ZC Rubber explained in response to Commercial Tyre Business’s questions about bus tyres saying that bus tyres differ significantly from commercial vehicle tyres in how they are used
ZC Rubber joins the bus discussion with their matter of fact approach
City buses typically operate in stop-and-go conditions, covering short distances with frequent stops at stations. Their speed is relatively low, and they navigate many turns, which requires tyres to endure frequent starting and stopping. In contrast, commercial vehicles usually cover longer single-trip distances at higher speeds, with fewer interruptions. This fundamental difference in usage informs every aspect of bus tyre design, from construction to tread pattern.
On the question of the specifications for bus tyres, ZC Rubber said that bus tyre sizes are determined by the specific dimensions and requirements of the vehicles they serve. Their structural strength and specialised compounds are designed to meet the demands of public transportation. Built with robust construction, they can handle heavy loads and high frequencies of stopping and starting. Additionally, their advanced compounds improve wear resistance and extend mileage, ensuring reliable performance over time.
When it came to the variations between bus and coach tyres ZC Rubber recognised that there was a differential but were careful about explaining this, not going into too much detail. They responded that the difference in tyre sizes primarily depends on whether the long-haul coach and city bus belong to the same vehicle model. Tyre sizes are closely tied to the vehicle type. Long-haul coaches are designed for high-speed travel over extended distances, whereas city buses operate over shorter routes with frequent stops and starts. As a result, their tyre tread patterns and compounds are specifically engineered to meet these distinct driving demands.
Of course, when it comes to efficiency, ZC Rubber reinforced the message about maintaining the tyres, saying, regular tyre inspections are essential for safety and performance. Starting by checking for any visible defects or damage. Next, routinely remove stones or debris lodged in the tyres to protect the tread. Monitor tyre pressure regularly to ensure it is at the recommended level and consistent across all tyres. Additionally, inspect for uneven wear patterns, and rotate the tyres periodically to promote even wear and extend their lifespan.
On retreading ZC Rubber clarified that whilst they supported retreading, retreads should not be used on steer axles.For safety reasons, retreaded tyres should be installed on the rear wheels rather than the steering wheels. When choosing retreaded tyres, thoroughly inspect them and discard any that fail to meet quality standards. Regular inspections during use are also essential to ensure the retreaded tyres remain in good condition.
ZC Rubber’s offer for bus and coach tyres come as the:
WESTLAKE WAU1 and CR906
WESTLAKE’s WAU1 and CR906 are specifically designed to address the unique demands of urban buses.
The WESTLAKE WAU1 URBAN MASTER is an all-position tyre optimised specifically designed for urban applications. Its optimised tread pattern minimises rolling noise, while a cool-running compound reduces rolling resistance, enhancing fuel efficiency. The tyre is designed with kerfs to improve tread stiffness and prevent irregular wear, along with three zigzag grooves that deliver excellent traction on both wet and dry roads. Additionally, sidewall protector ribs provide robust resistance against damage from turning, reversing, and braking in urban environments.
The CR906 stands out for its durability and retreadability. Its deep, wide tread enhances mileage, while the reinforced shoulder and steel sidewall ensure a long casing life and excellent retreadability. The cool-running compound reduces rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency. A four-rib tread pattern ensures uniform wear and delivers reliable traction on both wet and dry roads. With its exceptional performance, the CR906 is a versatile choice for both urban and long-distance applications.
