Understanding OTR Tires for Your Trucking Fleet

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For commercial trucking fleets, proper tire selection can mean the difference between unnecessary roadside breakdown and increased profitability. Off-the-road (OTR) tires may be the best choice for fleets with frequent or continuous off-road applications to avoid the cost of repairs and maintenance. Understanding what OTR tires are and the specific types available will help fleet managers make better decisions for their vehicles’ needs.

What Are OTR Tires?

OTR tires are designed for vehicles that frequently travel on difficult terrain. The tires are built to support large amounts of weight to guide vehicles through challenging conditions that would leave most other trucks dead in their tracks. An OTR tire comes in three basic construction types:

• Bias: A bias tire is one that has cross-ply construction, using cords that stretch from bead to bead.
• Belted Bias: These tires are similar in construction to bias OTR tires; however, there are usually two or more cross-ply layers than the bias construction with corded or steel stabilizing belts attached under its tread.
• Radial: Like a bias tire, radial tires use cords that extend from the beads across the tread; however, instead of a crisscross pattern, cords are parallel to one another, creating a stronger tire with increased longevity.

Bias and belted bias OTR tires are best used for vehicles traveling at slower speeds while radial tires are great for trucks traveling at higher speeds. While these three constructions are the most commonly seen among OTR tires,  and used in such as road grading quarry work,  construction, and all types of hauling.

OTR Tire Specifications & Types

Like all tires, OTR tires have unique specifications that indicate distinct differences in capability and performance. The following terminology will help fleet managers make the right choice:

• Tread: Responsible for traction.
• Carcass: The tire’s casing, consisting of body plies and wire beads.
• Belt Package: The number of low-angle, steel cord layers that strengthen the tire.
• Radial Ply: Responsible for load, steering, and braking forces transmitted between the road and the wheel.
• Inner Liner: Term used for tubeless tires’ compounded rubber layer.
• Sidewall: The side layer covering everything except for the tread and belt package.
• Bead Bundle: The steel rim that sits just outside the sidewall.
• Apex: Located over the bead bundle, this rubber filler is responsible for progressive transition from the bead bundle zone to the rubber tire wall.
• Chafer: A hard rubber layer that resists erosion of the bead area.

The best way for fleet managers to ensure proper tire selection for their OTR trucks is by partnering with a reliable provider, such as STTC.

Partner with STTC for Your OTR Tire Needs

STTC offers a wide selection of OTR tires perfectly suited for any off-road commercial trucking application. Allow our team to help you find the right fit for your fleet by partnering with STTC for your OTR tire needs. Contact our team today to gain access to the industry’s finest products and services at a price you can afford!