245/40R18 Hankook Winter i*pike RS2 W429 97T XL DOT

The Hankook Winter i*pike RS2 W429 245/40 R18 is a studdable winter tire that, like the previous model in this generation—the i*pike RS2—is designed for light passenger vehicles. Compared to its predecessor, the new model offers improved traction on slippery surfaces, enhanced braking performance, and even greater reliability in harsh climates or poor off-road conditions!

245/40 R18 Key features of the Winter i*pike RS2 W429

– An improved tread pattern with massive blocks in the center that enhance traction stability;

– Narrower shoulder blocks improve straight-line stability and make it easier to steer out of ruts or snow drifts.

– If you choose the studded W429, 12 rows of studs ensure high effectiveness on icy surfaces;

– Improved drainage channel performance, as many of them are positioned at an acute angle.

Revised tread pattern

The main difference between this tire and the first-generation i*pike RS is its tread pattern. While the design remains a symmetrical V-shape, the shape, size, and placement of the tread elements have changed significantly. The central section features larger intersecting tread blocks. This significantly improves the distribution of external load across the contact patch, resulting in better traction. In the shoulder areas, on the other hand, the blocks are noticeably smaller; to compensate, their number has been increased. This design enhances the tread’s performance during longitudinal acceleration and makes it easier to exit ruts that have already been carved out by snow.

Various Types of Sipes

Like its predecessor, the tread of this tire contains several thousand so-called “3D sipes”—narrow slits or grooves that provide traction in all directions. At the same time, however, the shape and arrangement of these elements have been significantly modified. In the central part of the tire, the sipes are oriented at a sharper angle relative to the direction of travel. This significantly improves directional stability on slippery roads. These sipes are positioned at a slight angle in the central part. This design enhances straight-line traction, particularly on wet surfaces, not only by providing grip but also by directing water toward one of the nearby drainage grooves.

A well-thought-out stud layout

The next important innovation is the stud arrangement. The number of longitudinal rows they form is not 10, as before, but 12. The studs are positioned closer to the center of the tread, i.e., more evenly distributed across the entire surface. This solution significantly improves traction on icy surfaces. The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 W429 does not skimp on studs and is one of the highest-performing studded tires in its class.