What effect does over-inflating a tire have?

Over-inflating a tire leads to a reduction in the tire's contact patch with the road. When a tire is over-inflated, it becomes more rigid and the central portion of the tire will bulge outward. This causes the sides of the tire to lift off the ground, resulting in a smaller area of the tire that is actually making contact with the road surface. A reduced contact patch can negatively affect traction and handling, particularly in adverse driving conditions where a larger contact area is beneficial for grip.

Additionally, this condition can lead to uneven tire wear, as the center of the tread wears out faster than the edges. Proper inflation is crucial for optimizing tire performance, ensuring safety, and extending tire life, highlighting the importance of maintaining manufacturer-recommended tire pressures.