Can run-flat tyres be an option?

[AngelaF]

Hi all there!

I've got the question about the specific kind of tyres. I'm going to visit all Europe on wheels and do not want to break my journey because of the unexpected tyre puncture.
My husband was advised to opt for run-flat ones in the https://www.giga-tyres.co.uk/, cause they are more reliable during a long ride. He wants to equip my car with the best means for safety, but I guess it is overestimated.
I'm a little bit confused because of this. Can't the classic tyres be an option?
Is this protection really such a good one?
if somebody uses such kind of tyres and can share his thoughts about this, I would be very grateful.
Do not want to waste my plans due to such a tiny detail.
Thanks for all replies in advance.

[g-man]

u can only go a about 30mph for no more than 50mls max even on runflats

[Altransit]

u can only go a about 30mph for no more than 50mls max even on runflats

This is a problem with them, and unless you have a spare wheel, you need to get the tyre repaired or replaced pronto, to continue a long journey.
They are no less prone to puncturing than any normal tyre, and their life is shorter as far as wear is concerned, so their higher price offers very little advantage.
One (probably the only) advantage is that in the case of a full puncture, they can often be driven to a safer place to change the wheel, but a split or rip in the tyre casing, or damage to the wheel bead, will cause even a run flat to deflate rendering it useless

[AngelaF]

u can only go a about 30mph for no more than 50mls max even on runflats

This is a problem with them, and unless you have a spare wheel, you need to get the tyre repaired or replaced pronto, to continue a long journey.
They are no less prone to puncturing than any normal tyre, and their life is shorter as far as wear is concerned, so their higher price offers very little advantage.
One (probably the only) advantage is that in the case of a full puncture, they can often be driven to a safer place to change the wheel, but a split or rip in the tyre casing, or damage to the wheel bead, will cause even a run flat to deflate rendering it useless

Oh, I see. Thank you for your answer. In such a way I guess that run-flats can be only a forced solution in cases of emergency.
They can't provide a safe long-lasting journey if any trouble with your tyres occurs.
But the possibility to get to the nearest station to change the punctured tyre is obviously a profit.

[Mike]

You probably need to think about the availability of run flats in the areas that you'll be travelling in. Also, don't runflats need specific wheels?

[Altransit]

You probably need to think about the availability of run flats in the areas that you'll be travelling in. Also, don't runflats need specific wheels?

That's another disadvantage I forgot to mention, not every tyre shop can deal with these, and the chances of them having another tyre in stock is minimal

I would rather start the journey with 4 new, good quality tyres, (my choice would be Michelin Agilis!) and carry 2 spares to make you more or less independant

[g-man]

good thinking batman

[Jim Archer]

Run-flats on a van just doesn't bear thinking about

Jim

[darkbluevanman]

A lot of tyre places do the puncture preventative stuff now, 20 quid a shot round here (though diy stuff on t'ebay) I'm not talking the tyre foam stuff you use after a punc either.., really does work too...

[bigjohnthomas]

That puncture stuff in a squirty tin is Bob on
Sooty had 3 tyres that kept going down every 2 days
1 tin between the 3 of them and a bit in the wheelbarrow tyre spun them a bit
In the summer and they haven't gone "down on me" since
Wink

[mavericktc]

Don't overdo it, don't worry so much.

Just keep a regular spare wheel and maybe two bottles of "filling foam"

Been on bikes, vans, cars all over Europe. Sometimes without any spare at all.
Don't worry, be happy.

Have a good insurance that cover aid abroad.