Tires & Wheels: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
The Top 5 Toughest Aftermarket Wheels
My list of the top 5 best aftermarket wheels in terms of sheer toughness and damage-resistant design.
My list of the top 5 best aftermarket wheels in terms of sheer toughness and damage-resistant design.
Review: Bridgestone Ecopia EP422
Among the many low rolling resistance “eco-tires” being marketed this season is Bridgestone's Ecopia EP422, a Grand Touring, All-Season tire designed to have very low rolling resistance and therefore high fuel-efficiency. The Ecopia is also marketed as an ecologically conscious tire due to its construction. However, the real questions are: How does it handle and how fuel-efficient is it really?
Among the many low rolling resistance “eco-tires” being marketed this season is Bridgestone's Ecopia EP422, a Grand Touring, All-Season tire designed to have very low rolling resistance and therefore high fuel-efficiency. The Ecopia is also marketed as an ecologically conscious tire due to its construction. However, the real questions are: How does it handle and how fuel-efficient is it really?
The Best Performance All-Season Tires For 2013
If what you want is superior grip for a high-performance car in both dry and wet conditions, and you plan to either switch out to pure winter tires or not drive the car in the snow, one of these “performance” all-seasons may be just your cup of Texas tea. In general, these tires are excellent for driving from spring through fall, or year-round in climates where you just don't get all that much snow.
If what you want is superior grip for a high-performance car in both dry and wet conditions, and you plan to either switch out to pure winter tires or not drive the car in the snow, one of these “performance” all-seasons may be just your cup of Texas tea. In general, these tires are excellent for driving from spring through fall, or year-round in climates where you just don't get all that much snow.
Alloy vs. Steel Wheels: Beauty and the Beast
Alloys or steel wheels: What's best for you? Both types have advantages and disadvantages for different types of driving; but in general if you want beauty and performance you want alloy, and if you want tough, inexpensive, ugly workhorses, you want steels.
Alloys or steel wheels: What's best for you? Both types have advantages and disadvantages for different types of driving; but in general if you want beauty and performance you want alloy, and if you want tough, inexpensive, ugly workhorses, you want steels.
Review: Firestone Destination LE2
The Firestone Destination LE2 does exactly what it's supposed to do. And no more.
The Firestone Destination LE2 does exactly what it's supposed to do. And no more.
Vibration Diagnosis
Does your car shake at speed? How to tell if your car's vibration is coming from bent wheels or tires.
Does your car shake at speed? How to tell if your car's vibration is coming from bent wheels or tires.
Plus and Minus Sizing Your Tires
Need to change your tire size, but don't understand what the tire guy is telling you? Here's how to figure out what tire size you need like the pros do.
Need to change your tire size, but don't understand what the tire guy is telling you? Here's how to figure out what tire size you need like the pros do.
Review: Fuzion Touring
The Fuzion Touring, made by Bridgestone, is simply a decent tire at a great price.
The Fuzion Touring, made by Bridgestone, is simply a decent tire at a great price.
Tire Wear: Causes, Indicators and Remedies
Irregular tire wear is a frustrating little gremlin that can steal your tires' performance and tread life if you let it. The problem is that irregular wear comes in so many different flavors. The causes of strange tire wear can range from air pressure to improper balance, from misalignment to bent wheels.
Irregular tire wear is a frustrating little gremlin that can steal your tires' performance and tread life if you let it. The problem is that irregular wear comes in so many different flavors. The causes of strange tire wear can range from air pressure to improper balance, from misalignment to bent wheels.
bolt_pattern
When it comes to finding the proper fitment for putting aftermarket or other new wheels on your car, the bolt pattern is possibly the most important consideration.
When it comes to finding the proper fitment for putting aftermarket or other new wheels on your car, the bolt pattern is possibly the most important consideration.
avid_ascend
Yokoahama's Avid Ascend is the first consumer tire available in the US using orange oil in the rubber compound, and this technology makes for one great Grand Touring tire.
Yokoahama's Avid Ascend is the first consumer tire available in the US using orange oil in the rubber compound, and this technology makes for one great Grand Touring tire.
Tire Air Pressure: Tips and Tricks
Air pressure is one of the most important, and most overlooked maintenance items for most drivers. Take a look at some tips and tricks from the industry.
Air pressure is one of the most important, and most overlooked maintenance items for most drivers. Take a look at some tips and tricks from the industry.
Review: Nokian WR G2
Nokian has made an all-season tire that excels in all the dangerous weather conditions, and is still pretty good in the safest one. That's a beautiful thing.
Nokian has made an all-season tire that excels in all the dangerous weather conditions, and is still pretty good in the safest one. That's a beautiful thing.
Hub-Centric vs. Lug-Centric Wheels
If you've been shopping for aftermarket wheels at all, you've probably heard the term, âhub-centricâ
If you've been shopping for aftermarket wheels at all, you've probably heard the term, âhub-centricâ
Wheel Widths and Tire Fitments
We all know that wheels come in many different diameters – anywhere from the tiny 14” steels to 24” chrome monsters and beyond. But wheels also come in different widths, and the width of the wheel not only affects how the wheel sits on the car but also how the tire fits on the wheel. Here's a look at how wheel widths affect you.
