Conventional tires have yet to say their final word !

Last month, we explained the importance of managing radial tire pressure with regards to a number of parameters.  Over the medium and long-term period, the number of such tires in Quebecois fields will continue to increase.  Are these, however, the best-suited tires for all work conducted on the farm?

More powerful tractors

Newer-generation tractors are heavier and more powerful and require bigger tires in order to support and evenly distribute their weight on the ground as effectively as possible.

However, it would be wrong to believe that conventional tires are becoming obsolete.  In fact, although the European market has made a definitive shift towards radial tires (2013: radial tires represent 76% of sales) , the North-American market still uses them: the agricultural tire market, in 2013, was 44% radial and 55% conventional in the United States!

Conventional Tires: a question of intended use

The equipment used may, in part, explain why demand for the conventional tire is so important.   The conditions under which the tire is used are, after all, an important criterion.   If one or more of your equipment pieces is used solely around the field, for example when repairing fences, storing hay or for any other task not requiring important traction or reduced compaction, the use of conventional tires may be entirely satisfactory.

Advantages of conventional tires

Due to their more rigid carcass, conventional tires may offer more stability when work is conducted on sloping terrain.  Moreover, they offer more traction on very humid soil.  They are a good choice as long as any damage they might cause to the soil (deep furrows) does not negatively impact the work performed.  After all, they are found today on the majority of utility and compact tractors.

The right tire for the right job

When we consider that for a tire of equivalent size, a conventional tire may cost almost 25% less than its radial counterpart, it becomes apparent why defining your particular needs is so important in making the best possible purchase.  You will have understood, at this point, that compromises are out of the question.  The purchase of agricultural tires should be seen not as an expense, but rather as an investment.  You will want to optimize that investment by choosing the right tire for the right job.  Our team of Point S, Commercial consultants is there to ensure your tires never become an expense and always remain a choice investment.