The Kumho WinterCraft Wi31 winter tire was eagerly anticipated by fans of this South Korean brand. It replaced the very successful I’Zen KW22 model on the production line, which had proven itself to be excellent. The first tests showed the absolute superiority of the new tire, which turned out to be a very good winter tire in terms of both traction properties and fuel efficiency, durability, and acoustic comfort.
Optimized stud arrangement
To bring the tire into compliance with the recently introduced European requirements, the South Korean tire manufacturers preferred to use the positive experience of their Finnish colleagues. They significantly increased the number of studs, while reducing their size. The practical result was 20 continuous rows formed by them in motion. At the same time, a significant part of the studs is located in the central part of the tread, which gave the ice traction even greater stability and reliability. In this regard, it is impossible not to note the original design of the area around the places of their installation. Their shape resembles turbine blades, which helps to crush and remove ice debris from under the studs.
Three-dimensional lamellas
Another notable innovation was the three-dimensional lamellas. The multi-faceted profile of their walls does not allow them to close when contacting the road. At the same time, the dense fixation limits the mobility of the blocks, which, in turn, leads to a significant improvement in handling.
Key features of Kumho Wintercraft Ice WI31
- maximum traction properties on ice, thanks to the optimized stud arrangement, forming at least 20 continuous rows during movement;
- three-dimensional lamellas improve traction properties on compacted snow, improve handling on asphalt;
- wide drainage grooves prevent aquaplaning and slush planing.
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