

First was a real-world road test to evaluate each tire for comfort and noise on fresh asphalt, aged pavement and concrete with expansion joints. We rustled up eight 15×5-inch steel Triumph TR6 wheels, one set for the 33-year-old 185R15 Michelins paired with fresh Carlisle inner tubes, and the second set for brand-new, H-speed rated 185R15 Vredestein Sprint Classic tires.Ī two-part test seemed appropriate for the tires fitted to a Triumph TR6. Despite its modern construction materials and date stamp, the Vredestein has a classic tread pattern, tall sidewall and period lettering. We decided to test the saved Michelins against a set of new vintage-looking tires, Universal’s Vredestein Sprint Classic. His intentions were good, but he didn’t consider that although each tire was stored in a plastic bag in a barn, there is still no protection from the aging process. A friend of ours had been storing a set of never-used Michelin X redline tires for decades, intended for a perfect concours Triumph he’s slowly restoring. How can we make such a definitive statement about replacing old tires? Because we tested a set of never-used old tires against a set of new vintage-looking tires, and the results raised eyebrows. Thankfully, a few tire companies like Coker Tire and Universal Tire are producing period-correct tires for our classics. We agree, new tires often appear out of place on a classic car. If your tires are more than five years old, consider replacing them and get new ones from a tire shop. There’s no sense risking your car or yourself due to rotting rubber. Handling and road adhesion are critical to driving enjoyment and safety.

No matter the number of miles driven, experts say a tire can become unsafe in just five years-the rubber and other components lose their ability to perform. The tread blocks might still stand tall and look fresh, but problems probably lurk beneath. But how do you think 40-year-old tires are holding up? Some owners argue they’re only logging say, a hundred miles per season, so why bother putting on new tires when the old ones are barely used. Judges award extra points for running period-correct tires, going so far as checking tire date codes. Many purists want to keep their classic car outfitted with original equipment, especially the guys competing in concours d’elegance. While our beloved Austin-Healeys, MGs and Triumphs sit idle in the garage, the tires they stand on are hardening, cracking and crumbling away due to aging and the environment. Old cars are a thrill…old tires are a hazard.
#TR6 REDLINE TIRES PLUS#
For more information about this sub-5,000-mile 1976 Triumph TR6 for sale at Motorcar Studio in Atlanta, please call 40.New tires provide better handling and safety, plus vintage looks Offered from the Bruce Weiner collection.Įasily among the lowest-mileage, un-restored TR6s available in quite some time. Owner's handbook, some service records and an older title stating "actual miles" are included. It runs and drives great and feels like a low-mileage, original car should. It won best in class at the 2015 Ponte Vedra Auto Show.
#TR6 REDLINE TIRES UPGRADE#
The engine compartment is like a time capsule with just the slightest bit of patina on some painted surfaces - aside from an electronic ignition upgrade it remains very correct including smog equipment. Chrome, lenses and original Triplex windscreen remain in excellent condition. A luggage rack with vintage luggage, newer Michelin redline tires and a silver side stripe complete the look. The British racing green paint retains a nice luster and complements the tan interior. Likewise the exterior finish is believed to be original and remains in beautifully preserved condition. A previous owner noted replacing some rubbers, switches, exhaust, brakes, radio and ignition components but overall this example remains in highly original condition including the nearly pristine upholstery, carpet, dash and gauges. From the paint finish and the interior down to the details like the original red oxide floors and the plating on latches and screws, this example is a case study in originality and preservation. This TR6 has only 4,900 original miles and is in exquisite, un-restored condition. Motorcar Studio is pleased to offer this 1976 Triumph TR6 survivor.