We all know that wheels come in many different diameters – anywhere from the tiny 14” steels to 24” chrome monsters and beyond. But wheels also come in different widths, and the width of the wheel not only affects how the wheel sits on the car but also how the tire fits on the wheel. Here's a look at how wheel widths affect you.
wheel_balance
Wheel balancing, also known as tire balancing, is the process of equalizing the weight of the combined tire and wheel assembly so that it spins smoothly at high speed.
Wheel balancing, also known as tire balancing, is the process of equalizing the weight of the combined tire and wheel assembly so that it spins smoothly at high speed.
review_turanza_plus
-Julie Porter, Bridgestone Touring/Eco Product Manager Bridgestone's brand-new Grand Touring tire, the
-Julie Porter, Bridgestone Touring/Eco Product Manager Bridgestone's brand-new Grand Touring tire, the
runflats
Runflat tires are being used more and more by carmakers. Here are some reasons why not to use them.
Runflat tires are being used more and more by carmakers. Here are some reasons why not to use them.
online_discounters
There are lots of websites out there promising discounted tires and wheels, but which one to choose? Here's my list.
There are lots of websites out there promising discounted tires and wheels, but which one to choose? Here's my list.
How to Read Your Tire
A primer on how to read the numbers and symbols embossed on tire sidewalls. Knowing how to read the tire can provide you with very useful information.
A primer on how to read the numbers and symbols embossed on tire sidewalls. Knowing how to read the tire can provide you with very useful information.
The Top 5 Studless Snow Tires
The top 5 best snow tires out there for your winter driving safety and comfort.
The top 5 best snow tires out there for your winter driving safety and comfort.
Review: Bridgestone Potenza RE970 AS Pole Position
To say that the long-awaited successor to Bridgestone's Potenza RE960AS Pole Position, the Potenza 970AS, exceeds its predecessor in every way is somewhat akin to noting that Salieri was considered to be an excellent court composer until Mozart breezed into town.
To say that the long-awaited successor to Bridgestone's Potenza RE960AS Pole Position, the Potenza 970AS, exceeds its predecessor in every way is somewhat akin to noting that Salieri was considered to be an excellent court composer until Mozart breezed into town.
How to Store Your Tires
It's a perennial issue with extra sets of tires and/or wheels: What's the best way to store them when they are not being used?
It's a perennial issue with extra sets of tires and/or wheels: What's the best way to store them when they are not being used?
What Tires Are Made Of
What's inside your tire? How do they get all that stuff in there. Here's how your tires are made and what they're made up of.
What's inside your tire? How do they get all that stuff in there. Here's how your tires are made and what they're made up of.
Wheel Anatomy 101
Welcome to Wheel Anatomy 101: Structure. Today we will be reviewing the major structural aspects of automotive wheels, focusing on the outboard, or structural face of the wheel.
Welcome to Wheel Anatomy 101: Structure. Today we will be reviewing the major structural aspects of automotive wheels, focusing on the outboard, or structural face of the wheel.
Review: Nokian eNTYRE
Nokian Tyres of Finland is well-known for their mastery of snow tires. However, they also are leaders in the field of low rolling resistance, and their newest offering is a summer-biased all-season Grand Touring tire called the eNTYRE. I was able to check these tires out on my Prius Nerdmobile for a long-term test of their handling capabilities and fuel-efficiency.
Nokian Tyres of Finland is well-known for their mastery of snow tires. However, they also are leaders in the field of low rolling resistance, and their newest offering is a summer-biased all-season Grand Touring tire called the eNTYRE. I was able to check these tires out on my Prius Nerdmobile for a long-term test of their handling capabilities and fuel-efficiency.
Tire Size Calculators
Tire Size Calculators are one of those things you don't need until you really need one, because nobody wants to do tire sizing math in their head. Here is a list of some of the best ones.
Tire Size Calculators are one of those things you don't need until you really need one, because nobody wants to do tire sizing math in their head. Here is a list of some of the best ones.
straightening
An overview of technologies that allow bent aluminum alloy wheels to be straightened out.
An overview of technologies that allow bent aluminum alloy wheels to be straightened out.
bfg_comp2
Along comes the G-Force Sport Comp 2, and BFGoodrich naturally claims that it's even better than the original. Well, of course they do. Who ever thought “Worse Than The Original!” would be a great marketing slogan?
Along comes the G-Force Sport Comp 2, and BFGoodrich naturally claims that it's even better than the original. Well, of course they do. Who ever thought “Worse Than The Original!” would be a great marketing slogan?
How to Drive Through a Tire Blowout
A tire blowout at high speed is one of the most dangerous automotive emergencies one can ever face. Michelin
A tire blowout at high speed is one of the most dangerous automotive emergencies one can ever face. Michelin
Wheel Anatomy 301
In our final module of Wheel Anatomy, we will be looking at the complex, but essential concepts of offset and backspacing.
In our final module of Wheel Anatomy, we will be looking at the complex, but essential concepts of offset and backspacing.
Review: Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3
Extreme Contact DWS for the All-Season UHP crown, but not for Michelin. Michelin maintains that their
Extreme Contact DWS for the All-Season UHP crown, but not for Michelin. Michelin maintains that their
Wheel Finishes: Hypersilver
Hypersilver is a very complex paint process that uses a translucent metallic outer paint laid over a colored undercoat to give the wheels a deep inner glow.
Hypersilver is a very complex paint process that uses a translucent metallic outer paint laid over a colored undercoat to give the wheels a deep inner glow.
