From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
The advantages of the 'Pilot' tyre, its construction, and performance benefits.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 146\1\ scan0073 | |
| Date | 2nd November 1937 guessed | |
| - 5 - A glance at the appended sketch will show how the neat arrangement of a strong triangular system has made it possible to reduce the weight of the wheel by a couple of pounds or so, while at the same time making it stronger and more supple. Moreover, the lateral blades are placed in such a manner as to ensure adequate cooling, an arrangement which in its turn is not without a salutary effect on the braking - yet another point scored. Lastly, in place of the usual metal valve, Messrs. Michelin have employed an indiarubber valve sufficiently light to ensure perfect balance *. The shape of this valve is such that, unlike certain indiarubber valves on the market, it cannot recede into the inner tube, with the attendant danger that the tyre may come off. In brief, the "Pilot" tyre, with its rim and inner tube, constitutes a complete and effivient unit, that offers, among others, the following advantages:- I. Extreme "drift-resistance"; 2. Increased "road-grip"; 3. Less weight; 4. Better balance. x x x That's all very well, you may say. All this is perfectly clear, but what are the practical advantages in every day use? ------------------------ * The gain in weight is not very far from 2 oz. | ||