Of all the components in a car, it never hurts to remember the importance of tires. Not only do they allow us to move the car in a certain direction, they are, in fact, our only and precious connection to the ground. It is therefore advisable to treat them well and invest in quality items.
Its importance is vital. Therefore, when news of advances in technology associated with tires appears, it is necessary to mention them. Even when, for now, it is a bicycle tire.
Bridgestone introduced the Air Free Concept, a new type of tire that doesn't need air to do its job. It's nothing new at all – 2011 was when we first met him.
How does the Bridgestone Air Free Concept work?
Traditional tires are filled with air to support the weight of a vehicle. Instead of air, the Air Free Concept uses thermoplastic resin, which is distributed in 45 degree strips. The secret of the structure is the combination of the straps both to the left and to the right, giving rise to a very sui generis aesthetic. The sustainability of the solution is due to the thermoplastic resin, which is reusable, meaning that it can be easily recycled.
It looks like we're finally going to see its first commercial application. It won't be in a car, but a bicycle. We can observe differences in design compared to the original model – see video – which reveals an adaptation to the lower load requirements compared to a four-wheel motor vehicle.
However, we still have to wait until 2019, the year announced for its release. Until then, more studies and tests will be needed to validate the technology.
The advantages are appetizing. A tire that doesn't puncture or burst and doesn't need to be inflated or to have the pressure checked regularly means more safety and fewer tasks to do.
However, the application for cars takes time. Despite all the inherent advantages of this technology, there are still obstacles to overcome: costs, comfort or contribution to fuel efficiency are among them.
Bridgestone is not alone in exploring airless tire technology. Michelin had already made known the Tweel, which equips some construction equipment such as mini loaders. And Polaris even marketed an ATV with this new type of tire, or rather, wheel, in 2013.