How to Not Damage Your Wheels
Wheel finishes can be quite fragile and vulnerable to all sorts of hazards. How to keep your nicely finished rims looking that nice.
Wheel finishes can be quite fragile and vulnerable to all sorts of hazards. How to keep your nicely finished rims looking that nice.
profile: BBS
A profile of the aftermarket wheel manufacturer BBS.
A profile of the aftermarket wheel manufacturer BBS.
siping
We hear all the time from tire makers about their superior siping patterns, but what are sipes anyway?
We hear all the time from tire makers about their superior siping patterns, but what are sipes anyway?
How Much Should It Cost to Install My New Tires?
A look at all the little costs associated with new tires; mounting, balancing, valve stems, alignment and so on...
A look at all the little costs associated with new tires; mounting, balancing, valve stems, alignment and so on...
Low Rolling Resistance Tires: What You Need To Know
What is “low rolling resistance” really, and how does one choose between the storm of LRR tires coming onto the market? How does one make a meaningful comparison of fuel-efficiency between, say, Bridgestone's Ecopia and Yokohama's Avid Ascend? What do RRF and RRC mean, and why do they make even my head hurt to contemplate them?
What is “low rolling resistance” really, and how does one choose between the storm of LRR tires coming onto the market? How does one make a meaningful comparison of fuel-efficiency between, say, Bridgestone's Ecopia and Yokohama's Avid Ascend? What do RRF and RRC mean, and why do they make even my head hurt to contemplate them?
best daily drivers
Here's my list of some of the best Daily Driver tires, the ones that get you where you're going safely with a minimum of fuss and price. The ones that have a nice smooth ride, resist hydroplaning in the rain, and preferably give you good gas mileage and long treadwear to boot. This one's for the real road warriors out there...
Here's my list of some of the best Daily Driver tires, the ones that get you where you're going safely with a minimum of fuss and price. The ones that have a nice smooth ride, resist hydroplaning in the rain, and preferably give you good gas mileage and long treadwear to boot. This one's for the real road warriors out there...
Wheel Finishes: Chrome
Chrome is a supermodel. All beauty on the surface, but a nasty personality underneath.
Chrome is a supermodel. All beauty on the surface, but a nasty personality underneath.
Tire Repair: Plugging vs. Patching
There is a great deal of debate going on nowadays about the proper way to repair tires, whether plugs are sufficient for small repairs or whether plugs are dangerous and patches are the only proper way. In fact, this is a debate that has gone on for literally decades. Plugs are an easy and cheap way of repairing small nail holes, while patches are a more involved, more complex and probably safer way of doing much the same thing.
There is a great deal of debate going on nowadays about the proper way to repair tires, whether plugs are sufficient for small repairs or whether plugs are dangerous and patches are the only proper way. In fact, this is a debate that has gone on for literally decades. Plugs are an easy and cheap way of repairing small nail holes, while patches are a more involved, more complex and probably safer way of doing much the same thing.
Long-Term Review: Yokohama Avid Ascend
I've already reviewed the Avid Ascends once, based on about four hours of seat time provided by Yokohama at their launch event in Orlando, Florida. This time I've had about 3 weeks with them on my car, and am able to make some more in-depth observations regarding these tires.
I've already reviewed the Avid Ascends once, based on about four hours of seat time provided by Yokohama at their launch event in Orlando, Florida. This time I've had about 3 weeks with them on my car, and am able to make some more in-depth observations regarding these tires.
The Top Ten Most Beautiful Aftermarket Wheels
There are some really amazingly cool wheels out there, so many that it can be hard to even know where to start looking. Given that my other job is wheel repair, I tend to gravitate towards the wheels I know are resistant to damage, but those are not always the best-looking wheels out there. With that in mind, I give you my list of the top ten most beautiful wheels I know of.
There are some really amazingly cool wheels out there, so many that it can be hard to even know where to start looking. Given that my other job is wheel repair, I tend to gravitate towards the wheels I know are resistant to damage, but those are not always the best-looking wheels out there. With that in mind, I give you my list of the top ten most beautiful wheels I know of.
Best New Tires For 2012
A list of 5 of the best and most interesting new tires coming in 2012.
A list of 5 of the best and most interesting new tires coming in 2012.
The Best Winter-Biased All-Season Tires For 2013
The idea of all-season tires is always a compelling one. Having tires that can be kept on your car year-round, that work well in both the winter and summer is generally a whole lot easier and cheaper than switching between winter and summer tires. The thing is, the requirements for tires designed for summer performance and tires designed to function in snow are extremely different even down to the rubber compounds, which makes it very difficult to make a tire that excels in all regimes. This means that designing all-season tires has always involved some very important tradeoffs.
The idea of all-season tires is always a compelling one. Having tires that can be kept on your car year-round, that work well in both the winter and summer is generally a whole lot easier and cheaper than switching between winter and summer tires. The thing is, the requirements for tires designed for summer performance and tires designed to function in snow are extremely different even down to the rubber compounds, which makes it very difficult to make a tire that excels in all regimes. This means that designing all-season tires has always involved some very important tradeoffs.
Why You Should Downsize Your Winter Wheels
Why should you downsize winter wheels? Smaller wheels and tires perform better in winter conditions.
Why should you downsize winter wheels? Smaller wheels and tires perform better in winter conditions.
