China Tire Cross Section: China Tire’s Goodtrip GM-5 and the Premium Elite of Michelin and Continental–> This article builds upon our previous comprehensive cross-sectional analysis of the Michelin Primacy 4 ST and Continental UltraContact 7. In this extended comparison of our 2023 APAC Touring Test, we introduce the Goodtrip GM-5, a prominent player from China’s burgeoning tire market, to see how it measures up against these established premium models. This in-depth review will revisit and contrast the design elements, material composition, and performance features highlighted in our earlier study, now adding the perspective of a budget-friendly option.
Our aim is to illuminate the distinctions and parallels between the Goodtrip GM-5 and its higher-priced competitors, offering a nuanced understanding of how cost influences quality and performance in tire manufacturing. This comparative analysis not only enriches our understanding of the tire industry but also assists consumers in making informed decisions, balancing budget constraints with the desire for quality and safety.
Table of Contents
Results: China Tire Cross Section Analysis
| Body ply | Bead | Capply | Under Tread Gauge (UTG) | |
| Goodtrip GM-5 | 2+0 | 5×5 | 222 | 2mm |
| Michelin Primacy 4 ST | 2+0 | 5×5 | 212 hybrid | 3.2mm |
| Continental UltraContact 7 | 1+0 | 5×4 | 222 | 3mm |
Body Ply:
In comparing the body ply configurations of the Goodtrip GM-5, Michelin Primacy 4 ST, and Continental UltraContact 7, we found an interesting detail. Both the Goodtrip GM-5 and Michelin Primacy 4 ST have a 2+0 configuration, indicating two layers of body ply. Surprisingly, the Goodtrip GM-5, a more budget-friendly option, shares this robust construction with the Michelin, a premium tire. In contrast, the Continental UltraContact 7 has a 1+0 ply configuration, meaning it has only one layer. This was unexpected as the Continental is also a premium tire, yet it opts for a less robust construction compared to the Goodtrip GM-5.
Bead:
The bead construction in both the Michelin Primacy 4 ST and Continental UltraContact 7 is quite similar, with the Michelin having a “5×5” and the Continental a “5×4” configuration. Given the bead’s vital role in ensuring the tire’s structural integrity and proper fit on the rim, these slight differences are not expected to confer a significant advantage to either tire. While Michelin’s slightly denser bead might offer a marginal improvement in rim seating and air retention, this difference is minimal. Additionally, the Continental’s bead configuration could potentially lead to a lower manufacturing cost without compromising on essential performance aspects.
Cap Ply:
When comparing the cap ply configurations of the Goodtrip GM-5, Michelin Primacy 4 ST, and Continental UltraContact 7, everything appears as expected. The Goodtrip GM-5 and Continental UltraContact 7 both use a 222 cap ply configuration. This is standard and aligns with what we see in the Continental, another premium tire. The Michelin Primacy 4 ST, however, uses a 212 hybrid cap ply configuration, which is slightly different but not unusual for a tire in its class. Overall, there’s nothing out of the ordinary in how these tires are constructed in terms of their cap ply designs.
Under Tread Gauge (UTG):
Comparing the Under Tread Gauge (UTG) of the Goodtrip GM-5, Michelin Primacy 4 ST, and Continental UltraContact 7, we see that the Goodtrip GM-5 has a UTG of 2mm, which is lower than the 3.2mm of the Michelin Primacy 4 ST and the 3mm of the Continental UltraContact 7. A lower UTG, like in the Goodtrip GM-5, can offer advantages such as reduced cost and potentially better handling. However, it’s important to note that this comes with trade-offs. Lower UTG often means the tire might not be as robust and may have stricter requirements for manufacturing tolerances. In summary, while the Goodtrip GM-5’s lower UTG might make it more budget-friendly and agile on the road, it might not be as sturdy or tolerant to varying conditions as the Michelin and Continental tires.
Tread depth:
| Tread depth, mm | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Average |
| Goodtrip GM-5 | 6.79 | 6.89 | 6.94 | 6.55 | 6.79 |
| Michelin Primacy 4 ST | 6.48 | 7.16 | 7 | 6.64 | 6.82 |
| Continental UltraContact UC7 | 7.41 | 7.53 | 7.3 | 7 | 7.31 |
When comparing the tread depth of the Goodtrip GM-5, Michelin Primacy 4 ST, and Continental UltraContact 7, we find that the Goodtrip GM-5 has an average tread depth of 6.79mm, which is slightly lower than the Michelin Primacy 4 ST at 6.82mm, and significantly lower than the Continental UltraContact 7 at 7.31mm.
Lower tread depth, as seen in the Goodtrip GM-5, generally improves handling and reduces rolling resistance, which can enhance a vehicle’s responsiveness and fuel efficiency. However, tires with higher tread depths, like the Michelin and Continental models, offer better performance in terms of mileage and are more effective at preventing aquaplaning, providing a safer grip in wet and varied road conditions. Therefore, while the Goodtrip GM-5’s lower tread depth may offer advantages in handling and fuel economy, it may not match the Michelin and Continental tires in terms of long-term wear and wet road performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our comparison reveals that the construction of China Tire’s Goodtrip GM-5 is surprisingly similar to that of its premium competitors, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST and the Continental UltraContact 7. Despite its positioning as a more budget-friendly option, the GM-5 demonstrates a level of sophistication in its construction that aligns closely with these well-established premium brands.
From the body ply configuration to the bead design, the Goodtrip GM-5 holds its own, indicating that China Tire has made significant strides in tire technology and manufacturing. This comparison suggests that consumers looking for a cost-effective tire option might not have to compromise as much on quality and robustness as they might have previously thought, especially when considering products like the Goodtrip GM-5.
For a more detailed visual understanding of these comparisons, high-resolution cross-section images of both tires are available for download at the links provided at the end of the article. These images offer a closer look at the structural nuances and help in appreciating the sophisticated engineering behind each tire model.
High-Resolution cross-section images:
