Press-on tyres mount directly to the metal hub without a separate rim. This article explains the sizing convention, mounting process, and key differences between standard and non-marking compound options.
What Is a Press-on (Cushion) Tyre?
A press-on tyre — also called a cushion tyre or band tyre — is a type of solid tyre that is pressed directly onto a steel wheel hub. Unlike conventional solid tyres (which require a multi-piece rim with flanges), press-on tyres use a steel band that is bonded to the rubber compound and pressed onto the hub under hydraulic force.
The result is a very compact wheel assembly with no separate rim components. Press-on tyres are standard on most electric sit-down counterbalance forklifts and some order pickers.
Reading the Press-on Tyre Size
Press-on tyre sizes use a three-dimension format: overall diameter × section width × inner diameter, all measured in inches (with fractional notation for older sizes).
Examples: 18×6×12 1/8 — 18 inches overall diameter, 6 inches section width, 12 1/8 inches inner diameter (the steel band inner diameter that presses onto the hub).
- 15×5×11 1/4 — common on small 1-tonne electric sit-down forklifts
- 18×7×12 1/8 — common on 1.5–2 tonne electric sit-down forklifts
- 21×8×15 — common on 2.5–3 tonne electric sit-down forklifts
- 22×9×16 — common on 3 tonne electric forklifts
- 23×10×16 — for heavier 3.5–4 tonne models
- 28×12.5×22 — for large 6+ tonne electric forklifts
The Mounting Process
Press-on tyre installation requires a hydraulic press. The tyre is positioned over the hub and pressed on under controlled force — typically 10–30 tonnes depending on tyre size. The steel band interference-fit ensures the tyre stays securely on the hub under all load conditions.
Unlike conventional solid tyres (which can be changed in the field with a multi-piece rim), press-on tyres require a hydraulic press for both fitting and removal. This means tyre changes are usually carried out at a tyre service workshop rather than on-site.
Standard vs. Non-Marking Compound
Press-on tyres are available in both standard black rubber compound and non-marking white compound. The selection criteria are the same as for conventional solid tyres:
- Standard black — suitable for most warehouse and logistics environments on smooth concrete
- Non-marking white — required in food, pharmaceutical, and clean-floor environments where tyre marks are unacceptable
JABIL Technical Note
JABIL supplies press-on tyres in both compounds for all standard sizes. The non-marking white variant carries the same load ratings as the standard black compound.
How to Specify When Ordering
When ordering press-on tyres, provide the following information:
- Full tyre size: e.g. 18×7×12 1/8 (all three dimensions)
- Compound: standard black or non-marking white
- Machine make and model (helps confirm the correct inner diameter tolerance)
- Quantity per order and required delivery schedule
Have questions about your specific application?