Review: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric All-Season
It's hard to know whether to judge the new Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric All-Season by the standards of a track tire or a winter tire, but all indications are that it's at least pretty good at both.
It's hard to know whether to judge the new Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric All-Season by the standards of a track tire or a winter tire, but all indications are that it's at least pretty good at both.
Tire Speed Ratings Explained
Confused about what that letter means right after your tire size? Ever had a tire shop ask what your speed rating was and didn't know what they meant? Don't know whether you need the more expensive V- or ZR-rated tires that the car came with? Fear not, mighty consumer, for I will edify you.
Confused about what that letter means right after your tire size? Ever had a tire shop ask what your speed rating was and didn't know what they meant? Don't know whether you need the more expensive V- or ZR-rated tires that the car came with? Fear not, mighty consumer, for I will edify you.
alloy profiles: enkei wheels
Enkei Wheels began life as “Enshu Keigokin Co”, which translates as “Light Alloy of the Province of Enshu.” Enshu Keigokin manufactured aluminum alloy aircraft parts. In 1986 they began supplying wheels to the Minardi F1 team, and a wheel company was born.
Enkei Wheels began life as “Enshu Keigokin Co”, which translates as “Light Alloy of the Province of Enshu.” Enshu Keigokin manufactured aluminum alloy aircraft parts. In 1986 they began supplying wheels to the Minardi F1 team, and a wheel company was born.
All Seasons or Snow Tires?
All-seasons or snow tires, what's best? The answer is as individual as you are.
All-seasons or snow tires, what's best? The answer is as individual as you are.
Review: BFGoodrich G-Force Rival
Let me put it this way: BFGoodrich's pure competition tire, the R1 and their street tire, the G-Force Comp-2, loved each other very much. When the stork finally arrived, they named it Rival, and found that they had a child who was greater than the sum of its parents. And what a cute kid it is...
Let me put it this way: BFGoodrich's pure competition tire, the R1 and their street tire, the G-Force Comp-2, loved each other very much. When the stork finally arrived, they named it Rival, and found that they had a child who was greater than the sum of its parents. And what a cute kid it is...
Review: Nokian WRG3 Asymmetric
Nokian's WRG2 is probably the best true All-Season tire in existence. Nokian's WRG3 is not, but it's trying pretty hard.
Nokian's WRG2 is probably the best true All-Season tire in existence. Nokian's WRG3 is not, but it's trying pretty hard.
Review: Continental ExtremeContact DWS
The ExtremeContact DWS (Dry/Wet/Snow) are Continental's offering in the Ultra High Performance All Season niche, designed for 3-4 season capability without sacrificing high-speed performance. By all accounts, they fulfill on that promise in a big, big way.
The ExtremeContact DWS (Dry/Wet/Snow) are Continental's offering in the Ultra High Performance All Season niche, designed for 3-4 season capability without sacrificing high-speed performance. By all accounts, they fulfill on that promise in a big, big way.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS-70 Full Review
A review of the new Bridgestone Blizzak. WS70's are great on ice and snow, but have some trouble on dry roads.
A review of the new Bridgestone Blizzak. WS70's are great on ice and snow, but have some trouble on dry roads.
Wheel Anatomy
A standard automotive wheel diagram, showing the various named parts of a wheel.
A standard automotive wheel diagram, showing the various named parts of a wheel.
Alloy Profiles: American Racing
One of the most iconic wheel companies in history, American Racing is a muscle car's dream.
One of the most iconic wheel companies in history, American Racing is a muscle car's dream.
Wheel Composition and Construction
In addition to coming in many different sizes and designs, wheels come in all different styles of construction and composition.
In addition to coming in many different sizes and designs, wheels come in all different styles of construction and composition.
tpms_pros_cons
The Pros and Cons of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
The Pros and Cons of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Wheel Finishes: Paint
Most original equipment wheels are painted. Learn how to (and how not to) care for your painted wheels and what it takes to refinish them if they get damaged.
Most original equipment wheels are painted. Learn how to (and how not to) care for your painted wheels and what it takes to refinish them if they get damaged.
Wheel Anatomy 201
Welcome to Wheel Anatomy 201: Beads and Flanges. Today we will be reviewing the various structures located on the outer barrel of the wheel. These structures will include the drop center, beads, mounting humps and flanges.
Welcome to Wheel Anatomy 201: Beads and Flanges. Today we will be reviewing the various structures located on the outer barrel of the wheel. These structures will include the drop center, beads, mounting humps and flanges.
European Standard Tire Sidewall Markings
European Standard Tire Sidewall Markings
European Standard Tire Sidewall Markings
michelin xi3
There is a pride like fire among Michelin's snow tire engineering team that makes one suspect that they're thinking, “One Tire To Rule Them All...”
There is a pride like fire among Michelin's snow tire engineering team that makes one suspect that they're thinking, “One Tire To Rule Them All...”
Review: Bridgestone Potenza RE-11
The Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 is one sticky beast.
The Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 is one sticky beast.
How to Check for Tire Recalls
Are your tires being recalled? How can you tell? What should you do if they are? And what's a TIN? Find the answers here.
Are your tires being recalled? How can you tell? What should you do if they are? And what's a TIN? Find the answers here.
Wheel Buyer's Guide
So you want some different wheels than the ones that came on your car when you bought it. But how to go about finding the right wheels for you? How do you make sure they will fit on your car? Believe me, the process of fitting wheels and tires can be much more complex than it looks. Here in one convenient place, you will find all of my articles related to fitting and buying new wheels, whether from a shop or online.
