Equipment · January 2026 · 5 min read
Tire selection affects traction, fuel efficiency, compaction, and ride quality on every piece of farm equipment you operate. Running the wrong pressure or tire type costs money in wasted fuel, excessive soil compaction, and premature tire wear. Understanding the differences between radial and bias-ply construction, load ratings, and newer VF/IF technology helps you make the right choice for each application.
Radial tires have a larger, flatter footprint than bias-ply tires at the same inflation pressure, which distributes weight more evenly and reduces compaction. They also run cooler at road speeds and last longer on mixed field-and-road operations. Most modern tractors are sold with radial tires as standard equipment.
Bias-ply tires still have a place on equipment that operates at low speeds and needs puncture resistance, such as wagons, balers, and some implements. They cost less upfront and have stiffer sidewalls that resist cuts from stubble and debris.
Very High Flexion (VF) and Increased Flexion (IF) tires carry the same load as standard tires at significantly lower pressures. VF tires can carry the same load at 40% less pressure, while IF tires manage 20% less. This translates to a much larger footprint and dramatically reduced compaction.
Use manufacturer load and inflation tables to determine the minimum pressure that safely carries your axle load. Most field operations call for the lowest possible pressure to maximize footprint and reduce compaction. Road transport requires higher pressure to handle speed and load safely.
Tracks are an alternative to tires for heavy equipment where compaction is a primary concern. Tracked machines distribute weight over a much larger area and maintain traction in wet conditions. However, tracks cost significantly more to purchase and maintain, and transport speeds are limited compared to rubber tires.
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