Skid steers are versatile and typically used for landscaping, mining, recycling, waste-handling, demolition, and more. They are compact and powerful and can help manage major projects. With developments in skid steer tire technology, there are many options available for customers. However, it can be overwhelming to choose between the skid steer tire options to find the ideal fit for your machine. Learn about the differences between them so you can determine which tire suits your needs.
Types of Skid Steer Tires
Pneumatic Skid Steer Tires
Pneumatic tires have a lower upfront cost than solid tires. Their design helps to make the ride smoother and enhances the operator’s comfort by providing shock absorption.
Solid Tires or Flat-Proof Tires
Solid skid steer tires are ideal for extreme applications such as in rock quarries and demolition sites. They are durable, offer puncture resistance, help reduce downtime and repair costs, and provide a better ROI.
Solid Tire Tread Pattern Options
Solid skid steer tires come in many tread types to suit the working conditions of the machine.
All-Terrain Solid Skid Steer Tire
If you work more on mud, dirt, or rocks, these solid skid steer tires are the best option for you as their tread patterns offer good traction on soft ground. However, if you work a lot on pavements or concrete surfaces, they may wear prematurely.
Solid Tires for Hard Surfaces
If you work on concrete, asphalt, or other hard surfaces, this tread pattern will ensure high performance and traction without reducing the lifespan of the tires.
Smooth Solid Skid Steer Tires
If you need enhanced wear protection, smooth tread tires are the best choice. They can help maximize the rubber contact with the ground and distribute the machine load over a greater area.
Mud Solid Tires for Skid Steers
Muddy surfaces can make it very difficult for you to maintain traction. Specially designed tires for operating on mud have deep treads to help improve the grip and have large spaces in and around the lugs.
Turf Skid Steer Tire
Using turf tires on grass and manicured lawns helps to reduce the damage to them. They can help protect grass from the machine.
Applications for All-Terrain & Hard Surface Tread Patterns
Industries that prefer solid skid steer tires are listed below, along with the suitable tread type for the specific application.
Aperture Hole Design
Many aperture hole designs are available on the tire sidewall to offer cushioning and make the experience more comfortable for the skid steer operator. Listed below are different types of aperture hole designs in a solid skid steer tire:
Round Holes
The basic round hole design provides a smooth ride and is commonly used. It is cost-effective and widely preferred by many.
Elongated Holes
These flat-proof tires are similar to the round holes but upgraded with more rubber in them. They provide improved cushioning and have a larger rubber profile which enhances the comfort level.
Staggered Holes
These aperture hole designs are better than the round hole and elongated designs when it comes to offering a cushioned ride. This hole design is often preferred by those working on rocky terrains.
Specially Engineered Holes
This aperture hole design offers excellent cushioning and the same comfort and performance as a pneumatic skid steer tire. It reduces bounce because the aperture design absorbs shock. It also makes the tires resistant to stress cracking and allows you to work smoothly on the skid steer when moving loads.
Natural Rubber Compounds for Solid Skid Steer Tires
Solid or flat-proof tires are made using a combination of materials that have a higher proportion of natural rubber. Since they are typically used more in demanding ground conditions, natural rubber helps enhance their life.
Get a Wide Range of Skid Steer Tires with Tag Equipment
At Tag Equipment, we offer a variety of skid steer tires to meet the varied needs of our customers. Depending on your needs, we offer both solid and pneumatic tires. Our experts will work with you to learn about your project and help you find a suitable option to enhance your machine’s performance.
Brands we carry include the following:
- Pneumatic (Air Filled) Tires – Galaxy, Primex, Camso
- Solid Tires – Traxter and Camso
- Steel Rims – Camso
For more information about our selection of solid and pneumatic tires, feel free to call us at 416-716-5850.
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