Road surface irregularities and potholes significantly influence vehicle ride quality, tyre durability, and impact loads experienced by the suspension system. Indian road conditions frequently contain potholes of varying geometry, making tyre selection an important factor in improving vehicle performance and passenger comfort. This study investigates the influence of tyre dimensions on pothole impact absorption using manually collected pothole geometry data and analytical modelling techniques. A total of fifteen potholes were surveyed and parameters including pothole length, depth, entry discontinuity, and exit discontinuity were recorded. Statistical analysis of the collected data showed an average pothole length of 19.47 cm and an average depth of 11.8 cm, with severe potholes reaching depths of 20 cm. Tyre configurations 165/80 R14, 185/65 R15, and 215/60 R16 were analysed by evaluating sidewall deformation, absorbed energy, impact force, and transmitted load under varying road conditions. Vehicle categories including hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs were considered, and speed variation analysis was carried out from 20–80 km/h. Results indicated that tyres with larger sidewall heights exhibited greater deformation capability and higher impact energy absorption, thereby reducing transmitted loads. The study concludes that moderate to high sidewall tyre configurations provide improved suitability for Indian road conditions due to their enhanced pothole impact attenuation characteristics.

Keywords: Pothole analysis, tyre dimensions, impact absorption, sidewall deformation, Indian roads, vehicle dynamics, transmitted load.