Shock Absorbing Effect of Tyres.
The assistance rendered by tyres of large diameter must not be overlooked. The merits of the large tread are quite well known in the sphere of the motor-car, and they are no less beneficial to the aeroplane. It is of interest to record that a pre-war racing machine had no other suspension and shock-absorbing medium than that provided by the very large tyres fitted to the wheels, the axle being fixed rigidly to the undercarriage struts. A similar arrangement existed on a machine of much more recent date. One does not advocate this system, as it can be of very little use for rough ground, the instance being cited to emphasize the assistance so rendered to the ordinary type of suspension.