Goodyear Drafts New Size into Military Range

If you’re planning to invade a neighbouring land or simply wish to traverse unsealed surfaces, then Goodyear has the tyre for you: the manufacturer is extending its range of truck tyres for military and off-road applications with the introduction of a size 365/85R20 fitment for its Offroad ORD (Off Road Drive) range. The tyre was developed in cooperation with OEMs and has already been homologated by specialist trailer manufacturer Broshuis; other approval processes are also underway.

The Offroad ORD features a non-directional tread and is suitable for all position fitment. Goodyear comments that the tread pattern is a non-skid design intended to provide high mileage and off-road traction in mud.  The overlapping blocks are designed to balance wear and reduce noise, whilst the deep, wide shoulder grooves reportedly increase traction, provide excellent self-cleaning qualities and resist stone retention.  Massive block geometry improves torque transmission and resists tearing, Goodyear adds, and the blocks are linked by high tie-bars to improve lateral stability. Furthermore, the off-road tread compound is said to provide resistance to tearing and cutting.

The tyre’s construction includes a strong bead for durability and reinforced sidewalls to protect against cuts. An ultra tensile belt package also gives internal protection to the tyre and increases strength in the crown area.  This carcass protection, says Goodyear, means greater  regrooveablity  and  retreadability. The  Offroad ORD can  also  be  used  with  dedicated  run-flat  systems  for military or special applications.  Other reported features include low inflation capability and excellent traction in all summer and winter conditions, plus ease of mounting, which is particularly important in field operations.

“Goodyear  has a long  and  successful  history  of  designing  and  developing  tyres for military  use.   We currently  supply tyres to several governments and this new size will enable us to satisfy new demands”, said Boris Stevanovic, marketing director Truck Tires for Goodyear Dunlop Tires Europe BV. 

With the introduction of the 365/85R20, the Goodyear Offroad ORD range now covers five sizes.  In addition to the new size, the line-up includes  375/90R22.5,    14.00R20,  12.00R20  and 13R22.5.    These tyres, says Goodyear, are typically suitable for use on specialist vehicles such as airport fire-fighting trucks and those used for road, overhead cable and pipeline maintenance, as well as for government purposes.