Yokohama BluEarth-XT AE61 235/55 R18 100V

Description

The Yokohama BluEarth-XT AE61 235/55 R18 100V is a specific size within the BluEarth-XT AE61 family of tires, which is designed for urban SUVs and crossovers. Like its counterpart in the 225/50 R18 size, it prioritizes a balanced performance in terms of wet grip, fuel efficiency, quietness, and handling stability.

Here’s a detailed look at this particular tire:

Tire Specifications: Yokohama BluEarth-XT AE61 235/55 R18 100V

• Size: 235/55 R18
  • 235: Tread width in millimeters.
  • 55: Aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 55% of the tread width. This gives it a slightly taller sidewall than the 225/50 R18, which can contribute to a slightly more comfortable ride and better absorption of road imperfections.
  • R18: Radial construction, designed to fit an 18-inch wheel.
• Load Index: 100 (Max load capacity of 800 kg per tire)
• Speed Rating: V (Maximum speed of 240 km/h or 149 mph)

Key Features and Technologies (common to the BluEarth-XT AE61 range): Yokohama BluEarth-XT AE61 235/55 R18 100V

• Asymmetric Tread Pattern: This design optimizes the inner and outer sections of the tire for specific functions. The inner part often focuses on wet grip and water evacuation, while the outer part contributes to dry handling and stability.
• Nano-blend Rubber Compound & A.R.T. (Advanced Reaction Technology) Blending: This advanced rubber compound features a sophisticated mix of silica and polymers. It’s engineered to:
  • Provide excellent wet grip, often achieving high ratings on the EU label.
  • Reduce rolling resistance, leading to improved fuel efficiency.
  • Enhance wear resistance for longer tire life.
  • Contribute to shorter braking distances, particularly in wet conditions.
• Optimized Road Contact Surface Shape & Mound Profile: These features ensure even contact pressure across the tire’s footprint, promoting uniform wear and enhancing straight-line stability, which is crucial for SUVs with a higher center of gravity.
• Noise Reduction Features:
  • Optimized Lug Groove Layout: Designed to minimize air pumping noise.
  • Five-Pitch Tread Pattern Variations: Suppress pattern noise, contributing to a quieter cabin experience.
  • Silent Edge Grooves: Further reduce pass-by noise. This is a common positive in user reviews, highlighting the tire’s quietness.
• High-Rigidity Shoulders and Triple Centre Rib: These elements contribute to superior steering stability, precise handling, and excellent straight-line performance, especially at higher speeds.
• Four Straight Grooves: These main circumferential grooves effectively channel water away from the contact patch, significantly enhancing wet grip and reducing the risk of aquaplaning.

Performance Characteristics (based on general reviews for the AE61 line, and specific for this size where available): Yokohama BluEarth-XT AE61 235/55 R18 100V

• Wet Grip: Users and EU label ratings generally confirm excellent wet braking and handling.
• Fuel Efficiency: Typically good, often rated “C” on the EU label, balancing wet grip with a respectable rolling resistance.
• External Noise: Frequently praised for its quietness, often achieving an “A” rating on the EU label (e.g., 68 dB). This is a significant comfort factor for many SUV drivers.
• Handling & Steering Stability: Designed for SUVs, it offers precise and stable handling, making it a reliable choice for urban and highway driving.
• Ride Comfort: Generally considered comfortable, absorbing road imperfections well, especially with the slightly higher aspect ratio of 55.
• Treadwear/Longevity: Promotes resistance to uneven wear, a common issue with SUV tires due to their weight and higher center of gravity. User reviews often indicate good durability.