So you want some different wheels than the ones that came on your car when you bought it. But how to go about finding the right wheels for you? How do you make sure they will fit on your car? Believe me, the process of fitting wheels and tires can be much more complex than it looks. Here in one convenient place, you will find all of my articles related to fitting and buying new wheels, whether from a shop or online.
Review: Nokian Hakkapeliitta R
Got winter? Call in the cavalry! Nokian's Hakkapeliitta R is still the best pure snow tire available.
Got winter? Call in the cavalry! Nokian's Hakkapeliitta R is still the best pure snow tire available.
What You Need to Know About Winter Tires
Everything you need to know about choosing winter tires but didn't know who to ask.
Everything you need to know about choosing winter tires but didn't know who to ask.
Wheel Finishes: Polished
A primer on the various types of polished finishes out there; how they are created, how to care for them and how they can be repaired.
A primer on the various types of polished finishes out there; how they are created, how to care for them and how they can be repaired.
Finding Tire Size and Aspect Ratio
How to find your tire size and aspect ratio.
How to find your tire size and aspect ratio.
TPMS_Overview
A history and overview of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, which are mandatory on all vehicles below 10,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight as of 2007.
A history and overview of Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, which are mandatory on all vehicles below 10,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight as of 2007.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Explained
Uniform Tire Quality Grading is the term for three specific ratings applied to tires so that consumers can have standardized, easy to understand comparative data when they are searching for the right tire. That's the concept; the reality is somewhat different.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading is the term for three specific ratings applied to tires so that consumers can have standardized, easy to understand comparative data when they are searching for the right tire. That's the concept; the reality is somewhat different.
Review: Michelin X-Ice Xi2
Michelin's X-Ice Xi2 winter tire is the primary challenger to Nokian's dominance of the winter tire market. Has Michelin finally caught up to the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R?
Michelin's X-Ice Xi2 winter tire is the primary challenger to Nokian's dominance of the winter tire market. Has Michelin finally caught up to the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R?
How to Not Damage Your Wheels Pt. 2
How to avoid bending or cracking your expensive alloy wheels.
How to avoid bending or cracking your expensive alloy wheels.
Review: Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS
The Bridgestone RE97AS is designed to have a smoother and quieter ride than the RE970AS, but has somewhat less track-style performance. At the same time it has more performance and a less smooth ride than, say, the Ecopia line, making it pretty much a “Goldilocks” tire in most respects.
The Bridgestone RE97AS is designed to have a smoother and quieter ride than the RE970AS, but has somewhat less track-style performance. At the same time it has more performance and a less smooth ride than, say, the Ecopia line, making it pretty much a “Goldilocks” tire in most respects.
Review: Bridgestone Dueler H/P Sport AS
When Bridgestone looks at the state of the SUV/Light Truck market, they see that it is transitioning away from big heavy SUV's and towards much lighter, sportier “crossover” vehicles. As they note, this is what “The Boss” wants from the car companies, and what “The Boss” wants from these CUV's is not just ample cargo space and better fuel mileage, but the kind of responsive acceleration, braking and handling that crossover-type vehicles provide. That's where the Dueler H/P Sport comes in.
When Bridgestone looks at the state of the SUV/Light Truck market, they see that it is transitioning away from big heavy SUV's and towards much lighter, sportier “crossover” vehicles. As they note, this is what “The Boss” wants from the car companies, and what “The Boss” wants from these CUV's is not just ample cargo space and better fuel mileage, but the kind of responsive acceleration, braking and handling that crossover-type vehicles provide. That's where the Dueler H/P Sport comes in.
profile: TSW
A look at the South African wheel maker TSW.
A look at the South African wheel maker TSW.
Review: Pirelli P Zero Nero All Season
As a reviewer, I try to make clear when I have a bias, whether positive or negative. I do have something of a negative bias regarding Pirelli. Mostly this comes from years of doing tire repairs and seeing lots of “bubbles” in apparently weak Pirelli sidewalls. I do freely admit that this is partially because they tend to aim for very high performance, and partially because they tend to make a lot of very low-profile tires. With the P Zero Nero All Season, however, the sidewalls are clearly not the issue. The issue is the lack of real wet grip and the ease with which the tire breaks away at the limit.
As a reviewer, I try to make clear when I have a bias, whether positive or negative. I do have something of a negative bias regarding Pirelli. Mostly this comes from years of doing tire repairs and seeing lots of “bubbles” in apparently weak Pirelli sidewalls. I do freely admit that this is partially because they tend to aim for very high performance, and partially because they tend to make a lot of very low-profile tires. With the P Zero Nero All Season, however, the sidewalls are clearly not the issue. The issue is the lack of real wet grip and the ease with which the tire breaks away at the limit.
Aftermarket Profiles: Sport Edition
Since the demise of Mille Miglia, Sport Edition has taken up the banner of making some of the softest and most easily bendable rims in the industry.
Since the demise of Mille Miglia, Sport Edition has taken up the banner of making some of the softest and most easily bendable rims in the industry.
Review: Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2
I travel to Ivalo in Finnish Lapland to try out Nokian's newest snow tire, the Hakkapeliitta R2, which is better than it's predecessor in every way I can see.
