Selecting the correct solid tyre for your forklift depends on more than just size. This guide covers the key factors: operating environment, load capacity, compound selection, and rim compatibility.
Step 1 — Read the Tyre Size from Your Existing Tyre
The first step is to identify the correct size. Solid forklift tyres use a three-number format: width × section height × rim diameter, or in metric: overall diameter × section width — rim diameter. Common examples: 18×7-8, 23×9-10, 28×9-15.
You will find the size moulded on the sidewall of your existing tyre, or in your forklift's operating manual under the tyre specification section. If the forklift has been on previous tyres of a different brand, always cross-reference the size rather than just copying the brand reference number.
Step 2 — Match the Rim
The tyre size alone is not sufficient — you also need to confirm the rim width. Solid tyres are designed for a specific rim width range. Fitting an 18×7-8 tyre onto a rim outside the recommended width can cause tyre unseating under load or excessive sidewall stress.
For reference: an 18×7-8 tyre requires a 4.33-inch rim. Our product pages specify the correct rim width for every tyre size we list.
Step 3 — Choose the Compound
Solid tyres are available in standard black rubber compound and non-marking (white or grey) compound. The choice depends entirely on your operating environment:
- Standard black — suitable for all outdoor and most indoor applications. Lower cost, higher abrasion resistance.
- Non-marking white/grey — required in food processing, pharmaceutical, cold storage, and polished-floor environments. No carbon deposit or floor marking.
- Anti-static — available for certain AWP and scissor lift sizes where static discharge is a safety concern.
Step 4 — Verify Load Capacity
Every solid tyre has a rated load capacity at specific operating speeds (10 km/h, 16 km/h, 26 km/h). The tyre's load rating at your operating speed must exceed the axle load of the forklift when fully loaded.
Your forklift's load data plate will show the rated capacity. As a general rule, the drive (rear) axle carries higher load during lifting operations than the steer axle. Select a tyre rated for the correct axle position.
Step 5 — Indoor vs. Outdoor Application
For purely indoor, smooth-floor operations, a smooth tread or fine lug pattern is preferred. It provides lower rolling resistance and quieter operation.
For mixed indoor/outdoor or outdoor-only use, a lug or block tread pattern provides better grip on uneven surfaces, gravel, or wet concrete.
Have questions about your specific application?