Karl Wants You To Know That Tyres Make The Difference Between Life And Death

Certain big, black, round, rubber things can make a real difference in life. In fact, they can make a real difference to life itself. Yes, our tyres are what keep us going where we want to and prevent us from careening into a tree and certain death. Each contact patch is about the size of your hand – not a lot considering how crucial it is to keeping us alive.

- Karl Peskett

Here’s a fun trick: Have a look at the tyres on the cars of your family and friends and see how much tread they have. The old matchstick test is one of the most reliable – the head of the match is the minimum depth of tread you need for your tyres to be effective – and it’s amazing how many cars don’t pass.

I had a chat at a local tyre shop last week and just that morning a lady came in and asked what the furry stuffon her tyres was. The tyre fitter went out and had a look, thinking it sounded a bit strange. But, upon inspecting the tyres in question, he was incredulous. The furry patch was the canvas – yes, the tread had completely worn through. He explained the situation to her. Her question? “So, is that bad?”