Although the design hasn't changed much, the modern tire allows for ever greater safety, particularly in foul weather, along with better comfort and longer treadlife. On the other hand, run-flat tyres – also known as run-on-flat or self-supporting tyres – allow drivers to deal with a puncture more safely and without any stress.Tires have come a long way since their inception. As a minimum intervention, however, it is necessary to fit the spare wheel. In the worst case, the tyre could then burst. This is because there is a risk of the sidewall being pinched between the road and wheel rim as soon as a conventional tyre begins to lose air. However, it a tyre does let you down, your mobility is severely limited and a safe onward journey cannot be guaranteed. They should be trained and certified in the correct handling of run-flat tyres.įortunately, punctures are quite rare. Specialist dealers can fit and remove run-flat tyres. The ‘F’ is included in the sidewall lettering before the rim diameter, for example: 205/55 RF 16. Tyres marked with this character have previously demonstrated under test conditions that they are suitable for road use following a puncture. Run-flat tyres can be identified by the letter ‘F’ on the sidewall.

How can I identify run-flat tyres? Where can this information be found?.

Their design makes it unnecessary to keep a spare wheel and jack in the boot in the event of a puncture. Run-flat tyres, sometimes also known as run-on-flat or self-supporting tyres, have a reinforced sidewall. However, the purchase is especially worthwhile if run-flat tyres are fitted as standard, in which case neither a spare wheel nor a tyre repair kit are included when a vehicle leaves the factory. The initial outlay for run-flat tyres is also slightly higher than for conventional tyres. Run-flat tyres are slightly heavier than conventional tyres, weighing around 300 g more each. Furthermore, motorists do not have to transport a bulky spare wheel, freeing up storage space in the boot and reducing the overall vehicle weight. Similarly, cumbersome wheel changes on the roadside, possibly in the rain or snow, are unnecessary. There is no need for an unwanted stop at the side of a busy road or to carry out a difficult tyre change. This means you can travel immediately to the nearest garage following a puncture.

At a reduced speed of up to 50 mph, it is still possible to travel up to 50 miles (80 kilometres) after a puncture. Run-flat tyres make it possible to continue driving despite a puncture and to maintain control of the vehicle.

Why should I choose run-flat tyres? Advantages of run-flat tyres

Run flat tires meaning