I travel to Ivalo in Finnish Lapland to try out Nokian's newest snow tire, the Hakkapeliitta R2, which is better than it's predecessor in every way I can see.
Low Rolling Resistance Showdown: Ecopia vs. eNTYRE
It seems like everybody is marketing a âlow-rolling resistanceâ (LRR) tire nowadays. Fuel-efficiency
It seems like everybody is marketing a âlow-rolling resistanceâ (LRR) tire nowadays. Fuel-efficiency
How to Measure Your Tread Depth
How to measure tread depth any one of three ways, quick and dirty, quicker and dirtier and the right way.
How to measure tread depth any one of three ways, quick and dirty, quicker and dirtier and the right way.
NHTSA_TPMS
The NHTSA has replied to the TIA in a very important letter to anyone who has to deal with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems. Find out what the NHTSA said and how it can affect you!
The NHTSA has replied to the TIA in a very important letter to anyone who has to deal with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems. Find out what the NHTSA said and how it can affect you!
Proper Braking: ABS vs. Non-ABS
How to brake properly on snow or ice using both ABS and Non-ABS systems.
How to brake properly on snow or ice using both ABS and Non-ABS systems.
Review: Continental ExtremeWinterContact
Continental's excellent ExtremeWinterContact tires get some well-deserved respect from reviewers and testers alike.
Continental's excellent ExtremeWinterContact tires get some well-deserved respect from reviewers and testers alike.
change_tire
It can happen anytime; you're stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. You can wait for a tow truck, or you can change the tire out for your spare yourself and be on your way. Here's how to do it safely and easily yourself.
It can happen anytime; you're stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. You can wait for a tow truck, or you can change the tire out for your spare yourself and be on your way. Here's how to do it safely and easily yourself.
Dunlop Graspic DS-3 Full Review
Dunlop Graspic DS-3's are snow tires for people who don't like snow tires.
Dunlop Graspic DS-3's are snow tires for people who don't like snow tires.
studded tires
Studded snow tires are great when you absolutely need them, but you want to be sure you absolutely need them.
Studded snow tires are great when you absolutely need them, but you want to be sure you absolutely need them.
Silver Painted Wheel
A wheel painted in a standard metallic silver.
A wheel painted in a standard metallic silver.
Second Look: TireBuyer.com
In my article, âWhere To Buy Wheels and Tires Onlineâ from last year, I examined an online retailer called
In my article, âWhere To Buy Wheels and Tires Onlineâ from last year, I examined an online retailer called
A Donut-Style Temporary Spare
A Donut-style Temporary Spare
A Donut-style Temporary Spare
Deep Concave Wheels
Deep concave wheels are designed with spokes that curve, more or less gracefully, inwards toward the hub center of the wheel, such that if you put the wheel face up and flat on the ground, the cosmetic face of the wheel would form a bowl shape. When on the car, that bowl shape curves inward towards the car's suspension, creating a very interesting and sometimes even jarringly fresh look.
Deep concave wheels are designed with spokes that curve, more or less gracefully, inwards toward the hub center of the wheel, such that if you put the wheel face up and flat on the ground, the cosmetic face of the wheel would form a bowl shape. When on the car, that bowl shape curves inward towards the car's suspension, creating a very interesting and sometimes even jarringly fresh look.
Fix-A-Flat: Miracle Or Nightmare?
Fix-A-Flat is marketed as basically being the equivalent to an instant spare tire, an aerosol can containing a mysterious substance that will not only patch a hole in your tire right by the side of the road, but inflate it as well! But is it really as good as it claims to be?
Fix-A-Flat is marketed as basically being the equivalent to an instant spare tire, an aerosol can containing a mysterious substance that will not only patch a hole in your tire right by the side of the road, but inflate it as well! But is it really as good as it claims to be?
Wheel Spoke Designs
Since the 60's, when wire spoke wheels were the norm, advances in casting methods, CAD/CAM design and changes in tastes and styles have led to an explosion of spoke designs both cosmetic and functional.
Since the 60's, when wire spoke wheels were the norm, advances in casting methods, CAD/CAM design and changes in tastes and styles have led to an explosion of spoke designs both cosmetic and functional.
winter_packages
Looking for winter wheel and tire packages for this year or next? Here's some suggestions, targeted to the needs of different types of drivers.
Looking for winter wheel and tire packages for this year or next? Here's some suggestions, targeted to the needs of different types of drivers.
Review: Continental ExtremeContact DW
Continental's summer-only ExtremeContact DW (Dry/Wet) is not quite as good as the DWS (Dry/Wet/Snow.)
Continental's summer-only ExtremeContact DW (Dry/Wet) is not quite as good as the DWS (Dry/Wet/Snow.)
profile: ozracing
A profile of Italian aftermarket wheel makers OZ Racing.
A profile of Italian aftermarket wheel makers OZ Racing.
pa4_review
The Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 is an Ultra High Performance snow tire designed for very powerful cars. This may be a small niche, but Michelin's tire is right there at the top of it.
The Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 is an Ultra High Performance snow tire designed for very powerful cars. This may be a small niche, but Michelin's tire is right there at the top of it.
Chromeplated Wheel
A chromeplated wheel.
A chromeplated wheel.
Cutaway view of a standard tire
A cutaway view of a standard tire.
A cutaway view of a standard tire.
3D Self-Locking Sipes
These sipes have an internal topological structure preventing them from flexing in most directions, and are called #D Self-Locking Sipes.
