Our truck tyre categories

Tyres are the only parts of your truck that are in direct contact with the road. This makes them key to your safety and that of the goods you transport. It is therefore very important to make sure you always have tyres that are in good condition. When should you change the tyres on a truck? What criteria should be taken into account when changing tyres? How can you guarantee the durability of your tyres? Here are all the answers from your specialist in the sale of high quality tyres.

When should you change a truck tyre?

Tyres greatly influence your truck's handling and braking performance. Given the crucial role they play, it is important to pay special attention to them. You must pay attention to the condition of your tyres and carry out regular checks.

The best way to check the wear of a truck tyre is to use the indicator provided for this. The wear indicator is placed on the tread, it measures between 1 mm in France and 1.6 mm for other European countries. When you notice that the tread and the wear indicator are almost at the same level, it's time to change your tyres.

The wear indicator is not the only indicator that your tyres are worn. It is important to carry out visual checks. Sometimes the middle and extremities of your tyres can show visible signs of wear. The flank may be damaged. The tread can be perforated. In either of these two cases, the tyres must be changed. Also be attentive to the noise your wheels make. If they make strange noises, have the tyres inspected.

What criteria should be taken into account when buying truck tyres?

The most important factors to be taken into account when buying truck tyres are: dimensions, load index, speed index, season, axle position, etc.

Dimensions

The dimensions of a truck's tyres are marked on the sidewalls. The inscriptions found there represent respectively:

• The width of the wheel in millimetres;
• The height/width cross section ratio in percent;
• The diameter of the rim.

You will also find this useful information in your vehicle's maintenance booklet. When changing truck tyres, strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

The usage or driving habits

Depending on the type of journey you are going to make, it is important to choose suitable tyres. Some tyre profiles are designed for long journeys while others offer maximum comfort for urban use.

The position and type of axle

When choosing tyres for your truck, it is essential to take into account the axles and tyre tread pattern. A truck has three types of axles: steering axle, carrying axle and drive axle. Each axle is capable of supporting a load type identifiable by the tyre position codes (F, D, Z, T). Each axle position has a corresponding tread pattern.

Always check that the chosen tread pattern meets the specific requirements of the axles. Thus, an "F" (Front) or "Z" (multiple positions) tread pattern is suitable for a steering axle. This type of tread has its own characteristics: perfect running, dynamic loads, high efficiency...

A load-bearing axle has a "T" (Trailer) or "Z" tread pattern. T patterns are designed and manufactured to withstand static and dynamic loads.

The drive axle is compatible for the "D" (Drive) or "Z" (multiple positions) tread pattern. The "D" treads meet the precise needs of driving axles such as transmissions of driving and braking torques, twin mounting, etc.

The markings

The markings provide useful information so that you know everything there is to know about a truck tyre. They give accurate information on wheel size, ratings, technical characteristics, performance, etc...

For example, the "FRT" (Free Rolling Tyre) marking can be found on the sidewall of some truck tyres. It is used to designate "tyres designed specifically for trailer axles and motor vehicle axles other than front steering and drive axles". In other words, tyres marked FRT may only be fitted to carrying axles. You must respect these recommendations in order to drive safely.

Load index

The load index is a numerical code that specifies the maximum load a truck tyre can tolerate. This valuable information is indicated on the sidewall of the tyres. In addition, the manufacturer will draw up an index table so that you know exactly how much weight corresponds to your load index. The manufacturer's recommendations must be observed.

Speed rating

The speed rating is no less important to consider when you want to change your truck tyres. It is an alphabetical code that represents the maximum speed a tyre can support. Like the load index, the speed index can be read on the side of the wheels. It must then be compared with the entries in the speed index table. You should adhere strictly to the requirements of your vehicle manufacturer.

The brand

There are prestigious manufacturers who, for many years, have been unanimously lauded for their product quality. Among these great brands are Continental, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli, Dunlop... By choosing a tyre designed by one of these brands, you are sure to have one of the most efficient tyres on the market.

The season

In order to enable drivers to cope with the harsh winter weather conditions, manufacturers have developed winter wheels for heavy-duty vehicles. These types of tyres have soft treads and deeper grooves. Their treads are also equipped with sipes that guarantee good traction on the road. You can refer to the markings to choose the tyres that best suit your needs. The "M+S" marking indicates that the tyre is suitable for muddy and snowy roads. The "3PMSF" designation indicates that a truck tyre is suitable for winter conditions. This marking may be mandatory in some European countries.

How do you maintain truck tyres?

To ensure the longevity of your tyres, you should regularly check the tread and sidewall of your tyres for punctures, deformations or deep cuts. Do not drive with tyres that are out of balance, out of alignment, have a deformed bead wire, marbling or rubber damage.

Finally, regularly check the pressure of your tyres in professional garages. Under-inflation, for example, can accelerate wear and tear, increase fuel consumption and even lead to a puncture.

Retreading, a technique to extend the life of your truck tyres

Retreading a tyre involves replacing the worn tread with a new tread. By retreading your tyres you can keep the tyre carcass 2 to 3 times longer.

Having tyres in good condition is a must. In the GRIP500 catalogue, you have access to a very wide range of truck tyres suitable for goods transport, the construction sector and other uses. We deliver them to you at the best market prices.