improved handling and stability.

Do Radials last longer than Bias?

In general, Radial tyres tend to last longer than Bias Ply tyres. This is due to several factors, including the construction of the tyre, the materials used in the tyre, and the way the tyre is designed to handle road conditions. Radial tyres are made with a Radial construction that allows the tyre to flex and absorb impacts more easily. This results in a tyre that is more durable and has a longer lifespan, as it is less likely to be damaged by road hazards and potholes. Radial tyres also typically have a stronger, more durable tread pattern that provides better traction and wear resistance. Bias Ply tyres, on the other hand, have a more traditional construction that can be more susceptible to damage from road hazards and potholes. They also tend to have a more rigid sidewall that can be more prone to cracking and other forms of damage over time.

How long do Bias tyres last?

On average, a Bias Ply tyre can last between 40,000 and 60,000 miles, but this can vary widely depending on the specific tyre and the conditions it is used in. It is important to regularly inspect your tyres and replace them when they become worn or damaged. If you are unsure about the lifespan of your Bias Ply tyres or if you need to replace them, it is best to consult with a tyre professional or the vehicle manufacturer. Regular tyre maintenance, including rotating your tyres and checking the air pressure, can also help extend the lifespan of your tyres.