Tire Characteristics; Winter Tires - Lotus 2005 Elise Owner's Handbook Manual

handling feel and minimum steering wheel shake, it is very
important that the radial and lateral run out of the Tires
are to the high standard required by Lotus Cars. If any
difficulty is experienced with replacement Tires, refer to
the tire manufacturer.

Tire Characteristics

The Yokohama AD07 or A048 Tires fitted to the Elise
are suitable for all normal weather conditions, but are
optimised for dry road sports driving. The constructions
of both tire types have been specially tailored for the
Elise and are identified by the letters 'LTS' moulded on
the tire sidewalls. Ensure that any replacement Tires are
similarly marked. The tire characteristics include good
feedback ('feel') from the road surface to the steering
wheel, a high level of steering linearity and response, and
little performance degradation with the high temperatures
which may be reached in sports use.
However, tire performance will decrease at low ambi-
ent temperatures, resulting in reduced levels of grip and
an increased susceptibility to damage from impacts. In
these conditions, especially below 15°F (-10°C), it is
recommended to fit a car set of the recommended winter
Tires (see below).

Winter Tires

If the car is to be used in very cold territories, or
driven on snow covered roads, it is recommended to fit a
car set of winter Tires developed specifically for such
conditions. Lotus approves the use of Pirelli 210 (front)
and 240 (rear) Snowsport winter Tires in sizes specified
in 'Technical Data'. These Tires should be fitted on regular
Elise wheels.
WARNING:
• Winter Tires are optimised for use on snow covered
roads. When used on roads free of snow, winter
Tires will produce different handling characteristics
and less grip compared with regular Tires.
• When winter Tires are fitted, a maximum speed of
118 mph (190 km/h) must be observed.
• Pirelli Snowsport Tires are NOT suitable for stud-
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