Technical Dictionary

Deflection

The tread and sidewall flexing where the tread comes into contact with the road.

Directional Stability

The ability of a vehicle to be driven safely and with confidence in a straight line and at high speed without being affected by pavement irregularities, crosswinds, aerodynamic lifting forces, or other external influences.

Dog Tracking

Track is the width between the outside tread edges of tyres on the same axle. Tracking, or more specifically Dog Tracking, refers to a condition in which the vehicle is out of alignment, and the rear wheels do not follow in the path of the front wheels when the vehicle is traveling in a straight line. Also called tracking.

DOT Markings

A code molded into the sidewall of a tyre signifying that the tyre complies with U.S. Department of Transportation motor vehicle safety standards.

Drift

Drift refers to a vehicle deviating from a straight-line path when no steering input is given. Also called pull.

Dual Tread Compounding

Employs two compound types across the tread, the outside for dry traction and the inside for wet traction.

Duals

Tyres placed side by side on an axle to increase both carrying capacity and traction capability; four tyres across an axle.

DURABLACK®

A compound technology that allows a tyre’s sidewall to stay a rich black during the entyre life of the tyre.

DuraGuard Technology™

Includes various features, such as two sidewall plies and hight strength steel belts under the tread.

Dynamic Balance

Exists when the weight is equally distributed both around its circumference and on either side of its centerline. A tyre and wheels assembly that is out of dynamic balance will produce a wobble effect or a shaking from side to side.