What Is Tire Stretching? Are Stretched Tires Safe?

People always find ways to make tires more efficient and special. That’s why the term tire stretching has become more interesting among car fanatics. 

There is a lot of controversy about tire stretching. Some argue that stretching your tires isn’t safe. Others argue that it is acceptable as long as you monitor the air pressure in your tires.

What Is Tire Stretching?

Tire stretching means you fit a narrow tire on a wide wheel to make the sidewall stretch to the wheel’s edge.  

The difference is often between 1-3 inches. As a result, the sidewall extends all the way to the edge of the wheel, creating a highly distinctive show-style appearance.

Why Do People Use Stretched Tires?

Before introducing a specific tire size to the market, manufacturers have to spend a lot of time testing the right size of the tire. This establishes the maximum weight the tire can hold. Why do people still want to stretch tires?

The most obvious reason is that stretched tires lend your car a better appearance. When the tire is stretched to fit a larger wheel, its sidewall will stretch to the wheel’s edge, making the wheel look unique.

Besides, other people think this technique gives them a better response and less sidewall deflection. Because the tire has also been trimmed and perfectly fit into a larger rim, there is a lower possibility of it rubbing up against the fender. 

Last but not least, people usually stretch the tires from 1-3 inches to create better contact patches.

Are Stretched Tires Safe?

It depends on how far you go while stretching your tires. There are some potential risks of changing a tire from its original size. Because the sidewall now has less weight it can hold, there is a higher chance of blowouts, and deflating tires when stretching their tires. 

Under no circumstances should you have your tires over-stretched as it can lessen the tire’s lifespan. 

Tire stretching also causes tread wear. If you are driving on rough roads or hit a pothole, sudden tire deflation can occur. 

Furthermore, driving on a stretched tire will expose the rims. No matter how sturdy the rims are, they are not damage-proof and can break under significant pressure.

How To Stretch Tires Properly? 

Tire stretching has become increasingly popular over recent years despite its dangers. 

Tire stretching is acceptable as long as you can ensure the  safety of yourself and others. This only happens when your tires are not excessively stretched. 

If you decide to make this modification, remember that the angle between the bead and the wheel should be less than 80 degrees. This helps the tire seal the air to ensure the tire performance.

Conclusion

If the aesthetic look is not your priority, you should maintain the tire’s original size. If you want to give tire stretching a try, make sure that you have your tires stretched adequately and take safety precautions. We hope this article has helped you thoroughly understand tire stretching as well as its pros and cons to make the best decision.

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