Tyres with a rim protection flange have one of the following markings on their sidewalls:
- RFP for Rim Fringe Protector
- FP for Fringe Protector
- MFS for Maximum Flange Shield
- FR for Felgen Ripen
- FSL for Felgenschutzleiste
- ML for Mit Leiste
These protective flanges are often found on low-profile tyres, as the rims are more exposed to impacts than on standard height tyres.
They generally cost a bit more than tyres without protection. Expect an additional cost of between 10% and 15%.
Where to find tyres with rim protection flange?
We have over 5000 references in stock with this feature. Here is the list of the most popular profiles offering rim protection flanges.
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Tyres with rim protection flanges are very useful for certain categories of vehicles. They have specific characteristics that make them particularly practical and functional. Do you want to equip your SUV or other vehicles with these innovative tyres? If so, then you are in the right place. In this guide, we offer practical advice to help you make a good choice among the many high-end rim protection tyres in our catalogue.
What are the characteristics of tyres with rim protection flanges?
Rim protection tyres are characterised by a thicker flange than standard tyres. The point of contact between these types of tyres and the vehicle's rim is equipped with a very reinforced rubber layer. They are recognisable by this feature. A special marking also allows them to be identified among other types of tyres. This marking generally varies from one manufacturer to another.
The following table lists the markings most commonly found when buying rim protection tyres from major brands.
|
Marking |
CPJ |
FR |
FP |
FSL |
RG |
MFS |
RFP |
RPB |
RP |
|
Meaning |
Cordon de Protection de Jante |
Flange Rim |
Fringe Protector |
Felgensch-utzleiste |
Rim Guard |
Maximum Flange Shield |
Rim Flange Protector |
Rim Protection Bar |
Rim Protector |
|
Manufacturer(s) using it |
Michelin |
Continental, Semperit |
Michelin, Goodyear |
Bridgestone, Pirelli |
Bridgestone |
Dunlop, Falken |
Goodyear, Yokohama, Avon |
Yokohama |
BFGoodrich, Hankook |
Moreover, on the market, tyres with a rim protection flange cost a bit more (10 to 15% on average) than standard models of the same dimensions.
What are the advantages of rim protection tyres?
As the name suggests, rim protection tyres preserve the integrity of the rim on which they are mounted. Indeed, when driving in the city, it is not uncommon for tyres to slide against a curb or other hard surface after a bad manoeuvre. With standard tyres mounted on cars, such incidents usually cause abrasion or slight deformation of the rim. If nothing is done, this can lead to more serious problems in the long term: generalised corrosion, for example. By equipping your vehicle with rim protection tyres, you protect yourself against these problems. In case your wheels rub against a curb, the reinforced rubber will absorb the impact, not your rim.
The reinforced rubber flange also protects your tyres when driving on uneven surfaces and offers better driving comfort. It reduces the risk of cracks and bulges due to sudden and excessive collisions between the rims and the tyres. Consequently, your wheels will last longer than with standard tyres without a flange.
On which types of tyres is the protection flange present?
In principle, all types of tyres can have versions with a reinforced flange. The presence of a rubber reinforcement does not affect the other characteristics of a tyre and its performance. However, in practice, some types of tyres need this protection more than others. These are mainly low-profile tyres.
Low-profile tyres are automotive accessories with a very low sidewall height/section width ratio (less than 50%). They are appreciated by many motorists because they provide a good driving sensation. However, due to their particular dimensions, this makes the wheels very vulnerable to shocks and impacts. They also expose the rim to more or less significant damage in case of collision with a hard surface.
On the other hand, if you usually use high-profile tyres (standard size), you will not really need a protection flange. The reason is simple: at its widest point, the rubber of high-profile tyres extends beyond the rim's contour, thus offering good protection against impacts.
However, you can find "high-profile" tyres with rim protection flanges on the market.
What elements should you consider before choosing your tyres?
To choose your rim protection tyres, here are some elements you should consider.
The type of flange
Not all rim protection tyres have the same type of flange. Some models have a bead flange while others do not. What is the difference between these two types of flanges?
As the name suggests, a rim protection tyre with a bead flange has rubber that extends outward at the point of contact with the rim. This rubber is clearly visible and extends around the entire tyre. This model is the most common.
Rim protection tyres without a bead flange have reinforcement along their inner circumference. This reinforced flange is almost parallel to the rim's contour (it extends very slightly beyond it).
Both types of flanges offer optimal protection to your vehicle's tyres and rims. But for more assurance and safety, we recommend opting for models with a bead flange.
However, if you want to install hubcaps on your rims while protecting them as much as possible, then you can opt for tyres with internal reinforcement.
The brand
Not all rim protection tyres available on the market offer the same performance. To ensure you get top-quality equipment, choose products from well-known brands renowned for their expertise. On tyreleader.ie, you have access to a wide collection of high-end rim protection tyres. We distribute products from the most prestigious tyre manufacturers: Michelin, Pirelli, Goodyear, Continental, Dunlop, Bridgestone, Falken, Hankook, Kleber…
Besides these renowned manufacturers, we also have very high-performance tyres from lesser-known brands. You will surely find what suits you in our catalogue, regardless of your budget and needs.
How to fit my rim protection tyres?
You don't have to worry about fitting your rim protection tyres purchased from tyreleader.ie. We have partner garages across the country that can fit high-quality rim protection tyres on a rear or front wheel. You just need to choose the nearest partner during the checkout process, and we will deliver your equipment and accessories to their address. Upon receipt of the order, they will contact you to schedule an appointment.
So, make your choice from our catalogue without delay and enjoy the best prices on the market to properly equip your vehicle and protect its rims.
