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Tractor Tire Buying Guide

Mar. 31 2021 Buying Guide By Tatum Motor Company

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The right tires can truly optimize your tractor’s performance. But choosing the right options can be challenging. Read on to learn how to choose the best tires for your equipment. If you want any more information, reach out to Tatum Motor Company. We have locations in Anderson, Missouri and Tontitown, Arkansas.

Categories to Choose From

Tractor tires are broken up into a few different categories based on their performance in various situations. All you need to do is figure out how you’ll be using your machine and then buy the corresponding models.

 Some common categories include:

  • R-1: these are known as agricultural tires and are ideal for dry land farming. Their traction-grabbing lugs are designed at deep angles, and these options provide impressive grip.
  • R-2: these models are best suited for wet turf. The increased tread depth results in improved grip on slippery surfaces. You’ll find these at rice paddy farms.
  • R-3: also known as turf tires, these are your general-purpose option. They offer decent traction on looser terrain like gravel and sand.
  • R-4: these are ideal for industrial projects. Made with interwoven tread and lug design, they offer impressive traction and also have low impact on the ground. Keep in mind these are larger in size and may not fit all tractors.

Front vs Back

In some situations, it may be beneficial to use one set of tractor tires in the front and a different set in the back. 

For the front set, look for models that are ribbed and provide improved grip. Some common choices include:

  • F-1: this is the single-rib option. These provide better penetration into the ground and better steering control too.
  • F-2: these three-ribbed models offer better control paired with decreased lateral side-slip from the center rib.
  • F-2M: these are designed with four ribs and are ideal for tractors that carry large loads on hard terrain. 

Bias Ply vs Radial

One more key decision to make when it comes to tractor tires is whether you want to go with bias ply or radial options. Bias ply tractor tires have sturdy sidewalls so they’re less prone to damage. You won’t have to worry about a lot of maintenance.

Radial tractor tires on the other hand provide a smoother riding experience. These also have less impact on the ground and can function at a lower pressure.

We hope these tips help you buy the right tires for your tractor! If you still have questions, give us a call today at Tatum Motor Company. From Fayetteville, Arkansas to Joplin, Missouri, we’ll help you find the right equipment for your job!