Most of us get on the bus without really considering the maintenance needs of these vehicles, or the fact that they are essentially HGVs but with the core purpose of transporting people rather than products and other goods.
When it comes to bus fitments, and in particular tyres, there are several key priorities that fleet operators need to address. Safety is of the upmost concern and often comes out on top on any list of considerations, but it’s not the only thing that fleet operators need to think about. Maintenance needs, longevity, sustainability, and performance in specific conditions and driving situations are also important.
This blog speaks directly to fleet operators, sharing the regulations and maintenance needs of bus tyres, the different types you can choose from, and a few tips on how to select the best tyres for your vehicles.
What’s Different About Bus Tyres?
Bus tyres are not the same as regular passenger car tyres, and nor are they the same as other HGV tyres. This is mainly because of the very specific functional focus of bus tyres, which balances the need for grip and handling with the desire for comfort to enhance the passenger experience.
Some of the main features of bus tyres revolve around optimised comfort and reduced noise generation, while the reinforced sidewalls and stronger structure ensure that the tyres can withstand the weight of the vehicle. What’s more, bus tyres are carefully designed to maximise grip especially in urban environments, with tread patterns that optimise braking and handling in wet and dry weather.
Fuel efficiency doesn’t typically matter as much, due to the shorter journeys that buses normally travel. However, sustainability remains a priority for tyre manufacturers across all sectors.
The Different Types of Bus Tyre Available
With all that in mind then, what are the different types of tyre that are available for buses and fleet operators?
There are four different types of tyre that may be found on a bus, though the majority of modern bus tyres fall into the first category: radial tyres.
Radial tyres are best suited to urban driving needs, with the layers of tyre material supporting a smooth ride which disperses heat evenly and maximises grip.
The other types of tyre that may be found on buses include:
- Bias ply tyres – a much stronger and more durable alternative to radial tyres, best suited to off-road driving and rough terrain
- Tubeless tyres – an easier style of tyre to maintain and repair due to the lack of air-filled tube beneath the outer rubber surface
- Tube-type tyres – less common but may be found in very urban settings
The right tyres for your bus will depend largely on the local area that you regularly navigate, and on your priorities when it comes to maintenance and fleet management.
