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What Are The Parts of an RC Tire?

By , About.com Guide

Tire from an RC

Tire from an RC

© M. James
Question: What Are The Parts of an RC Tire?
An RC tire is the foam, rubber compound, or plastic part that fits on a plastic or metal rim. There may or may not be tire inserts inside the tires.
Answer: There are three main parts of an RC tire:
  • Tread
    The surface of the tire that meets the road is the tread. On some RCs it may actually be smooth or slick. Other RC tires have treads in different patterns just like full-size vehicles. The tread pattern is part of what increases the traction of the tire.

  • Tire Wall
    The side of an RC tire that doesn't normally make contact with the road is the tire wall. Also called the side wall (especially when referring to the side of tire that faces out when mounted on the vehicle), the tire wall is typically larger and rounder on monster truck tires and smaller and flatter on on-road cars.

  • Tire Bead
    The edge of an RC tire that fits onto, sits on (and is sometimes glued to) the wheel (rim) is the tire bead.

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