Choosing the right tyre

Choosing the right tyre can be confusing as there are quite a few factors to take into account. For any tyre, whether it’s for a tractor or a dirt bike, they all have things in common that you can check to ensure that the tyre is right for your application. 

• Tyre dimensions explained 

On most tyres, from wheelbarrows to ATV’’s they’ll be a few different numbers, like so; 

26x10-12 or 206/80R12.

The first figure (26) on a tyre dimension will represent the overall height of the tyre when inflated to the recommended air pressure. The second figure (8) represents the overall width, again when inflated to the air pressure. The final figure (12) is the diameter of the wheel.

Some tyre dimensions can be displayed differently, like so, 206/80R12. This isn’t as common a way tyre dimensions will be shown. The first number of this format (205) is the width of the tyre, the second is the sidewall height (80), this figure means 80% of the 205mm width. The R stands for radial, the construction of the tyre. Finally the 12, is the diameter of the wheel in inches.

• Inner tubes  

Inner tubes are usually made of rubber or latex, they sit inside the tyre and are inflated with a pump. Inner tubes can be susceptible to puncture but are easily replaced. You’ll always need an inner tube unless the tyre you're using is tubeless, and there are many types of inner tubes. Choosing the right inner tube is important as the tube needs to fit the tyre to avoid overstretching or pinching. On our website we have the measurements for inner tubes matching the measurements of the tyre, making it simple to identify the right inner tube. A lot of our tyres also come with the inner tube included.  

• Ply 

Ply simply means the number of layers of tread on a tyre. For all the tyres on our website, within the technical information, you’ll find the tyres Ply rating. Ply rating is in relation to the tyre’s strength and capacity, indicating the tyre's limitations and capabilities, especially inflation and load capacity. 

• Difference between puncture proof and pneumatic 

Pneumatic tyres are air filled and ideal for use in construction and industrial settings, in particular, outdoors. Puncture proof tyres are generally more suited for smoother, solid surfaces such as warehouses, where there is the risk of debris and sharp objects. 

Both these types of tyres essentially do the same job, but how they do it is what makes the difference between the two. Pneumatic tyres offer a smooth ride, capable of cushioning against bumps when compared to puncture proof tyres, which take more effort and are less able to deal with soft or rough ground. Puncture proof tyres however don’t suffer from the possibility of going flat and are always ready to use.

• Load index

A tyre load index is an assigned number that corresponds to the maximum weight a tyre can support when properly inflated. The higher the number, the greater the load capacity.

The majority of the tyres on the Ross Handling will have a speed/load rating which combines the 2. For example; 

A 69F speed rating would mean the tyre has a load capacity of 325 kg up to the speed of 80kmph/50mph, according to the speed/weight chart, as shown here and on our website. 

• Tyre speed rating 

A tyre's speed rating is the maximum speed a tyre can be used at, based on its recommended load index. If you have a tyre with the wrong speed rating, it can cause the tyre to wear faster, leading to a loss in fuel efficiency and loss of grip.

A tyres speed rating is sometimes displayed on the side of the tyre, . The speed rating runs on a letter/numbering system than ranges from A1 to (Y), as shown below and on our website;

• NHS 

You’ll see on some of the tyres, next to the tyre dimensions, the letters NHS, for example, 15x6.00-6 NHS. This means that regardless of the tyre's speed rating or load index, the tyre isn’t fit for highway/motorway use.

As with any of our products. If you need any extra information on a tyre, or just need some general advice on choosing the right tyre, get in contact with a member of our team;

Call us: 0116 276 4987
Whatsapp us: 07521 050 557
To enquire or place an order please contact: [email protected]
To follow up on existing order please contact: [email protected]