Bias Ply vs Radial

[rockinbbar]

I use my 100hp tractor for shredding in bad brush country with lots of thorns and hazards.

Into my 3rd season now on a tractor I bought new with standard Continental ag tires. I suppose they are 8-10 ply tires.

Was taking a shredder wheel for new rubber today and the company also sells tractor tires.

They sell some 20 ply bias tires.

Those appeal to me because of their thickness in what I do with the tractor.

Most of my projects are reasonably close, so I road my tractor and shredder.

Is there any reason I couldn't use these tires?

Tractor isn't a hot-rod. Usually drive at 18mph on highway.

Thank you for your input.

 

[Ortimber]

I have been researching tractor tires since I'm almost ready to replace mine. From what I have learned, radial tires have a little better ride and grip. Bias ply tires tend to handle higher weight better, possibly more puncture resistant, and are generally priced less than a comparable radial.

I will most likely go with radials for the better ride.

 

[Turbys_1700]

In a word...no. I purchased 16" fronts for my 4610 SU from Gensco. I think they are 18 ply. I am so pleased with them when I replace my rears I'm going to go with their 20 ply rears. Not one flat since putting on those fronts. Before that I was repairing flats on a regular and reoccurring basis when brush hoging. I believe you will be pleased with the results.

 

[jaxs]

Going back to when passenger car radials came to the states,the factory rep that trained us said radials'big advantages were traction (longer foot print) and less friction (resulting in less heat). Unless manufacture made a good case for radial,I wouldn't spend extra on 10+ply tires. I see no way they could improve ride.

 

[rockinbbar]

In a word...no. I purchased 16" fronts for my 4610 SU from Gensco. I think they are 18 ply. I am so pleased with them when I replace my rears I'm going to go with their 20 ply rears. Not one flat since putting on those fronts. Before that I was repairing flats on a regular and reoccurring basis when brush hoging. I believe you will be pleased with the results.

That's where I was today. Gensco in Wharton, TX.

Actually got to see and lay hands on the tires. They have some 14 ply radials and the 20 ply bias ply tires.

Still kinda swinging between the two.

 

[Sawyer Rob]

radials big advantages were traction

I have both, there's NO question in my mind that it's true...

BUT, to get all that extra traction, you need to air down the ties a bit, and they should not be loaded, although they still are better "traction wise" even if you don't...

SR

 

[rockinbbar]

You guys think there would be any downside to running the bias tires down the highway at 18mph?

 

[Ford850]

Here's an ongoing discussion regarding radials:
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/kubota-owning-operating/382937-new-firestone-radials-m7040.html

 

[Sawyer Rob]

You guys think there would be any downside to running the bias tires down the highway at 18mph?

Rough ride and they wear out faster...

SR

 

[jaxs]

Rough ride and they wear out faster...

I guess I never considered ride when roading. It's pretty smooth compared to the rough field which I just finished mowing.
I know people that tow and road smaller tractors and the tread is gone very quick. 100 hp and bat wing requires a heavy trailer but I would use a trailer rather than roading on expensive tires. I believe savings on tires would more than offset cost of owning the trailer. Most trailers I've sold brought close to what I paid years earlier.