Tyres get bald when their rubber wears down from consistent contact with the road.
A bald tyre is essentially one that has undergone significant wear. According to the provided reference, a bald tyre is one that has seen so much use that its rubber has gradually been worn down through contact with the road. This continuous friction between the tyre surface and the road surface causes the rubber material to erode over time.
The Process of Tyre Wear
Every time a vehicle moves, its tyres are in direct contact with the road. This contact involves friction, which is necessary for acceleration, braking, and turning. While tyres are designed to withstand this friction, it inevitably leads to the gradual removal of the rubber compound from the tyre's surface.
- Friction: The primary cause of wear. As the tyre rotates and interacts with the road surface, microscopic pieces of rubber are shed.
- Usage: The more a tyre is used (distance covered), the more wear it experiences.
- Road Surface: Rough or abrasive road surfaces can accelerate the wear process.
What Happens When Tyres Wear?
As the rubber wears down, the tyre's tread depth decreases. The tread pattern is crucial for providing grip, especially in wet conditions by channelling water away. When the tread wears significantly:
- Tread depth reduces to a dangerously low level.
- Built-in tread wear bars become exposed. These bars are small raised areas molded into the grooves of the tread pattern. When the tread is worn down to the level of these bars, it indicates that the tyre is legally worn out and should be replaced.
| Tyre Condition | Tread Depth | Grip Level | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| New | High | Excellent | High |
| Worn | Decreasing | Good to Fair | Reducing |
| Bald | Dangerously Low | Poor | Very Low |
Driving on bald tyres is hazardous because the reduced tread depth severely compromises the tyre's ability to grip the road, increasing the risk of hydroplaning in the wet and extending braking distances.
Various factors can influence how quickly a tyre becomes bald, including driving style (aggressive acceleration/braking), incorrect tyre pressure, improper wheel alignment, and vehicle load. Regular inspection and maintenance, such as checking tread depth and ensuring proper inflation, can help monitor wear and ensure timely replacement.
