LAS VEGAS-Kumho Tire USA showcased a quartet of new products ranging from a competition racing tire to a high-peformance light truck tire during the SEMA/ITE show.
The new tires include the KRS02 a ``new generation'' medium truck tire designed for regional hauling and pickup and delivery use, the ECSTA V700 racing tire that's also approved for street use, the ECSTA MX ultra-high-performance passenger tire and the ECSTA STX performance light truck tire.
Kumho said the KRSO2 has a tread-centering groove that provides better handling and more uniform wear. It also incorporates a five-rib tread pattern that aids in steering and braking response and resists cutting, chipping and tearing, the company said. The tire has four tread grooves to evacuate water and prevent lodging of stones. It can be used in steer, drive and trailer positions, and has a 20/32-inch tread depth Kumho said.
The KRSO2 will be available by mid 2002 in sizes 11R22.5, 11R24.5, 285/75R24.5 and 295/75R22.5..
The ECSTA V700 competition tire, which is Department of Transportation-approved for street use, is built with two steel belts that provide a stable footprint and handling when cornering, Kumho said. The V- and Z-rated tire also employs advanced silica tread compounding for wet and dry traction.
The tire features large lateral and center channels for water evacuation and has a directional tread pattern. The use of a polyester casing adds to the tire's comfort and durability, while two nylon-cap plies provide stability and resistance to centrifugal force, the company said.
The ECSTA V700 currently is available in 19 sizes from 175/60R13 to 285/30R18.
Aimed at performance cars, the ECSTA MX can be used on the street or track, Kumho said. The tire features ``massive tread elements'' for tread stability and grip and is designed to minimize hydroplaning. It also has large rim flange protectors to reduce pothole and curb damage to rims. A dual-seal bead profile assures air retention under extreme lateral loads, Kumho said.
The V- and Z-rated ECSTA MX will be available in 2002 in 26 sizes from 205/40/R17 to 245/40/R20 for use on wheels 61/2-111/2 inches wide.
The ECSTA STX is Kumho's entry into the 22- and 23-inch sport truck tire market. The V-rated tire features two wide circumferential grooves and a center-to-shoulder groove that repels water, Kumho said. It also has large tread blocks for handling and a nylon belt and bead reinforcement for durability.
Kumho will begin producing the ECSTA STX in December in 14 sizes from 255/60R15 to 285/60R18. Six additional sizes from 295/45R20 to 305/40R23 will be added in February.