Perform Better on Hard Surfaces with the Right Skid Steer Tires

Skid steers are built to skid laterally. This gives the machine the ability to maneuver in tight spaces. However, this type of movement is extremely hard on tires, causing them to wear out quickly. To make sure you get the most out of your machine, you need to have the right tires for whatever application it's operating in. Especially in severe conditions like on a dairy farm. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a new set of tires on your machine.

A Solid Tire Design

Pneumatic tires are great for machines that see light use. A machine that operates long hours and on hard surfaces will cause pneumatic tires to go flat quickly. This is why many operators are turning towards solid skid steer tires instead. A solid tire is flat proof, making it more reliable and cost-effective than a pneumatic tire.

Solid tires have a reputation for being too rigid. Providing a rough and uncomfortable ride. When looking for a solid skid steer tire, one with specialized core geometry will perform better than one designed with circular apertures. Specialized core geometry allows compression under the weight of the machine. This provides shock absorption right in the tire for a comfortable ride even when operating without a load.

Large Lugs and Tread Pattern

A tire with large lugs has a more wearable material, which extends its life. Additionally, a tire with a flat profile prevents premature wear. Hard surfaces generally don’t require the aggressive traction of a mud tire. This allows the tread to have less void space and have a bi-directional design for even wear.

It is important as well to use a tire built to deflect lateral forces. Due to the ability to skid laterally, the tires need to be able to handle forces coming from the side. A properly designed tire won’t bounce as the skid steer skids. Instead of providing a smooth turn for better comfortability. As skid steer operators in the dairy industry know, smooth skidding is a huge advantage.

Serviceability

The last and one of the most significant aspects of a solid skid steer tire is serviceability. There are three main ways to mount rubber onto a rim. The pressed-on method, the bonded-on method, and the segmented method.

The Pressed-on Method

The pressed method uses a special machine that presses the rubber onto the rim. The friction between the rubber and the rim holds it in place. But water, grit, and tire wear increase the chances of the rubber slipping on the rim.

The Bonded-on Method

The bonded-on method chemically bonds the rubber to the rim. This method avoids the issue of slipping. However, both the rubber and rim will have to be replaced once the tread is worn or damaged. Adding to the cost of changing tires.

The Segmented Method

Another method of mounting rubber onto the rim uses rubber segments. The segments attach to the rim using a series of nuts and bolts. This mounting method allows operators to change out segments when necessary. Allowing the tire to last until the tread is worn every time.

The Segmented Method Another method of mounting rubber onto the rim uses rubber segments. The segments attach to the rim using a series of nuts and bolts. This mounting method allows operators to change out segments when necessary. Allowing the tire to last until the tread is worn every time.

A Great Example of a Hard Surface Skid Steer Tire

One example that incorporates all these features is the EWRS-HS Series solid skid steer tire from Evolution Wheel. The tire features a 52/32” lug depth with a specialized tread design for traction and longevity on hard surfaces. It also features unique core geometry designed to flex like a pneumatic tire would providing a comfortable ride and traction. On top of all that, the tire uses the segmented mounting method for easy serviceability.

Designs like the EWRS-HS Series are becoming more common in hard surface applications. Lasting up to 3-5 times longer than their pneumatic counterparts. Operators like the reliability, performance, and cost-effectiveness they provide.