These sipes have an internal topological structure preventing them from flexing in most directions, and are called #D Self-Locking Sipes.
goodyear_amt
Goodyear recently announced it's new Air Maintenance Technology for large truck tires, a system which automatically adjusts tire pressures while the truck is in motion. The technology is stunningly simple in theory, and we're going to discuss why it works even when it seems like it really shouldn't.
Goodyear recently announced it's new Air Maintenance Technology for large truck tires, a system which automatically adjusts tire pressures while the truck is in motion. The technology is stunningly simple in theory, and we're going to discuss why it works even when it seems like it really shouldn't.
Review: Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7 Studded
Studded tires are the very, very best in terms of winter grip. Nokian's Hakka 7 studded tires are certainly among the very best of that group, at least until the Hakka 8 becomes available.
Studded tires are the very, very best in terms of winter grip. Nokian's Hakka 7 studded tires are certainly among the very best of that group, at least until the Hakka 8 becomes available.
Donate Your Tires!
There are quite a few good small charities where a donation of slightly or even mostly used tires can make a big difference.
There are quite a few good small charities where a donation of slightly or even mostly used tires can make a big difference.
Review: Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV
It's a simple point of fact that just having 4-wheel drive on a vehicle doesn't make snow and ice a non-issue.
It's a simple point of fact that just having 4-wheel drive on a vehicle doesn't make snow and ice a non-issue.
Salt Damage: Full View
A closer view of salt damage on a chrome wheel.
A closer view of salt damage on a chrome wheel.
A cross-section view of a standard tire
A cross-section view of a standard tire.
A cross-section view of a standard tire.
Nokian's Pump Sipes
Nokian's new Pump Sipes.
Nokian's new Pump Sipes.
Rain Sipes
These minor siping patterns are for water removal only, and are called rain sipes.
These minor siping patterns are for water removal only, and are called rain sipes.
The Hakka Sipe
The Hakka Sipe, originally patented by Nokian
The Hakka Sipe, originally patented by Nokian
Salt Damage: A Closer Look.
A closer view of salt damage on a chrome wheel.
A closer view of salt damage on a chrome wheel.
Deep Dish Wheel
A picture of a deep-dish wheel.
A picture of a deep-dish wheel.
Salt Damage: Bottom Edge
A closer view of salt damage on a chrome wheel.
A closer view of salt damage on a chrome wheel.
TPMS Valve Stem Type Monitor
A TPMS Valve Stem Type Monitor
A TPMS Valve Stem Type Monitor
Alloy Profiles: Borbet
Borbet is a German company with one of the longest and proudest histories of any aftermarket wheel maker.
Borbet is a German company with one of the longest and proudest histories of any aftermarket wheel maker.
Wheel Locks and Wheel Lock Key
It can happen anytime; you're stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. You can wait for a tow truck, or you can change the tire out for your spare yourself and be on your way. Here's a pictorial version of how to do it safely and easily yourself.
It can happen anytime; you're stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. You can wait for a tow truck, or you can change the tire out for your spare yourself and be on your way. Here's a pictorial version of how to do it safely and easily yourself.
Tire Performance Categories Explained
Tire performance categories can be enormously confusing. This can be very important information, because you're going to want a tire that fits your car and driving style. If you don't know the differences, it can be very easy to upsell you into a higher performance, more expensive tire when what you really wanted was something with a smooth ride that will get you to the store and back, or vice versa.
Tire performance categories can be enormously confusing. This can be very important information, because you're going to want a tire that fits your car and driving style. If you don't know the differences, it can be very easy to upsell you into a higher performance, more expensive tire when what you really wanted was something with a smooth ride that will get you to the store and back, or vice versa.
WRG2 Self-Locking Sipes
WRG2 Self-Locking Sipes
WRG2 Self-Locking Sipes
Full-Face Machine Polishing
Full-Face Machine Polishing
Full-Face Machine Polishing
Bright Hypersilver
A BMW wheel finished in bright hypersilver.
A BMW wheel finished in bright hypersilver.
BMW M-Parallel Wheel: Paint in the Pockets
This BMW M3 wheel is machined along the outer flange and high spots and has paint in the low areas along the spokes.
This BMW M3 wheel is machined along the outer flange and high spots and has paint in the low areas along the spokes.
How to Drive in the Snow
Page 2.
Page 2.
Alloy Profiles: Motegi Racing
Named for Japan's Twin Ring Motegi racetrack, Motegi Racing is owned by the umbrella group Wheel Pros which also owns American Racing, ATX, KMC Wheels and Lorenzo, among others.
Named for Japan's Twin Ring Motegi racetrack, Motegi Racing is owned by the umbrella group Wheel Pros which also owns American Racing, ATX, KMC Wheels and Lorenzo, among others.
Nokian's Eco-Stud System
Nokian's Eco-Stud system places a soft layer of padding between the stud base and the tire to reduce noise and pavement damage.
Nokian's Eco-Stud system places a soft layer of padding between the stud base and the tire to reduce noise and pavement damage.
Forged Wheel w/ Bent Lip
A forged deep-dish wheel with a bent outboard lip.
A forged deep-dish wheel with a bent outboard lip.
Polished Wheel
A standard polished wheel.
A standard polished wheel.
