Tyres...is it me or am I just thick??

[marky2027]

Had 4 new Falken 912 225/45/17s fitted few weeks ago. Initial impressions are very good but when I was parked up today I noticed something strange about the tread pattern. The curved "scoops" in the centre of the tread vary between driver and passenger side. All the tyres say outside on the outer tyre wall but not sure if fitter has made a mistake. What do you think???


Both photos were taken from from the front of the car

[shan]

I see what you mean. The curves are different betwen sides. Strange if you say the front wall has a direction arrow on them and are correct..

[John35]

do you have a directional arrow on the tyres?

I always told that looking from the front, the tyre should have a smile. So top one looks correct, bottom one isn't...

[marky2027]

When I've looked at Falken's website today the top photo looks like the one illustrated on their site. There is no direction arrow on the sidewall bu they all have the word "outside" on. So what is the crack then???? Going to local tyre place in morning who stocks Falkens to get their opinion before I go back to place I got them from. The bloke where I got them from already thinks I am a complete loon because I'm such a control freak when it comes to anything to do with the car!!!
CALLING THE FEW PEOPLE ON HERE WITH THESE TYRES.....WILL YOU LOOK AT YOURS AND SEE IF THEY ARE THE SAME

[parapaul]

I can't see how, if there is a rotational arrow, the treads can be different?

Unless the arrow's printed wrongly?

[AndrewTi]

Hang on, think about this guys! If they all say outside on the outside, then it's right! Look at the pattern of the top tyre, it will be the opposite on the other side, the same as it is on Michelin Premacy etc.

If you're not sure, turn your monitor upside down and it will all become clear!

They are definately correct IMO.

[m8internet]

Those tyres are correctly fitted, they are assymetrical
The larger, smoother area should be on the inside
The smaller, harder area should be on the outside

[Taffyopel]

I see what you mean m8.

Well spotted that man!

[m8internet]

Can't edit my original post :

The tread pattern on the inner side of a typical asymmetric tyre has more grooves giving better grip on wet roads
The outer side has a higher plain surface area, the benefit of which becomes apparent when cornering at speed on a dry road

It is also possible to get directional assymetrical tyres
I am currently testing a pair of Dunlop SP Sport Maxx, which although directional are also assymetrical
This means you need to purchase one for the left side of the car and one for the right side of the car
They are roughly the same price as the Good Year F1 GSD3 at £95 fitted (XL version)

[_ZS_]

Asymmetrical is not the same as directional. Very different beasts. What you're seeing is normal and totally acceptable.