Symmetrical tires (Symmetrical tyres)
Symmetric tires are the most common type of tire used on passenger and commercial vehicles. They are characterized by the best price/performance ratio. It also has the advantage of fitting regardless of the direction of wheel rotation.
The symmetrical tire design is the most common design used. It is a basic type of tread which has symmetrical properties in the contact area between the tire and the road and therefore does not depend on the position of the tire in relation to the rim. These tires are often referred to as multi-directional tires. This means that they have the same properties in both directions of rotation.
Symmetrical tires are generally cheaper types of all-purpose tires suitable for both regular and commercial vehicles. Due to lower production costs, reliable properties and even wear, this type of tread has the best price/performance ratio.
Advantages of symmetric tires:
- good price/performance ratio
- even tread wear
- long service life
- balanced handling in both directions of rotation (equal traction and therefore suitable for off-road use).
Disadvantages of symmetrical tires:
- poorer handling characteristics (directional stability in straight line and in a corner) compared to directional tires
How do I know a symmetrical tire?
Directional tires can be identified by the shape of the tread. When you look at the track or tread of the tire from the front, all the ribs, blocks and grooves are arranged symmetrically according to the central symmetry.
Learn how asymmetric and directional tires differ.
Mounting a symmetrical tire:
Unlike the directional tire (given position on the rim and on the vehicle) and the asymmetrical tire (given position on the rim), the symmetrical tire can be mounted freely on the rim and on the left or right side of the vehicle.