The Evolution of Tire Studs
A look at the development of Nokian's tire studs
A look at the development of Nokian's tire studs
How Cambered Tires Work
Cambered tires may well be the biggest breakthrough in tire technology since the vulcanization of rubber.
Cambered tires may well be the biggest breakthrough in tire technology since the vulcanization of rubber.
Winterize Your Car!
Winter Is Coming; and with it comes a flood of writers like me repeatedly beating a cliched “Game of Thrones” reference into a bloody pulp. But I hear there should be, like, snow and ice and stuff too.
Winter Is Coming; and with it comes a flood of writers like me repeatedly beating a cliched “Game of Thrones” reference into a bloody pulp. But I hear there should be, like, snow and ice and stuff too.
Alloy Profiles: MRR Design
MRR Wheel Designs started life 20 years ago as a pure design company, contracting wheel designs for both OEM and aftermarket makers. Now they have a factory capable of turning out 50,000 wheels a month and are upgrading to a capacity exceeding 100,000 a month. Clearly this is a firm that is going places.
MRR Wheel Designs started life 20 years ago as a pure design company, contracting wheel designs for both OEM and aftermarket makers. Now they have a factory capable of turning out 50,000 wheels a month and are upgrading to a capacity exceeding 100,000 a month. Clearly this is a firm that is going places.
Aftermarket TPMS Setup
An Aftermarket TPMS Setup
An Aftermarket TPMS Setup
Alloy Profiles: Vossen Wheels
With 25 years in the business, Vossen is a leader in very large, very beautiful wheels. They are also a leader, but not the originator of Deep Concave wheels, a new design style that is sweeping the industry. Instead of a deep outer dish, Deep Concave wheels have a very small or no dish, while the spokes sweep inward to form a bowl shape.
With 25 years in the business, Vossen is a leader in very large, very beautiful wheels. They are also a leader, but not the originator of Deep Concave wheels, a new design style that is sweeping the industry. Instead of a deep outer dish, Deep Concave wheels have a very small or no dish, while the spokes sweep inward to form a bowl shape.
Flange Cut
Lathing only the outer flange of the wheel and leaving the center painted is called a flange cut.
Lathing only the outer flange of the wheel and leaving the center painted is called a flange cut.
Machined Interference Patterns
Full-Face Machine Polishing with Interference Patterns.
Full-Face Machine Polishing with Interference Patterns.
Ultra Baja Champ Polished Wheel
This Baja Champ wheel by Ultra might not have come polished in the days before clearcoat, particularly with the hard-to-repolish oval decorative pockets along the outer flange.
This Baja Champ wheel by Ultra might not have come polished in the days before clearcoat, particularly with the hard-to-repolish oval decorative pockets along the outer flange.
Motegi Racing MR-RX01
Motegi Racing MRRX01
Motegi Racing MRRX01
Audi OEM Machined 5-Spoke Wheel
Audi's new 5-spoke OEM wheel is machined only on the very tip of each spoke.
Audi's new 5-spoke OEM wheel is machined only on the very tip of each spoke.
Nokian's AirClaw Studded Tread Block Design
Nokian's Hakka 7 studded snow tire features the AirClaw tread block, purpose-built for studs.
Nokian's Hakka 7 studded snow tire features the AirClaw tread block, purpose-built for studs.
Article Photos
Here you'll find larger sized images associated with my articles.
Here you'll find larger sized images associated with my articles.
Paint In The Pockets
Another example of paint in the pockets.
Another example of paint in the pockets.
Alloy Profiles: ADV.1
ADV.1 is a small-batch maker that allows customers a great deal of freedom in customizing their wheels' design and finish and then machines the wheels to order. A customer can order a wheel in any finish, including some unique finishes and tinted clearcoats available nowhere else in the industry.
ADV.1 is a small-batch maker that allows customers a great deal of freedom in customizing their wheels' design and finish and then machines the wheels to order. A customer can order a wheel in any finish, including some unique finishes and tinted clearcoats available nowhere else in the industry.
Installing Paired Tires
Whether to install a pair of new tires on the front or rear axle is one of those questions where there are more opinions than actual possible answers. However, getting it wrong can be downright dangerous.
Whether to install a pair of new tires on the front or rear axle is one of those questions where there are more opinions than actual possible answers. However, getting it wrong can be downright dangerous.
Smoked Hypersilver
A BMW wheel finished in smoked hypersilver.
A BMW wheel finished in smoked hypersilver.
Positive Offset
Positive Offset
Positive Offset
Motegi Racing MR116
Motegi Racing MR116
Motegi Racing MR116
Zero Offset
Zero Offset
Zero Offset
Compact "Donut" Spare
It can happen anytime; you're stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. You can wait for a tow truck, or you can change the tire out for your spare yourself and be on your way. Here's a pictorial version of how to do it safely and easily yourself.
It can happen anytime; you're stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. You can wait for a tow truck, or you can change the tire out for your spare yourself and be on your way. Here's a pictorial version of how to do it safely and easily yourself.
Janne Laitinen and Crew
Nokian Tyres' test driver Janne Laitinen breaks the world speed record on ice by reaching an average speed of 206mph (331kph) over the 1 kilometer course. Nokian's Hakkapeliitta 7 studded snow tires were on the car.
Nokian Tyres' test driver Janne Laitinen breaks the world speed record on ice by reaching an average speed of 206mph (331kph) over the 1 kilometer course. Nokian's Hakkapeliitta 7 studded snow tires were on the car.