Best AG Tire Tread Design for Application

Common R-1/R-1W Tread Designs

45-Degree and 23-Degree Lug Angles are the most common. The number comes from the Angle of the Lug in reference to the horizontal. As seen in the graphics below, a typical 23-Degree Tread Lug is usually flatter, or more towards the horizontal and the 45- Degree Lug will point more towards the vertical.

23-Degree Lug

Our feeling is with Lower Degree Lugs, meaning the lugs being more angled towards the horizontal, a washboard effect is created. The effect contributes to a rougher ride.

45-Degree Lug

Mitas has always maintained the preference of a 45-Degree Lug Angle is the best for both worlds. This design offers good field performance and a very good smooth ride on the road.

Why does Ride Improve with 45-Degree Lug?

As the lug angle moves more towards the vertical, the lug face will stay in contact with the road longer as the tire moves through the footprint. This longer lug contact will provide a smooth transition from lug face to lug face, as shown:

Why Depart from Traditional R-1/R-1W Lug Design?

Matching the correct Tread Pattern to the application will dramatically help with Tire Wear, Fuel Consumption and Ride. Below you can see an example of two distinctly different tread patterns.

Figure LEFT is a perfect tire to use when you are operating more on hard surfaces and do not need a lot of traction. The design will provide some traction, but ride comfort and tire wear will be the advantage.

Testing has shown that the more closed tread pattern (left) can reduce fuel consumption by up to 8%.

Figure RIGHT works exceptionally well in operating conditions that require an aggressive tread for more traction.

Lastly, but most importantly, do not make any changes to tire tread designs, sizes, air pressures, or set up without confirming all is OK with your local Certified AG Tire Dealer and Mitas, using only Certified AG Tire Dealers to mount tires.