CapriRacer wrote:
Chris wrote:
. . .snip . . .
. . . snip . . .
In order to assure that EVERY tire passes the test, it is common for tire manufacturers to continue the test by additional steps - and then set a minimum, but elevated, level over the required test load.
So let's say that experience has told a tire manufacturer that they need a minimum of a 130% (30% overload) for LT type tires. If they were to test an ST type tire of the same exact construction, the difference in load between an ST and an LT is about 12% - so every ST tire would also pass the test - at least from the point of view of satisfying the regulation.
. . . snip . . .
And this is the area that we can suspect but not prove some things:
1. I suspect Maxxis did this with the M8008, resulting in its good reputation.
2. I suspect Michelin may have gone higher than 130% with the XPS Rib, which would explain its success rate in replacing ST tires on 6K axles.
3. I suspect that some offshore tire companies may have started higher than 100% and passed the tests initially, but have cut corners that have resulted in the percentage being very close to %100. With the lack of oversight for ST tires noted in this thread, some of these manufacturers may be under %100, which would explain the dismal record of some brands.
Just think, if ERS Tire and Rubber Company Limited made ST tires that were built to 180%, they would have an even better reputation and following than Maxxis. I would just have to figure out how to get that plant in Brazil to make them cheaper than the XPS Rib in order to be able to compete.:)
