Dual Tires Vs. Super Single Tires: Which Is Better?
The answer depends on your type of commercial vehicle and operating environment. Learn about the differences between the two and how they optimize vehicle performance so you can make the right choice for your fleet.
What are Dual Tires?
Dual tires are two tires mounted on separate rims on both sides of an axle. They’re often used on multiple axle fleets to support frame stability and ensure safety in the event of tire failure. Dual tires are commonly used on box trucks, trailers, heavy-duty pickup trucks and semis.
Dual tire features include:
- Deep tread patterns
- Wide contact surface
- Reinforced sidewalls
- Multiple ply layers
Advantages of Dual Tires
Dual tires are typically used on non-steering axles and are ideal for heavy-duty commercial fleets. Having two tires on both sides of an axle doubles your vehicle’s load capacity, which is essential when hauling heavy cargo over long hauls.
In the event of a flat, dual tires maintain drivability since the other three wheels compensate for the blown tire. That can help your operators better control their commercial vehicle until they get to a service station.
Disadvantages of Dual Tires
Dual tires may rub against each other and debris can get lodged in the gap. That space is essential to their operation, though, so there isn’t room for upsizing dual tires. Underinflation and misalignment can cause uneven wear between duals, especially on the inner tire. It might also be difficult to get pressure readings on the inner tire.
What are Super Single Tires?
A super single tire has an extra wide surface area and can replace two dual tires on a commercial fleet. The treads include ribbed patterns for highway driving and off-road applications.
Super single tire features include:
- Radial tread
- Single tire beads
- Reinforced sidewalls
- Heat dissipation designs
Advantages of Super Single Tires
Super single tires eliminate the effects of uneven pressure between tires on one side of an axle. This type of commercial tire has a larger contact patch than standard dual tires, which helps increase your vehicle’s load capacity.
Super singles can be used for highway routes, bulk commodities, and higher mileage fleets because they improve performance. You don’t have to account for twice the tire weight with a super single tire, which may allow you to haul additional freight.
Disadvantages of Super Single Tires
You don’t have the luxury of a built-in back if one of your super single tires fails. That requires roadside assistance, which racks up your repair costs. You may also experience load shifting and loss of control in the event of tire failure.
Comparing Dual Tires Vs. Super Single Tires
Weight and Load Distribution
Super singles are lighter than dual tires and distribute load across one large contact patch. Dual tires distribute weight evenly across two surfaces instead of a single tire. That reduces overall pressure on the tire tread and provides stability.
Fuel Efficiency
Super single commercial tires have a more aerodynamic profile since they don’t have a gap separating two tires. Dual tires can create more turbulence and air resistance. That requires your commercial vehicle to use more energy and fuel to rotate them.
Traction and Handling
Dual tires have increased traction on softer, uneven surfaces, making them a suitable choice for ag equipment. Their design also helps reduce soil compaction in fields and farmland. Since dual tires provide four points of contact with the road, they excel at gripping slippery roadways. Super single tires offer a smoother ride, especially on paved roads. Their single contact point promotes maneuverability and steering.
Longevity
Dual tires are typically cheaper, but the wide base can cause irregular wear, requiring more frequent replacement and higher long-term costs. They may also wear quicker if you drive on uneven surfaces regularly. Distributing the load between two tires allows them to handle more stress and dissipate heat effectively.
Super single tires tend to have thicker side walls, increasing their puncture resistance. Maintenance typically takes less time, too, since you only inspect one tire on each axle.
Which Tire is Right for Me?
Our expert tire techs will work with you to determine which type of commercial tire is best for your application. We also offer preventative tire maintenance to help you get the most out of your investment. Browse Bauer Built’s selection of commercial tires and schedule service at your closest location.
Categories: Bauer Built Blog, Car Care Tips
