This has been in development for a while and publicized along the way, but a group of us were talking about it last night and it got me interested again.
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZEc2qdlfrQ [/media]&feature=player_embedded

What do you think about this idea?

 

If I could find a set for the S, I would definitely like to try them. I think it is a great technology and I would love to see how it handled some of the roads that we travel around here.

 

that video looks like it was from a few years ago - I wonder if they are still developing it.

 

How am I supposed to drift with that Looks like it would be constantly hopping around with the axle

 

The lateral forces are definitely what concern me. But if the "spokes" were meshed enough in enough different directions it should be pretty great. Think about what makes your current tires hold their shape - air pressure and side walls? This is like having side walls throughout the entire tire. It has to be better!

 

I am sure it would be advantageous for "sidewall" stiffness with less flex.
My only issue with it at this particular point of development is the lack of changability. When the tread wears out, you "recycle" the entire thing, tire AND rim. It seems a bit spendy/wasteful.

I'm sure that will change as the tech matures, though.

 

Interesting concept. I have seen this or at least something very similar a few years back. I can see it as a touring/luxury tire but not a performance tire. But who knows in a few years.