When drivers think about tyre performance, the tread usually gets the most attention. But the sidewall is just as important. It plays a major role in ride comfort, handling, and how responsive your vehicle feels on the road.
Sidewall flex refers to how much the tyre’s sidewall bends under load, during cornering, or when accelerating. This movement directly affects driving feel. That’s why GT Radial engineers design tyres like the Sport Active 2 with a balanced level of flexibility and stiffness—delivering everyday comfort without sacrificing control.
How Sidewall Flex Affects Your Drive
Comfort on Real Roads
A more flexible sidewall helps absorb bumps and uneven surfaces, which is especially noticeable on rough urban streets, rural roads, and long highway drives common across New Zealand.
Handling and Stability
Stiffer sidewalls reduce flex, sharpening steering response and helping the tyre stay planted through corners. This is important for confident driving on winding roads and motorway on-ramps.
Load Support and Durability
The sidewall supports the vehicle’s weight. Tyres designed to handle heavier loads typically have less flex, maintaining stability when carrying passengers, luggage, or gear.
Sidewall Flex and Performance Tyres
For ultra-high-performance tyres, balance is critical. Too much flex can reduce steering precision, while too little can make the ride feel harsh. The right balance helps drivers stay confident in dry and wet conditions, as well as light snow where applicable.
The SportActive 2 Advantage
The GT Radial SportActive 2 is a high-performance summer tyre designed for drivers who prioritise precision, control, and confidence on the road. Its construction directly supports controlled sidewall behaviour, helping deliver a responsive yet composed driving feel in real-world conditions.
Key features of the SportActive 2 include:
Four Wide Grooves: Improve water evacuation to enhance wet traction and reduce the risk of aquaplaning.
Micro Sipes in the Contact Area: Increase surface grip for stronger traction and braking performance, particularly in wet conditions.
Newly Developed Compound: Provides consistent grip across a wide range of temperatures and achieves an EU Wet Grip Label “A” rating.
Optimised Block Geometry and Pitch Design: Helps reduce road noise while improving overall driving comfort for a smoother, more controlled ride.
Together, these elements allow the SportActive 2 to balance performance-focused handling with everyday usability, whether navigating daily commutes or enjoying more dynamic driving on open roads.
Sidewall flex might not be obvious, but it has a noticeable impact on how your vehicle feels behind the wheel. Choosing the right tyre can make every journey feel more controlled and comfortable, whether you’re commuting, heading out of town, or exploring New Zealand’s roads.
