CHAPTER XI
TYRES
By C. L. Freeston
It is a curious paradox, but none the less true, that while the public has still to be converted to a more widespread appreciation of the efficiency of the mechanical motor, to the automobilist himself the problem of the day, and of many days yet to come, is how to find a perfect tyre. Excellent motors have been in use for years—in fact, it may be said that in actual practice the engine is the least likely portion of the car to fail; and though improvements have been effected, and others will yet be introduced in this and other parts of the machine, to the gratification of every driver, he would willingly resign them all and use, say, a Daimler motor of 1896, if only he could be ensured entire immunity from tyre troubles. No one is exempt from this apparently chronic obstacle to pleasurable driving; the novice with his first car experiences sundry mechanical difficulties which the experienced hand may avoid, or quickly conquer if they occur, but every automobilist alike is a prey to the inconvenience of punctures, and the expense of upkeep of a costly and too easily perishable tyre equipment.
Arguing from the analogy of the cycle, in respect of which the use of the pneumatic tyre has been so signal a success, the average reader may find it difficult to understand why the motor-car tyre should not be just as satisfactory, provided that its substance be increased in converse ratio to the weight it has to carry and the work it has to do. This, however, is unfortunately the crux of the whole matter. Various factors
