Final Answer:
Rib tire treads provide enhanced stability and precise steering control on paved roads, making them ideal for steering axles on on-highway trucks. The continuous rib pattern ensures even wear, better fuel efficiency, and improved grip during on-road maneuvers. Thus, the correct answer is option c) rib.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rib tire treads are recommended for use on steering axles for on-highway trucks. Rib treads have a continuous pattern of ribs across the tire surface, providing enhanced stability and precise steering control. This design is particularly effective for maintaining traction and maneuverability on paved roads, making it well-suited for steering axles where responsive handling is crucial.
Rib treads offer several advantages for on-highway driving. They promote even wear, which contributes to longer tire life and better fuel efficiency. The continuous rib pattern ensures a larger contact area with the road, enhancing grip and stability during cornering and braking. Additionally, rib tires help reduce rolling resistance, further improving fuel economy.
In contrast, lug treads, characterized by large, deep grooves or blocks, are better suited for off-road or challenging terrains, and bias ply tires have a different construction that may not provide the same level of on-highway performance as radial tires. Therefore, for steering axles on on-highway trucks, the rib tire tread design is the recommended choice.
Thus, the correct answer is option c) rib.