Analysing Cup tread pattern
 

(BORED)

With Cups being sat by office desk for some time, I've begun to notice the outer tread does not retain the same pattern consecutively.

I've always thought the 3 slits that run on the outside were identical in size but have noticed different.

There seems to be 3 variants in sizes:

1. 17mm
2. 20mm
3. 24mm

These appear to run randomly and follow no pattern in change.

Anyone picked up on this before and do you think there is some technological explanation for the variation in sizes? :smokin:

Marginally noticeable here from line drawn:

http://img803.imageshack.us/img803/1185/img0890d.jpg

I have noticed it some time ago.

My only guess is noise.
Same grooves would create sound of the same frequency, while different size will create sounds of different frequency and the amplification will be less .

By the way, check the inner thread patterns.
Similar case there, but this probably has to do with water dynamics.

Fair point, hadn't considered noise tbh. Wouldn't have though that would have made that much of a difference. Im curious and will ask the question with Michelin.

Alex, Michelin replied to my enquiry and agree this is put down to water displacement and to help reduce noise. :thumbs:

Michelin's reply:

"Thank you for your enquiry about Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres.

The slots on the outside of the tread pattern are there to improve
performance in the wet as they provide storage areas for water and biting
edges to break the water film.

The groove length is varied to help mask the level noise
heard inside the car (hence the random arrangement which helps to reduce
specific frequencies). The size and spacing of the main tread blocks is
also varied in a similar fashion, again to reduce the impact of tyre noise.

Thank you for your continued support."

Its now a little clearer as to why the R888 may suffer with its whining due its repetitive arrowhead pattern.

I can now sleep tonight! :smokin:

Who or where did you enquire too and get an answer :wink:

Cool stuff :beer:

Michelin UK
Consumer Contact Team
Email: michelin-contact@uk.michelin.com
0845 366 1590 (UK & NI) or 0044 (0) 1782 401590 (ROI)

Thank you :thumbs:

Ive got a new set. its the same mate. Very odd