R-4 vs R-1 tires

[Z-Michigan]

But, I have to say, even in 2wd if the ground is wet, the r1's tear it up when turning.

For landscaping (moving dirt) and 'plowing' with my boxblade, r4's would have been useless for me. There were times when 4wd + r1's + 45hp was barely enough to keep me going in some of my muddy, hilly food plots.

I'd also say that for hard surfaces, r1's can make for a bumpy, unpleasant ride just because of the tread size. It's just like anything else, there are tradeoffs, but it seems to me that if traction is ever going to be the determining factor, r1's are the way to go.

I mostly agree, except that I have not found a rough ride on hard surfaces. The tire diameter may be an issue - I have fairly big tires on my tractor (24" fronts and 28" rears).

R1s have amazing traction. I agree that they can tear up wet ground easily, even in 2wd, but I would note that you can minimize their damage (1) by using 2wd instead of 4wd on wet ground; and (2) making your turns as wide and gradual as possible - tight turns are the worst. FYI, make tight turns in 4wd on wet ground and you will have immediate lawn repair needs.

 

[N80]

I mostly agree, except that I have not found a rough ride on hard surfaces.

On a hard even surface, where my tractor rarely goes, you can feel vibration from the treads. But hey, its a tractor, not a Crown Vic.

 

[Doc_Bob]

R1 will eat your lawn for lunch.
BOB

 

[Boondox]

R1 will eat your lawn for lunch.
BOB

In wet conditions, I'd agree. But in a pinch -- like when a prolonged rainy spell has prevented me from mowing till the grass is too tall for my little push mower -- I've used the L4630 with weighted R1s to mow my lawn (once it dries) and have found that the aggies have a remarkably light footprint. Like others have said, turns are the worst, but with a bit of planning and backing you can minimize the turns.

Tire selection is an entirely subjective thing, based on your primary and secondary needs, your local conditions, etc. For me, I would have loved R4s, but after seeing my neighbor's M5400 R4 tires loading up with the local mud and spinning helplessly I decided the ability to move was more important. With tubes in the front and 40psi inflation, I've never had a problem hauling bucketloads of wet, heavy soil across my very bumpy property.

There are no absolutes. Different tires don't suck or shine in all conditions. The trick is to pick the best match for YOU.

Pete