Analyzing the Cross Section: Bridgestone Turanza T005A vs Michelin & Continental–>This is an in-depth article that delves into the comparative study of high-performance touring tires in the APAC region. Following up on our prior analysis of the Michelin Primacy 4 ST and Continental UltraContact 7, this piece offers an expanded view, focusing on the 2023 APAC Touring Test.
It specifically scrutinizes the body ply, bead, cap ply, Under Tread Gauge (UTG) & tread depth of the Bridgestone Turanza T005A against its Michelin and Continental counterparts. The analysis aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the construction and performance implications of these components, assisting readers in making well-informed choices about their tire selection for touring applications.
Table of Contents
Results: Cross Section of Bridgestone Turanza T005A
| Body ply | Bead | Capply | Under Tread Gauge (UTG) | |
| Bridgestone Turanza T005A | 2+0 | 3x4x4 | 212 | 2.5mm |
| Michelin Primacy 4 ST | 2+0 | 5×5 | 212 hybrid | 3.2mm |
| Continental UltraContact 7 | 1+0 | 5×4 | 222 | 3mm |
Body Ply:
The Bridgestone Turanza T005A and Michelin Primacy 4 ST both employ a 2+0 body ply configuration, indicating a focus on balancing durability and flexibility. This commonality might contribute to a more uniform response under various driving conditions, potentially enhancing the handling stability and longevity of the tire.
In contrast, the Continental UltraContact 7’s 1+0 body ply configuration suggests a different approach, likely emphasizing weight reduction and fuel efficiency. While this might offer a smoother ride due to its lighter structure, it could potentially affect the tire’s overall robustness and ability to handle high-stress conditions, compared to the 2+0 configuration used in the Bridgestone and Michelin models.
Bead:
The bead configuration of the Bridgestone Turanza T005A, characterized by a 3x4x4 layout, signifies a strategic approach by Bridgestone. This design, with three beads on the top and four subsequent layers of four beads each, likely serves as a cost-effective solution while ensuring a secure fit to the wheel rim.
It’s important to note, however, that while this configuration is crucial for the tire’s structural integrity and safety, it doesn’t significantly impact other performance aspects like wet and dry braking. These are more influenced by the tire’s tread design and compound. Thus, Bridgestone’s choice in the Turanza T005A seems to focus on balancing cost with the essential functional performance, a consideration that varies among tire manufacturers.
Cap Ply:
The Bridgestone Turanza T005A utilizes a 212 cap ply configuration, which is beneficial for high-speed stability and cost savings compared to more complex designs like the 222 cap ply used in the Continental UltraContact 7. However, the simpler 212 configuration in the Turanza T005A may lead to irregular wear over time. In contrast, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST’s 212 hybrid cap ply potentially offers improved durability. Each tire’s cap ply choice reflects a balance between performance, durability, and manufacturing cost, with the Turanza T005A focusing on high-speed efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Under Tread Gauge (UTG):
The Under Tread Gauge (UTG) also varies among these models. The Turanza T005A’s 2.5mm UTG might provide firmer road feedback, which can be advantageous for drivers seeking a more responsive driving experience. The Michelin Primacy 4 ST, with a thicker 3.2mm UTG, could deliver enhanced comfort, making it suitable for longer journeys. Continental’s 3mm UTG strikes a balance, potentially offering a good mix of comfort and road feedback.
Tread depth:
| Tread depth, mm | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Average |
| Bridgestone Turanza T005A | 6.63 | 7.4 | 7.48 | 7.37 | 7.22 |
| 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 |
Comparing the tread depths of the Bridgestone Turanza T005A, Michelin Primacy 4 ST, and Continental UltraContact UC7, each demonstrates distinct performance trade-offs. The Turanza T005A, with a 7.22 mm average depth, balances rolling resistance and wear (assuming same wear rate), offering a compromise between handling and longevity.
In contrast, the Michelin Primacy 4 ST’s shallower 6.82 mm tread enhances rolling resistance and handling but may wear faster. The Continental UltraContact UC7, at 7.31 mm, provides better wear at a slight cost to rolling resistance and handling. Overall, the Turanza T005A offers a middle ground, the Michelin caters to efficiency and handling, and the Continental to longevity, illustrating varied approaches to tire performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the comparative analysis of the Bridgestone Turanza T005A with its Michelin and Continental counterparts shows that while there are minor differences in construction, these are relatively small. The decisive factor in summer performance remains the tire compounds. These compounds play a pivotal role in defining each tire’s road behavior and effectiveness in summer conditions, overshadowing the subtle variations in construction.
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:
