Pneumatic Forklift Tires

Bias-Ply Construction

Bias-ply tires are built from layers of rubber-coated fabric plies running at alternating angles for reinforcement. This is the more affordable of the two pneumatic constructions and holds up well in standard-duty outdoor applications.

Radial Construction

Radial tires use a steel belt running radially across the tire rather than layered fabric plies. This radial construction improves heat dissipation, gives a softer ride for drivers and loads, and lowers rolling resistance. Radials are priced at the higher end of the pneumatic range, comparable to solid pneumatic tires, but the tradeoff is a longer service life in high-hour, heavy-duty use.

For a full side-by-side comparison of pneumatic versus solid construction, see Solid Tires vs. Air Tires.

How Tire Sizing Works

Pneumatic forklift tires use the same sizing convention as solid pneumatic tires: outer diameter x width - rim diameter, for example 18x7-8 or 28x9-15. Because solid pneumatics are built to the same dimensions as their air-filled counterparts, the size chart below applies to both. Load capacity does vary by construction (bias-ply vs. radial, ply rating), so confirm the exact load rating for your application when you request a quote.

Outer diameter is +/- 2%. Load capacity varies by construction; confirm exact rating when requesting a quote.