Avon WT7 Snow ( 175/65 R14 82T )

The Avon WT7 Snow (175/65 R14 82T) represents a commitment to winter driving performance rooted in over a century of tyre manufacturing expertise. Established in 1885, Avon Tyres has cultivated a distinguished heritage, initially gaining prominence as a traditional British manufacturer and subsequently evolving through its merger with Cooper Tires in 1997.

Avon’s involvement extends beyond passenger vehicle tyres; the company boasts a significant racing pedigree. As an official tyre supplier to Formula 3000 and a strategic partner within the Formula Ford Championship, Avon has consistently demonstrated its capability in demanding motorsport environments. This dedication to performance translates directly into their road-going tyre designs, informed by data and insights gleaned from competitive events. Hundreds of championship titles across various motorcycle racing disciplines further underscore this commitment.

The WT7 Snow is specifically engineered for reliable winter traction. Designed for drivers seeking a dependable tyre during colder months, it addresses the challenges posed by snow, ice, and wet conditions. While Avon’s history includes supplying original equipment to prestigious automotive manufacturers such as Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Land Rover – highlighting their quality and consistency – the WT7 Snow focuses on providing enhanced safety and control when road conditions deteriorate.

Key characteristics of the Avon WT7 Snow (175/65 R14 82T) include:

• Size & Load Index: 175/65 R14 signifies a tyre width of 175mm, an aspect ratio of 65% (meaning the sidewall height is 65% of the width), and a 14-inch rim diameter. The ‘82’ load index indicates the maximum weight each tyre can carry (494 kg).
• Speed Rating: The ‘T’ speed rating denotes a maximum sustained speed capability of 190 km/h (118 mph), appropriate for typical road usage.
• Winter Compound: The WT7 Snow utilises a specialised rubber compound formulated to remain flexible at lower temperatures, maintaining grip in cold weather conditions where standard tyre compounds would harden and lose effectiveness.
• Directional Tread Pattern: The tread pattern is designed with directional grooves and sipes (small slits) to evacuate water and slush effectively, reducing the risk of aquaplaning and improving braking performance on wet or snowy surfaces.
• High Density Siping: The numerous sipes create biting edges that grip snow and ice, enhancing traction during acceleration, braking, and cornering.

Avon’s approach to tyre development prioritises consistent performance and durability. The WT7 Snow isn't simply about achieving peak performance in extreme conditions; it aims to deliver a balanced driving experience throughout the winter season. The tyre is constructed with robust materials designed to withstand the stresses of varying road surfaces and temperatures.

The merger with Cooper Tires has facilitated further innovation, exemplified by series like the Azaro, which cater to performance-oriented drivers. However, the WT7 Snow remains a testament to Avon’s core principles – providing reliable, safe, and durable tyres for everyday driving needs, even in challenging winter environments.

While Avon's racing successes demonstrate their ability to push boundaries, the WT7 Snow is engineered for practical application, offering drivers increased confidence and control during the winter months. It’s a tyre built on heritage, refined through innovation, and focused on delivering dependable performance when it matters most.