Choosing car winter tires, most drivers try to find a model that could provide maximum safety. Usually it’s not enough to know only official information from the manufacturer. Those who have already used this or that rubber and left detailed reviews about it can help with the final decision. The hero of this review was the famous Nexen Winguard 231 tires, for which a detailed review of driver reviews will be made. However, in order to have something to compare, at first it will not hurt to get acquainted with the manufacturer's assurances.
Briefly about the model
The main objective of this rubber, as stated in an advertising presentation, is to counteract lateral sliding. Especially for her, an anti-union system was developed and patented, which is based on the use of a special rubber compound, as well as a peculiar arrangement of tread blocks and metal spikes.
First of all, the Nexen Winguard 231 model is intended for installation on cars. In the list of available diameters are tires from R13 to R17, which provides for their use only in light types of cars, such as sedans, coupes and station wagons. Depending on the permissible loads, it is possible to install on compact minivans. In turn, the manufacturer has provided a special reinforced model range for SUVs and crossovers, which is marked with SUV symbols.
Features of the tread pattern
At first glance, the tread can be called classic for tires of this type. It has massive tall blocks, separated by wide slots. But still there are changes made to improve the dynamic and braking characteristics of the tire. In order to calculate the correct arrangement of all elements, in the development of Nexen winter tires, computer simulation programs were used for real-life traffic situations, which made it possible to bring the tests as close as possible to the living environment.
The central rib is responsible for directional stability and structural strength of the tire. These characteristics are stored, according to the high-speed index, when overcoming up to 190 kilometers per hour. On the sides of it are blocks separated by wide grooves. Such a drainage system provides timely removal of not only water, but also snow porridge formed during movement from the contact spot with the track.
Modified Rubber Compound
In order to increase the softness of Nexen Winguard 231 rubber and maintain its performance at low temperatures, corrections were made to the main formula. As a result, it has become more natural materials, such as rubber. In order to maintain abrasion resistance and increase the strength of the structure itself, the formula is supplemented with synthetic components such as silicic acid and its compounds. The result of the work of chemists was a mixture that can work at low temperatures, but it does not wear out too quickly during thaws with a plus degree overboard.
Well thought-out spikes
In accordance with modern trends, the manufacturer tried to use the minimum number of metal elements, while not losing their main effect. A systematic arrangement of the spikes was achieved due to both computer simulations and live testing in various settings. As a result, it was possible to achieve the best results that the Nexen Winguard 231 tire could achieve. Due to the spikes, the stability on ice was significantly improved, as well as the braking distance during ice. They did not leave aside the issue of fixing the spikes, equipping each seat with additional loss insurance, made in the form of a rubber ring at the base of the sleeve.
Noise control
According to the manufacturer, Nexen winter tires have a much lower noise effect than competitors' offers. Although spikes are mounted on them, due to their rational location they do not make as much noise as they could, especially when driving on clean, dry asphalt. This point can be especially important for those who spend a lot of time in the car every day, because excessive hum and vibration can be very distracting from movement and cause irritability.
Positive reviews
It's time to sort out the opinion of the drivers, which they left in their reviews of the Nexen Winguard 231. After analyzing them, we can conclude that the main advantages of the model are the following points:
- Reasonable cost. This rubber belongs to the budget category, therefore it is highly appreciated by drivers of inexpensive imported and domestic cars.
- Good resistance to damage. Strong sidewalls reinforced with nylon cord allow Roadstone Winguard rubber to withstand severe blows without the consequences of hernias, which can occur due to poor road surface or protruding tram tracks.
- Good cross. Due to deep slots and high tread elements, rubber can cope with loose freshly fallen snow, as well as rolled snow porridge, without problems. This property is also useful when driving on the primer during the thaw period, where the tread allows you to overcome puddles with liquid mud.
- Well thought out drainage system. Wide lamellas effectively remove water and snow porridge from the contact patch with the track, preventing the tire from skidding.
- Reliable stud fastening. If Nexen Winguard 231 205/55 tires are tested in the right conditions, then the studs are practically not lost, which allows you to spend a minimum of money on off-season maintenance.
- Low noise level. Since spikes are installed on this rubber, it has some unpleasant sound effects. However, the buzz is much quieter than that of similar models, which allows it to be used even on cars with not very good sound insulation.
As you can see, this model has a rather significant number of positive aspects, which together with an acceptable cost makes it very attractive. However, before buying, you should also familiarize yourself with the minuses that may prove to be critical for drivers.
Negative sides
The main disadvantage, called by the drivers, is not quite confident behavior on clean ice or ice. The problem lies in the manufacturer's attempts to make Roadstone Winguard tires as quiet as possible. As a result, the spikes are set too deep and lose some of their effectiveness. This point should be taken into account, and take extra care on icy surfaces.
Another disadvantage is the increase in rigidity at temperatures below 25 degrees below zero. Although such conditions are not available in all regions, it is worth considering this point, since with increasing rigidity, the characteristics decrease, and the behavior of the car can become unpredictable.
Output
This rubber is well suited for use in the middle climatic zone. She copes with both deep snow and water and snow porridge during the thaw. Nexen Winguard 231 feels great on any type of road, whether it is an urban asphalt road or country dirt road. It has high wear resistance and can last several seasons without compromising performance. Due to its low cost and long service life, it can be called a rather profitable acquisition with an optimal ratio of price and quality.