What does the term "cross-ply" refer to?

The term "cross-ply" specifically refers to a type of tire construction where the tire's plies, or layers of fabric and steel, are arranged at angles to each other, typically at 30 to 45 degrees. This cross-layering provides increased stability and strength, allowing the tire to handle various loads and conditions effectively. The design contributes to better performance in terms of grip and tire longevity.

Tires constructed this way often exhibit improved resistance to wear and better overall handling characteristics compared to tires with plies oriented in a single direction. This construction style is fundamental in defining how the tire performs, particularly under varying driving conditions.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different aspects of tire characteristics or functionality. A tire tread pattern relates to the surface design that affects traction and handling in various conditions. A directional tire design refers to a specific tread pattern that is designed to rotate in one direction for optimized performance. A method of tire balancing focuses on distributing weight evenly around the tire and wheel assembly to ensure smooth operation and reduced vibration.