I'd always assumed that if you bought new tyres, they'd be, like, err... "new". But I read in a thread that someone bought some from Black Circles that turned out to be 2 years since manufacture, so I decided to ask before ordering. I've copied their response below.
I must admit I'm gobsmacked to think I might be buying rubber that's been knocking around for 5 years. And on that note, can anyone recommend a decent tyre place in North / Northwest London / Herts. where I could actually look at the rubber before fitment?
"Tyres are considered to be 'new" and fit for retail for a period of up to 5 years from the date of production. Although no definitive information has been offered by the major manufacturers, the 5 year period is accepted as the industry standard, being based on the German BRV. When in use, it is recommended that tyres replaced when they are 7 - 10 years old, (6 years in the case of caravans or trailers), as tyres are less prone to deterioration on the vehicle than they are in storage."
I must admit I'm gobsmacked to think I might be buying rubber that's been knocking around for 5 years. And on that note, can anyone recommend a decent tyre place in North / Northwest London / Herts. where I could actually look at the rubber before fitment?
"Tyres are considered to be 'new" and fit for retail for a period of up to 5 years from the date of production. Although no definitive information has been offered by the major manufacturers, the 5 year period is accepted as the industry standard, being based on the German BRV. When in use, it is recommended that tyres replaced when they are 7 - 10 years old, (6 years in the case of caravans or trailers), as tyres are less prone to deterioration on the vehicle than they are in storage."